by Li Lian What kind of girls do you like? As a girl it’s really hard for me to answer this question. So I asked some of my friends, and to my disappointment, most of answers were not very creative. Thin, white -skinned, long-haired, etc. These are all typical descriptions of female beauty, but what makes it like this? When you walk the streets you’ll be surprised how everyone seems to have the same standard. Everyone seems to dress the same way and many women seem more like twins than individuals. What has happened to uniqueness and diversity among women? Part of the problem is men. I am not an extreme feminist, but history shows that most beauty trends are designed to satisfy male desire. Throughout history, male-dominated societies have dictated that if women want public recognition it is necessary for them to follow certain aesthetic standards that have been set for them. Today as well, beauty is decided by a male point of view and from a purely male perspective. This, of course, is biased.
Take high heels, for example. It is not difficult to see that they fulfill a dual purpose. On the one hand, they seem to increase women’s elegance and charm, but on the other hand they are a product of male vanity and are supposed to increase women’s sexiness to stimulate male sexual fantasies. Those who do not follow the “rules” will be regarded as aliens and left out in the cold, and they will be forced to change themselves to comply with the requirements of society. Another example are K-pop groups. They also promote artificial beauty, and physical appearance is very important. But you can see no girls with normal figures on stage, as they are extremely skinny. But since they are so popular, everyone tries to follow their example. Some girls diet in very unhealthy ways or even subject themselves to plastic surgery to make their figures look like their idols. The general belief among advertisers is that messages delivered by celebrities provide a higher degree of appeal and attention. We think we will be as beautiful as they are if we use the product, and the result is that we have built up a totally artificial idea of beauty and this will inevitably confine us. According to MintLife (an online beauty magazine), the average woman will spend NT.450000. on makeup during her lifetime. That’s a lot of money. Research in the UK has determined that British women carry a staggering NT.128000 worth of makeup in their handbags everyday. Advertising campaigns are aimed at women wishing to improve their appearance, to increase their physical attractiveness, and to reduce the signs of aging. But what is perfect beauty? What are these products really trying to sell? Beauty products will not make you look perfect. Be more cautious when you’re shopping. Skincare and beauty products are intended to enhance your appearance, not to make you look like the Photoshopped celebrity who happens to endorse it. Don’t overspend on products just because you’re feeling insecure about your looks. What is your opinion? As for me, I try not to follow the beauty trends that are sold by the media. Sometimes, my friends will judge me according to my clothes or my hair, but I don’t really mind not because I’m cheeky (ok, maybe sometimes) but because I try to feel comfortable with the way I look. I would much rather be myself and let people know who I am. I always believe that what is inside you makes your true beauty glow. Best of all, you don’t need to pour your money into beauty products and you can grow old without worrying! Girls, why not be your own boss and decide your own opinions about beauty? You’ll feel much more comfortable and more confident! a
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May 2024
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