Exploring Changing Beauty Standards for Women Through History
- Virginia Nicholson delves into a century of changing beauty standards for women in her book 'All the Rage'.
- The book highlights the evolving ideals that have both fascinated and tormented women over the years.
- Nicholson peels back the layers of society's expectations, revealing the complex relationship women have with beauty.
In her latest work, "All the Rage: Stories From the Frontline of Beauty," social historian Virginia Nicholson delves into the evolving beauty standards that have captivated and challenged women over the past century. Covering the period from 1860 to 1960, Nicholson highlights the extremes women have gone to in order to meet societal expectations, from the use of blinding mascara to the phenomenon of "bicycle face," a term that echoes contemporary beauty concerns like "Ozempic face." Nicholson, known for her previous writings on topics such as Bloomsbury bohemia and 1950s femininity, structures her book by introducing each chapter with a photograph of a woman embodying the beauty ideals of her time. This visual approach underscores the shifting nature of fashion, hairstyles, and body image, while also revealing a constant: women face scrutiny regardless of their efforts to conform or rebel against these standards. The book also reflects on the impact of photography's rise in popularity, which intensified the pressure on women to present an idealized version of themselves. As societal norms dictate that women must always appear youthful and polished, Nicholson's work serves as a reminder of the relentless judgment women face regarding their appearance. Ultimately, "All the Rage" is a compelling exploration of how beauty standards have shaped women's lives, revealing the paradox of striving for acceptance while grappling with the fear of aging and the societal gaze.