The Beauty Secrets of Timeless Icons

The Beauty Secrets of Timeless Icons

There is an undeniable allure to the beauty of history’s most elegant women. Their radiance was never merely a matter of cosmetics but a reflection of discipline, refinement, and an understanding that true beauty is cultivated over time. Each of these women—Audrey Hepburn, Deeda Blair, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, Princess Diana, Babe Paley, Grace Kelly, Bunny Mellon, and CZ Guest—had distinct beauty rituals that made them unforgettable.

Audrey Hepburn: The Essence of Simplicity

• Skincare: A devoted user of Erno Laszlo skincare, particularly the Phormula 3-9 Repair Balm, to maintain hydration.

• Diet: She credited her glowing skin to a diet rich in vegetables, fresh pasta, and chocolate.

• Makeup: Her makeup artist, Alberto de Rossi, used Lancôme Le Crayon Poudre for her signature bold brows and a touch of Revlon’s Pink in the Afternoon Lipstick.

• Fragrance: Givenchy L’Interdit, created exclusively for her by Hubert de Givenchy.

Deeda Blair: Understated Elegance

• Skincare: Preferred high-quality European skincare brands, focusing on hydration and light-reflecting formulations.

• Makeup: Minimal and sophisticated, favoring luminous skin over heavy coverage.

• Hair: Always impeccably styled, often in a chignon, held in place with Oribe Superfine Hair Spray.

• Fragrance: Likely classic and refined scents such as Chanel No. 22 or Guerlain's Mitsouko.

Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis: The Polished Perfectionist

• Skincare: Used Erno Laszlo Active Phelityl Intensive Cream for a flawless complexion.

• Makeup: Her go-to foundation was similar to Estée Lauder Double Wear, paired with Bésame Red Velvet Lipstick for a sophisticated look.

• Fragrance: Joy by Jean Patou, an opulent floral fragrance.

• Hair: Maintained sleek, voluminous hair with Mason Pearson Brushes.

Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy: The Queen of Minimalism

• Skincare: Loved Dermalogica Microfoliant to keep her skin luminous and smooth.

• Makeup: Used a similar version of Chanel’s Vitalumière Foundation for an effortlessly polished appearance.

• Fragrance: Annick Goutal Eau d’Hadrien, a fresh citrus scent.

• Hair: Preferred a sleek, natural finish, often using Bumble and Bumble Brilliantine.

Princess Diana: The People’s Princess

• Skincare: A loyal user of Clarins Beauty Flash Balm to achieve a radiant glow.

• Makeup: Preferred Max Factor Sheer Genius Tinted Moisturizer for a natural finish and Lancôme Hypnôse Mascara for wide, expressive eyes.

• Lips: Often wore Elizabeth Arden Blueberry Lipstick.

• Fragrance: Loved Hermès 24 Faubourg, a warm floral scent.

Babe Paley: The Definition of Society Beauty

• Skincare: Regular facials and the best European skincare, always prioritizing hydration.

• Makeup: Wore deep red lips and perfectly lined eyes, always elegant but never overdone.

• Fragrance: Wore Fracas by Robert Piguet, a white floral fragrance that was as sophisticated as she was.

• Style Secret: She believed in impeccable grooming, even down to the smallest detail.

Grace Kelly: The Princess of Poise

• Skincare: A devoted user of Erno Laszlo skincare and gentle cleansing routines.

• Makeup: Loved peachy-pink blushes, often from Estée Lauder, and always kept her brows defined.

• Fragrance: Creed Fleurissimo, commissioned as a wedding gift from Prince Rainier.

• Hair: Maintained her golden locks with Klorane Shampoo with Chamomile.

Bunny Mellon: The Naturalist’s Glow

• Skincare: Preferred natural products and minimal intervention, letting her skin breathe.

• Makeup: Light, earthy tones and sun-kissed skin were her trademarks.

• Fragrance: Subtle and garden-inspired scents, possibly Guerlain’s Eau de Cologne Impériale.

• Wellness Secret: She spent hours gardening, believing fresh air and nature were key to beauty.

CZ Guest: The Effortless American Beauty

• Skincare: Simple, no-fuss skincare routine focused on hydration and sun protection.

• Makeup: Minimalist, enhancing her natural features rather than concealing them.

• Fragrance: A crisp, classic scent such as Estee Lauder’s White Linen.

• Lifestyle Secret: An avid equestrian, she believed an active outdoor life kept her young and vibrant.

Lessons from the Icons

Each of these women understood that beauty is an art—one of discipline, consistency, and understated elegance. Their routines remind us that true beauty is cultivated over time, through care, refinement, and an unwavering commitment to grace.

At The Mayfair Hall, we celebrate this philosophy, curating collections that reflect the elegance of a well-lived life. Whether through a beautifully scented perfume, a delicate silk scarf, or a nourishing skincare ritual, beauty is not just about how one looks—it is about how one lives.

From Our House to Yours,
Mrs. Mayfair