Some of the world's most famous paintings have received a startling contemporary update, thanks to artificial intelligence. Masterpieces including Leonardo da Vinci's Mona Lisa and Johannes Vermeer's Girl with a Pearl Earring have been digitally reimagined to showcase how their subjects might have looked if painted during iconic beauty eras of the last three decades.
From Renaissance to Y2K: A Timeline of AI Makeovers
The project, commissioned by the wellness supplement brand Perfectil, applied definitive beauty trends from the 1990s, 2000s, and the present day to three timeless artworks. Sandro Botticelli's The Birth of Venus (c. 1480s) was transported to the 1990s, adorned with body glitter, intricate nail art, and the era's signature small butterfly clips in her flowing hair.
Perhaps the most striking transformation is that of the Mona Lisa (early 1500s), who was given a classic early 2000s revamp. The AI rendered her with skinny, over-plucked eyebrows, chunky hair highlights, and a sweep of frosted eyeshadow, perfectly capturing the aesthetics of the millennium's first decade.
Finally, Vermeer's Girl with a Pearl Earring (c. 1665) was updated with a contemporary look. The AI version features bold, full brows, dewy 'glass' skin, and nude-toned lips, mirroring today's dominant beauty ideals.
Survey Reveals UK's Evolving Beauty Habits
The artistic experiment was launched alongside new research into the nation's beauty routines. A survey of 2,000 UK women, conducted by OnePoll, uncovered significant shifts in inspiration and time investment. While 22% historically took cues from TV and films, 27% now turn to social media for beauty inspiration, highlighting the digital platform's modern influence.
The data also shows a serious commitment to personal grooming. A substantial 69% of respondents stated their beauty routine is crucial, dedicating an average of over 20 minutes per day to it. This adds up to more than two hours and twenty minutes each week. Interestingly, over a quarter (26%) admitted they spend more time on their hair and beauty now than they did as teenagers.
Iconic Trends and Lasting Wellness
The research identified the top 30 most iconic hair and beauty trends of the past 30 years. Topping the list were the smoky eye and the famous 'Rachel' haircut from the TV show Friends. Other unforgettable styles included kohl eyeliner, winged flicks, contouring, crimped hair, and even blue mascara.
There is a strong sense of nostalgia, with 51% believing many 1990s and 2000s styles are making a comeback. Notably, 12% are hoping for the return of dramatic kohl liner, a look popularised by Traitors presenter Claudia Winkleman.
A spokesperson for Vitabiotics Perfectil commented on the blend of fleeting trends and enduring principles. "Had Vermeer or da Vinci been around today, these give some indication how their paintings may have looked," they said. "While these trends come and go, one thing which truly has stood the test of time is the strong link between beauty and wellness from within."
They emphasised that despite the ever-changing external trends, the foundation of beauty remains good nutrition and a healthy lifestyle. The project serves as a vivid reminder that while aesthetics evolve, the pursuit of beauty, in its many forms, is a constant thread through history and art.
