Lipstick feminism
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Lipstick feminism also referred to as "stiletto feminism" or "slut feminism" [1] is a branch of feminism in which it is not seen as contradictory to both be a feminist and to put on a show to attract men. Besides the acceptance of makeup that the title implies, lipstick feminists also do not find stripping, pole dancing, flashing, girl-on-girl exhibitionism, or sometimes even glorification of prostitution to be in conflict with feminism. Lipstick feminism also associates sex with power and the power of sexual allure as power over men.
A more mild degree of lipstick feminism allows proponents to call themselves feminists while still wearing make-up, suggestive clothing such as short skirts, revealing tops, high heels, and other female-specific clothing and accessories usually shunned by more traditional feminists. Also, in milder forms it allows for a feminism that is in favor of equality under the law, equal pay, and other concrete demands for gender equality, but does not take issue with the effect of modern media and culture on gender relations.
Contents |
[edit] Criticism
Many feminists see lipstick feminism as a contradictory philosophy in which women willingly objectify themselves while calling it empowerment.
[edit] People
[edit] Proponents
- Author Karen Lehrman
- Author Teresa Riordan
- Cisca Dresselhuys, editor of the Dutch feminist magazine Opzij
- Katie Roiphe
[edit] Opponents
[edit] Sources
- "Lipstick Feminists", by Elizabeth Austin. Washington Monthly, Nov, 1998.
- "Lipstick helped feminism"
- "The Lipstick Proviso: Women, Sex & Power in the Real World" reviewed by Donna LaFramboise
