Jada Buisson – Co-founder – Blog – Seduction – 15 min read
Femininity is a complex and multifaceted concept that encompasses various aspects of personality, behavior, and appearance. Makeup is just one way to express femininity, but it’s by no means the only or necessary way.
Why Have They Been Associated?
Ancient civilisations such as the Egyptians and Romans used makeup for various purposes, including enhancing beauty and social status. It can even be seen in the Renaissance era and into the 1700s, when rich men across Europe wore makeup. They also wore lace, heeled shoes and extravagant wigs whereas women femininity at the time was being more covered and simple rather than showing the flamboyance men did. If we delve into history, we can even hone in on the fact that many things associated with being ‘feminine’ now, were back then associated with wealth as they were things the poor couldn’t get their hands on.
However, with time and the influence of movies, targeted advertising and more recently the media, makeup was seen more and more as a feminine trait. This goes to show that these labels of ‘feminine’ and ‘masculine’ are arbitrary cultural trends as these practices laid the foundation for the association between makeup and femininity.
Another possible explanation would be societal expectations of femininity, often including an emphasis on appearance and grooming. Women have historically been expected to conform to beauty standards, which often involve wearing makeup as a means of enhancing their features and adhering to societal norms of attractiveness. This could be said to have stemmed from the appearance insecurity that has been bred into women from an early age through constant reminders of what is and isn’t acceptable.
Thus, we will cover topics that live outside the zone of rigid rules on femininity that can potentially help you see outside the box that has been created.
Re-defining Feminine
“To perform gender “correctly” is to adhere to a restritively presribed social script, one which allows for little autonomy and individual expression”
-Grace Rivers
Redefining femininity involves challenging stereotypes and embracing a more inclusive understanding of what it means to be feminine. Rejecting the notion that femininity symbolises passivity and is solely based on appearance. Challenging and redefining femininity could include embracing diversity in personal preference or even gender expression. We must recognise that femininity comes in different forms and is not limited to a specific set of characteristics or behaviours. This will aid us in our efforts to encourage and create a safe space for individuals including you to express your femininity authentically.
Creating inclusive spaces that welcome and respect all individuals, and challenges discrimination can be a powerful step in the direction of re-defining femininity. We must recognise that gender intersects with other aspects of identity, such as race, sexuality, and socioeconomic status. Thus, advocating for inclusive feminism that addresses the unique challenges faced by individuals at the intersections of multiple marginalized identities, will bring forth a new side of the feminine wave .
The Power of Self-expression
Self-expression enables us to communicate our true thoughts, feelings, and identities to the world authentically, as we showcase our unique personalities, values, and beliefs without fear of judgment or conformity. Fuelling creativity by providing an outlet for innovative ideas, and imaginative pursuits. Whether through art, writing, or other creative mediums, self-expression allows individuals to explore and communicate their creativity in meaningful ways.
The Power of Individual Preference
Individual preference reflects our autonomy and freedom to make choices that align with our personal values, desires, and needs. They play a significant role in shaping our sense of identity and self-concept. Allowing us to assert control over our lives and make decisions that reflect our unique preferences and priorities. Recognising and respecting individual preferences empowers us to assert our own needs and boundaries. It enables us to advocate for ourselves, and assert control over our experiences and environments. Ultimately, preferences are a reflection of our cultural background, personal experiences, and individual tastes, contributing to the complex mosaic of traits that make up our identity.
And so, we must question and challenge traditional gender stereotypes that limit the scope of femininity. femininity is unique to each individual and can be expressed in countless ways. Whether you choose to wear makeup or not, embracing and celebrating your authentic self is the most important aspect of expressing your femininity.
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