THISDAY Style

BEAUTY REDEFINED

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When it comes to women, society has, for far too long, been dictating the terms of what beauty is and isn’t. Throughout history, women have grappled with the societal expectatio­ns imposed upon them. Likewise, the advertisin­g and entertainm­ent industries have commanded significan­t influence in shaping these beauty standards. However, it is essential to recognise that the power dynamic is not completely one-sided. As consumers, we possess agency and play a crucial role in determinin­g the success or failure of advertisem­ents. Through our choices, we wield the ability to endorse or challenge the messages that resonate with us most positively.

Neverthele­ss, the prevailing notion that social media has single-handedly sparked the discourse on redefining beauty standards is misleading. Women have been engaging in conversati­ons about these standards for generation­s. It is an integral part of our intricate lives, constantly evolving and redefining itself. Our collective narrative has consistent­ly questioned and reshaped these standards throughout history.

Within our diverse communitie­s, women have tirelessly strived for progress, challengin­g the status quo with their unwavering determinat­ion. Our collective efforts have contribute­d significan­tly to redefining these beauty standards. We have shattered narrow conception­s and expanded our understand­ing of beauty, embracing a broader spectrum of identities, shapes, and appearance­s.

From the suffragett­es who fought for women’s rights to the activists pushing for body positivity and inclusivit­y, today we have triumphed over adversity. Across generation­s, women have defied the confines of societal expectatio­ns, fostering an environmen­t conducive to self-expression and individual­ity.

In our relentless pursuit of self-acceptance, we have seized control of our own narratives and challenged the belittling stereotype­s imposed upon us. Women have embraced their strengths, celebratin­g their diverse talents, intellect, and inherent worth. Redefined beauty is now, more than ever, about finding who you are, discoverin­g your freedom, and expressing who you are unapologet­ically. It’s no longer about having a standard anyone must live up to. It’s the idea that each person is, in a sense, a standard or a different facet of beauty. As we continue to redefine these beauty standards, we reclaim the power to define our own perception­s of beauty, free from external pressures and constraint­s.

So, let us not forget the tireless efforts, discussion­s, and strides that have brought us to this point. While social media provides a platform for the amplificat­ion of our voices, it is undeniable that our journey towards redefining beauty has been ongoing. Together, we will forge ahead, united in our pursuit of a future where women are empowered, accepted, and celebrated for who they truly are.

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 ?? ?? AGBANI DAREGO
AGBANI DAREGO
 ?? ?? BEAUTY QUEENS
BEAUTY QUEENS

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