It is no secret that the bodies of celebrities and pop artists are scrutinised, analysed and observed by the media and members of the public. Whether it is for good or bad, the way our idols look influences the way we want to look ourselves. Historically this has led to the promotion of eating disorders and unrealistically skinny ideals, which are impossible to maintain in a healthy manner. However, in recent times, a new type of body is becoming idealised and celebrated with artists including Addison Rae and Tate McRae transcending traditional ideas of beauty which suggests a promising change in the view of women’s bodies.
This development in the appearance of public figures is important within society for young girls as the women they see within media forms what they believe they should look like. Arguably, this is an unfair role to place upon these pop artists as, for most, they simply want to make music rather than be scrutinised over their appearance. However, it is a known fact that to be in the public eye comes with loud public opinion and comments on every aspect of your life. So this shift in pop artists’ bodies has hugely impacted women as, for what feels like the first time, women’s bodies are beginning to be celebrated in a normal light.
However, whilst many may interpret these popular figures as having normal and healthy bodies, a popular online discourse still body shames them, and criticises them for being overweight, when they are categorically not. Consequently, this demonstrates how the endemic belief within society that women should be ultra skinny is perpetuated, despite efforts to change this. Addison Rae is often criticised for wearing revealing clothes because she is not following traditional ideals of body image, which would imply that the leading charge in shifting views has little impact. Although, her refusal to give in to the hate and change her costumes or her body to conform with the desires of the media elicits a feeling of hope for many young women. This inspiration does catalyse growth in the conversation about body image as all shapes and sizes are beginning to be accepted, even if it is an uphill battle against much adversity.
Altogether, the discussion of body image is one that, in an ideal world, would not have to be such a controversial conversation, as the way a woman’s body looks should be of no importance to anyone. No matter what. However, this is a relative impossibility with how ingrained it is within society, yet the growing inclusion of different looks is definitely a step in the right direction.
Image by Raph PH on Unsplash.