With their bold red lips and perfectly powdered faces, the Hollywood starlets of the 1940s epitomized the ultimate in cosmetics glamour. And although times have changed, Besame’s luxe retro packaging and easy-to-use formulas are helping modern-day beauties re-create the elegance of the era. Unlike most of today’s slipshod containers, the half-dollar-size Boudoir Rouge mirror cases ($20; besamecosmetics.com) resemble the opulent compacts of yesteryear. The blush comes with a red satin puff and imparts a sheer but unmistakable veil of color (our favorite hues are Sweet Pink and Sun Kissed). The Semi-Matte Finish Lipsticks ($18 each) are encased in pinky-size gold bullets and come in standout shades like Red Velvet and Portrait Pink. Even more swoonworthy are the Lipstick Sets ($75 each), which offer an extensive range of hues in your choice of reds or neutrals. And unmistakably ’40s in both scent and shape is Besame’s Feather Light Dusting Powder ($23)—a finely milled, vanilla-infused fairy dust that keeps faces both fresh-looking and fragrant. —Marissa Kristal

Related Links:
Feature: Past Perfect
Connect: Makeup Forum

Makeup_