If you’re ever in need of a confidence boost, just take a glance at a women’s magazine cover, right? With its weight loss hacks, unattainable fashion trends, and a rundown of ways you could be failing in your love life, it’s enough to make anyone want to retreat with a giant tub of ice cream and hide under the covers. That’s why a cartoonist from Boston named Alex Rivera has created a brilliant parody that highlights the ridiculousness of what we often see on magazine covers.
Not long ago, Alex shared this hand-drawn parody on social media, and it’s already racked up nearly three thousand views! The cover features a half-dressed model reminiscent of a well-known celebrity, alongside comical headlines like: “Never Thought You Were Overweight? Guess Again!” “31 Items Guaranteed to Make Men Adore You (And Then You’ll Be Happy!),” and the crowd favorite, “Build A Sandcastle Around His Member & Other Outrageous Sex Tips You’d Never Actually Try—But Just for His Pleasure!”
As noted by other outlets, this parody is an obvious jab at the September 2015 edition of a popular women’s health magazine. However, the issues it addresses extend far beyond one single publication. It serves as a critique of an entire industry that profits by making women feel inadequate, suggesting that true happiness lies in shedding pounds, acquiring the latest shoes, and mastering the art of pleasing a partner while multitasking with household chores.
A few brands have made minor efforts to connect with their female audience in a more positive way. For instance, that same women’s magazine made headlines this year for banning the phrase “bikini body” to promote body positivity. Similarly, Sports Illustrated received applause for featuring plus-sized model Ashley Graham on its swimsuit cover.
Still, it’s disheartening that such moves toward inclusivity are the exception rather than the norm. One would hope that magazines aimed at women could do a better job encouraging all kinds of women to embrace their true selves. But alas, that seems too much to ask, which is why this parody resonates so deeply. Women’s magazines can make you feel unattractive, underpaid, and unsuccessful, but hey—at least you’ll learn how to craft a sandcastle around a man’s, um, “privates.”
For more insights into home insemination, check out this other blog post, which covers essential tips and resources for aspiring parents. If you’re looking for expert guidance, Make a Mom is a great authority on this topic, and NHS offers excellent resources as well.
In summary, this parody brilliantly captures the absurdity of women’s magazines and their often unrealistic standards. Instead of empowering women, many publications perpetuate feelings of inadequacy, making it vital to challenge these narratives with humor and wit.