Social Media’s Role in Redefining Beauty Standards
Social media has revolutionized nearly every aspect of modern life, and its influence on beauty standards is no exception.
For decades, beauty ideals for women have been narrowly defined. From Marilyn Monroe’s curvaceous figure in the 1950s to the ultra-thin frames of 1990s supermodels, society’s idea of the “perfect” body has shifted over time. However, a consistent theme has been the pressure on women to conform to a singular standard, often dictated by pop culture and advertising.
In contrast, social media has significantly expanded the definition of beauty. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube now feature creators of all sizes, shapes, and ethnicities. This inclusivity is reshaping how people view their bodies, offering representation that goes far beyond the size 0 models traditionally seen in mainstream media.
Plus Size Becomes the New Norm
As American women increasingly embrace body positivity and size inclusivity, research shows that the average body size is also changing.
A study published in the International Journal of Fashion Design, Technology and Education highlights a shift in what is considered “average.” While it was once commonly stated that the average size for American women was 14, the study reveals that the average woman now wears between a misses size 16 and 18, which corresponds to a women’s plus size 20W. Additionally, the average waist size has increased from 34.9 inches to 37.5 inches over the past two decades.
“We hope this information reaches both the industry and consumers,” said Susan Dunn, one of the study’s lead researchers, in an interview with Today. “Understanding these figures can have a profound impact on women’s self-esteem. The apparel industry needs to recognize that these women are here to stay and deserve inclusive clothing options.”
Why Are American Women Getting Larger?
The average size of American women has increased over the past several decades. According to the CDC, the average weight of an American woman is now approximately 170.6 pounds, compared to 140 pounds in the 1960s. Multiple factors contribute to this trend:
- Lifestyle Changes: Sedentary jobs, higher calorie consumption, and an increased reliance on processed foods play significant roles.
- Cultural Shifts: Greater acceptance and celebration of diverse body types have reduced societal pressure to adhere to extreme dieting.
- Genetics and Environment: Genetic predispositions and environmental factors, such as stress and access to healthy foods, also influence body size.
Beyond Appearance: A Health Perspective
While larger body sizes are increasingly celebrated, the medical implications cannot be ignored. Obesity rates have doubled since 1990, according to the World Health Organization. Social media, while fostering inclusivity, has also been criticized for promoting unhealthy lifestyles and sedentary habits that contribute to weight gain.
The Mayo Clinic emphasizes that “obesity isn’t just a cosmetic issue.” It is a medical condition that increases the risk of numerous health complications, including heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, liver disease, sleep apnea, and certain types of cancer.
A New Era of Beauty
True beauty lies in celebrating individuality rather than conforming to a rigid standard. Social media has been instrumental in spreading this message and has the potential to reshape beauty norms in a positive way when used thoughtfully.
What’s your take on social media’s impact on beauty standards? Share your thoughts and pass this article along to gather more perspectives!
Angelina Jolie’s former security guard comes out with shocking allegations against her in Brad Pitt case
According to the documents, Webb was the “head of Jolie’s security detail for two decades, and he remained in that role for approximately four years after the couple divorced.”
Webb stated that Jolie “required him and his contractors to sign NDAs relating to various personal and professional details of her, and her family’s, life.”
After the couple filed for divorce, they had a major custody battle over their six children. According to the documents, Webb claimed he “received multiple calls from Jolie’s representative, who told Mr. Webb to remind his staff that they had entered into NDAs with Jolie and that if they testified in a custody proceeding, Jolie would sue them.”
Webb said that he had conveyed the message to his contractors, and both of them confirmed that they would testify if they were to be subpoenaed.
The documents further claimed that “one of them told Webb that ‘he would testify about statements he overheard that Ms. Jolie made to the children, encouraging them to avoid spending time with Mr. Pitt during custody visits.’”
The documents also stated that the “the two security contractors both testified” despite being threated with being sued and shortly after, Mr. Webb’s company was fired by Jolie.
Webb himself does not claim to have heard Jolie’s directive instructing the children not to interact with Pitt during custody visits. He now also works for Pitt.
Jolie’s attorney, Paul Murphy has since then addressed the media over this matter. He said in a statement, “Mr. Pitt’s continued attempt to equate common NDAs for security personnel and housekeepers covering confidential information employees learn at work, with him demanding an expanded NDA to ensure the continued coverup of his deplorable actions remains shameful.” “This case is not about NDAs in general, but about power and control. All Angelina has ever wanted was separation and health, with positive relationships between all members of their family, including Mr. Pitt. She looks forward to the day when he is finally able to let her go,” the statement further read.
The latest filing comes after over a month after Jolie’s lawyer filed documents claiming that Pitt had been physically abusive toward her even before the alleged infamous plane incident of 2016. That incident, according to documents, was the final straw in asking for a divorce.
The motion that Jolie’s legal team filed in early April, most revolved around the dispute over their shares of ownership in their French winery estate, Château Miraval.
Her legal team filed a motion asking the court to compel Pitt and his legal team to provide “responses” and “documents” that explained why the actor “suddenly conditioned his purchase of Jolie’s share of Miraval on her agreeing to a greatly expanded NDA now covering Pitt’s personal misconduct, whether related to Miraval or not.”
Jolie firmly claims that this move to demand NDAs was Pitt’s attempt to “cover up” the alleged abuse against Jolie and their children.
Pitt was never charged with a crime after authorities investigated the 2016 plane incident.
In contrast to what Jolie’s legal team is saying, Pitt’s lawyers allege that it was Jolie and her team who requested a “broader” NDA.
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