From Victorian Times to the Present Day Cosmetics have been used to increase attraction since Ancient times whilst Compacts have been a symbol of love for generations but especially since the 1920s. Madeleine Marsh chronicles the development of cosmetics from a secret shame in the 19th century, to a handbag essential in the 20th. She tells the stories behind famous brands; explores the role of makeup in peace and war - showing how our daily beauty rituals reflect the changing roles of women across the decades. This lavishly illustrated history also provides a guide to collecting vintage compacts and cosmetics ? revealing the old makeup that you shouldn't throw away. 150 colour photographs