Backlash: Women, Fashion, and Empowerment
By Marie Kelly
Founder, Women In Milford
Tuesday, July 2, 2024 8:00am
Low-rise, skinny jeans are back and so is that heroin chic look from the 90s. It’s being pounded into my brain through my social media feeds, covers of magazines at the checkout lines in grocery stores, and in between the giggles of gaggles of girls walking up and down Main Street in our little town. If you haven’t noticed it yet, you will soon. The thing is… if I was 24 years old, I think this fashion trend may affect me a lot more than it actually does at 44. Now I’m not so sure how I feel about fashion trends, and I wonder just how much they actually affect me. It got me thinking…
It’s interesting to observe the patterns in societal reactions to women’s empowerment, especially how these reactions manifest in the fashion and beauty industries. It seems when women start to gain more influence and assert their voices, there's often a backlash in the form of body shaming. For instance, in recent years, high-waisted pants became popular, and their widespread acceptance coincided with significant feminist movements like the Women's March and #MeToo. These pants are universally flattering, celebrating a range of body types, which aligns with the ethos of inclusivity and self-acceptance promoted by these movements. Companies like Dove and Target began showcasing diverse body types in their advertisements, embracing a broader definition of beauty and promoting body positivity.
However, it seems that whenever women gain too much prominence, there’s a societal pushback. Recently, the fashion industry has shifted back towards promoting "heroin chic" and low-rise, skinny jeans, which traditionally celebrate thinner bodies. This shift can be seen as a response to the growing power and visibility of women. As women were taking to the streets, owning businesses, and leading national conversations, it felt as though the broader culture was attempting to rein them back in. By reintroducing fashion trends that emphasize thinness, the implicit message is that women should focus on conforming to these narrow standards of beauty rather than on their accomplishments or voices.
This pattern isn't new. Historically, there has often been a correlation between women's movements and changing beauty standards. For example, the 1920s flapper era, which celebrated more androgynous figures, came about during a time when women gained the right to vote and were beginning to assert their independence more boldly. Conversely, the 1950s saw a return to ultra-feminine, hourglass figures just as post-war society was trying to push women back into traditional domestic roles. The cyclic nature of these trends suggests a societal discomfort with women gaining too much power and visibility.
Susan Bordo, a scholar known for her work on the cultural implications of body image, suggests that these shifts in beauty standards are a way to control women. In her book, "Unbearable Weight: Feminism, Western Culture, and the Body," she argues that the beauty industry often reinforces standards that keep women preoccupied with their appearance, thus diverting their energy away from seeking power and influence. The reemergence of the thin ideal can be seen as part of this pattern, redirecting women's focus to their bodies rather than their voices and achievements.
“I’d like to have a conversation about this. Even though I feel like conversations rapidly become arguments these days, I’d like us to actively listen to each other; try to not be defensive, not to judge, and not to condemn; but just have a conversation about this. I wonder, can we do that?”
The pushback against women’s empowerment through the reassertion of restrictive beauty standards underscores a broader societal anxiety about gender roles and power dynamics. When women gain a seat at the table, they threaten the status quo, leading to attempts to minimize their presence through various means, including fashion. The correlation between body type celebration and women's societal presence is too blatant to ignore, serving as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for gender equality. By recognizing these patterns, we can better understand the forces at play and continue to challenge them, ensuring that women’s voices remain heard and valued regardless of their appearance.
I’d like to have a conversation about this. Even though I feel like conversations rapidly become arguments these days, I’d like us to actively listen to each other; try to not be defensive, not to judge, and not to condemn; but just have a conversation about this. I wonder, can we do that?
Regardless of where you stand on this fashion trend, whatever your take may be, Women of Milford, let’s continue to stand strong and empower each other in the face of these societal pressures. We must remember that our worth is not defined by our size, shape, or the latest fashion trends, but by our courage, strength, and the power of our voices. Celebrate your body for the incredible things it allows you to do and the unique beauty it possesses. Let's support one another, uplift each other, and proudly walk in our bodies with confidence and pride. By doing so, we defy the narrow standards imposed on us and continue to pave the way for future generations to embrace their true selves. Together, we can create a community where every woman feels valued and empowered, no matter her shape or size.
What are your thoughts? Let us know in the comments - let’s have a productive conversation.
