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Tuesday, May 21, 2013

Too attractive to work

Yesterday Mathew Wright (The Wright Stuff Channel 5) commented on a story about a woman that said that she was unable to find work , because she was too attractive.

I’ll let you into a secret”, he said, “she ain’t”. Later he added that the woman was
“delusional”.

My interest stirred, I decided to find out what lay behind the story, in particular what the woman herself had to say about the issue.

In an interview with ITV’s This Morning, Laura Fernee, explained that she had worked in a medical research lab between 2008 and 2011. At this point comments from work colleagues about her attractive physical appearance caused to resign from her £30,000 a year job.

Laura elaborated on the situation, explaining that the constant attention and "romantic gifts" left her "traumatized."

"In the end, as much as I loved my work, going in to work became very, very difficult because of the psychological impact on me," she said.

"I’m not lazy and I’m no bimbo," Fernee stated in another interview with The Daily Mail. "The truth is my good looks have caused massive problems for me when it comes to employment, so I’ve made the decision that employment just isn’t for me at the moment. It’s not my fault...I can’t help the way I look."
It was not only the attentions of men that caused her issues; women were problematic too.

Women said Laura, “assumed [that] because I was pretty, I was stupid, so didn’t take me seriously at first and, because of their own insecurities, were jealous of my looks.” She added that the women also got angry when they found out she was better at her job than they were.

Fernee is currently receiving financial support form her affluent parents.

This is not the first time we have blogged about [a woman complaining of] the negative affects of being attractive. See Samantha Brick.

Thursday, April 25, 2013

How we see ourselves

This Dove ad skilfully illustrates the difference between how women see their physical selves versus how others see them.

The ad shows an artist sketching several women (unseen) based on how they describe themselves. Next the artist draws the same women; this time the sketch is based on a stranger’s description of them.

The resulting perception based drawings of each individual women, self description opposed to a strangers recount, are very different.

The message is clear. People tend to judge themselves too harshly. It time we were a lot gentler and less judgemental with ourselves.

Monday, March 11, 2013

'Beauty is used to deceive us'

Every now and again while doing something that has nothing to do with this site; someone does or says something that fits perfectly with one of the messages of this blog. Today's quote derived from such an occasion.

While listening to reviews for a newly release science fiction book; one of the female reviewers commented that she were surprised that the author had made the main (evil) arch villain beautiful. She went on to say that evil is more often represented us ugly and unattractive and that it was refreshing to see a break away from the norm.

She then insightfully made the following observation, concerning the role of beauty in our society:

“Beauty is used to deceive us. You don’t see it until you are absolutely immersed in it. It is a deception that we can all so easily fall into”.

Tuesday, November 27, 2012

Friends and body image

If you want a positive body image; you should deliberately socialise with healthy, confident friends. Why?

Researchers (Mount Allison University) have carried out a study to ascertain how adults felt about their body image and their attitudes to losing weight. They looked at 75 pairs of female friends, who were asked to state the frequency in which they confided to friends about issues concerning, appearance, weight, diet or fitness level. The study found that those individuals with friends, who were overly concerned about such issues, could “catch” the obsession.

The research points to the fact that body image issues and the pressure to lose weight is not, as you would naturally assume, related to a woman’s actual body size or weight. Instead it is correlated to a woman’s social network and the inherent body image issues within the social network itself.

Dr Louise Wasylkiw and Molly Williamson, who led the study, said: “Our research demonstrates that friends influence each other through at least three processes: perceived pressure to be thin; body-related talk; and perceptions. Although these perceptions are somewhat grounded in reality, ie close to the truth, they are more influential than reality.”

We wholeheartedly agree that perceptions are often “more influential than reality”. This is something that we see and hear about on a very regular basis. Our aim, especially in our workshops, is to bring reality to the fore and shed light on the truth.

I’ll finish with the famous and pertinent words from Eleanor Roosevelt: “No one can make you feel inferior without your own consent.”

Wednesday, September 19, 2012

Natural Women Versus Professional Models

Our October article recounts a recent BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, that discussed Germany’s Brigitte magazine’s decision to reverse their policy to use real people rather than professional models.

Marie O'Riordan, former editor of Marie Claire opened the discussion with the statement that she was “not remotely” surprised that the initiative had not worked.

“The thing about magazine readers”, she continued, “is that what they say they want and what they actually want are two different things”.

“As an editor”, Marie continued, “you try to read the runes of the Zeitgeist (the spirit of the times). There was a bit of a fashion for real women in advertising a couple of years ago; the Dove campaign especially”.

“I ran a fashion story once”, Marie recounted, “featuring real women and I got a backlash of readers saying: ‘I don’t want to look at pictures of real women, I want to look at pictures of models, because models are quite good at their job, they tend to wear frocks and pout a the camera in a way that is more appealing’”.

“This is the best scenario (use of professionals)”, stated Marie, “for the editor; and ultimately when you buy a glossy magazine, you are buying into a bit of a fantasy and escapism and reality is not what you’re paying your three or four quid for”.

Read Article

Friday, August 31, 2012

“There is no such thing as perfection”

In a Glamour magazine interview, Kelly Osbourne voiced her opinion that there is too much pressure on attractive women to maintain their looks. She believes that individuals should stop comparing themselves to others.

Kelly said: "Women are so unforgiving of themselves. We don't recognize our own beauty, because we're too busy comparing ourselves to other people. No, we are not all Gisele Bundchen or Beyonce Knowles, but I can tell you even the most beautiful girls in the world have felt insecure”.

"Just seeing the pressure my friends Kim Kardashian and Kate Moss are under”, she continued, “makes me never want to be the prettiest in the room. There is no such thing as perfection.

“Try this; look in the mirror. Find one thing you like... think, 'Well, I've got this, and a lot of people don't'. You have to look at what you do have."

"I call myself an FFP - former fat person. And when you're an FFP, you will always see in yourself what people used to bully you for”.

"Even now [Kelly has shed over 3 stones] I don't consider myself skinny. But I have put a lot of hard work into my body over the years, and in the process, I've really learned to love myself."

Monday, May 14, 2012

Beautiful or intelligent ?

In recent months my daughter has been driving the whole family mad with her ceaseless and I must add annoying questions. They all follow the same pattern, which is “would you rather be…or ….” e.g. “Would you rather be a cat or a dog? I kid you not.

Recently, she asked the following question. “Would you rather be beautiful or intelligent?” It reminded me of a newspaper article that I read a few days ago.

The article was discussing, Tom Bower (Simon Cowell’s biographer), who reportedly commented that he had had doubts about Cheryl Cole’s suitability for US X Factor, because “her real problem is she’s not very intelligent.”

Whatever you think of Cheryl Cole’s intelligence, many people e.g. Matthew Morrison (Glee) think she is beautiful.

Back to my daughter’s question. “Would you rather be beautiful or intelligent”?

I responded that’d rather be intelligent, because it took time and effort to acquire. It would therefore give me personal satisfaction and a sense of achievement. I elaborated this point by stating that intelligence could potentially give me a career/business and financial security. It also had the added benefit of not being subject to the whims of our culture’s beauty standards or ageing phobia.

“You are beautiful …. and intelligent”, I added.

“Thanks”, she said beaming.

Thursday, April 26, 2012

Beyonce - World’s most beautiful woman

This lunchtime, while driving back from a meeting, I heard my local radio presenter say.

“Beyonce has been voted the world’s most beautiful woman”. He followed up this statement with the assertion. “No one can argue with that”!

Well, I am sure that there are many people who would ardently agree and many who would vehemently disagree.

Why? Well I know it a cliché, but beauty really is subjective.

To prove my point, look at People magazine’s top 10 beauties. I bet there are less than a handful of ours readers who would select the same 10 individuals. Taking it one step further, I’d put money on the fact that only one or two (if any), having selected the same 10 celebrities would order them identically.

Top 10:

1. Beyonce
2. Sofia Vergara
3. Charlize Theron
4. Lily Collins (daughter of Phil Collins)
5. Madeleine Stowe
6. Christina Hendricks
7. Michelle Williams
8. Paula Patton
9. Miranda Lambert
10. Kate Middleton

Thursday, April 12, 2012

Micro and mini beauty pageant

Would you let your baby, toddler or daughter enter a beauty pageant; in which she wears high heels, makeup, fake tan and a bikini?

In May, Miss Mini Princess UK, Britain's first baby beauty pageant (mimicking the US) will be held.

Pageant categories include:-
Baby Princess – Under 1
Tiny Princess – 1 Year olds
Little Princess – 2 and 3 year olds
Petite Princess – 4 – 6 year olds
Little Miss Princess – 7 – 10 year olds

Contestants will be judged on their physical attractiveness, talents including dancing and overall charisma when dressed in chic clothing.

Unsurprisingly, the contest attracted a good deal of controversy, not least because of fears that it will lead to the premature sexualisation of very young girls.

This concern is evidenced by Claude Knight's (director of the children’s charity Kidscape) comments on the issue. “I’m very concerned about this sort of contest for such young girls. Not only is there the ‘Lolita’ issue of little girls being sexualised, dressing as adults and not being aware of the sort of feelings this can provoke in others, but they are also too young to give informed consent".

With girls so young, we must look to the children's mothers, in order to learn the real reasons why the babies/girls are taking part. It's clear that the mothers are getting something, in all likelihood more, out of their daughter’s participation in the pageant, than the little girls themselves.

I don’t have a problem with little girls dressing up and role playing; it’s a normal part of growing up. However, I am concerned that these children are being taught that their value is closely connected to how they look and that society will judge them on that basis.

This is undoubtedly an unwise and potentially dangerous message to etch on their young minds. It could have harmful long-term consequences on their self worth.

Friday, April 06, 2012

Do women hate beautiful women?

An article by the Daily Mail writer Samantha Brick titled, "Why women hate me for being so beautiful," has been the catalyst to much internet uproar, speculation and controversy.

The editorial resulted in a record number of public comments; most in hostile disagreement of the sentiments she expressed.

In a follow-up article Samantha stated: "The past 24 hours have been, to be blunt, among the most horrendous of my life."

In light of the enormous international public response, Samantha Brick when onto ITV 1's Good Morning to clarify her position.

"Do I think I'm good looking? Yes, I do. Is that a crime? she asked. The question underlined Samantha's belief that that she is hated simply because she is beautiful.

"Women do not like attractive women," she continued. "Neither me nor my friends have any problem with beauty, but we do not like arrogance. People mistake self-confidence for arrogance, but it's a fact that women can't stand beautiful women."

"This whole experience has proven my thesis", she added. "Women do not like attractive women. This is proven by the thousands of vile messages on my personal email account, on Twitter, and on my telephone answering machine."
Programme host Ruth Langford, commented. "It's not that we don't like beautiful women; it's that we don't like arrogant women."

In response, Samantha completely dismissed the possibility that her personality or attitude could play a role in how she was perceived by others. "People mistake self-confidence for arrogance", she said. "But it's a fact that women are not nice to one another. They all stab each other in the backs in my experience."

As in the case of the original article, This Morning was inundated with viewer comments.

'She's OK looking, but it's what's inside that counts,' said one. “It's much nicer to not say you're beautiful”, said another. Co host Eamonn Holmes adding that it was “better to let others discover your beauty than to tell them about it.”

Whether you are one of the outraged opposing majority or one of the few less vocal supporting minority, one thing is clear. There was nothing beautiful; on the contrary, there was something decidedly ugly about how the events unfolded.

Monday, March 12, 2012

Dark girls

This 10-minute trailer titled “Dark Girls,” depicts black women (with darker skin) reliving painful experiences that they have endured, simply because they are dark skinned. Having dark skin made them feel very unattractive, even ugly, compared to black women with lighter skin.

Website

Friday, February 03, 2012

Aspirational selling

This week senior marketers from the beauty industry, including Boots, L’Oréal and Procter & Gamble, appeared before the All Party Parliamentary Group on Body Image.

Conservative MP Caroline Nokes asked the group if they were perpetuating a lack of confidence in order to sell more products and services.

In response Louise Terry(L’Oréal group director of communications) defended the cosmetics firm’s advertising as “aspirational” and “sincere”. She said: “It’s fair to say that images are airbrushed but never to make people thinner. We try to be sincere and try to get the line right between aspirational and going too far. We spend a lot of time on what is appropriate and we have a good industry watchdog (Advertising Standards Authority – ASA) that names and shames us when we get it wrong. People are discerning. If they use a product and it doesn’t work, they probably will not use it again. But we get consumers buying our products again and again.”

Ironically, the meeting took place during the same week that the ASA banned a L’Oreal’s ad that featured an airbrushed Rachel Weisz.

Elizabeth Fagan ( Boots marketing director) added her thoughts. “We want all our brand communications to be engaging”, she said continuing, “inspirational and make people feel good. We don’t want it to be unattainable but want women to think ‘on a good day I could look like that’.... Women don’t want to see unattractive or everyday people – they want to be aspirational.”

Aspirational? In truth many beauty ads depict images that are unattainable. The industry should address this issue, rather than simply skirting around the edges.

Friday, January 27, 2012

The beautification of soap characters

The Wright Stuff (Channel Five) had an interesting discussion this morning. It asked the studio and viewing audience the following question. "Have noticed that new soap characters are becoming more attractive?" My answer to this question is a simple, "yes" .

Until quite recently, the epitome of a soap character was that they looked like the typical man or woman in the street. Things have changed.

The TV discussion highlighted the fact that, as story lines alter, it seems to be out with the old (less physically appealing) and in with the new (gorgeous). In EastEnders former model picks of the reigns as Lucy Beale. Coronations Street's Battersbys family have given way to the better looking Price family, while Emmerdale's, cast is bulging at the seams with 'beautiful people.'

The beautification of soaps is just one more indication that, in our culture, "looks matter", almost to the exclusion of anything else e.g. talent.

This is not a healthy or wise message to send to society; particularly to the young.

Wednesday, November 09, 2011

Cheryl Cole - Tattoo 'art'

In a interview with InStyle magazine (December's issue), Cheryl Cole voiced her belief that tattoos are ''art''.

This viewpoint is evidenced by her growing collection of tattoos, which can be found on her leg, lower back and the side of her hand.

''They are addictive, they really are", she told the magazine. ''If it was up to me - and I could be brave for one day - I would have my whole back done. My friends say 'Cheryl, please, you might regret it' - but to me, it's art.''

From the tattoo themed discussions I've had over the years, it's safe to say that tattoo's are a bit like Marmite; you either love them or hate them.

Cheryl's additional comments defining 'beauty' and her views on those who like to voice their criticism (of others) were enlightening.

''You should have whatever you want and do what you want", Cheryl stated. "What's beautiful is being you. People are too judgmental and have too much to say about other people.''

Monday, October 17, 2011

Regional beauty favourites

A study by Debenhams, the stated aim being to help them manage where they “send stock and when”, has identified the beauty products that women prefer to wear.

General regional differences are outlined below.

North, Scotland & Essex: ‘More is more’ prefer heavy makeup Product: fake tan and false eyelashes (buying on average a new pair of false eyelashes every fortnight).

South: 'Natural look’ prefer great looking skin. Products: tinted moisturisers.

Midlands: Simple yet classic. Product: red lipstick.

Irish & Welsh: Eyes play an important role. Product: mascara.

Speaking personally, I'm from the Midlands and I do have a penchant for red lipstick!

Friday, August 12, 2011

Boots ‘Ta Dah'

Boots has just launched a new campaign called ‘Ta Dah’, under its No 7 brand. The campaign utilises non-airbrushed, age-appropriate models who have not undergone cosmetic surgery.

Mother, the company behind the adverts, has commented that No.7 is ‘breaking the mould’ by not retouching or digitally manipulating images.

Boots is a major player in the High Street. It’s more truthful reflection of a diverse range of women will hopefully lead to other influential beauty and fashion brands following in their footsteps.

Boots - Ta Dah

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

Unrealistic ad banned

L’Oreal has once again been on the receiving end of complaints about their digitally altered ads that depict unrealistic, flawless, perfect images of celebrities.

On this occasion, in response to complaints, the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) have banned two ads; one of Julia Roberts and the other of Christy Turlington.

Julie's ad claimed the foundation ‘recreates the aura of perfect skin’. L’Oreal acknowledged that ‘post production’ techniques had been used on the image, but argued that it was a realistic representation of her ‘naturally healthy and glowing skin’.

Christy's ad stated that the product: ‘Conceals instantly, visibly, precisely ... Covers dark circles and fine lines to help conceal crow's feet - as if erased!’ Small print along the bottom admitted the image was an ‘Illustrated effect’. L’Oreal said it had been retouched to ‘lighten the skin, clean up make-up, reduce dark shadows and shading around the eyes, smooth the lips and darken the eyebrows’. Once again the company insisted that the image was an accurate reflection of the benefits of the product.

The ASA was not swayed by L'Oreal's argument; pronouncing that the images could not be used again in their current form.

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

Miss Barbados World

While I was lunching at a Barbados hotel last week, some of the Miss Barbados World contestants made a unexpected appearance. Hotel guests (like myself) were then treated to a fashion show while we dined.

The Miss Barbados World contestants all fitted the 'model' archetype; young, very slim, tall and beautiful. They were also very polite and happily posed in response to my request for a photo (above). The winner will take part in the 61st Miss World Finals on 6th November in London.

While I am not an advocate of beauty contests par se, it was great to see a group of courteous happy young women, full of hope and optimism for the future.

I wish them all success in the contest and beyond.

More Information: www.missbarbadosworldonline.com www.facebook.com/missbarbadosworldonline

Thursday, May 19, 2011

Black women less attractive?

The London School of Economics (LSE) is investigating a blog post by psychologist Dr Satoshi Kanazawa's, one of its lecturers. The Psychology Today article "why black women are less physically attractive", ignited outrage this week. In the article Dr Kanazawa outlined the findings of a University of North Carolina survey, in which interviewers rated the "physical attractiveness" of selected subjects.

Following much criticism, Psychology Today removed the article that generated so much internet traffic that it almost brought down their site. While the internet notably Facebook and Twitter heatedly conversed on the issue; demands for Dr Kanazawa's dismissal mounted. Washing their hands of the affair, LSE said his views were his own and "do not in any way represent those of LSE as an institution".

Although the posting was removed, cached versions show that Dr Kanazawa wrote: "Black women are … far less attractive than white, Asian, and Native American women".

No details were provided on the interviewers backgrounds (social/political/ethnic) nor the criteria used to determine a persons "physical attractiveness".

Psychology Today told the US radio station NPR that its bloggers were "credentialed social scientists and for this reason they are invited to post to the site on topics of their choosing". Adding "We in turn reserve the right to remove posts for any number of reasons. Because the post was not commissioned or solicited by PT, there was no editorial intent to address questions of race and physical attractiveness."

The articles critics included Dr Mikhail Lyubansky, (Department of Psychology at the University of Illinois) who said the posting failed to consider possible "anti-black bias" in the perceptions of the respondents and interviewers. "Without this kind of methodological analysis", he wrote, Kanazawa's entire premise that there is such a thing as a single objective standard of attractiveness is fatally and tragically flawed," .

Sherelle Davids, anti-racism officer-elect of the LSE students' union, said: "Kanazawa deliberately manipulates findings that justify racist ideology. As a black woman I feel his conclusions are a direct attack on black women everywhere who are not included in social ideas of beauty."

Dr Kanazawa's was not available for comment.

My thoughts? Beauty is subjective; it is strongly influenced by experience and culture. Dr Kanazawa's article makes his viewpoint crystal clear. Sadly his stance may be embraced by individuals with a similar bias.

"If black women take this on as a reasonable argument or assumption, we would be taking on other people's baggage," said Helen Miller (a black woman). "That is his problem", she continued. "We should not make it ours. We should not dispute it. We should not condone it. We should not embrace it as a reasonable conversation, because it isn't."

Friday, May 13, 2011

Gok Wan's campaign relaunch

This week we saw Gok Wan teaching body image classes outside the House of Commons. The purpose; to relauch this campaign to get body image classes on curriculums in England, Wales, Northern Ireland and Scotland.

"I'm not saying that kids will turn round and stop having eating disorders", said Gok. But just by opening up a dialogue and getting them to talk about it is as important as talking about maths or talking about science or talking about English".

We are firmly behind the campaign. It is fully in line with mybodybeautiful's ethics, which we have been promoting online for over 7 years. Details of our body image workshop for schools can be found here.

Tuesday, May 10, 2011

Fish Pedicures

While shopping with my daughter recently; I was somewhat surprised to see a Fish Pedicure unit (latest health & beauty craze) inside the small shopping centre. I knew fish pedicures were becoming increasingly popular, but I was still surprised to see it being offered in a relatively small town.

My nine year old daughter didn’t like the thought of numerous tiny toothless Garra Rufa feasting on the dead skin of her feet. I had similar misgivings.

Interest piqued, I decided to look into it a little bit further.

There is an enzyme in the fish’s salvia that breaks down dead skin, which is removed by the fish leaving a smooth finish.

Following infection fears, that have lead to several US states banning the pedicure; the Health Protection Agency will be publishing best practice guidelines concerning the risk and spread of infection.

My local Business Compliance Manager for Regulatory Services stated, "from the research we have carried out the procedure is safe and presents very few risks to the client so long as sensible precautions are taken…We have so far received no enquiries or complaints about fish pedicures, but if a member of the public were to raise concerns, we would investigate in the same way as we would any other business.”

Will fish pedicures become the latest 'must have' or will it fade into oblivion like so many healthy & beauty fads before it? Watch this space.

Saturday, April 16, 2011

Earthquakes & makeup

With all the tragic earthquake news in recent weeks, I thought I'd bring you a different type of quake story.

On Thursday, Dolly Parton confessed on ITV's This Morning, that she always slept in makeup whenever she was in LA or New York.

Why? Because both areas are vulnerable to earthquakes. She simply wants to make sure that she is prepared for such an eventuality, both night and day.

I sincerely hope that Ms Parton was joking and that she would run to safety, with or without makeup, when and wherever the need arose.

Thursday, March 31, 2011

Beauty exchange

A survey of female students aged 18 to 65 at British universities found that 30 % of the 320 women would be willing to die younger in exchange for the ‘ideal’ figure. The vast majority of the students were within the normal weight range.

16 % said they would swap one year of their life for their ideal body and 10 % were willing to trade between two and five years.
2 % were willing to forego up to a decade, and 1% said they'd give up at least 21 years in exchange for being thin.

Other things the students were prepared to give up in the pursuit of beauty included:

13 % would take a £5,000 cut in salary
8 % would forego a promotion at work
9 % their friends
7 % would give up their health to achieve their ideal shape.
7 % would give up spending time with their family
6 % would give up getting a first in their degree

Dr Phillippa Diedrichs, an eating disorder expert from the University of West of England commented, "This really highlights how important appearance is for women. Unfortunately, body weight and shape is seen as not only an indicator of how beautiful they are; it's also often a marker of success in their life".

Wednesday, March 16, 2011

Beauty in 1991 versus 2011

Allure magazine (US) recently surveyed 2,000 men and women. The researchers discovered that America’s ideas of what is considered beautiful have changed over two decades (last survey 1991).

While some things haven't changed e.g. like beauty peaking during your 30s, other things have. Darker hair and skin, more prominent features and curves have replaced the stereotypical blue eyed, stick thin blond preference of the 1990's.

Details:-

• 64 percent think women of mixed race represent the epitome of beauty.

• 70 percent of those who wish to change their skin colour wanted it to be darker.

• 74 percent of those surveyed believe that a curvier body type is more appealing now than it has been over the past 10 years.

Other changes are detailed below:

Thursday, February 24, 2011

The price of beauty

British women spend an average of £133,575 (£2,055 per year) on their appearance during their lifetime; while men on average spend a £75,030.

The survey carried out by QVC channel, also revealed that the average annual spend:-

Women
    - £717 on body maintenance
    - £405 on their hair
    - £289 a year on their skin

Men:
   - £ £543 on body maintenance
   - £179 on their hair
   - £220 a year on their skin

56 per cent of women prefer to spend money on their face rather then on their body. Conversely, men 63 per cent of men felt that it was more important to have a good body rather than an attractive face.

Sue Leeson, from QVC advised, "Rather than trying out faddy 'miracle' treatments, invest in a beauty regime you can really stick to and get results with".

Friday, February 18, 2011

"Don't judge me"

My favourite quote from the first three episodes of Channel 4's Beast and the Beast - Ugly Face of Prejudice, comes from Susan Campbell Duncan in episode 2.

"People make this assumption about what I should be. That I should be someone that hides away in the house and only comes out at night. Yet nothing could be further from the truth about me ... and I often think that by simply going about my life, I'm putting a message out to people".

"I'm saying don't judge me.... don't stereotype me ... you don't know me".

Bravo!

Tuesday, February 08, 2011

The ugly face of prejudice

Channel 4's new six part series Beauty and the beast -The ugly face of prejudice explores the modern preoccupation with appearance.

The programme featured a 'beast' in the form of Adam Pearson. Adam whose face is severely disfigured by neurofibromatosis has spent the last four years campaigning against the issue of looks based prejudice. "Lots of worlds exclude people like me", he stated. "To fashion, advertising and celebrity I'm simply invisible. They don't hear me or see me ... I simply don't exist".

Adam took his concerns to Tiger Savage an advertising executive. "Perfection sells," came the simple succinct response. "Everyone wants to be somewhere else; be somewhere beautiful and look at beautiful people".

Read Article

Friday, February 04, 2011

Tesco beauty

Tesco has opened two trial in-store beauty salons under the name 'Your Beauty Salon' in their Leicester and Chesterfield superstores. They plan to open another 70 in-store beauty salons by the end of 2011.

Budget bikini and leg waxes, manicures, eyebrow threading, a cut and blow dry, hair colouring ..... will all be available with your weekly shop.

The beauty market in the UK is estimated to be worth approximately £5 billion a year. Tesco are hoping for a £15 million a year slice of the beauty treatment pie.

“The beauty market is a huge opportunity. We are testing customer responses to beauty services such as threading and nail treatments,” said a Tesco spokesperson.

However, the Daily Mail has reported that retail expert Neil Saunders (Verdict) is unconvinced that the new venture will work. "People want to feel relaxed and pampered when having their hair or nails done", he said. "This isn't the case when you are rushing around Tesco.... A value haircut might be appealing to some, but most people want to feel special. They don't want to tell people they got their hair or nails done at Tesco".

I know several independent beauty/hair small business owners. I hope they will be able to coexist with Tesco and continue to run successful businesses. My fear is that they will be adversely impacted, like so many other small business owners, when forced to go head-to-head with the retail giant.

Monday, January 31, 2011

Male Breast Surgery

The British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (Baaps) has announced that the number of breast reduction operations for men increased from 581 to 741 (28%) last year. More than double the 2008 figure. The medical name for the operation is gynaecomastias; it is more commonly known as man boob or "moob" ops.

Could vanity and recent photos of barechested celebs like Simon Cowell be the reason behind the increase?

Fazel Fatah, consultant plastic surgeon and president of Baaps, argued against pure vanity being the main culprit. "A lot of these men develop so much breast tissue that they begin to look like women's", he said. However, he did admit to an element of vanity by adding, "men have become more aware of body image and what's considered attractive and acceptable."

Women's breast surgery operations also increased in 2010 to 9, 430, 10% more than 2009.

Wednesday, January 19, 2011

The Chinese and Western beauty ideals

This week we learned that cosmetic surgery is flourishing in China, where the industry is now worth 10 billion pounds a year.

The tragic death last year of the aspiring Chinese singer Wang Bei 24, during cosmetic surgery, has not steamed the growing tide of those seeking beauty through surgery.

In the UK and the West in general, the most popular procedures include breast surgery, facelifts and tummy tucks. In China, reports the Sky News, it is ‘double eyelids’. The goal of double eyelid surgery is to make the eyes appear more European i.e. less Asian.

Other common procedures, again aimed at making Asian features and skin look more western, include nose enlargements, jawbone reshaping or ‘grinding’, and liposuction on the cheeks.

“Foreigners think that the Chinese all have flat faces and small eyes, because that''s what our race looks like,” said Dr Shi Sanba, the founder of a high-end clinic in Beijing. “But now that China''s getting richer people are no longer satisfied with their appearance. We think Westerners are more beautiful,” she added. Dr Shi has herself had more than 60 operations.

Bao Bao, a 28-year-old former dancer from Shanghai, had Aomeiding (toxic substance ) injected into both her breasts and chin and says she is now in constant pain. The self-confessed cosmetic surgery addict has also had over 100 other procedures, including three facelifts, laser skin whitening and implants in her heels in an attempt to add stature.

“I’ve lost everything, my youth and my career,” she said in a tearful interview. “No man wants to be with me, and sometimes I look so frightening that I don’t even want to leave the house,” she added.

My only comment is to restate that beauty ideals (what is and is not deemed beautiful) are created by society. Sadly many Chinese are signing up to the narrow Western definition of beauty, rather than recognising and embracing the beauty that uniquely Asian.

Saturday, November 27, 2010

Misleading beauty campaign

Georgia May Jagger, daughter of Mick Jagger's and Jerry Hall, is the latest person to front a controversial and misleading beauty campaign. The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) ruled on this week that Rimmel exaggerated the benefits of their 1-2-3 Looks Mascara, by getting Georgia to wear false eyelashes in the ads. As well as banning the TV and magazine ads, the ASA also complained Rimmel's associated research had only been conducted on five women.

Rimmel's said it had used false eyelashes "to ensure a consistent and aesthetic lash look" , not to present an exaggerated or unachievable look. A small print below the ads stating "shot with lash inserts" should have been enough to alert the public to the use of false eyelashes, the company added.

But the ASA disagreed, saying the warning was too small and that using the false eyelashes distorted the impact that could be achieved by the product.

Please with the ASA's ruling, the Liberal Democrat MP Jo Swinson, co-founder of the Campaign for Body Confidence, said: "The beauty industry has a long way to go in promoting honesty in the content of the pictures it uses, rather than presenting totally unachievable aspirations of beauty and faked images."

A number of celebrity ads have been banned or caused controversy in the past five years for deceiving the public:

- Procter & Gamble - airbrushing Twiggy in Olay Definity eye cream ad.
- Rimmel's - mascara ad banned for digitally enhancing Kate Moss's eyelashes.
- L'Oreal a) claims for a wrinkle cream promoted by Claudia Schiffer were banned.
b) Penelope Cruz wearing false eyelashes to promote mascara and
c) Cheryl Cole promoting shampoo while wearing hair extensions.

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Michelle Mone's photos

Michelle Mone 38, the co-owner of UItimo is celebrating the loss of 6 stones. Her weight dropped from 17 to 11 stones. Success came after a three year diet and rigorous exercise regime.

Her celebrations involved posing in her companies underwear for all the world to see ... and admire? The photos are tasteful and she looks great in each one. The media response is any marketers dream come true; with pictures of a partially dressed Michelle, adorning the pages of many newspapers.

Michelle revealed that her husband Michael had concerns, but she went ahead anyway. She explained: “A lot of people in the business world will be shocked to see me do this....“But I want to empower women and show them that if you’re really unhappy about your body, you have the power to do something about it.”

Michele is clearly an attractive, intelligent and successful entrepreneurial women. This being the case, why did she feel it necessary to put her new body on public display. Does she want to:-

    i) be seen as beautiful as well as talented?
    ii) be envied by thousands of women up and down the country?
    iii) increase her celebrity status by conforming to it's beauty and body ideals?
    iv) give her company/brand massive free media coverage?

In all the board rooms I've been in, women work just as hard as men and strive to earn respect, while maintaining professional distance. Michelle's photo shoot is a complete departure from this ethos.

At this mornings meeting; the numbers of those in favour and against Michelle's actions were pretty evenly matched. What do you think?

Photo

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Hollywood women

Following on from the last blog, Gemma Arterton, 24 year-old British ex-Bond girl has recently complained that Hollywood was not taking her talents as an actress seriously. "I've nearly walked off very big films before," she stated while promoting her new Stephen Frears movie, Tamara Drewe. "And I would, too, because I don't want that [being hired for her looks not her talent] in my life."

She is not alone. She follows in the footsteps of veteran actresses like Raquel Welch and Marilyn Monroe; and more recently, Scarlett Johansson, Jennifer Aniston and Lindsay Lohan. Marilyn Monroe's famous quote "Hollywood is a place where they'll pay you a thousand dollars for a kiss and 10 cents for your soul", still rings true today.

Hollywood female celebrities have complained about the issue for decades. Today, the movie industry adopts a politically correct stance, known as 'The Coalition for Age Fairness'; which promotes equality and diversity. Despite this, the majority of movies are centred around an attractive white male hero, with at least one young female beauty adorning his side.

I can see why some actresses complain about how they are treated in Hollywood. Females are known to earn less, have less choice and have shorter careers (age) than their male counterparts. In the last 10 years, over 70% of all Hollywood acting parts, and 86 per cent of starring roles, were giving to men. Of the roles that went to females, only a measly 9 % went to women over 40.

"I don't think it's sexism," says British director Rod Lurie. "Hollywood will do what it takes to make money. They aren't taking a principled stand against women. They just don't see the audience going there."

For those who achieve Hollywood stardom, money and fame await; at a far greater level than most would have accomplished without it. This my be the reason why some Hollywood actresses are happy with the the status quo.

"None of it really bothers me," says 24-year-old Transformers star Megan Fox. "I don't know why anyone would complain about being a sex symbol. That's what our purpose is in this business. You're merchandised, you're a product. You're sold and it's based on sex".

Opting for a career in Hollywood is no different from any other career, in the sense that if you want to enjoy the benefits, you must must be willing to accept the negatives; at least until you can change things from within.

Monday, September 20, 2010

A blessing and a curse

Earlier this month Raquel Welch celebrated her 70th birthday. During an interview celebrating the milestone, Raquel Welch announced that becoming a pin-up was both a 'blessing and a curse'.

'I've always wanted to be living proof that anyone can look and feel great at any age", she told the Daily Mail's David Wigg. 'I was given a magnificent body and I have looked after it well. I never felt I could afford the luxury of letting myself go".

While being 'The Body Beautiful' in public, Raquel commented that she was aware of the fact that she was just "a symbol, a thing, an image, somebody without a voice ..... people saw a creation of their own minds and never once considered that I was just an ordinary human being".

So, how can an individual resist the considerable external pressures to conform to societies beauty ideals? The answer, to paraphrase Raquel; 'focus on what you find fulfilling, do not try to be what other people/society think you should be'.

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Beckham bans size zero

It's somewhat ironic that size zero Victoria Beckham, now a fashion designer, has banned size zero models from her upcoming Fashion Week show in New York. Her decision is due to her belief that size zero models do not look healthy, the Mirror reported. A case of do what I say and not what I do?

The paper also reported that Mrs Beckham thought size zero models were not realistic and that they did not send a positive message to her fans. Surprisingly, she sent home a number of models without even seeing them after being told they were size zero.

A source said: "Victoria takes her role as a figure in the public eye very seriously, and is well aware young girls look up to her. This is why she gets so angry when people claim she doesn't eat properly - she does".

"She has three young boys to run around after, and a business empire to expand, so of course she needs to look after herself".

Hopefully, Victoria will become the epitome of her own message and adopt a more healthy weight herself.

Picture

Monday, September 06, 2010

The person behind the face

We like this video because it illustrates how much we attribute to others solely on appearance. It also makes it every clear that there is much more to a person than what can be ascertained on first impression.

Tuesday, August 31, 2010

Super Human

On Sunday, I sat down with my husband and caught the end of Moonraker (James Bond film). In it, James Bond (Roger Moore) confronts billionaire industrialist Hugo Drax (Michael Lonsdale), who plans to murder the world's population so that he can repopulate the earth with a super-race.

Throughout the film I found myself laughing at the humorous dialog and ancient looking technology (1979), Paradoxically, I was also disturbed by the plot.

The term superhuman has been misused and abused thought history. It is usually used to elevate a few on genetic/physical grounds while eliminating, subjugating or ostracising the vast majority.

Today the beauty, diet, fashion, personal care and cosmetic surgery industries are broadcasting the message that if you buy their product, service or undergo a procedure / surgery that 'you too' can become 'super human' in appearance. i.e. achieve the impossible.

Like Moonraker, the advertising/media message is nothing but fiction.

Thursday, August 12, 2010

Natural versus chemical

'Natural', seems to be the word that causes products to fly off the shelves; whether its food, drink, cosmetics, clothing, furniture .... In this blog we'll take a look at the organic (natural) cosmetics market; a market that grew by a third to £36 million last year.

The general belief seems to be that natural is good and healthy, while chemical or synthetic is bad and unhealthy. This viewpoint is the goose that laid the golden egg for the organic cosmetics industry. It so infuriated the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC) that it has offered one million pounds to the organisation/person who can prove that their product is chemical-free. RSC are very sure that their money is safe, stating, "natural and synthetic chemicals are essential for life as we know it".

So all organic products have chemicals in them, how then can companies claim that their product is 95% (or more) 'natural'. They can do so, because the constituent products have been derived from natural products i.e. they have not been created in a laboratory.

The real crux of the matter is not whether or not a product is natural, but whether or not it is safe to use on your skin. Here we can take comfort from the fact that stringent regulation and testing will keep the most of the bad stuff off the shelves.

Thursday, July 01, 2010

Poll Of 20th Century Beauties

Today the results of a QVC poll listing the beauties of the 20th century was published.

The top 10 beauties were:

1. Audrey Hepburn
2. Cheryl Cole
3. Marilyn Monroe
4. Angelina Jolie
5. Grace Kelly
6. Scarlett Johansson
7. Halle Berry
8. Diana, Princess of Wales
9. Kelly Brook
10. Jennifer Aniston

The poll (only 2000 women) was clearly a poll of the most beautiful stars and celebrates that have dominated the British media over the past century. Even with this clarification, the results leave much room for debate.

The good news is that the remaining 99.99% of the female population around the world were not even considered; so there is no need to have a 'feeling bad/unattractive/ugly' day.

Friday, February 19, 2010

A black princess

This week, I took a group of 8 year old girls to see 'the princess and the frog' as part of a half term day out. I sat and watched the film getting the greatest enjoyment from their absorbed captivated faces.

After the film, I asked them what they thought of it. The girls enthusiastically told me that they loved it and thought the princess was beautiful. To my surprise, not one of them mentioned that the princess was not white, with blue eyes and long flowing blond hair.

How times have chagned. Today, UK children of all nationalities can go to the cinemas, see a film staring a black princess and not feel the need to question the possibility.

The princess and the frog is an enjoyable family film. It is also a huge boost to the body image and self esteem of black and other ethnic children.

Full Article

Thursday, December 17, 2009

Twiggy & Olay 'Misleading'

Yesterday, the Advertising Standards Authority, who believe that whatever an advert promises should be decent and truthful, ruled that an airbrushed photo of 60 year old Twiggy "could give consumers a misleading impression of the effect the product could achieve". The advertisement credited Olay Definity eye illuminator as her "secret to brighter-looking eyes" The unnaturally youthful and relatively line free photo promised results that no cream can deliver.

Proctor and Gamble's withdraw the advert and denied allegations that they were being socially irresponsible. The withdrawal signalled a small victory for the 700 individuals who signed a petition complained about it. Jo Swinson the Lib Dem MP behind the campaign said "body confidence, self esteem and health is something that needs to be dealt with".

We hope the Advertising Standards decision will result in the advertising industry taking a much more responsible stance. Ideally, we would like to see the industry ban all unrealistic and unattainable images that are invariably placed beside products and services that promise impossible transformations.

The real Twiggy

Wednesday, November 11, 2009

30 per cent to good sex,

They say “sex sells” and it certainly created a lot of column inches this week, after 71 year old Jane Fonda spoke to the German newspaper Bilt.

I am going to have a less sensational look at the wider context of what she said; in response to a question asking how she managed to look so good:

"I owe 30 per cent to genes, 30 per cent to good sex, 30 per cent because of sports and healthy lifestyle with proper nutrition and for the remaining 10 per cent – I have to thank my plastic surgeon”

After reading her response, I decided to ask myself a similar question. “What is responsible for the way I look?” My answer:

30% to genes. - I am healthy, strong and naturally muscular.

40% to my lifestyle – I eat healthy, drink alcohol in moderation, go to the gym 3 or 4 times and week and try to be in bed (I do not always succeed) by 10:00- 10:30 pm.

30% to the fact that I am happy – I’m married to a loving, caring, hard working man who is also great father. I have healthy children, a wonderful family and some great long term friends.

I find it hard (and sad) to believe that any mature woman would truly believe that sex alone could constitute almost a third who she is. I strongly suspect that the media veteran knew exactly what effect her words would have. Sex sells.

Friday, October 30, 2009

Wanting a normal life

24 Katie Piper was young, very attractive, a model and an up-and-coming TV presenter with a bright future ahead of her. In 2008 a cruel acid attack destroyed her face and changed her life forever.

As I sat watching my Beautiful Face on Channel 4 yesterday, I was filled with a deep sense of sadness, due to the pain and loss that she had suffered. At the same time, I felt truly awe inspired and privileged to be able to witness her bravery and determination to overcome her natural fears and regain control of her life.

Special moments from the film include the following open and deeply personal discussions.

In a conversation with her sister:

"I would go out with someone who was facially burnt like me, because that's the surface of your face. It doesn't change anything. You know if someone was able to love you ....care for you .... and have a normal adult fulfilling relationship. If they had a few scars, a funny nose or whatever on the outside.... I don't really care. I don't know .... we'll just have to see what happens".

Talking to the interviewer:

"Sometimes when people look at me, all they can see is the accident. And if they couldn't see that maybe it would take away the stigma and the invisible wall that I sometimes feel around me; it stops people from wanting to get close to me......"

"The way I feel inside, I am always screaming 'I just want to be a normal girl' ".

Interviewer: "Who are you talking to?"

"Girls my own age. I think the same as you ... I feel the same as you ... and I am normal ... I am not a freak".

Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Makeup during the recession

L'Oreal, now in its 100th year, recently commissioned a report to determine the effects of the recession on the makeup routine of 4000 women. The women were sourced from the United States and Europe.

The survey concluded that despite the economic downturn, women resolutely continued to purchase their favourite products.

In detail the researchers found that wearing makeup made :-
- 50% of the women feel more empowered and in control.
- 82% feel more self confident.
- 86% experienced increased levels of self image.
- 90% did not change their overall usage.
Interestingly 40% of the women switching a more' natural' look.

It appears that makeup is recession proof ... at least for the moment.

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Rich models list

We’ve all heard the saying ‘beauty is skin deep’. For a handful of select individuals, we can now add that 'beauty has exceptionally deep pockets'

Forbes magazine's richest models list, based on estimated earnings from June 2008 – June 2009 listed the top 10 earners:-

1.   Gisele Bündchen, pictured above, £15 million
2.   Heidi Klum, £9.7 million
3.   Kate Moss, £5 million
4.   Adriana Lima, £4.8 million
5.   Doutzen Kroes, £3.6 million
6.   Alessandra Ambrosio, £3.6 million
7.   Natalia Vodianova, £3.3 million
8.   Daria Werbowy, £2.7 million
9.   Miranda Kerr, £1.8 million
10. Carolyn Murphy, £1.8 million