From the ancient beauty rituals of Cleopatra to the modern-day beauty icon Kim Kardashian, beauty standards have evolved, reflecting shifts in culture, technology, and societal values.
Beauty standards have existed for centuries, but in ancient civilizations, they were often tied to power, mythology, and social status. Cleopatra, the last active ruler of the Ptolemaic Kingdom of Egypt, is one of the most iconic women in history, largely due to her beauty and ability to captivate the hearts of Julius Caesar and Mark Antony. For Cleopatra, beauty was not just about physical appearance but also intelligence and charm. She was known for her strategic use of cosmetics, including the application of kohl (a dark powder used for eyeliner), to enhance her eyes. The Egyptian emphasis on pale skin and dark eyeliner was rooted in ideas of aristocracy and health, as lighter skin was associated with wealth and leisure, distancing oneself from the sun’s harsh effects.
In ancient Greece, beauty standards were centered around symmetry and proportion. The Greeks were fascinated by the concept of ideal proportions, which led to the development of the golden ratio, a mathematical formula that sought to define the most aesthetically pleasing body shapes and facial features. Women in this era were expected to embody balance and harmony, reflected in their toned bodies and carefully styled hair. The Greek ideal of beauty influenced Western art and aesthetics for centuries, and the emphasis on symmetry continues to inform modern beauty standards.
The Renaissance period marked a shift in beauty ideals towards a fuller, more rounded figure, a reflection of fertility and health. Influenced by artists such as Raphael and Botticelli, women were often depicted with soft, curvaceous bodies, which was considered beautiful during this time. Fuller figures were associated with affluence and vitality, and pale skin remained a symbol of nobility.
However, during the Victorian era, beauty standards became more restricted. The ideal of the 19th century was characterized by an exaggerated hourglass figure, with a tight waist achieved through the use of corsets. Women were expected to be delicate, with an emphasis on pale skin, small waists, and a subtle, composed look. Beauty was often tied to femininity and modesty, and a woman's appearance was seen as a direct reflection of her social status and character. This period also witnessed the rise of the blush and porcelain complexion, which became a symbol of purity and social grace.
As the world transitioned into the 20th century, the growth of Hollywood cinema transformed global beauty ideals. Actresses like Marilyn Monroe, with her curvaceous figure and platinum blonde hair, epitomized the golden age of film. In the 1950s, women aspired to a look that was glamorous yet accessible, with emphasis on soft, feminine features. Monroe’s hourglass figure and signature red lips set the standard for beauty during this era, and her style was often imitated by women around the world.
By the 1960s, the rise of models such as Twiggy introduced a new, youthful aesthetic. The androgynous look became popular, and the emphasis shifted from curves to slimness. This was further amplified in the 1990s by models like Naomi Campbell and Cindy Crawford, whose tall, lean, and angular physiques became the pinnacle of beauty. These models’ careers helped define the ideal of beauty as something taller, thinner, and more striking, especially with the increasing influence of fashion magazines.
In the 21st century, beauty standards underwent yet another transformation, this time influenced by the rise of social media and the prevalence of digital technology. Platforms like Instagram and YouTube gave people the ability to shape and define beauty in their own image, leading to an explosion of beauty influencers. As social media began to dominate daily life, the curated world of influencer culture began shaping new beauty ideals, often featuring flawless skin, perfect makeup, and carefully sculpted bodies.
At the forefront of this new beauty wave is Kim Kardashian, whose contoured makeup and curvaceous body set trends that have been emulated by millions. Kim Kardashian’s influence has extended beyond beauty products to shape the body positivity movement, as she, along with her family, began embracing more diverse representations of beauty. Her famous figure—a full hourglass shape—has sparked a shift away from the slim, waif-like ideal of the 1990s and early 2000s, showing that beauty can take many different forms.
Today, beauty standards are evolving into more inclusive ideals. There is a growing movement toward diversity and inclusivity, with an increasing acceptance of different body types, skin tones, and features. Brands are beginning to feature models and influencers of various backgrounds, ages, and sizes, reflecting a broader understanding of what beauty can be. Social media, though still heavily filtered, has created an open dialogue about body image and beauty, allowing people to express their individuality.
In addition to physical features, authenticity is becoming a significant aspect of beauty. The rise of natural beauty and the popularity of influencers who embrace their natural selves has led to a reevaluation of what is truly beautiful. The emphasis is now on self-acceptance, and the idea that beauty comes from within is becoming a more mainstream perspective.
