Is the ‘Girlhood’ Trend Redefining Femininity and Consumerism?
The ‘girl’ trend has infiltrated contemporary culture, from “girl dinner” to Olivia Rodrigo’s music and Greta Gerwig’s Barbie. While it may seem like a whimsical return to our youth, there’s more beneath the surface. ‘Girlhood’ is about reliving the messy and unrestrained moments of being a teenager, a celebration of girliness that challenges traditional feminism.
Unlike the empowering messages of the 2010s, ‘girlhood’ takes us back to simpler times, when we embrace collecting toys and enjoying pop culture. Fashion-wise, it’s evident in clothing choices from full skirts to feel-fave T-shirts, reflecting a rejection of traditional femininity and an alternative way to navigate the world.
In today’s hustle and grind culture, ‘girlhood’ offers a more carefree approach to feminism, removing men from the equation. It’s a rejection of the pressure to “have it all” and a celebration of being a girl just for the sake of it.
However, ‘girlhood’ isn’t without its complexities. It can unintentionally infantilize women and lean into the coquette narrative, blurring lines between innocence and allure. Additionally, consumerism plays a role, with ‘girlhood’ inviting increased spending power and marketing campaigns that sell products as must-have memorabilia.
Ultimately, ‘girlhood’ reflects the intricacies of modern feminism and consumerism. It allows us to revisit our youth with a touch of nostalgia while navigating the complexities of adulthood with a slightly bedraggled pink bow on our uncertainties.
Re-reported from the article originally published in Refinery29
