So some days back I was badly prepared for class. I still had an extra half hour before I had to leave for my University. So did I spend it reviewing my notes? No, I spent it picking out an outfit, and doing my hair and makeup.
This kind of stuff makes me hesitate to call myself a feminist, even though I share their ideals. If I do believe that being smart is more important than looks, why did I choose to pay extra attention to my looks at the expense of my knowledge?
I often hear "emancipated" women saying that they take care of their appearance for themselves and not for other people, that looking good makes them feel happier and more confident. But why should clothes and makeup have such an influence on the way women feel about themselves? Isn't it because women are told that being desirable is the most important thing?
Here is a small test: name 5 female models, or celebs. Now, name 5 female Nobel Prize winners.
So, how many female Nobel Prize winners could you name? This test isn't about how much you care about science -- it's about what society (especially the media) thinks about pretty women and smart women.
Here is another thought: if you are pretty / pulled-together / well-dressed, everyone who looks at you can immediately see it. If you are amazingly well-read / genius at maths / have multiple degrees, only the people who find ou are the ones who actually get to know you. So, doesn't this excessive focus on looks have something to do with how superficial and "external" the western society is?
As a beauty blogger, this leaves me a bit confused sometimes. Sure, I like beauty, makeup, clothes. But I'm concerned that often they are higher up on my priorities list than they deserve.
And it's not just about ideology or personal values. I doubt my professor noticed what I was wearing, and he would be way more impressed if I had prepared better for class; and I would get better grades for the semester, which would ultimately increase my chances of landing a job at my university. Yet I chose to do my makeup.
I'd love to hear your thoughts.
This kind of stuff makes me hesitate to call myself a feminist, even though I share their ideals. If I do believe that being smart is more important than looks, why did I choose to pay extra attention to my looks at the expense of my knowledge?
I often hear "emancipated" women saying that they take care of their appearance for themselves and not for other people, that looking good makes them feel happier and more confident. But why should clothes and makeup have such an influence on the way women feel about themselves? Isn't it because women are told that being desirable is the most important thing?
Here is a small test: name 5 female models, or celebs. Now, name 5 female Nobel Prize winners.
So, how many female Nobel Prize winners could you name? This test isn't about how much you care about science -- it's about what society (especially the media) thinks about pretty women and smart women.
Here is another thought: if you are pretty / pulled-together / well-dressed, everyone who looks at you can immediately see it. If you are amazingly well-read / genius at maths / have multiple degrees, only the people who find ou are the ones who actually get to know you. So, doesn't this excessive focus on looks have something to do with how superficial and "external" the western society is?
As a beauty blogger, this leaves me a bit confused sometimes. Sure, I like beauty, makeup, clothes. But I'm concerned that often they are higher up on my priorities list than they deserve.
And it's not just about ideology or personal values. I doubt my professor noticed what I was wearing, and he would be way more impressed if I had prepared better for class; and I would get better grades for the semester, which would ultimately increase my chances of landing a job at my university. Yet I chose to do my makeup.
I'd love to hear your thoughts.
Logging you in...
mrssturgis 6p · 668 weeks ago
There was a time in my life when I would not be caught DEAD without my makeup on. At the very least, concealer and eyeliner. Today, I'll absolutely go grocery shopping with naught but a few zits to add color. I think of it as my "evolution." Also blame it on my son.
I suppose a good balance is ideal? There's no denying how GREAT you feel when you know that you look good. A little makeup. A little hair time. It makes you feel great. And why in the world shouldn't you feel great? If it does, indeed, make you feel that?
confessionsofacurvygirl 26p · 668 weeks ago
ragsagainstthemachine 15p · 668 weeks ago
Pearl Squirrel · 668 weeks ago
I have always liked make-up and the process of applying it, and I make sure that I enjoy myself doing so. I spend less time thinking about my looks when I wear make-up, as opposed to not wearing any. It sometimes makes life a little less complicated to just do what your impulses tell you to do, and it leaves more time for more important matters too. I've come across people that assume I'm stupid just because I wear make-up, but who is being superficial then? :)