How much easier it would be if beauty were only skin deep and we could all just follow simple daily instructions to achieve it! Below is some advice from the back of another old box of powder.

Dear Madam,

Don’t expect best results unless you follow these directions. First cleanse face and neck with Lady Esther 4-Purpose Face Cream. No powder base is necessary. My powder will cling for 4 hours. Smooth on lightly with clean puff. And don’t forget your neck. A contrast between face and neck spoils your appearance. Always remove old make-up with Lady Esther Cream before applying new. Keep a small jar with you for mid-day cleansing. Note the refreshed feeling it gives. See how much better your powder blends and stays on.

Cordially, Lady Esther

Who is Lady Esther? What does she look like? Is she a fairy godmother? Is she nice to her lap dogs? Wouldn’t it be fun to invite her to tea and pump her for even more guidance?

Lady Esther, by Mildred Bailey Carpenter

Your curiosity is in luck!

Lady Esther has cordially consented to write a beauty advice column for Puff Updater. We’re thrilled. She knows everything about cosmetics and accessories. And, as an aristocrat of a certain age, she knows how to use exclamation points without being girlish or common.