-
Full Figured (1900-1910)
The ideal female was plump and fleshy with big hips. Women used corsets to give the illusion of a tiny waist. -
Period: to
The ideal female body throughout history
-
Boyish (1910-1920)
The flapper image became popular. Women bound their breasts to appear slimmer. Body fat was now seen as a sign of inefficiency. -
The Triangle (1930-1950)
Women wore padded dresses to create the illusion of masculine, broad shoulders. -
The Marilyn (1950-1960)
Marilyn Monroe was the biggest sex symbol of the decade. She had healthy curves and was said to be a size 12. -
Twiggy (1960-1980)
The iconic beauties were now stick thin. Models began to resemble prepubescent boys. Women didn't want to be defined by their breasts and skinny figures represented independence. -
Hourglass (1980-1990)
The exaggerated hourglass was in. Reminiscent of the 30s triangle, women wanted to be seen as powerful but also feminine. There was added pressure to exercise to achieve a toned look. -
The Kate Moss (1990-2000)
The decade progressed from the curvaceous Baywatch figures to tiny Kate Moss, The ideal woman became skinnier and skinnier. -
The unattainable (2000-2013)
The ideal figure is now practically unattainable with thigh gaps, big breasts and tiny waists.