10 Collectible Vintage Lipstick Tubes That Deserve a Spotlight

Vintage lipstick tubes are more than just makeup accessories; they are pieces of history that reflect the fashion and culture of their time. From the elegance of the Art Deco period to the glamor of Hollywood’s golden age, these collectibles have become highly sought after. Whether they are made of gold, enamel, or adorned with intricate engravings, each tube tells a unique story. For collectors, vintage lipstick tubes are a way to hold onto a piece of beauty history. Some are valued for their craftsmanship, while others are prized for their rarity.

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Art Deco Enamel Lipstick Tubes

Art Deco lipstick tubes from the 1920s and 1930s often featured bold geometric shapes and enamel detailing. These were popular among women who wanted glamorous accessories that matched the era’s fascination with design and luxury. The bright enamel colors paired with gold or silver-tone metals made them fashionable keepsakes.

Today, Art Deco lipstick tubes are sought after by collectors who value their vibrant style and history. The detailing often includes chevrons, zigzags, and intricate line work that remains striking nearly a century later. A good condition piece can fetch between $200 and $450 depending on rarity and condition.

Flapper-Era Dance Compact Lipstick Tubes

During the Roaring Twenties, women often carried dance compacts that included a small lipstick tube. These were designed to be lightweight and portable, making them practical for parties and dances. Many came with chain attachments so they could be worn on the wrist or carried like a miniature evening bag.

Collectors love these items because they blend beauty and social history. They symbolize the rise of women’s independence during the Jazz Age. Well-preserved examples with intact lipstick holders and original enamel designs can bring between $250 and $500 at auctions.

Hollywood-Inspired 1940s Lipstick Tubes

The 1940s saw Hollywood glamour influence everyday cosmetics. Lipstick tubes often featured sleek gold-toned designs with engraved patterns inspired by movie stars. They were made to look elegant and sophisticated, appealing to women who admired screen legends.

These tubes represent the wartime and post-war era when glamour was a form of resilience and confidence. Many were produced by Coty, Revlon, and Max Factor, making them accessible yet stylish. A collector’s piece in excellent condition usually sells for $100 to $300.

Stratton Enamel Lipstick Tubes

Stratton, a British company, became known for creating beautiful enamel compacts and lipstick holders in the 1950s and 1960s. Their lipstick tubes were often decorated with colorful enamel floral or geometric designs. They combined practicality with artistry.

Collectors value Stratton pieces because they were built with durability and fine enamel work. They remain highly collectible across Europe and the United States. Prices typically range from $75 to $200 depending on the pattern and preservation.

Kigu Lipstick Tubes with Mirrored Tops

Kigu of London produced lipstick tubes in the mid-20th century that often featured built-in mirrors. This innovation made them especially popular with women who wanted convenience on the go. Many designs were accented with gilt finishes or enamel tops.

Collectors admire Kigu lipsticks for their charm and functionality. They are often found as part of matching sets with powder compacts. Single tubes in good condition typically range between $90 and $180.

Cartier Lipstick Tubes

Cartier, known for luxury jewelry, also released lipstick tubes during the mid-20th century. These were often made with gold plating or vermeil and sometimes featured gemstone accents. Their elegant and minimalist designs reflected Cartier’s luxury image.

Today, Cartier lipstick tubes are considered rare luxury collectibles. Their value is tied to the Cartier name as much as the design. Depending on rarity and condition, they can range between $400 and $1,200.

Evans Vanity Lipstick Tubes

Evans was an American company famous for producing compacts and vanity cases during the early to mid-20th century. Many Evans lipstick tubes included detailed engraving and could be paired with cigarette cases and compacts. Their designs captured the glamorous spirit of the time.

Collectors prize Evans lipsticks because of their high-quality construction and stylish details. A well-preserved Evans lipstick tube often commands between $120 and $250. Sets with compacts and cases are worth significantly more.

DuBarry Lipstick Tubes

DuBarry Cosmetics, popular in the 1930s and 1940s, released lipstick tubes with engraved designs and feminine motifs. Their packaging often featured floral accents and gold-tone finishes that reflected the beauty ideals of the period.

Collectors seek DuBarry items because they represent a brand that was once a household name but has since faded. A good example of a DuBarry lipstick tube usually sells between $80 and $160.

Volupté Lipstick Tubes with Novelty Designs

Volupté, an American cosmetics company, was well-known for creating novelty lipstick holders in the 1940s and 1950s. Their pieces included designs shaped like musical instruments, small animals, or playful decorative cases.

These whimsical designs make them favorites among collectors of vintage beauty items. Because of their uniqueness, they often fetch higher values. Prices for Volupté novelty lipstick tubes usually range between $150 and $400.

Coty “Airspun” Lipstick Tubes

Coty, a pioneer in cosmetics packaging, created lipstick tubes that matched their famous Airspun powder compacts. The tubes often featured gold-tone designs with engraved details. They were fashionable and functional during the mid-20th century.

Collectors value Coty lipstick tubes because of their connection to one of the most iconic powder brands in beauty history. Well-preserved examples often sell for $75 to $150. Tubes with original Coty branding are especially desirable.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.