The Dark Truth Behind Elizabeth I’s Iconic White Makeup

You probably know what she looks like, even though she lived more than 400 years ago. Elizabeth I’s trademark red tresses, porcelain-like skin and crimson lips make her one of the most striking monarchs in British history, in fact. And it’s a look that remains iconic even today – thanks to countless media interpretations. But this carefully curated image hid many dark secrets. Horrifyingly, it may have even contributed to the queen’s death.

Daughter of Anne Boleyn

Elizabeth, in case you didn’t already know, was the daughter of Henry VIII’s much-maligned second queen Anne Boleyn. And as history has it, she nearly missed out on the throne altogether. But when Elizabeth finally found power, she was determined to do everything possible to hold on to it. In a man’s world, that meant she needed to remain beautiful – whatever the cost.

Renaissance fashion

And that distinctive look was seemingly inspired by the Renaissance – a movement that was gaining popularity in England when Elizabeth was on the throne. The queen actually played an important role in its development as a supporter of the arts and literature. She was also influenced by the beauty ideals associated with this era, and from what we know she strove to recreate these throughout her life – at any cost.

Beauty standards

A pale complexion, light hair, scarlet lips and sparkling eyes were all considered highly desirable during the Renaissance. This was not an easy ideal to maintain, though, in a time when rampant illnesses and diseases could easily leave a woman disfigured. So, how did Elizabeth and her contemporaries create such flawless appearances?

Virgin Queen

Well, for the woman known as the Virgin Queen, one answer lay in the thick, white makeup that she painted religiously over her skin. This ritual became even more integral to retaining her beauty and power as she grew older. But the look that would come to define Elizabeth also concealed at least one brutal truth.