In the pantheon of vintage beauty accessories, the lipstick case stands out as a symbol of glamour, elegance, and personal style. A far cry from the disposable, often plain packaging of today’s cosmetics, vintage lipstick cases were designed not just to hold a lipstick but to make a statement, to be a piece of art in a woman’s purse. From the early 20th century through to the mid-century, these cases reflected the fashion, materials, and craftsmanship of their times, making them coveted items for collectors and enthusiasts of vintage beauty items today.
Constructed from a variety of materials including sterling silver, brass, gold plating, and even adorned with enamel, semi-precious stones, and intricate etchings or inlays, vintage lipstick cases were a testament to the aesthetic sensibilities of their era. The 1920s and 1930s saw cases that mirrored the Art Deco movement, with geometric shapes, clean lines, and the lavish use of metallics. The post-war period brought a return to femininity and luxury, with cases becoming more ornate and featuring romantic motifs, such as flowers and birds, often inlaid with pearls or colored stones.