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2023: The Political Power of Beauty and Makeup Choices in UK Politics
2023: Beauty and Makeup Choices in a Man’s World!
Beauty and Makeup Choices: An Introduction
In the UK political scene, the power of appearance is undeniable. The way politicians present themselves has a profound impact on their image and perception by the public. In recent years, the beauty and makeup choices of politicians in the Labour and Tory parties have become a subject of public scrutiny.
Some argue that the use of makeup can help politicians project an image of power and competence, while others believe that the emphasis should be on policies and political achievements. This opinion piece aims to explore both sides of the argument and showcase a makeup tutorial inspired by a female politician that has successfully used makeup to project her image.
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The Case for Makeup in Politics
Makeup is a powerful tool that can help politicians create a polished and put-together appearance. In televised debates and interviews, a well-applied makeup look can give politicians the confidence and professionalism to deliver their message effectively.
For women in politics, makeup can also be a tool for gender equality. Historically, women have been held to different beauty standards than men, and the use of makeup has been seen as a way for women to meet those standards. By using makeup to project the same image of power and leadership as their male counterparts, women politicians can level the playing field and fight against gender-based stereotypes.
The Case Against Makeup in Politics
However, some argue that the emphasis on makeup in politics is misplaced. The focus should be on policies and political achievements, not on appearance. The pressure on politicians, especially women, to conform to certain beauty standards can be overwhelming and reinforce sexist and objectifying beliefs.
The scrutiny of women politicians’ appearances can lead to a culture of sexism and undermine their political positions. It can also perpetuate the idea that women’s worth is based on their looks, rather than their skills and abilities something us beauty therapists are all too aware of.
The Political Look: Makeup and Beauty Choices Inspired by Emily Thornberry
Despite the controversy surrounding makeup in politics, some politicians have successfully used makeup to project their image. Emily Thornberry, a member of the Labour party, is a prime example. Thornberry has been praised for her natural makeup looks, which give her a fresh and polished appearance without being too distracting. Here is a step-by-step tutorial for achieving the Emily Thornberry look:
Step 1: Start with a clean and moisturised face. Use a primer to create a smooth base for your makeup.
Step 2: Apply a light foundation that matches your skin tone, blending it evenly over your face and neck.
Step 3: Use a concealer to cover any blemishes or dark circles under your eyes.
Step 4: Apply a small amount of blush to the apples of your cheeks for a natural-looking flush.
Step 5: Define your eyebrows using a brow pencil or powder to give your face more structure and dimension.
Step 6: Use a neutral eyeshadow palette to create a subtle eye look. Apply a light shade to your eyelid and a slightly darker shade to your crease for definition.
Step 7: Finish off your eyes with a coat of mascara to make your lashes stand out.
Step 8: Apply a light pink or nude lipstick to your lips to complete the natural look.
The Politics of Beauty and Makeup Choices in the UK
The scrutiny of politicians’ appearances is not new in the UK. Women politicians, in particular, face constant scrutiny of their looks. For example, former Prime Minister Theresa May was heavily criticised for her choice of footwear, with some claiming that her choice of leopard print shoes undermined her authority.
On the other hand, Conservative politician Priti Patel has been criticised for her use of heavy makeup, which some believe makes her appear unapproachable.
A Few Final Words
In conclusion, the use of makeup and beauty choices in politics is a controversial issue. While it can be a powerful tool for projecting a professional image and levelling the playing field for women politicians, it can also perpetuate sexist and objectifying beliefs. However, it is clear that politicians will continue to be judged on their appearance, whether we like it or not.
As such, it is important for politicians to be aware of how they present themselves and use makeup and beauty choices to their advantage.
The example of Emily Thornberry demonstrates that a natural and subtle makeup look can be just as effective as a heavy and bold look. By taking inspiration from Thornberry’s makeup style, politicians can project an image of confidence and professionalism without being too distracting or conforming to sexist beauty standards.
In the end, it is up to individual politicians to decide how they want to present themselves to the public. The important thing is that they are judged based on their policies and political achievements, rather than their appearance.
Beauty and Makeup Choices References:
- Cox, Emma. “Why Does It Matter What Politicians Wear?” BBC News, 29 Apr. 2015, https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-33700928.
- Holmes, Claire. “The Politics of Women’s Appearance: What’s Wrong with Priti Patel’s Makeup?” The Guardian, 17 Sept. 2020, https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2021/mar/10/make-up-not-frivolous-allows-us-to-rebuild-ourselves.
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