Pretty as a Picture Magazine

Pretty as a Picture is a zine that explores how social media influences women’s self-image and identity, drawing connections to historical beauty standards rooted in patriarchy. Inspired by the themes of Barbie (2023), it looks at the pressures women face to live up to unattainable ideals, both in the past and in today’s digital world. By examining curated aesthetics, influencer culture, and the role of algorithms, the essay highlights how modern platforms can reinforce harmful standards, leading to self-comparison, burnout, and unrealistic expectations.

Blending cultural analysis, media theory, and personal insight, this piece shows how social media can both empower and challenge female identity. It invites readers to reflect on their online experiences and consider ways to embrace more authentic, self-affirming forms of expression.