Pop
bombshell
What does bombshell mean?
An aesthetic of full-glam, va-va-voom beauty — big hair, bold lip, hourglass styling.
"The shoot was pure bombshell, very retro pin-up."
Origin
American English from the 1930s, originally for a sensational person or event ('blonde bombshell'), then fixed onto glamorous Hollywood stars. Still used for high-glam beauty.
Frequently asked questions
What does bombshell mean for looks?
A stunningly glamorous, knockout-gorgeous woman with old-Hollywood, va-va-voom energy — big hair, bold lip, the whole package.
Is bombshell still used today?
Yes, especially in beauty talk for the full-glam, voluminous aesthetic that's the opposite of the minimal clean-girl look.
Where did bombshell come from?
1930s American slang for something sensational, soon attached to glamorous Hollywood stars like the 'blonde bombshell.'
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