In the whirlwind of modern life, it’s easy for women to feel pressured to present a certain image. As Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie eloquently put it, many of us juggle various aspects of our identity, from fashion to hobbies, yet society often nudges us to pick and choose which parts to showcase.
During a recent family dinner, our conversation took an unexpected turn toward cultural grooming practices. I made a comment about how historical norms, like female shaving, have often aimed to keep women in a state that is both visually youthful and submissive. My son’s reaction was swift: “Geez, Mom! Then you might as well be upset that I can run around without a shirt but Lila can’t.” It was a moment of clarity, highlighting the absurdity of some societal norms.
Recently, discussions surrounding feminism have gained momentum, and women are stepping into the spotlight like never before. Take, for instance, the stunning Alicia Keys, who boldly graced the cover of her new album without a trace of makeup. Her #nomakeupmovement has resonated widely, encouraging a conversation about authenticity. In her essay for Lenny, she shared a powerful revelation: “’Cause I don’t want to cover up anymore. Not my face, not my mind, not my soul, not my thoughts, not my dreams, not my struggles, not my emotional growth. Nothing.” This message embodies empowerment and self-discovery.
Personally, I find myself rarely wearing makeup. In fact, it’s far more common for me to go without than to spend time beautifying myself for an audience. My hair often reflects this same carefree attitude—long and unruly, styled into a lively top knot. Most days, you’ll catch me in workout clothes, which would hardly be considered a fashion statement. But the essence of my life is not defined by appearances alone.
Alicia Keys’ journey transcends her bare face; it’s about unearthing vulnerability and embracing one’s truth—the good, the bad, and everything in between. She has tapped into an innate strength that comes from self-acceptance, refusing to let societal pressures dictate her choices. This theme of empowerment resonates with many, including prominent figures like Hillary Clinton, who chose to appear makeup-free at a post-election press conference. Reflecting on this, Stella Bugbee noted, “There is no denying the power and freedom in rejecting vanity.”
But I’m not here to promote a one-size-fits-all approach to beauty. Instead, I believe it’s essential to reflect on what influences our choices. As Rosie Molinary, author of Beautiful You: A Daily Guide to Radical Self-Acceptance, suggests, “Beauty standards are a political issue. If you are obsessed, you are oppressed.”
When my daughter remarks, “Mom, you care too much what people think,” it makes me pause. How can I teach her that my choices—whether to dress up for work or embrace a natural look—are simply expressions of my multifaceted identity? Just because I present differently in various roles doesn’t mean I’m hiding my true self.
I often feel the urge to join Alicia in her movement, tossing aside makeup and adopting a carefree hairstyle. However, personal grooming is just one aspect of how we express our power and freedom. I need to dig deeper into my everyday choices and the motivations behind them, challenging the status quo that often goes unquestioned.
For now, I’ll continue to shave my legs and occasionally wear makeup, as these decisions are my own. Embracing my femininity doesn’t require me to conform to anyone else’s standards. Instead, I aim to be more mindful of my choices and the cultural narratives that shape them. Let’s embark on this journey toward uncovering our truths together.
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Summary
In a world that often emphasizes appearances, I find empowerment in my choice to go without makeup. Alicia Keys and other strong women are redefining beauty standards, encouraging authenticity and self-acceptance. By reflecting on our motivations and embracing our multifaceted identities, we can navigate societal pressures and live authentically.