Pretty privilege is real, and I’ve seen it play out. But here’s the part no one talks about: being “pretty” can be dangerous.
We can all agree that society loves conventionally attractive people. I remember once being called to the front of a queue at the bank — not because the teller knew me personally, and definitely not because I was on time. At that moment, I knew I benefited from pretty privilege. Favours come by easier, doors seem to open more readily, and conversations flow a little smoother.
Pretty privilege is a concept that acknowledges the advantages that attractive people often experience in various aspects of life, ranging from social interactions to career opportunities. I’ve often come across stories of women being treated differently after losing weight. Since being skinny is a widely accepted societal beauty standard, these women reported experiencing new privileges, especially from men. It’s the subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) favouritism reserved for only those deemed “good-looking” in our society.
The bright side of the coin
On the surface, pretty privilege often manifests as increased social capital. People often see conventionally pretty women as more approachable, likeable, and trustworthy, leading to positive interactions and opportunities. Pretty women rarely have to ask for better treatment; they just get it. This can translate into a smoother social life, with easier access to friendships, romantic relationships, and social events.
In the workplace, studies have shown that people perceive conventionally attractive women as more competent and confident, potentially leading to better job prospects, better pay, and faster promotions. No doubt, pretty privilege gives a head start, which can make navigating the world much easier.
Moreover, pretty privilege can boost self-esteem. Positive attention and validation can contribute to a stronger sense of self-worth and confidence, creating a positive feedback loop that further enhances one’s social and professional prospects.
Read also: Would you say I’m beautiful? The ever-changing face of beauty
The dark side of the equation
However, the narrative isn’t always, well, pretty. On the surface, “beauty and brains” seems like a compliment, but beneath lies a bias. Often, there’s an odd reaction when a beautiful woman is intelligent and assertive, implying that beauty and brains, especially in women, are mutually exclusive. This phrase inadvertently perpetuates the stereotype that women can’t be both stunning and smart.
This narrow view overlooks the wealth of women’s personalities, reducing them to either physical appearance or intellectual capabilities, never exalting them for both.
When conventionally attractive women succeed, they’re often underestimated. People readily assume their success is solely due to advantages their looks provide, rather than hard work and capabilities. A total disregard for qualities such as intelligence, skills, or personality. Over time, this causes women to work twice as hard to prove deserving of their hard-won seats at the table.
Additionally, pretty privilege perpetuates unrealistic beauty standards, further marginalising those who don’t fit the mould. The constant scrutiny and pressure to maintain a certain appearance often leads to anxiety, low self-esteem, and body dysmorphia. Moreover, the advantages of being perceived as attractive can be fleeting, leaving individuals vulnerable to insecurity and inadequacy when their looks inevitably change.
By placing too much emphasis on physical appearance, we continue to endorse a society that values superficiality over substance.
Navigating the complexities
Ultimately, pretty privilege is a complex phenomenon with both advantages and disadvantages. It’s a societal reality that we must acknowledge, but also one that we must strive to dismantle. By recognising the existing biases and challenging the stereotypes, we can work towards a more equitable society where we value individuals for their intrinsic worth, not just their physical appearance. It’s about celebrating diversity and fostering a culture where everyone feels seen, heard, and respected, regardless of their appearance.
