Black Women Are The Beauty Standard: The Impact on Today’s Trends
Hey, beauties! As we push through and near the end of Women’s International Month, what better time to celebrate not just all women, but especially the incredible contributions of Black women in shaping what beauty really looks like?
For far too long, the narrative around beauty has been dominated by Eurocentric ideals. But let me say this loud and clear: Black women have always been, and still are, the standard of beauty, power, and grace. This is not up for debate. It’s something that has been proven time and time again, and yet, so many people refuse to acknowledge it.
This post isn’t about tearing anyone else down – far from it. This is about recognition, acknowledgment, and appreciation for the beauty that Black women radiate unapologetically. Let’s get into it!
Aesthetic Influence: The "Black Look" That’s Everywhere
When you step into the world of fashion, beauty, and entertainment, it's undeniable that so much of it draws inspiration from Black women. From our hair to our curves to our skin tones, aspects of our aesthetic have been adapted, sampled, and replicated across cultures.
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Lip Filler and Full Lips:
Growing up, many Black girls were teased for their naturally full lips. I know I was! And yet, here we are today in 2025, where lip filler appointments are booked out weeks in advance. Thin lips were once the desired “norm,” but now, full, juicy lips are the global beauty trend. Who set that tone? Black women, period. -
Curves & the BBL Phenomenon:
Let’s not forget when having curves was seen as "too much." I can remember a time when we were shamed for our hips, thighs, and bums. Now? Everyone’s in the gym doing squats or flying across the globe for BBLs. This obsession with curves? Let’s call it what it is – Black women have been embodying this beauty standard naturally for centuries. -
Baby Hairs, Braids & Afro Styles:
Who remembers being teased for your gelled-down baby hairs or rocking box braids in the summer? Now, baby hairs are a full-on art form. People from all cultures are embracing and mimicking the intricate styles we create with our hair, from cornrows to lace-front wigs to jumbo twists. The versatility of Black hair is unmatched, and now everyone wants a piece of it. -
The Ambiguous Black Look:
Let me break this down for you. The ambiguous Black look is when non-Black individuals seek to resemble Black women without fully embracing or acknowledging our identity. From tanning to achieve darker skin tones to lip fillers and butt injections, there’s a clear attempt to emulate what naturally occurs in Black women. This isn't flattery – it’s appropriation without credit.
From Mockery to Admiration
Growing up, it wasn’t all admiration! Not at all. It was teasing, bullying, and straight-up mockery. I’ll never forget being in high school in Essex (predominantly white, of course) and showing up one day to school with my hair in a '90s high ponytail that my mum helped me with.
Credit: Pinterest
I thought I was looking good, a proper bad gyal! My confidence was high – until one white boy decided to kill my vibe by saying, “Why does your hair look like a pineapple?”
And if you know me personally, you know I wasn’t about to let that slide. I clapped back with, “And why don’t you moisturise your ashy a** skin looking like Casper the Ghost!” Was I wrong? Maybe! Should I have said “What would Jesus do?” Maybe! But don’t come for me unless you want problems.
At the time, I was offended. Why are people so ignorant? Looking back, I realise those types of experiences are what made me stronger. They made me proud of my heritage, my hair, my culture and the styles we Black women create that always end up setting trends.
It’s funny now because everything we were teased about is now idolised. The big bums, full lips, Afrocentric hairstyles, and bold fashion are what everyone wants today.
The Beauty of Our Culture
Black women are the blueprint, and I say that with no shame or hesitation. From the way we style our edges to the confidence in our strides, we continue to bring brilliance to a world that’s always watching us even when they don’t admit it. It’s a secret obsession.
And here’s the thing: our influence is not limited to physical beauty. Black women bring soul, resilience, creativity, and power to every space we enter. We’re redefining what beauty means while creating our own lanes.
For Women Who Aren’t Black
This post isn’t about dividing or excluding. It’s a celebration and acknowledgment of what Black women have always brought to the table. If you’re not Black, take a moment to learn about, celebrate, and admire what Black women have contributed. This world is enriched because of all the beauty we bring, and we want others to celebrate alongside us.
This International Women’s Month: Celebrate Black Beauty
With International Women’s Month coming to an end, let’s make sure to celebrate the diversity that women bring to the world. For Black women, this is a time to recognise that what we have is magnificent, unreplicable, and unshakable.
So, the next time you hear someone say Black women aren’t the beauty standard, let them know the receipts are right here.
Thanks for reading, ciao for now!
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