By Ayesha Shahid
In a world saturated with images and ideals, the concept of beauty has become a battleground. From the size of our eyes to the shape of our lips, the “right” way to look is constantly shifting, creating a war of standards that leaves inadequate sense. Let’s delve into this complex landscape and examine the pressures and perceptions that shape our views on beauty.
The first front in this war is the clash of facial features. Big eyes versus small eyes, a sharp nose versus a more rounded one, short hair versus long hair, straight versus curls, lip shade; brown versus pink, the “ideal” is often dictated by fleeting trends. The increasing demand for cosmetic procedures like lip fillers highlights the pressure to conform to a specific aesthetic, often at the expense of natural features. Similarly, the debate over facial structure, some adore sharp jawlines & other perceived charm of chubby cheeks, so it underscores the subjective nature of beauty; it’s perception varies from person to person.
Height, too, plays a role in this ongoing conflict. The extraordinary height, often seen in the modeling world, can be perceived as both striking and unusual, as some considered it odd, while on the other hand “normal” height, like 5’4″, is often considered more relatable. The war extends to body types, with the “model figure” constantly pitted against the more curvaceous “desi figure,” creating a divide that often leaves women feeling pressured to choose one over the other & again perspection varies from person to person.
Skin tone is another major battleground. The historical preference for fair skin influence beauty standards in many cultures, while on the other hand, Normal skin tone still adorable by millions across the world, & highly demanded in modeling & showbiz world, again its subjective nature of beauty that varies from person to person.
Finally, the war of beauty standards extends to fashion, where modern styles clash with traditional or “desi” attire, forcing individuals to choose between fitting in and expressing their cultural identity.
Ultimately, the war of beauty standards is a losing battle. The constant pressure to conform to ever-changing ideals can be exhausting and damaging. True beauty lies in embracing diversity, celebrating individuality, and recognizing that there is no single “right” way to look. It’s time to declare a truce and redefine beauty on our own terms.
Parveen Shakir’s poetry often explores the complexities of beauty, according to her beauty as something that has a profound impact on the observer, capable of arresting one’s attention and causing a moment of pause. It’s not just about something visual but also about the emotions, experiences, and connections that beauty evokes. Her perspective suggests that beauty has the power to disrupt the ordinary and create a moment of introspection.
