A Revolution for Beauty Standards
Our society isn’t just asking, it’s demanding a cultural revolution- in nearly every aspect of life. One would be wrong to assume that 2020 was the start of it all. In the last decade alone, we have seen radical shifts towards socioeconomic, racial, and gender equality. The people have a platform like never before, fueled by triumphs in gay rights and the third wave of feminism. As the tides keep reshaping this world, it’s important to remember where we were coming from, and what we are fighting for.
So, when it comes to beauty, what do we want? And can we even ask that?
The answer is yes, our culture is redefining beauty and reclaiming our power. Much like the other social issues that dominate our conversation topics, we are merely beginning. Beauty evolves with the times, and now for the very first time, it could be on our terms. But only if the public demands authenticity and views unrealistic beauty standards for what they are- unrealistic.
Image Courtesy: Mirror
Kendall Jenner was recently criticized for promoting impossible standards of beauty in a photoshopped picture posted to Instagram. There was an explosion of reactions considering recent discoveries on how intensely social media and influencers affect (mis)conceptions of beauty and body image. Misconceptions that mostly impact how young girls develop their identity. To distort reality is one thing, but to distort the reality for those who are just beginning to grasp an understanding of this world is another. Author of The First Move, Emily J. Brooks, stressed how “To be a young woman is to slowly realize where much of the world sees your value: in your beauty. You might first revel in it, then focus on it, then fight it, and eventually let go of it entirely.” What happens when women can’t let go of it?
This is why the revolution for beauty standards is essential because every person deserves to live in a world of acceptance. A world that lifts them up and embraces all beauty. Change is underway, beginning with simple, yet monumental, moments. Our culture now keeps an eye out in order to identify the source of misconstrued perceptions and holds those accountable.
In her short film Not My Responsibility, Billie Eilish tackles the body shaming that she has dealt with on her rise to fame; telling her story and that of millions of women.
Image Courtesy: SYRUP
As she slowly un strips her clothes, Billie lays claim to the irony behind body shaming when she states,
“This body I was born with,
Is it not what you wanted?
If I wear what is comfortable
I am not a woman
If I shed the layers
I’m a slut”
As she sinks into the dark liquid, Billie ends her dialogue by saying “Is my worth based only on your perception, or is your opinion of me not my responsibility?” With tens of millions of followers (76.2M), I can’t even begin to grasp the magnitude the message has on her fan base. Especially since most of her fans comprise of the younger generation and those who battle with depression and anxiety. Both Kendall and Billie hold tremendous influence over the trending world, so it is important to identify what is healthy content for the public, and what is downright fucked up.
We have grown as a society, seeping our roots into a world of self-awareness and acceptance. Our growth is of the utmost importance; therefore, we must demand authenticity that cannot be exploited by the marketing world. Body positivity remains a strong topic for the reason that women still suffer the tyranny of unrealistic standards and constant comparison. It will end when the emphasis on a specific beauty, chosen by the men in the room, becomes a thing of the past. Women deserve to love themselves instead of relying on validation from others. I think Billie said it best when she declared “is your opinion of me not my responsibility?”
It absolutely isn’t our responsibility.
I highly recommend watching her short film (about 3 minutes): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZlvfYmfefSI
Strike Out,
Writer: Karina McCarthy
Editor: Lexi Fernandez
Graphics: Daniela Rodriguez
Tallahassee
