Kohl has been a beauty staple for millennia, tracing its origins to ancient Egypt, where it transcended mere adornment. Traditionally crafted from materials like antimony sulphide and soot, kohl played an integral role in the beauty rituals of both men and women. The ancient Egyptians believed it offered more than aesthetic enhancement—it provided protection against the harsh sun and even warded off eye infections. Beyond that, kohl was imbued with symbolic meaning, representing beauty, status, and spirituality, a fact evident in its depiction on the faces of their deities.

Fast forward to today, and kohl remains a beloved cosmetic, particularly across the Middle East and North Africa. Its ability to intensify eye colour and create dramatic, defined looks has kept it central to modern beauty practices. Egyptian celebrities, in particular, have embraced kohl over the decades, infusing this ancient tradition with their own contemporary interpretations.

In this edition of Styled Archives, we look back at iconic kohl moments from Egyptian cinema of the 1960s and ’70s, celebrating the stars who mastered its timelessness. From sultry smoky eyes to bold, winged eyeliner, these figures exemplified kohl’s lasting impact on beauty and film.

Zubaida Tharwat

Still from ‘Ana W Zawgaty Wel Secretera’ | 1969

Often referred to as “the most beautiful eyes in classic Egyptian cinema.” Tharwat’s expressive gaze, accentuated by kohl, captivated audiences, and this particular image has gained new attention for her striking resemblance to American actress Jennifer Lawrence.

Souad Hosny

Images from ‘Al Zawag Ala El Tarei’a Al Hadeesa’ | 1968

With her playful charm and flirty glances, Souad Hosny frequently used kohl to elevate her screen presence. Whether opting for a more dramatic or subdued application, she showcased the versatility of kohl. In this rom-com, she embodies the latter, with soft, smoky eyes that complement her lively character.

Shwikar

Portrait | 1969

Shwikar’s smouldering gaze, sharpened with precision kohl lines, adds an edge to her sensual portrait. The boldness of her look, paired with the soft curves of her expression, creates an unforgettable visual impact.

Naima Akef

Before Performing at Moscow’s 6th World Festival of Youth and Students | 1957

Captured in her element, Naima Akef, one of Egypt’s most celebrated belly dancers, poses with finger cymbals, or ‘sagat,’ while her elongated kohl accentuates her dynamic and whimsical stage presence.

Nahed Sherif

Still from ‘Al Kadabeen Al Talata’ | 1970

Nahed Sherif’s heavy lashes and winged eyeliner perfectly encapsulate the glamour of the era. In Al Kadabeen Al Talata, her bold, defined eyes lend her an air of intrigue and allure, proving that kohl was as much a tool of character development as it was of beauty.

Laila Sheir

After Winning the ‘Miss Egypt’ Title | 1964

Crowned Miss Egypt in 1964, Laila Sheir exemplified mid-century elegance. Wearing a floral silk top and satin pants, she embodied classic beauty, with her dramatic kohl-lined eyes anchoring her look in timeless sophistication.

Zizi Mostafa

On the Cover of Al Kawakeb Magazine | 1966

Gracing the cover of Al Kawakeb’s 793rd issue, Zizi Mostafa dazzled with her bold, vibrant makeup choices. Her look combined a rich green eyeshadow with a daring red lip, yet it was the kohl that tied it all together, its stark black lines enhancing the depth and drama of her gaze.

Sherihan

Portrait | Circa 1980s

Known as the queen of fawazeer (Egyptian TV riddles), Sherihan was no stranger to the camera. In this portrait from the 1980s, she opts for a clean, sharp look, where her signature kohl-lined eyes do most of the work.

Shadia

Still from ‘She' Men Al Khoof’ | 1969

In She' Men Al Khoof, Shadia’s bold black kohl became a defining feature of her character, Fouada. The eyeliner wasn’t just a stylistic choice—it was integral to her portrayal, symbolising strength and resolve.

Lobna Abdelaziz

Still from ‘Arous El-Nil’ | 1963

Lobna Abdelaziz channelled ancient Egyptian iconography in her role as Hamees, the bride of the Nile, in Arous El-Nil. With a costume adorned in intricate embellishments and beads woven into her hair, her makeup—centred around dramatic kohl—paid homage to the regal beauty of Cleopatra.