How is the fashion industry twisting our perception of beauty?

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 Normally people think that fashion industry is a very glamorous industry, and it is full of opportunities. Beautiful models, colorful costumes, lights, beautiful locations and acquaintances with top celebrities etc. make this industry a much sought after career for youngsters. This industry is a quick way of becoming rich celebrities. Many models see fashion industry as a window to enter film industry.  However, this industry is much hyped. There are many problems associated with it. It lives on falsehood and dreams and makes people aloof to reality. I am not discussing other prevalent vices in this industry. My focus is on how this industry is creating a false perception of beauty in people’s mind:

Every person on this earth is born with some qualities and with many deficiencies. No one is perfect in this world. Some are tall, some are short, some are fair while some are dark-skinned, some are fat and some are thin. So, lots of body structures and body types can be seen all over the world. Definition of beauty is different for everyone. 

In Myanmar, Kayan tribe women wear brass rings around their necks which stretch their necks and make it abnormally long. This may seem weird to us but this is the sign of beauty in that tribe. Once in China, women with very short legs were considered beautiful. For this they had to wear iron made shoes. It was really very painful. In Kenya, Mursi or Suri women stretch their lips which may seem ugly to us but it is the sign of beauty there. In Mauritania men prefer fat women. 

So, there are many definitions and concepts about beauty of women in various parts of the world but now fashion industry is changing everything. Fashion industry, food diet companies and media are generating a false image in the mind of the people. Skinny and taller girls are considered beautiful and selected for modeling assignments while average girls and men are rejected. Image of an ideal man is also changing. He must be lean, tall and have six packs. When youngsters see these models in magazines, newspapers etc. and watch their action on television and internet, their mindset also changes. Many girls and boys are becoming obsessed about their appearance. Many are suffering from anorexia-a state in which a person doesn’t eat much to stay slim. 

Vicious union of cosmetic manufacturing companies and fashion industry are making people sick. Selling of beauty products are increasing day by day. Many years ago, makeup and beauty products were meant only for women. Now, men are also using them. In fact, men’s cosmetic products industry is increasing more than that of women’s. In Indian subcontinent, a girl is not considered beautiful if she is not comparatively fair skinned. Many girls could not find the suitable match for them because of their skin color. This is the reason that fairness cream is sold more than any other beauty product in India.

Little girl’s clothes are also being designed in such a way that instead of showing innocence, they create an image of sexuality. Many little and teenager girls are becoming part of fashion industry. These little models’ clothes, makeup, body language, coquetry and photos are not different from that of adult models. They are depicted as vulgar and obscene as adults are. This industry is creating a heaven for pedophiles in the name of fashion.

In short, fashion industry is creating falsehood and changing our perception about beauty. It is making us sick. This industry is generating a sense of detestation towards those who don’t fit in a particular body structure and skin type. Young generation is also becoming obsessed with their looks. So, many lose their confidence and negativity starts developing in their minds. Moreover, it objectifies women. That is why crimes against women are increasing in many parts of the world.

(Source of images: pixabay.com)