Nancy Sinatra, the daughter of the legendary Frank Sinatra, recently recalled her crucial role in shaping the iconic eye makeup trend of the 1960s. In a series of posts on social media dated September 21, the 86-year-old artist expressed her belief that she was the trailblazer of this distinctive look, predating the well-known models Jean Shrimpton and Twiggy.
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Sinatra’s reflections came in light of the enduring popularity of her makeup style, which gained significant attention following her 1967 television special, “Movin’ With Nancy.” She asserted that her unique approach to eye makeup, characterised by chalky white eyelids and thick false eyelashes, was a significant influence during that era. Accompanying her remarks were nostalgic photos illustrating her makeup techniques.
In her social media posts, Sinatra noted, “I think I was the one who started the whole eye makeup craze in the ‘60s. Jean Shrimpton and Twiggy weren’t doing it then.” This assertion adds a new layer of context to debates within the fashion and beauty industry regarding the roots of trending aesthetics from that time.
While Sinatra laid claim to this trend, Twiggy, who is now 77 and formally known as Dame Lesley Lawson, has also described her own contributions to the eye makeup scene. In a 2022 interview with PEOPLE, she claimed to have invented her signature look at the age of 16, which required a meticulous application process that often spanned one-and-a-half hours.
Despite the ongoing dialogue between these legend icons, Sinatra remained firm in her self-identification as the creator of the style, emphasising her solitary journey in that discovery. “I created my look on my own, although Aida Grey modified my brows because I was doing them wrong,” she wrote, reflecting on the guidance she sought in perfecting her makeup technique.
After airing her insights on her formative years in the beauty industry, Nancy expressed regret over missed opportunities in fashion and makeup. “Makeup is big business now,” she remarked, contemplating how her influence could have translated into a more prominent role within that realm had she been more aware of marketing herself at the time.
She further indicated that, had she had the right support and guidance earlier on, she might have leveraged her early fame in a manner that would not only benefit her career but would also allow her to influence the beauty standards of the period in a more significant capacity. “I really didn’t know how to market myself,” she admitted, perhaps hinting at a common struggle artists face in navigating commercial waters.
As part of her social media display, Sinatra generously shared a step-by-step guide on how to replicate her signature eye look. “And there you have it, kids! Now you know my secrets,” she playfully concluded, suggesting that followers might also find success in emulating her makeup style.
In pop culture circles, Twiggy was recently recognised for her lasting impact on the fashion industry when she received the Style Icon award during The Daily Front Row’s Fashion Media Awards on September 11. During her acceptance speech, Twiggy mentioned Shrimpton and reflected on her unique position within the fashion landscape of the 1960s.
The conversations stirred by Sinatra’s posts not only highlight the complexities of artistic legacies but also offer a fascinating glimpse into the evolving discourse surrounding beauty trends. As these iconic figures continue to assert their impacts on the industry, they exemplify how personal narratives intertwine with broader cultural movements.