Cassandra Calin’s illustrations resonate with the daily trials of being a woman, and they’re so relatable that you’ll find yourself sharing them with friends. Is there anything more satisfying than finally slipping out of your bra at the end of a long day? Probably not—unless it’s unbuttoning your pants.
At just 21 years old, this Romanian-Canadian cartoonist and graphic designer is based in Montreal. Her art reflects her life experiences, exploring so-called “first world problems” and the quirky realities of daily life.
The Ritual of Shaving
Take the complex ritual of shaving, for example. Society seems to expect women to be virtually hairless—except for a full head of hair, of course. Remembering to shave legs, underarms, and even the bikini line can feel like a daunting task, especially during the frantic mornings when time is of the essence.
The Hair Styling Struggle
And let’s not forget about the hair styling process, which often leads to disappointment when humidity ruins our efforts moments after stepping outside. We’ve all watched those YouTube tutorials, convinced we can replicate that effortless look, only to realize the struggle is all too real. The fact that we don’t toss our straighteners out the window speaks volumes about our resilience.
Makeup Trials
Then there are makeup tutorials. We often think, “If this teenager can nail a smokey eye, surely I can too!” Yet, after multiple failed attempts, we find ourselves opting for the simplicity of lipstick—one easy step that feels like an attainable victory. Just remember not to touch your face afterward!
The Photo Dilemma
You might assume that after all that practice, taking a decent photo would be a breeze. But alas, the harsh reality of fluorescent lights in passport and DMV photos proves otherwise. Even after contouring, those unflattering snapshots can leave you feeling defeated.
Going Makeup-Free
Going makeup-free can also lead to unexpected comments about looking tired. Thanks for the unsolicited advice, but we’re just giving our skin a break from the layers of makeup we usually wear.
Invisible Struggles
Some struggles, like the discomfort of wearing a bra, are less visible but just as significant. The relief of removing a bra at the end of the day is unlike any other feeling. And let’s not forget about the sweat that can occur during summer months. It’s never fun to realize your shirt has become a billboard for discomfort.
The Monthly Rollercoaster
Of course, no discussion about womanhood is complete without mentioning periods. They bring about mood swings, cravings for chocolate, and a range of physical discomforts every month, yet they are also a part of the miracle of bringing new life into the world. There’s nothing quite like the guilt of presenting a quarterly report while clutching a chocolate bar—yet we can’t help ourselves!
With all the challenges, from makeup mishaps to the embarrassment of unexpected sweat stains, being a woman is a unique journey filled with both trials and humor. Thankfully, artists like Calin help us embrace and laugh at the absurdities we face.
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In conclusion, the everyday challenges of womanhood are both humorous and relatable, perfectly documented by artists like Calin. Whether it’s the joy of taking off a bra, the struggle of makeup, or the monthly rollercoaster of periods, these experiences unite women everywhere.