Breaking Down The Problematic 80s Beauty Standards
When we think of the 80s, many of us instantly picture big hair, neon clothing and bold makeup. However, beneath the surface, there were societal pressures that were placed upon people to conform to certain beauty standards. In this article, we’ll delve into the problematic beauty standards of the 80s, the impact they had on individuals and how they still affect us today.
The Popularity of the Perfect Body
During the 80s, the ideal body was one that was slim, with lean leg muscles and big breasts. Advertisements and fashion magazines reinforced this image and led people to believe that they needed to have this body type to be attractive. Those who didn’t fit this mold were deemed undesirable and often faced discrimination.
The Cultivation of a Celebrity Culture
The rise of celebrity culture during the 80s reinforced the perfect body image. Women like Madonna and Cindy Crawford were held up as examples of what women should aspire to look like. This subliminal messaging was perpetuated in magazines, movies and music videos, creating the perception that beauty was shallow and fleeting.
A Focus on Hair
Hair was a significant aspect of 80s beauty standards, with huge hair being all the rage. Women were encouraged to use styling tools and products to make their hair appear as big as possible. African American women were targeted specifically to have straightened hair, as natural hair was seen as being unprofessional.
The Aftermath of These Standards
Many people were impacted by these beauty standards, with some individuals even going so far as to develop eating disorders or engage in other harmful behaviors to achieve the “perfect” body. The beauty industry also profited from the perpetuation of these standards, with people spending large amounts of money on products and services to attain the ideal look.
However, in more recent years, there has been a pushback against the 80s beauty standards. Body positivity movements have emerged, challenging the notion that there is only one definition of beauty. Consumers are also now demanding more diverse representation in the beauty industry, demonstrating that beauty comes in all shapes, sizes, and colors.
Conclusion
The 80s left a lasting impact on beauty standards. It reinforced the notion that beauty is purely external and that conformity is essential to gain acceptance. However, times have changed, and we now understand that everyone is beautiful in their way. The journey towards a more inclusive, diverse beauty industry and society as a whole is still ongoing, but it is promising to see that changes are happening.
