Red lipstick isn’t just makeup; it’s a statement. It’s power, status, and self-assurance all packed into a single bold swipe. It announces, “Look at me—I know exactly who I am and what I’m worth.” Or at least, that’s what we need to remember every time we glide on the classic shade.
Red lipstick has long transcended its role as a mere cosmetic, evolving into a potent symbol of resistance, empowerment, and political expression. Throughout history, this bold hue has been wielded by women to challenge societal norms, assert autonomy, and convey solidarity in the face of oppression.
Ancient Origins and Early Significance
Image: WikiMedia
The allure of red lips dates back to ancient civilizations. In Mesopotamia, around 3500 B.C., Queen Puabi used a mixture of white lead (!!!) and crushed red rocks to adorn her lips, signifying her status and power. Similarly, Egyptian aristocrats favored red ochre mixed with resin, with Queen Cleopatra famously opting for carmine derived from cochineal insects. These early uses of red lip color were emblematic of beauty, authority, and social standing.
Red Lipstick as a Symbol of Rebellion
The association of red lipstick with defiance became pronounced during the early 20th century. In 1912, American suffragettes donned red lipstick during protests, challenging conservative societal standards and symbolizing their fight for women’s rights. This act of rebellion was not merely about fashion; it was a deliberate statement against the norms that sought to suppress women’s voices.
The trend continued into the 1940s during World War II. Adolf Hitler’s disdain for red lipstick led women in Allied countries to wear it as a mark of freedom and resistance against fascism (and, well, fuck him). By applying red lipstick, these women signaled their defiance and solidarity with the war effort, turning a simple cosmetic into a weapon of moral opposition.
Modern Political Statements
In contemporary times, red lipstick remains a powerful tool for political expression. In December 2019, Chilean protesters wore red lipstick and scarves to protest against sexual violence, using the color to draw attention to their cause and unite participants.
In the United States, red lipstick has been embraced by political figures as a symbol of empowerment. Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is known for her signature red lips, which have become emblematic of her bold approach to politics. Similarly, Vice President Kamala Harris has inspired initiatives like “Colors for Kamala,” where themed nail polishes are used to raise funds and awareness for her campaign, highlighting how beauty products can serve as tools for political and social conversations.
Red Lipstick in the Current Political Climate
In today’s political environment, red lipstick continues to serve as a symbol of resistance and empowerment. Amidst ongoing debates over women’s rights, bodily autonomy, and gender equality, the act of wearing red lipstick can be seen as a reaffirmation of one’s agency and a visual protest against attempts to undermine these rights. There is a movement on TikTok of creators embracing red lipstick and sharing it’s history, with big thanks to Erin Parsons. What shade will you throw out at today’s fascists? We’re quite partial to MAC’s Ruby Woo.
