Idolised Bodies Throughout History

Looking back throughout history it is quite clear that bodies have always been a symbol of some sort, whether that be of wealth or beauty, it is undeniable and even in the present day still carries such significance. But why? 

From the medieval period having a plumper body type was glamourized and looked up to as it represented a certain social status, highlighting that you were wealthy enough to indulge in foods. Therefore, applying this to more recent examples of our bodies coming in and out of trend, we can identify that there is always an underlying symbolism and representation when something becomes trendy.  

In the 1920’s we saw an influx in a more androgynous and rectangular shape; this was down to the fashion trends taking the 20’s by storm which encouraged the ‘Flapper silhouette’. In order to flatter the shape of the iconic flapper dresses, it was ideal for women to have minimal shape to their bodies, allowing the dresses to lie flat and straight. 

Soon after though this trend did pass, where we come to think of the 1940’s and 50’s and how the hourglass figure was introduced for women along with having a more inverted triangle, muscular body shape for men. During this period bodies became extremely gender specific in that an hourglass shape was the epitome of femininity and equally goes the same for men and having muscles. The body shapes were in trend in relation to their gender roles, that of housewife/mother and the masculine breadwinner for the home. Therefore, these body types became extremely popular in order for people to fit into this societal expectation because people wanted to be seen as fulfilling their duties for either gender.  

Within the last 20 years, both the angular and hourglass body shapes have become an idolised body type to have again after previously being replaced by other trends constantly coming in and out of fashion. 2016 saw the rise of cosmetic surgeries to enhance the curves of the female bodies, however, in 2026 we are facing a ‘skinny epidemic’ and these same enhancements are now being surgically removed, all in the name of trends. 

Currently, our society has swapped 2016 Kylie Jenner for Kate Moss who’s 2009 quote “Nothing tastes as good as skinny feels” is making a comeback. Even in relation to this quote from her interview, it represents how trends leave and inevitably will come back again. 

This is why it is important that we recognise our own bodies as specifically ours. Our bodies aren’t made to experience vigorous changes in order to satisfy whatever society deems the standard of that time. I place heavy emphasis on “at that time” because as we have uncovered everything changes so quickly! 

So it is important to accept how your body works and looks because your biggest insecurity could become something sought after or what you think is extremely beautiful society will say no. 

The most vital thing is that we use our bodies to their fullest potential in representing ourselves because they carry us through life, and how magical is that in itself?! That should be the next trend.

Written by Jasmine Molineux