In a bold move that aligns with her #NoMakeupMovement, Alicia Keys attended the VMAs without a stitch of makeup, and some folks just can’t seem to handle it. Let’s set the record straight: this 15-time Grammy Award winner never claimed that makeup should be banned or that those who wear it should be judged. She simply chose to flaunt her natural beauty at a high-profile event.
Earlier this year, Keys shared a heartfelt essay in Lena Dunham’s newsletter, expressing her frustrations regarding societal pressures on women to look perfect all the time. She stated, “I don’t want to cover up anymore. Not my face, not my mind, not my soul, not my thoughts, not my dreams, not my struggles, not my emotional growth. Nothing.” Since then, she has consistently made appearances embracing her authentic self, and instead of celebrating this empowering choice, she faced online criticism.
Some users took to social media to voice their discontent, completely missing the essence of her message. Keys has been advocating for freedom from societal expectations, yet some individuals responded with negativity, insisting that natural looks aren’t enough. In her earlier post, she articulated her desire to combat the constant judgment that women face. “One of the many things I was tired of was the constant judgment of women,” she wrote, pointing out the unrealistic standards that often accompany body image and femininity.
When we previously discussed her decision to go makeup-free, many women reacted defensively, mistaking her body-positivity campaign for an attack on their choices. “I don’t want to apologize for wearing lipstick!” one commenter exclaimed, despite no one calling for an apology. Another questioned, “Should women be shamed then for wearing attractive clothing?” The makeup-free initiative was never intended to belittle anyone; if that’s how it was interpreted, it’s clear that the message was not fully grasped. Thankfully, many supporters stepped up to defend Keys and her choice to embrace her natural look.
Women, especially celebrities, often bear the brunt of pressure to appear flawless, but Keys’ stance invites everyone to embrace their real selves. Why not show the world what we truly look like? According to her, there’s nothing quite like the feeling of being authentically oneself: “I swear it is the strongest, most empowered, most free, and most honestly beautiful that I have ever felt.” Keys even took the time to clarify her stance for those who may not understand.
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In summary, while Alicia Keys has faced criticism for her makeup-free appearance at the VMAs, her message about embracing natural beauty and rejecting societal pressures remains powerful and important. Let’s celebrate authenticity and the choice to be ourselves!