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Fashion Quote by Germaine Greer

“It is commonplace observation that women are forever trying to straighten their hair if it is curly and curl it if it is straight, bind their breasts if they are large and pad them if they are small, darken their hair if it is light and lighten it if it is dark. Not all these measures are dictated…” quote by Germaine Greer
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““It is commonplace observation that women are forever trying to straighten their hair if it is curly and curl it if it is straight, bind their breasts if they are large and pad them if they are small, darken their hair if it is light and lighten it if it is dark. Not all these measures are dictated by the fantom of fashion. They all reflect dissatisfaction with the body as it is, and an insistent desire that it be otherwise, not natural but controlled, fabricated. Many of the devices adopted by women are not cosmetic or ornamental, but disguise of the actual, arising from fear and distaste.””

Germaine Greer

About This Quote

Source Essay: “The Female Body” by Germaine Greer, 1970

Women constantly modify their bodies to meet societal standards, revealing deep dissatisfaction and a desire for control over natural appearance.

In simple terms: Women change bodies to fit standards, feeling dissatisfied.

Key Takeaway

Accept natural bodies, challenge imposed standards.

Themes

body image gender norms beauty standards self-esteem social pressure

Mood

frustrated critical reflective

Type

analytical critical

When to use this quote

  • media influence
  • personal grooming
  • fashion industry
  • psychological impact

Key Concepts

feminist critique identity consumerism

Questions to Reflect On

  • How do societal expectations shape personal body choices?
  • What alternatives exist to foster body acceptance?
A Different Perspective

Changes may not address underlying self-worth issues.

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