Beauty Standards

Hi everyone.

Today, we’re going to talk about how beauty standards have changed over time in America and Japan.

And we’re going to focus on the present perfect tense.

For decades, beauty standards have influenced how people see themselves.

They have shaped fashion, makeup, body image, and even personality.

But beauty standards have not stayed the same.

They have changed dramatically.

In the past, American beauty standards have emphasized very different things depending on the decade.

In the 1950s, curvier bodies have been celebrated.

In the 1990s, extremely thin bodies have been idealized.

More recently, social media has created new beauty trends.

Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have changed how people see beauty.

Filters have blurred the line between natural and artificial.

Cosmetic procedures have become more common.

At the same time, body positivity movements have grown.

More people have started talking about self-love and acceptance.

American beauty culture has become more diverse — but also more pressured in some ways.

Beauty standards in Japan have also evolved.

For many years, fair skin has been considered beautiful.

A slim figure has been preferred.

In the past, people have valued subtle makeup and natural appearance.

However, global influence has increased.

Korean beauty trends have affected Japanese makeup styles.

Western fashion has influenced hair color and clothing choices.

More young people have experimented with bold styles.

At the same time, traditional beauty ideals have remained strong.

Clear skin, neat appearance, and modest fashion have continued to be important.