Rachel Zegler’s Perspective on Beauty Standards
Rachel Zegler, the actress from Snow White, recently shared her thoughts on beauty standards in an essay. She reflected on how her view of beauty was largely influenced by mainstream media—magazine covers, beauty commercials, and film stars. She noted that her experiences growing up were steeped in a Eurocentric perspective.
As a young Latina, Zegler found it challenging because there weren’t many public figures that resembled her. She remarked on how few celebrities had features like hers—bushy eyebrows and dark eyes.
It’s interesting to consider that if Zegler were much older, her observations might hold more weight. Born in 2001, she hasn’t experienced the last three decades of representation in media. Many Latina women have made significant impacts in this realm, including names like Sofia Vergara, Jennifer Lopez, and Salma Hayek. It’s clear that Latina representation has existed, with figures gracing television and film.
Moreover, some publications have highlighted the prominence of Latina models in prominent fashion events—like Adriana Lima and Joan Smalls at the Victoria’s Secret Runway. While Zegler identifies as half white, it’s worth noting that many Latinos have diverse backgrounds, which complicates the narrative of representation.
In her viewpoint, Zegler frames her criticisms within the context of social justice. It’s not merely about representation but a desire for those who look like her to be seen as the ultimate beauty icons of their time.
Interestingly, Jennifer Lopez was crowned “the most beautiful woman in the world” on a People magazine cover in 2011—a title not typically associated with Zegler. This contrast highlights the ongoing conversation about beauty in the media.
Zegler further reflected on her growth, acknowledging how the early internet helped and hindered her self-acceptance. It provided a space to connect with others like her, yet also exposed her to constant comparisons. Now, she feels more secure in her identity, which she attributes partly to maturity.
