Mine are influenced by growing up in Soviet Union…
My Nan on mother’s side - only worked part time (rare). Access to skincare was basic, so her staples were blue Nivea in later years, Pani Walewska perfume in blue bottle, brow pencil and lipstick. One of everything but always in use. Weekly manicure and a perm. She had no clothes for the best, wore ever she owned and would source a new outfit for a special occasion that would go into daily use immediately after. Loved cooking, baking, always “on a diet” but not really. She has a friend with whom she would chat on the phone for an hour in the evening about recipes, clothes, what is or is not in shop and while talking would curl her hair, paint on brows, put lippy on and then just be like that until bedtime. She has passed away with lipstick on in hospital - she dolled up for doctor’s rounds. Flirty to the end.
And the other three were mothers of my friends with far greater means. One wore jeans and I thought she was stunning. The most attractive shared characteristic with them all is that they all looked relaxed and deliberate. My Mum sadly seemed harassed and angry, too stressed and only as I get older I realise it was a martyr thing.
Do you remember women from your childhood that you found inspirational?