Why Do Today’s Women Look Extremely Different from 80s/90s Women?

The changes in appearance between women today and those from the 1980s and 1990s are significant and can be attributed to a multitude of factors that have shaped the current landscape of fashion and beauty.

The Evolution of Fashion Trends

Fashion has evolved significantly over the decades:

The 80s and 90s were characterized by distinct styles such as high-waisted jeans, big hair, and bold, vibrant colors. These trends were iconic and defined the era. In contrast, today's fashion often emphasizes athleisure and a more casual aesthetic. Clothing is designed for comfort and ease, reflecting a shift in priorities from formal to practical attire.

Shift in Beauty Standards

Societal beauty standards have shifted substantially:

In the 80s and 90s, there was a strong focus on defined features, including heavily styled hair and bold makeup. This was epitomized by supermodels and runway fashion. Today, there is a trend toward a more natural look with an increased emphasis on skincare and subtle makeup. Celebrities and influencers today set the pace, often promoting a more authentic and less artificial appearance.

The Impact of Social Media

The rise of social media platforms has profoundly altered how beauty and fashion are perceived:

Today's social media influencers can impact trends rapidly and globally. This means that diverse styles can spread more quickly and influence a wider audience. In contrast, the 80s and 90s were more localized in terms of fashion and beauty trends. Trends often emerged from specific cultural pockets and regions.

Health and Fitness

There is a greater emphasis on health and fitness today, which influences both body image and fashion choices:

The focus on wellness has led to more active lifestyles and a shift toward body positivity. This has created a more inclusive and accepting society when it comes to body types and features. Many women today are inspired by celebrity idols and have the means and access to achieve similar looks. Non-invasive cosmetic procedures, such as fillers and Botox, have gained significant popularity.

Diversity and Representation

A broader recognition of diverse body types, skin tones, and features in media today:

Media representation today is more inclusive, reflecting a wider range of beauty standards. This broader recognition has led to shifts in beauty norms and expectations. The media's shift toward inclusivity has influenced how women view and present themselves, leading to a more diverse and accepting beauty culture.

Beyond fashion and beauty, the evolution of women's appearance is also influenced by genetic and social factors. As women's health improves, so does their physical appearance, and this carries into their children, who inherit these positive attributes.

Women in the Gen X and youthful Boomer cohort, while less influenced by hippies and punks, were more interested in preppy or yuppy styles, which were often characterized by more muted colors and conservative fashion choices. These women tended to value comfort and practicality in their attire.

Today's women, empowered by access to diverse media and influencers, are more confident in expressing themselves through fashion and beauty. This trend is further amplified by the rise of social media, which provides a platform for diverse voices and styles.