What exactly is beauty?
I’m in the beauty business, but just lately I’ve been wondering what exactly is beauty? I’m sure you’ve heard the sayings: “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder” and “beauty is only skin deep“. At first these sentiments seem to contradict each other – one celebrates the individuality of beauty and its perception, while the other warns us not to be fooled by appearances and that beauty fades. But together they offer a powerful lens through which to explore how we perceive, value and experience beauty in our lives.
I help my clients make the most of their appearance at any age, and often the conversation starts with “Oh no, you must be judging me“. I always turn that round to “actually, you must be judging me!“. Unfortunately we have an innate mechanism that judges the book by the cover – for good or for bad. So, this supports the theory that beauty is superficial.
It’s subjective!
But, how we perceive and like or dislike colour, beauty is subjective! What one person finds breathtaking, another might not. This is the case for paintings, objects d’art, a painted face, or how someone dresses their body. Beauty is personal. It’s also shaped by culture, memory, emotion and experience. That’s the magic behind “beauty is in the eye of the beholder“. It reminds us that there’s no universal standard, no single definition. Beauty is fluid, diverse and sometimes surprising.
Think of how fashion trends have shifted across the decades, or how different cultures celebrate different body types, colours and styles. What’s considered beautiful in one part of the world might be not accepted as such in another. But, like language, it’s evolving around the world. Life, fashion and what we consider beautiful is evolving every day.
The depth of true beauty
“Beauty is only skin deep” urges us to look beyond the surface. It’s a cautionary phrase, reminding us that physical appearance can be deceiving. A charming smile might hide a cruel heart. A flawless exterior might mask insecurity. This saying challenges us to seek substance—to value kindness, empathy, intelligence, and authenticity above mere looks.
In a world obsessed with filters and perfection, this message is more important than ever. We scroll through curated posts and polished images and now AI images, forgetting that real beauty often lies in imperfection, in vulnerability, in the quiet strength of someone who shows up with love and integrity.
Where the two meet
Here’s the thing: sometimes, inner beauty changes how we see the outer beauty! Have you ever met someone who didn’t strike you at first, but as you got to know them, they “grew on you”? Their laughter, compassion, courage, quirkiness – all transformed your perception. I know as image consultants we talk about not getting a second chance to make a first impression, which relies on how we see the first visual (remember Susan Boyle’s first appearance on stage?). That’s why the show “The Voice” was created: so the judges aren’t swayed by the singer’s appearance, and they can only turn to see them once they’ve decided they like what they hear. Perhaps we can learn a lesson from that – hearing before judging.
Beauty in the modern age
In these days of social media, have the lines been blurred? If we don’t like what we see it is too easy to scroll on, but if we keep seeing the same person, perhaps when we get to know them more we like them, despite maybe not liking the outward appearance. And, we’re bombarded with images that we are supposed to think are beautiful, which pressurises others to conform. Sometimes you want to stand out rather than blend in, so being yourself is brave not bland.
Turning a corner – is true beauty a mix of both?
I think we are turning a corner and everyone’s true inner beauty is their charm and uniqueness, whatever that looks like. People seem more happy to be themselves and call it being authentic. So, like other stylists, I’m seeing my job more about showcasing the inner beauty on the outside, however that looks for individuals, rather than following the latest fashion trend regardless of whether it suits or not.
So, what exactly is your beauty? Are you ready to see what that looks and feels like yourself? If so, please get in touch for a discovery call that might just change your life, circumstances, outlook and how others perceive you.
Fiona
Your Colour & Style Consultant
07469 246722
