Life in the 21st century functions under the influence of social media. Worlds that we have created there impose certain standards that we have to fulfill in real life too. Sometimes those standards are a bit too much and go against something that feels natural to us. So, is there someone to blame for that, or are we the culprits for that kind of life?
How influential are makeup ads?
The popular trends mostly affect women and the biggest part of it is makeup. Every day, we are overwhelmed by advertisements about makeup products and models who look perfect under so much makeup. Now, the inevitable question is whether we have to use that much product to look beautiful. Certainly, we feel like that when we turn on the TV, although recently, another trend has come to life. Natural beauty has become a paragon of beauty in general. It shows women that, even with a small amount of makeup on their face, they will look beautiful, fresh, nurtured and not uncared-for.
Natural beauty is important – even celebrities think so
Celebrities all over the world have contributed to spreading those trends. One, in particular, is Alicia Keys who even showed up at the Grammys without makeup. How cool is that? It has empowered women everywhere to be their true selves. She gave back the confidence to girls who never liked wearing makeup which is very important when you consider the pressure every girl goes through. Don’t get me wrong, wearing heavy makeup is great if that is what you like, this act just showed that it is okay if you don’t want to.
The influence of magazines and model look standards
Other great influences are magazines and a certain model look. A thin figure, flat stomach, and legs without cellulite have become both great insecurity and a big wish of many women. Although certain companies promote that ‘90s model look by hiring only thin models, it is impossible for every girl to look like that. And what’s more, not every girl should look like that. It is in human nature to compare themselves with others but this is precisely the core of the problem. Social media, magazines, and the fashion industry, in general, do maybe favor that type of look, but ‘’ordinary’’ women are the ones that can change that standard. Don’t get the feeling that there is something wrong with wanting to be thin, the point is that it is okay if you want to be thin, fat, curvy or muscular. It is okay to be anything you want. The goal is to understand that everyone is beautiful in their own unique way.
Fashion labels and high-end wardrobe
Something else that is a part of that global standard is, of course, fashion and labels. A piece of clothing is worthless unless it has Gucci, D&G, or Dior written on it. At least that is the feeling that we get. Indulging and dressing nicely is again great, it’s the pressure that is put upon all those who can’t afford it that’s the problem. Teens especially want to fit in and they feel the need to look a certain way. It is important to teach them that you can look fabulous without paying too much. What matters is your confidence and the attitude you have. A smile also goes a long way in making you look amazing.
So, the next time you think that you don’t look good enough, that you are not as pretty as a model or some actress, just stand in front of a mirror and list the things that you like about yourself. I guarantee you will find a lot of them. And here comes the cheesiest line ever: you are perfect just the way you are.
