The 'weirdly pretty' Instagram trend, where young women post candid-looking photos with captions like 'Pics I feel weirdly pretty in,' has become a staple of social media feeds. But while the images often show women looking effortlessly chic, a psychotherapist suggests the trend carries a troubling undertone.
A Trend With a Hidden Message
Georgina Sturmer, an MBACP-accredited psychotherapist, tells Metro that the trend initially seems positive, reflecting 'the positive idea that women can look pretty, and want to share images of themselves, when they're not just "striking a pose."' After all, most people spend their days in unposed, everyday moments.
However, Sturmer points out that the caption 'weirdly pretty' acts as a 'disclaimer, or apology' for appearing attractive without being fully 'camera-ready.' This, she says, reflects 'a level of discomfort and a wider cultural expectation surrounding female beauty.'
Beauty Standards and Apologies
The trend highlights a societal contradiction: women are expected to be beautiful, but also humble and modest about their looks. The women posting these photos often conform to conventional beauty standards, yet still feel the need to downplay their appearance.
Sturmer concludes, 'Women often feel they should apologise for acknowledging that they are happy with how they look.' This expectation is reinforced throughout pop culture, from One Direction's 'What Makes You Beautiful' to the film 'She's All That.'
Owning Your Looks
So, the next time you want to post images of yourself that are both silly and stunning, consider doing so without the 'weird' caption. As Sturmer suggests, it's time to own your hotness without apology.
