Posts tagged beauty standards
the societal paradox of wanting to fit the mold yet desiring to outshine others

There seems to be a subconscious, ever-present tension existing within humans to satiate their contradictory needs of acceptance and self-actualization. Both do not always lend themselves to one another, which poses the question: which is more important and is the desire to equally satisfy both a recipe for madness? Particularly with women but overall a societal issue, this phenomenon is seen especially in consumerism — a perfume, for example, is marketed for its ability to enrapture the senses of passerby’s and solidify you as a unique, mysterious enigma, yet this tactic is what draws so many in and eventually, it becomes a repetitive, monotonous scent, the very thing it originally claimed not to be. It doesn’t take a psychological scholar to point out that we have a deep-seeded need for connection, understanding and belonging, and when we don’t receive it, it can lead to a whole slew of undesirable feelings of insecurity & isolation.

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why are people so nostalgic for the late 2000s/early 2010s?

One fateful summer day in 2014, my mom bought me the first three seasons of Pretty Little Liars on DVD and my life consequently changed. I watched them play detective in their statement necklaces and 6-inch heals, and execute it flawlessly. The show showcased true female friendship with unconditional love, support and empowerment (most of the time) and every Liar had a different personality that was highlighted & embraced beautifully. Spencer was the brains, serving J.Crew chic and witty remarks every episode, Hanna was the humorous fashion icon with impulse issues and a heart of gold, Aria was the sensitive, artsy one with eclectic outfits and an uncanny ability to keep a secret, and Emily was the sporty, fair-minded one with an unyielding moral compass and a sweet naivety. The trauma of being stalked & obsessed over affected all of their psyches and personalities over the seasons in different, interesting ways. Should I have been watching such a plot that young? Um, debatable — but the intrigue, freedom, friendship and fashion had me wishing I could fast forward to sixteen. Little did i know, with the direction the 2010’s (and technology) were heading in, a life like one of the Liars was not awaiting me — or any of us.

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