I heard an interesting conversation on TV the other day. It was a debate that started off with the statement that "Feminist journalist, Julie Bindel, has said she's never worn make up in order to get male attention". Basically they were debating whether women wear make-up for themselves or for men. I have had alot of comments made to me over the years due to the fact I wear makeup every day. Alot of people (mainly other women) tend to judge you, assuming that you're vain, superficial or trying to get male attention.
I think it has to be said that the answer will be different for each individual but I can honestly say that as make-up is my hobby, I do it for myself. I like to look attractive as it makes me feel more confident and yes, I'll admit it, it's nice to get compliments. Overall I would say I do it because I enjoy the ritual of applying make-up, to me it's like colouring in when you are a kid, it's fun! It does wonders for your self esteem and that's why I do it, to feel good about myself, so I'm firmly in the "I do it for me" camp.
Make up has been worn by men and women over the centuries for so many different reasons, as a form of art, as war paint or tribal markings or sometimes as an expression of power.
The idea that women wear make-up to attract men can be argued, but then you could say the same about wearing dresses, or men buying nice cars and spending hours cleaning/waxing them. Everything could be put down to an attempt to attract the opposite sex. I guess there are some people out there who crave the attention but I think 95% of women wear makeup coz it makes them feel glamourous and just plain good about themselves. It's also a way of expressing your personality and who you are. Make-up is an expression of femininity and if you are proud of being a women, what's wrong with expressing that through make-up?
I think it would be a bigger betrayal to women (and yourself) to deny yourself the simple basic human right to express yourself. We all have choices and whether you want to wear make-up or not, it should be your decision and I don't think it's fair to critisise anyone for making a personal choice.
What's your opinion on this debate?
