The Concept Of Beauty

"I dress for the image. Not for myself, not for the public, not for fashion, not for men.
-Marlene Dietrich

When we look in the mirror, why is it that constantly we find ourselves asking the same question: do I like what I see? As women, we spend several hours focusing on our flaws, when there’s not enough time to love the skin were in. True beauty has been misunderstood and slowly, the media has been playing with the concept of today's image. Character transformation in fiction, facial creams, constant dying of the hair, layers of makeup, and even plastic surgery are factors that have effected a women's self image. Aside from the media, it's sad to say that teens have found the solution to make up for their flaws, believing the more skin we show the sexier we are.

Sophia Loren believes "A woman's dress should be like a barbed- wire fence: serving its purpose without obstructing the view." In today's society, we are so focused on fitting in that our clothing has become a cry out for attention. Whatever happened to a woman’s morals? It's as if we left that behind with our self-esteem and respect for one another. Fashion sends messages through textures, colors, materials, and accessories. Though we are not mind readers, it's obvious to see the many messages teens send out when they wear less clothing: they're selling themselves. Not only is it unflattering but it doesn't leave anything to the imagination.

Music videos, magazines and television ads are becoming the leading inspirations to today's unhealthy fashion sense. As we watch our favorite artist wear less clothing, we then feel the need to follow their footsteps, hoping to receive the same attention. Though we associate revealing clothing with teens, many adults are just as guilty. Take a good look around because you might want to ask yourself what is this world coming to? Children, not just any but our very own brothers and sisters are being exposed to this negativity. If some of our peers aren't wearing proper clothing, then who do we seek to for guidance?

The key to healthy fashion is being comfortable in our own skin. Materials just add the cream to the filling. Women should dress according to their shape and body type. Yes, there are woman who have the advantage of revealing what others can't, but that doesn't mean they should flaunt it because they can. Be the woman that sets the example. Everyone has something someone else doesn't. We should accept our flaws and admire what we do have; this is the concept of beauty.

This article was written by: Fatima Scott