In 2011, there was a news story about a young woman who lost her job at Harrods for not wearing makeup which brought to our attention the importance wearing makeup has in today's society. Apparently the Harrods staff dress code includes a mandate that female sales assistants should wear a 'base and full eyes'.
Why do women wear makeup? It can be for confidence or many say modern society expects them to be 'made up' which this news story certainly confirms, although American Apparel's staff dress code requires 'preferably no makeup'.
Some say that wearing chemicals on your face means you bought into the message from the makeup companies that woman are essentially ugly and need facial improvements. Other says makeup enhances and brings out the wearer's natural beauty, offering definition.
Wearing makeup can seem superficial but it is temporary and therefore less harmful to the wearer than other body enhancements. A good response for wearing makeup is to look one's best, like dressing up in nice clothes.
Some question if woman wear makeup for the benefit of men but this man's response may make you think again:
"Makeup might make you look better, but it tastes awful!"
What age do women start this daily ritual? And who taught them how to do it well and how not to look like an Aunt Sally doll or a Bratz doll? At one time, all the high school girls wore streaks of pink blusher across their cheekbones, bright blue eye shadow and "pink shimmer" lipstick but hopefully they've all improved their makeup skills these days. Or maybe that look's back in fashion.