What do you think?
Rate this book
Ugly: Why the World Became Beauty-Obsessed and How to Break Free
We've all had those moments. The ones where you look in the mirror and nothing feels ok. For Anita Bhagwandas, this started when she was a child and it created an enduring internal torment about her looks.
We're all told that this is just part of growing up, but it stays with us, evolving as we age. The internet tells us we should love ourselves, whilst bombarding us with images of airbrushed perfection, upholding centuries-old beauty standards which we can't always see. Our beauty rituals are so often based around things we think we need to fix, grow and develop - sometimes tipping into dangerous obsession.
So, what seismic shift does it take to break free from this mentality? In Ugly , Anita uncovers where these beauty standards started, unpicks why they've been perpetuated and unmasks the structures that continue to support them. From the ever-growing cosmetic surgery industry, to the hidden pitfalls of 'pretty privilege', it is time to finally break free from those limiting beauty standards, because feeling ugly should have nothing to do with how we look, and everything to do with who wants us to feel lacking.
We're all told that this is just part of growing up, but it stays with us, evolving as we age. The internet tells us we should love ourselves, whilst bombarding us with images of airbrushed perfection, upholding centuries-old beauty standards which we can't always see. Our beauty rituals are so often based around things we think we need to fix, grow and develop - sometimes tipping into dangerous obsession.
So, what seismic shift does it take to break free from this mentality? In Ugly , Anita uncovers where these beauty standards started, unpicks why they've been perpetuated and unmasks the structures that continue to support them. From the ever-growing cosmetic surgery industry, to the hidden pitfalls of 'pretty privilege', it is time to finally break free from those limiting beauty standards, because feeling ugly should have nothing to do with how we look, and everything to do with who wants us to feel lacking.
333 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 16, 2023
30 people are currently reading
947 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
March 22, 2023
Everyone should read this book, but perhaps most imperatively, all women and girls. Its the kind of book I wished I could have read as a teen, because so much of it described how I was raised to view, observe and consume beauty culture growing up.
The author gives a fascinating look at the history of beauty, from the very earliest days of humankind, and how it develops across the centuries through to present day. With astute observations concerning the cis-gender male gaze, the patriarchy and the experiences of Black and indigenous women, I learnt so much about how society and consumerism is driven to create 'ideal' beauty, trends and promote the ever growing wellness market. The author challenges the reader to examine their own experiences and bias in how we view looks, bodies, behaviour and so much more.
I've shared this book with the local feminist book club and will be nagging all my female friends to pick up a copy immediately. I cannot rate this book highly enough.
The author gives a fascinating look at the history of beauty, from the very earliest days of humankind, and how it develops across the centuries through to present day. With astute observations concerning the cis-gender male gaze, the patriarchy and the experiences of Black and indigenous women, I learnt so much about how society and consumerism is driven to create 'ideal' beauty, trends and promote the ever growing wellness market. The author challenges the reader to examine their own experiences and bias in how we view looks, bodies, behaviour and so much more.
I've shared this book with the local feminist book club and will be nagging all my female friends to pick up a copy immediately. I cannot rate this book highly enough.
August 30, 2023
I wish every woman of any age could read this one. It has certainly given me so much room for thought.
Diving into the origins of the constantly changing beauty standards and how they correlate with women winning more rights, my jaw dropped quite a few times.
It makes me sad and angry how we're, pardon my language, so fucked up in our heads and how that beauty pressure and anxiety take up so much place in women's lives. The book gives a comprehensive understanding of the reasons behind it.
What I also liked about the book is the author's raw honesty and the practices she offers to gain more confidence and be more mindful of the beauty products and manipulations we purchase.
Diving into the origins of the constantly changing beauty standards and how they correlate with women winning more rights, my jaw dropped quite a few times.
It makes me sad and angry how we're, pardon my language, so fucked up in our heads and how that beauty pressure and anxiety take up so much place in women's lives. The book gives a comprehensive understanding of the reasons behind it.
What I also liked about the book is the author's raw honesty and the practices she offers to gain more confidence and be more mindful of the beauty products and manipulations we purchase.
Read
May 22, 2024* no rating for non-fiction books *
I wish someone had given me this book when I was younger. As someone who struggles with *body positivity* and is partial to a few tweaks here and there (which I won't be stopping lol) this really did change the way I think and actually reflect on things I never would have previously.
It focuses on unconscious bias and white supremacy in the beauty industry which which is so prevalent.
The author did come across as a bit preachy sometimes and the audiobook (which she narrates) had odd pauses which were distracting.
I wish someone had given me this book when I was younger. As someone who struggles with *body positivity* and is partial to a few tweaks here and there (which I won't be stopping lol) this really did change the way I think and actually reflect on things I never would have previously.
It focuses on unconscious bias and white supremacy in the beauty industry which which is so prevalent.
The author did come across as a bit preachy sometimes and the audiobook (which she narrates) had odd pauses which were distracting.
October 8, 2023
If I could I would give it more than 5 stars.
As 33yo woman who noticed significant changes in my body I started being way meaner and cruel to myself than ever before. I hated what I saw in the mirror everyday. I was horrified I didn't fit in my clothes anymore and blamed myself for not looking like I am 25 anymore.
I never felt pretty (what doesn't help, I was the ugly sister) and I was bullied for not being as attractive as my fellow female friends. But now it was way worse. I decided I was fed up with self-hatred and desperately looked for a book on body image before I spend a sick amount of money on beauty treatments or even worse get into an unhealthy obsession with food and fitness.
I am so glad I found this book. It spoke to me on so many levels. It named things I already knew but also brought new perspectives to concepts I thought I have worked through. I wish everybody would read this book because it would give them a huge relief, offer understanding and compassion towards self and others. We need knowledge like this as a society, community, a group of people just so we can start unlearning all the toxicity and beauty anxiety.
So if you're feeling like crap about yourself or are extremely judgemental about other bodies grab this book and help yourself understand why is that so.
I wouldn't say I stopped hating the way I look but this book helped me make a significant steps towards just accepting myself the way that I am.
Thank you Anita.
As 33yo woman who noticed significant changes in my body I started being way meaner and cruel to myself than ever before. I hated what I saw in the mirror everyday. I was horrified I didn't fit in my clothes anymore and blamed myself for not looking like I am 25 anymore.
I never felt pretty (what doesn't help, I was the ugly sister) and I was bullied for not being as attractive as my fellow female friends. But now it was way worse. I decided I was fed up with self-hatred and desperately looked for a book on body image before I spend a sick amount of money on beauty treatments or even worse get into an unhealthy obsession with food and fitness.
I am so glad I found this book. It spoke to me on so many levels. It named things I already knew but also brought new perspectives to concepts I thought I have worked through. I wish everybody would read this book because it would give them a huge relief, offer understanding and compassion towards self and others. We need knowledge like this as a society, community, a group of people just so we can start unlearning all the toxicity and beauty anxiety.
So if you're feeling like crap about yourself or are extremely judgemental about other bodies grab this book and help yourself understand why is that so.
I wouldn't say I stopped hating the way I look but this book helped me make a significant steps towards just accepting myself the way that I am.
Thank you Anita.
April 24, 2023
I listened to this on audiobook format.
A good book makes you think and reflect. This book did that for me. I started with skepticism and a touch of boredom. A bit of dismissal and denial followed. But as I kept reading I found my thoughts and attitudes shift. And yes, I even learnt a thing or two. Now that’s a good book!
The reasons this did not get 5 stars for me:
As comprehensive as it was, it only touched upon hirsutism in women. More in this would have been appreciated.
The author narrated the book herself, and she had a habit of pausing in odd places.
She kind of lost me with the yoga bit. I understand her frustration with the cultural appropriation aspect but yoga without the spiritual aspect has a place - especially for us atheists who could benefit from the physical movement aspects of the practice. Perhaps not calling it yoga, as such would be more appropriate.
Lastly, with all the talk of make up and her involvement in the industry, it would have been nice if she considered the issue of animal testing. Yes, I guess it falls out of the scope of the topic of this book a bit, but it would not have hurt for her to included it. I wonder if it has ever even crossed her mind? With her concern with feminism, patriarchy, racism, cultural appropriation etc, it would be gratifying for the author to give a damn about non humans as well.
A good book makes you think and reflect. This book did that for me. I started with skepticism and a touch of boredom. A bit of dismissal and denial followed. But as I kept reading I found my thoughts and attitudes shift. And yes, I even learnt a thing or two. Now that’s a good book!
The reasons this did not get 5 stars for me:
As comprehensive as it was, it only touched upon hirsutism in women. More in this would have been appreciated.
The author narrated the book herself, and she had a habit of pausing in odd places.
She kind of lost me with the yoga bit. I understand her frustration with the cultural appropriation aspect but yoga without the spiritual aspect has a place - especially for us atheists who could benefit from the physical movement aspects of the practice. Perhaps not calling it yoga, as such would be more appropriate.
Lastly, with all the talk of make up and her involvement in the industry, it would have been nice if she considered the issue of animal testing. Yes, I guess it falls out of the scope of the topic of this book a bit, but it would not have hurt for her to included it. I wonder if it has ever even crossed her mind? With her concern with feminism, patriarchy, racism, cultural appropriation etc, it would be gratifying for the author to give a damn about non humans as well.
March 26, 2023
This book is completely phenomenal, one of the best non-fiction books I’ve ever read. I’ve been talking about it non-stop on Instagram and with my friends. It’s the book every single person who identifies as female should read.
To me, it’s like “Stolen Focus” (which is a book about how tech has influenced us), because on practically every page I had a light bulb go on and I could almost feel my brain rewiring thought patterns. I learned a lot of new things in each paragraph and started to dismantle some of my own thought processes the same way I did with “Stolen Focus”.
I hope that this book explodes all over North America once it’s officially released here, because women in Canada and the US desperately need the information in its pages. From patriarchy to capitalism to racism and so much more, this extremely well researched book is an absolute must read and has definitely changed me for the better.
To me, it’s like “Stolen Focus” (which is a book about how tech has influenced us), because on practically every page I had a light bulb go on and I could almost feel my brain rewiring thought patterns. I learned a lot of new things in each paragraph and started to dismantle some of my own thought processes the same way I did with “Stolen Focus”.
I hope that this book explodes all over North America once it’s officially released here, because women in Canada and the US desperately need the information in its pages. From patriarchy to capitalism to racism and so much more, this extremely well researched book is an absolute must read and has definitely changed me for the better.
October 6, 2023
“Looking back, I feel heartbroken for that version of myself that believed I was ugly from such an innocent age.”
This was a great book, and I will be recommending it to anyone and everyone.
This was a great book, and I will be recommending it to anyone and everyone.
August 2, 2023
3.5 stars (rounded down) - review to follow.
August 5, 2024
If you’re very worried about correcting the flaws in your appearance, and/or looking as young and slim and “well” as possible for as long as possible, this book might be a five-star, life-changing revelation to you.
Partly because I’ve done some prior reading on race and gender and fat and how that intersects with perceived “attractiveness”, and partly because I’m a non-makeup-wearer who gets her hair cut once a year and doesn’t pay a ton of attention to my appearance beyond comfort and basic social appropriateness, I wasn’t quite the right audience for this book.
But I appreciated the vulnerability the author brought to sharing her own stories and the intersectional approach she took to looking at beauty ideals, and the chapter on “wellness”, which I hadn’t spent much time thinking critically about.
Well read by the author on audio.
Partly because I’ve done some prior reading on race and gender and fat and how that intersects with perceived “attractiveness”, and partly because I’m a non-makeup-wearer who gets her hair cut once a year and doesn’t pay a ton of attention to my appearance beyond comfort and basic social appropriateness, I wasn’t quite the right audience for this book.
But I appreciated the vulnerability the author brought to sharing her own stories and the intersectional approach she took to looking at beauty ideals, and the chapter on “wellness”, which I hadn’t spent much time thinking critically about.
Well read by the author on audio.
May 23, 2025
I enjoyed this a lot, as someone who is not generally a non fiction reader. The tone is conversational, and the mixture of memoir and historical research was therefore very easy to digest. It’s a simple but important core argument - that “ugly” is a construct, not a real thing - and there were many points of real insight, derived from history and lived experience.
June 20, 2023
A really good breakdown of beauty standards and how they can permeate everyone's existence. I wish the writing were more tightly edited, but it was a compelling and accessible book in a chatty journalistic style.
February 12, 2025
A fantastic read for women of every walk of life, as well as some great insights into men and beauty standards (though still women focused).
Great to hear from a point of understanding that is not traditional and/or my own, but still seeing that we have things in common.
Despite reading a korean focused and a white person centric couple of books just last year on similar themes, this book was still giving me new perspectives.
Great to hear from a point of understanding that is not traditional and/or my own, but still seeing that we have things in common.
Despite reading a korean focused and a white person centric couple of books just last year on similar themes, this book was still giving me new perspectives.
April 17, 2025
This book was amazing, the discussions on beauty standards and the life damaging effects it has on people was eye opening and a must read as a woman. This definitely changed my perspective on things and really changed my outlook on myself and others. Thank you Anita Bhagwandas and no thank you the patriarchy.
June 19, 2024
A must for all my sisters
June 11, 2024
Though I think there's a really compelling compilation of personal memoir, scientific studies, and examples from pop culture here, I can't help but feel this book falls far short of what it could be. Most of the text is dedicated to a thorough unpacking of beauty/wellness culture of the contemporary- I think the journalistic style helps keep this part readable.
The book's promise to 'break free' reads like an exercise in cognitive behavioural therapy, that being the individualized rephrasing of an upsetting or oppressive phenomenon to 'reclaim' it. Most of the advice, tacked on at the end of the chapters, isn't quite radical in its approach, not so much critiquing the overconsumption of beauty or wellness products nor the anti-feminist implications of buying into beauty norms (esp plastic surgery), but rather encouraging the reading to (over)consume for more thoughtful, feminist reasons. Though I don't think its necessarily ill-intended advice, it reads exactly like a well-meaning essay on beauty culture found in beauty magazine- 'cultural critique' that still pleases the shareholders and the beauty industry whose ads fill the rest of the pages.
The final essay on pretty privilege substantiates itself with 'beauty psychology', which is a fairly questionable field laden with so, so many problematic methodological approaches and flimsy conclusions. Though there is some recognition in the text regarding the colonial bases of the norm on which pretty privilege is based, it doesn't go so far as to critique what it means to decide 'pretty'. Also, so limited in its discussion of how 'pretty privilege', that being found attractive by a heteronormative standard, can be more oppressive than privileged. In other words, men finding you attractive does more harm than favours! In any case, interesting examples, less interesting analysis.
Long review but i meant what i said!! xoxox
The book's promise to 'break free' reads like an exercise in cognitive behavioural therapy, that being the individualized rephrasing of an upsetting or oppressive phenomenon to 'reclaim' it. Most of the advice, tacked on at the end of the chapters, isn't quite radical in its approach, not so much critiquing the overconsumption of beauty or wellness products nor the anti-feminist implications of buying into beauty norms (esp plastic surgery), but rather encouraging the reading to (over)consume for more thoughtful, feminist reasons. Though I don't think its necessarily ill-intended advice, it reads exactly like a well-meaning essay on beauty culture found in beauty magazine- 'cultural critique' that still pleases the shareholders and the beauty industry whose ads fill the rest of the pages.
The final essay on pretty privilege substantiates itself with 'beauty psychology', which is a fairly questionable field laden with so, so many problematic methodological approaches and flimsy conclusions. Though there is some recognition in the text regarding the colonial bases of the norm on which pretty privilege is based, it doesn't go so far as to critique what it means to decide 'pretty'. Also, so limited in its discussion of how 'pretty privilege', that being found attractive by a heteronormative standard, can be more oppressive than privileged. In other words, men finding you attractive does more harm than favours! In any case, interesting examples, less interesting analysis.
Long review but i meant what i said!! xoxox
January 23, 2024
I didn't finish this book, but did get two thirds of the way through so my review only covers that part. It's clear that a lot of research has gone into this book, but I found the writing very repetitive and it felt more like a long rant than a book that flowed well. I agree with most of what's said in there, I just didn't enjoy how it was presented. The chapter I enjoyed the most was 'white and ugly' as a white woman I felt I learnt a lot from this chapter and appreciate viewing the beauty industry from another perspective different to my own.
March 23, 2024
I firstly want to thank Bonnier UK Audio, Net Galley and Anita Bhagwandas for sending me a copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
This was an interesting read and gave good information to where and how the idea of beauty has changed over the years. It highlights how beauty standards affects all of us and how these beauty ideals are barbaric and unobtainable.
It also highlights how our race, gender and age are all analysed and picked at throughout our lives when we identify as female. It's made me realise the beauty standards I have struggled to obtain all my life are a struggle for others too. It has made me realise how ridiculous these standards are for us as women.
I like how she put her own experiences into this too it really made me realise I'm not alone with my fears; fears many of us women have been made to feel. She gives insight to how plus sized, disabled, lgbtq+ and people who are neurodivergent are affected by their experiences.
She talks about what black and indigenous women experience and how their beauty standards are portrayed. It really highlights how messed up the beauty standards is and how it is IMPOSSIBLE for anyone to achieve. She talks about diet culture and how others actions affect how we perceive beauty. She also mentions how plastic surgery has changed over years and the terrifying transformations woman have put themselves though for the sake of "beauty" and remaining young, and how we are treated so much more different compared to men of the same age.
There were times I found this difficult to listen to, it was heartbreaking and extremely relatable. It's another reminder that the concept of beauty is a scam! We are all beautiful in our own way and we shouldn't have to change how we look for no one! It is very obvious that a LOT of research has gone in to make this book and I loved how Anita narrated this book as well as writing it. This is a must read for all in my opinion.
This was an interesting read and gave good information to where and how the idea of beauty has changed over the years. It highlights how beauty standards affects all of us and how these beauty ideals are barbaric and unobtainable.
It also highlights how our race, gender and age are all analysed and picked at throughout our lives when we identify as female. It's made me realise the beauty standards I have struggled to obtain all my life are a struggle for others too. It has made me realise how ridiculous these standards are for us as women.
I like how she put her own experiences into this too it really made me realise I'm not alone with my fears; fears many of us women have been made to feel. She gives insight to how plus sized, disabled, lgbtq+ and people who are neurodivergent are affected by their experiences.
She talks about what black and indigenous women experience and how their beauty standards are portrayed. It really highlights how messed up the beauty standards is and how it is IMPOSSIBLE for anyone to achieve. She talks about diet culture and how others actions affect how we perceive beauty. She also mentions how plastic surgery has changed over years and the terrifying transformations woman have put themselves though for the sake of "beauty" and remaining young, and how we are treated so much more different compared to men of the same age.
There were times I found this difficult to listen to, it was heartbreaking and extremely relatable. It's another reminder that the concept of beauty is a scam! We are all beautiful in our own way and we shouldn't have to change how we look for no one! It is very obvious that a LOT of research has gone in to make this book and I loved how Anita narrated this book as well as writing it. This is a must read for all in my opinion.
March 18, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and Bonnier UK Audio for providing me with an ARC audiobook for this title.
"Penny 1: Ugly must serve somebody's agenda because its definition changes so often and so drastically."
I thoroughly enjoyed this; Anita Bhagwandas is a delight to listen to, and it's always exciting when an author narrates their own audiobook! I felt the passion and experience come through as Bhagwandas spoke about her life, especially as this audiobook covered (more often than not) not so glamorous events in Bhagwandas's life. In that way, this audiobook was brutally honest, and I am very grateful that Bhagwandas shared her experiences with us. Bhagwandas speaks out about the beauty industry not only as someone who has struggled with 'beauty' norms and expectations herself, but also as someone who has actually worked in the beauty industry - the anecdotal nature of this book is fascinating as Bhagwandas has so many stories from first-hand exposure to the inner workings of the industry.
One excerpt that really touched me was Bhagwandas's retelling of a phase in her life in which she suffered with bulimia; she had been invited on a family holiday but swiftly declined as she knew that visiting said family would mean putting on weight - only for that family trip to have been the last opportunity that she would have had to see her grandmother before her death. I think this story will always stick with me, and my heart aches for Bhagwandas, as she speaks about all of the experiences and opportunities that she missed out on through fear of putting on weight.
I think this is a story that a lot of girls and women will be able to relate to, as I know I certainly found myself tearing up and shaking my head in acknowledgement & solidarity at multiple points throughout the audiobook.
"Penny 1: Ugly must serve somebody's agenda because its definition changes so often and so drastically."
I thoroughly enjoyed this; Anita Bhagwandas is a delight to listen to, and it's always exciting when an author narrates their own audiobook! I felt the passion and experience come through as Bhagwandas spoke about her life, especially as this audiobook covered (more often than not) not so glamorous events in Bhagwandas's life. In that way, this audiobook was brutally honest, and I am very grateful that Bhagwandas shared her experiences with us. Bhagwandas speaks out about the beauty industry not only as someone who has struggled with 'beauty' norms and expectations herself, but also as someone who has actually worked in the beauty industry - the anecdotal nature of this book is fascinating as Bhagwandas has so many stories from first-hand exposure to the inner workings of the industry.
One excerpt that really touched me was Bhagwandas's retelling of a phase in her life in which she suffered with bulimia; she had been invited on a family holiday but swiftly declined as she knew that visiting said family would mean putting on weight - only for that family trip to have been the last opportunity that she would have had to see her grandmother before her death. I think this story will always stick with me, and my heart aches for Bhagwandas, as she speaks about all of the experiences and opportunities that she missed out on through fear of putting on weight.
I think this is a story that a lot of girls and women will be able to relate to, as I know I certainly found myself tearing up and shaking my head in acknowledgement & solidarity at multiple points throughout the audiobook.
September 15, 2024
Nonfiction shoutout to this! 👆
“UGLY” is an exploration of beauty standards: where they came from, how they work, how they constrain us. It’s insightful & well-researched. I’d thoroughly recommend reading it! 👏
I’m NOT a beauty person. Bhagwandas is. I thought her positioning as a beauty journalist added an angle to the book that probed my thinking even deeper. She holds that beauty is an industry she believes in whilst digging critically into so many things, including:
✨ Capitalism
✨ Privilege
✨ History- ancient & modern
Within these themes, she picks apart the many ways we’re all expected to measure up & the action we have to take to do so. She doesn’t shy from the intersectional nature of this, how different groups are impacted in varied ways. The themes of racism & ageism are woven without as they’re so pivotal to our concept of modern beauty even as it ebbs & flows.
The major takeaway I took from this was the resounding impact of colonialism on beauty standards. I tried to tell my grandparents about this but they simply couldn’t comprehend it, despite being around during the actual empire. The racial underpinnings of a system of oppression with misogynistic roots are so complex, but Bhagwandas does an excellent job at articulating them clearly, with the needed context & history.
I’ve come away from it wondering whether the lack of care I have about my appearance is a privilege, feeling ever more resolute in my decision to not use make-up or pursue anti-aging methods.
Whether you’re conscious of a struggle with appearance or whether there are insidious undertones of appearance-based judgment (on yourself or others), this is essential reading to challenge the underpinning influences that we’re all exposed to in our capitalist world.
“UGLY” is an exploration of beauty standards: where they came from, how they work, how they constrain us. It’s insightful & well-researched. I’d thoroughly recommend reading it! 👏
I’m NOT a beauty person. Bhagwandas is. I thought her positioning as a beauty journalist added an angle to the book that probed my thinking even deeper. She holds that beauty is an industry she believes in whilst digging critically into so many things, including:
✨ Capitalism
✨ Privilege
✨ History- ancient & modern
Within these themes, she picks apart the many ways we’re all expected to measure up & the action we have to take to do so. She doesn’t shy from the intersectional nature of this, how different groups are impacted in varied ways. The themes of racism & ageism are woven without as they’re so pivotal to our concept of modern beauty even as it ebbs & flows.
The major takeaway I took from this was the resounding impact of colonialism on beauty standards. I tried to tell my grandparents about this but they simply couldn’t comprehend it, despite being around during the actual empire. The racial underpinnings of a system of oppression with misogynistic roots are so complex, but Bhagwandas does an excellent job at articulating them clearly, with the needed context & history.
I’ve come away from it wondering whether the lack of care I have about my appearance is a privilege, feeling ever more resolute in my decision to not use make-up or pursue anti-aging methods.
Whether you’re conscious of a struggle with appearance or whether there are insidious undertones of appearance-based judgment (on yourself or others), this is essential reading to challenge the underpinning influences that we’re all exposed to in our capitalist world.
January 22, 2024
"Ugly: Giving Us Back Our Beauty Standards" presents a compelling exploration of societal beauty norms and their impact on individuals. The book is meticulously researched, offering eye-opening insights into how beauty standards have been ingrained in our collective consciousness. I found myself in agreement with much of the information shared, recognizing the value of this knowledge for both the beauty industry and the younger generation.
However, I did find certain criticisms, particularly regarding the analysis of beloved childhood movies like "The Little Mermaid" and "Frozen," a bit excessive. While acknowledging the need for evolving perspectives, I believe there are numerous diverse and empowering films for children today. It's important to appreciate the value of nostalgia while embracing positive change.
The author's personal story about grappling with societal beauty standards added depth to the narrative, although I couldn't shake the belief that self-confidence is often rooted in early upbringing and life experiences. In my own journey, I've learned that letting go and self-acceptance are vital topics that deserve more attention than societal perceptions.
In conclusion, "Ugly" left me with mixed feelings. While I appreciated its insights, I also found areas of contention. Nevertheless, it serves as a thought-provoking reflection on the complexities of beauty standards, especially in the age of pervasive social media. This book encourages critical discussions that are essential for the well-being of young minds navigating today's beauty-centric world.
Thank you NetGalley for this read, here is my honest feedback.
However, I did find certain criticisms, particularly regarding the analysis of beloved childhood movies like "The Little Mermaid" and "Frozen," a bit excessive. While acknowledging the need for evolving perspectives, I believe there are numerous diverse and empowering films for children today. It's important to appreciate the value of nostalgia while embracing positive change.
The author's personal story about grappling with societal beauty standards added depth to the narrative, although I couldn't shake the belief that self-confidence is often rooted in early upbringing and life experiences. In my own journey, I've learned that letting go and self-acceptance are vital topics that deserve more attention than societal perceptions.
In conclusion, "Ugly" left me with mixed feelings. While I appreciated its insights, I also found areas of contention. Nevertheless, it serves as a thought-provoking reflection on the complexities of beauty standards, especially in the age of pervasive social media. This book encourages critical discussions that are essential for the well-being of young minds navigating today's beauty-centric world.
Thank you NetGalley for this read, here is my honest feedback.
March 30, 2024
Review of audiobook provided by Netgalley
I really enjoyed this in-depth study of modern beauty standards and how they came to be, and how that influences women living today. As a woman in my early 30s, there was plenty to relate to and I will definitely recommend this to some of my friends, who I can see living under some of the harmful influences that Bhagwandas explores. It is completely modern and up to date too, taking into account the new spectre of 'wellness' in particular which is rife on social media now.
You can tell it has been thoroughly researched, and with plenty of strong factual evidence - although this topic is an aspect of feminism I've read a lot about (The Beauty Myth by Naomi Wolf was lifechanging), I still learnt a lot of new things. As someone who also wants to move away from trying to meet beauty standards, to instead a point of neutrality about it, it was heartening to see the author agree with this rather than embrace the toxic positivity of 'everyone is beautiful'. As women it should not be important whether we are beautiful - we are so much more than that!
I particularly liked how each chapter ended with 'action points' of actual solid advice on what we can do to deconstruct these ideals. It can feel sometimes like it is pointless to try to do this, but by suggesting things to do, like following more people who look like us rather than those we aspire to, it seems a bit more achievable, on a personal scale at least.
I really enjoyed this in-depth study of modern beauty standards and how they came to be, and how that influences women living today. As a woman in my early 30s, there was plenty to relate to and I will definitely recommend this to some of my friends, who I can see living under some of the harmful influences that Bhagwandas explores. It is completely modern and up to date too, taking into account the new spectre of 'wellness' in particular which is rife on social media now.
You can tell it has been thoroughly researched, and with plenty of strong factual evidence - although this topic is an aspect of feminism I've read a lot about (The Beauty Myth by Naomi Wolf was lifechanging), I still learnt a lot of new things. As someone who also wants to move away from trying to meet beauty standards, to instead a point of neutrality about it, it was heartening to see the author agree with this rather than embrace the toxic positivity of 'everyone is beautiful'. As women it should not be important whether we are beautiful - we are so much more than that!
I particularly liked how each chapter ended with 'action points' of actual solid advice on what we can do to deconstruct these ideals. It can feel sometimes like it is pointless to try to do this, but by suggesting things to do, like following more people who look like us rather than those we aspire to, it seems a bit more achievable, on a personal scale at least.
November 4, 2023
3.5, rounding up. I was a little confused as to the author's intentions of providing a completely informational book versus creating a memoir. The little bits of her personal life were intriguing, but then she would move on to the next section leaving me with a lot of questions. I think her personal experiences with fashion and interviews would have allowed for some great insight if she'd fleshed those sections out a lot more, but maybe she signed a NDA or something. That being said, I did enjoy the historical insight into how beauty standards were formed and influenced. It was interesting to find out that they did not change from just plus size being preferred to skinny; rather, a preference for the two almost fluctuated throughout history. Interesting that the puritans associated being skinny with being moral as eating in excess was a sin. Also interesting to see how women were expected to wear makeup during the war as not wearing makeup was a sign that you had accepted defeat. I also found it interesting how plastic surgery could have died out during the war as they didn't really have jobs after the major world wars ended, so creating a market for cosmetic surgery allowed them to keep their livelihoods going.
April 11, 2024
Anita Bhagwandas' "Ugly" delves into vital topics with depth and insight, and I'm grateful for the work, research, and self-reflection evident in this book.
From pop culture's influence to the impact of racism, ageism, and classism, Anita provides ample historical and cultural references alongside personal anecdotes, enriching each point.
However, I personally stopped reading around 60%. This was purely due to the fact that I wasn't gaining any additional perspectives that I hadn't already encountered and worked through elsewhere, having read and researched extensively on this topic myself. If I had picked this up at a different stage in life, I'm certain I would have devoured the whole thing!
For those yet to explore the complexities of beauty standards in our society in depth, I highly recommend this book. I can especially imagine it having been more powerful for me during my transitional years from my teens to my twenties, providing the perfect accompaniment to doing the work around these topics. Alongside other non-fiction works in this sphere, ‘Ugly’ contributes to the vitally important and transformative process of societal change.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bonnier Books UK for the e-arc. All opinions are my own.
From pop culture's influence to the impact of racism, ageism, and classism, Anita provides ample historical and cultural references alongside personal anecdotes, enriching each point.
However, I personally stopped reading around 60%. This was purely due to the fact that I wasn't gaining any additional perspectives that I hadn't already encountered and worked through elsewhere, having read and researched extensively on this topic myself. If I had picked this up at a different stage in life, I'm certain I would have devoured the whole thing!
For those yet to explore the complexities of beauty standards in our society in depth, I highly recommend this book. I can especially imagine it having been more powerful for me during my transitional years from my teens to my twenties, providing the perfect accompaniment to doing the work around these topics. Alongside other non-fiction works in this sphere, ‘Ugly’ contributes to the vitally important and transformative process of societal change.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bonnier Books UK for the e-arc. All opinions are my own.
April 1, 2024
Ugly: Why the world became beauty-obsessed and how to break free was a thought-provoking read on the history of beauty standards and how a woman's appearance has always been and still is her currency and market value in society.
It talks about how women believe that "If only I were [insert beauty standard here], everything in my life would be perfect." It's not true though, and women who look a way that is desired are the most insecure.
It goes through how even pretty privileged status in society changes, like how men lose their hair to the way women are ignored by society when they're past a certain age and no longer seen as attractive. If you've always been prized for being beautiful and this appears to change, that can be a real jolt to the ego.
The book is about the pressure women feel to be beautiful and the limitations of female status, and while it was good, it was repetitive and didn't give any tools or guidance to women who feel 'Ugly.' There were no empowering factors in this book or "how to break free" elements. It just made me feel sad.
To everyone, we are worth more than our appearance.
It talks about how women believe that "If only I were [insert beauty standard here], everything in my life would be perfect." It's not true though, and women who look a way that is desired are the most insecure.
It goes through how even pretty privileged status in society changes, like how men lose their hair to the way women are ignored by society when they're past a certain age and no longer seen as attractive. If you've always been prized for being beautiful and this appears to change, that can be a real jolt to the ego.
The book is about the pressure women feel to be beautiful and the limitations of female status, and while it was good, it was repetitive and didn't give any tools or guidance to women who feel 'Ugly.' There were no empowering factors in this book or "how to break free" elements. It just made me feel sad.
To everyone, we are worth more than our appearance.
October 7, 2024
Is not bad but it's quite redundant on its arguments and while they might be true, it lacks deepness beyond "the market and patriarchy makes you do it", as if we were all some sort of obedient pets with no input or rationale in our choices. The amount of times the argument can be simplified into "everyone else does it, I have to do it as well" is tiresomely. She makes it feel like you can't escape the forces of marketing when in reality some of the stuff can be just fixed by following other tags and people or just give the finger to ads. It would had been more interesting if other topics were also covered, such as peer pressure, misogyny between women and the psychological aspects of being ugly. Instead we have a book that's half historical/half personal memor, but as being half everything comes short on being something. Also, it wouldn't be that bad if it weren't for fact that the author comes from the same industry she complains about, but the way she can't decide between praising or criticizing the industry makes the whole book sound just like a conformist, false-consciousness discourse.
March 16, 2024
If you’re interested in learning about where our beauty standards came from and how they impact different individuals in different ways, you should pick up this book.
Anita Bhagwandas is a journalist and beauty editor. Part autobiographical and part essay collection, this book is packed full of facts, studies and stats. From Victorian fashion to the heroin chic of the 90s, from the first face lift in 1916(!) to the routine tweakments of reality stars today that we now rarely bat an eyelid to. Bhagwandas explores where we are with beauty standards today and how we got here. Bhagwandas also touches upon many subjects within this huge topic that I personally had not put much thought to.
I was unsure how much I would get out of this book initially. This is a topic that I am both drawn to and purposely avoid depending on my current mental state at the time. I feel like it’s inherently forced upon all young women, regardless of if we actually care about our looks or not, to at least be aware of the ideal beauty standards of the day.
As a white woman I’ve rarely thought about the impact the western caucasian beauty ideals has had on people of colour. I had known that the body positivity movement had started with women of colour, but I didn’t fully realise the consequences of white media adopting this movement and how this has led to WOC being pushed out of the conversation. Another point explored was the codeswitching that is often required of POC for work. She cites that 61% of WOC changed either their behaviour, appearance or their name to fit in at work, as opposed to 44% of white women feeling they needed to do the same.
She also explores the idea of pretty privilege, the perks of being perceived as attractive and also the way this has been turned on its head in recent years as people are being bullied for being too beautiful. Along with this she also brings up the financial impact being ‘ugly’ can have, for example, people who are more conventionally attractive are more likely to progress in their chosen career and can end up being paid more than their ‘ugly’ coworkers.
She also covers how people who are plus sized, lgbtq+, disabled and neurodivergent are affected by society’s expectations of what is perceived as beauty.
These are just a few examples of the many topics that Bhagwandas explores in this book. Some of which I thought were obvious (plastic surgery, ageism) and others that are new to me and I feel I want to delve into further. The examples she uses are both vintage and contemporary making this book feel like a complete introduction to the beauty standards of western society today.
**I recieved a copy of this audiobook from Netgalley**
Anita Bhagwandas is a journalist and beauty editor. Part autobiographical and part essay collection, this book is packed full of facts, studies and stats. From Victorian fashion to the heroin chic of the 90s, from the first face lift in 1916(!) to the routine tweakments of reality stars today that we now rarely bat an eyelid to. Bhagwandas explores where we are with beauty standards today and how we got here. Bhagwandas also touches upon many subjects within this huge topic that I personally had not put much thought to.
I was unsure how much I would get out of this book initially. This is a topic that I am both drawn to and purposely avoid depending on my current mental state at the time. I feel like it’s inherently forced upon all young women, regardless of if we actually care about our looks or not, to at least be aware of the ideal beauty standards of the day.
As a white woman I’ve rarely thought about the impact the western caucasian beauty ideals has had on people of colour. I had known that the body positivity movement had started with women of colour, but I didn’t fully realise the consequences of white media adopting this movement and how this has led to WOC being pushed out of the conversation. Another point explored was the codeswitching that is often required of POC for work. She cites that 61% of WOC changed either their behaviour, appearance or their name to fit in at work, as opposed to 44% of white women feeling they needed to do the same.
She also explores the idea of pretty privilege, the perks of being perceived as attractive and also the way this has been turned on its head in recent years as people are being bullied for being too beautiful. Along with this she also brings up the financial impact being ‘ugly’ can have, for example, people who are more conventionally attractive are more likely to progress in their chosen career and can end up being paid more than their ‘ugly’ coworkers.
She also covers how people who are plus sized, lgbtq+, disabled and neurodivergent are affected by society’s expectations of what is perceived as beauty.
These are just a few examples of the many topics that Bhagwandas explores in this book. Some of which I thought were obvious (plastic surgery, ageism) and others that are new to me and I feel I want to delve into further. The examples she uses are both vintage and contemporary making this book feel like a complete introduction to the beauty standards of western society today.
**I recieved a copy of this audiobook from Netgalley**
April 7, 2024
"Ugly" by Anita Bhagwandas is a very thorough look at how beauty standards are created how how they have come to shape our consumer landscape.
As someone who doesn't pay a lot of attention to this corner of industry it was fascinating to me how deep and completely the idea of "beauty" runs. It reminds me of the "blue sweater" scene in 'The Devil Wears Prada'.
At times I'm unsure as to how seriously to take Bhagwanda. The author finds racism and agism where I didn't think there was any, but I'm glad that I now know where to look. Sometimes the writing flows a little strangely or an aside is made that I wasn't expecting but there's clearly a lot that the author wants to say.
I hope that by writing everything down the author has had a cathartic experience and has processed a lot of the hurt that was clearly done to her. I'm hopeful that many people who are affected by thinking they are "not good enough" reads this and realises that they are perfectly fine as they are.
As someone who doesn't pay a lot of attention to this corner of industry it was fascinating to me how deep and completely the idea of "beauty" runs. It reminds me of the "blue sweater" scene in 'The Devil Wears Prada'.
At times I'm unsure as to how seriously to take Bhagwanda. The author finds racism and agism where I didn't think there was any, but I'm glad that I now know where to look. Sometimes the writing flows a little strangely or an aside is made that I wasn't expecting but there's clearly a lot that the author wants to say.
I hope that by writing everything down the author has had a cathartic experience and has processed a lot of the hurt that was clearly done to her. I'm hopeful that many people who are affected by thinking they are "not good enough" reads this and realises that they are perfectly fine as they are.
May 16, 2024
I absolutely love Bhagwandas's Substack and found she'd written a nonfiction book. It was such an eye-opening read. Incredibly well-written, researched, and interesting to read. Thankfully, it did not give me terror flashbacks to my graduate school days reading journal articles! It wove research with snippets of personal narrative (relevant and interesting) and pop culture references (fun). Nothing was overdone. Bhagwandas is a talented writer and I can't wait to read what she does next. This book is a must-read for anyone really – from how beauty standards are set to how we are manipulated by practically every industry to keep those standards narrow and us hating what we see in the mirror. For elder millennials, it unpicks why we think the way we think about beauty – for men too – and for younger generations, it'll be a vital read to help expand our definitions of beauty and undo the harm done.
March 19, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and Bonnie UK Audio for granting me access to this book in exchange for an honest review.
Ugly is a compelling and thought-provoking analysis of modern beauty standards, their roots, and their impact on society. It appears to be a well-researched and thoughtful book. Though I listened to the audiobook, so I can’t speak to or verify the references used.
The book delves into just how early beauty standards affect us, especially as women (even further for women of colour). Something I think I’ve always known, but it felt so validating to hear so many stories similar to my own experiences as a chubby black girl. It really hits on some of my deepest insecurities, some of which I thought I had moved passed. But this isn’t a bad thing, just a reminder of how universally damaging these external standards can be to us all.
Very insightful and refreshing read. - 4/5
Ugly is a compelling and thought-provoking analysis of modern beauty standards, their roots, and their impact on society. It appears to be a well-researched and thoughtful book. Though I listened to the audiobook, so I can’t speak to or verify the references used.
The book delves into just how early beauty standards affect us, especially as women (even further for women of colour). Something I think I’ve always known, but it felt so validating to hear so many stories similar to my own experiences as a chubby black girl. It really hits on some of my deepest insecurities, some of which I thought I had moved passed. But this isn’t a bad thing, just a reminder of how universally damaging these external standards can be to us all.
Very insightful and refreshing read. - 4/5
July 12, 2025
“There’s a fine line between appreciation and appropriation.”
My goodness, this is an incredible deep dive into beauty standards, ideals, trends and why each one exists. Anita covers everything from the secularisation of spiritual practices like yoga and wellness, to the rise in cosmetic procedures as a tool of the patriarchy. She leaves no stone unturned, even weaving in some personal anecdotes as well.
Some of my standout quotes:
“Men’s value comes from their careers and bank balance; women’s, their youth, beauty and ability to reproduce.”
“‘Age appropriate’ is the patriarchy keeping us small and boxed in.”
“Racism succeeds when you question your own intuition.”
“White women want access to Blackness but don’t want the suffering that comes along with it.”
“The wounded wound others.”
My goodness, this is an incredible deep dive into beauty standards, ideals, trends and why each one exists. Anita covers everything from the secularisation of spiritual practices like yoga and wellness, to the rise in cosmetic procedures as a tool of the patriarchy. She leaves no stone unturned, even weaving in some personal anecdotes as well.
Some of my standout quotes:
“Men’s value comes from their careers and bank balance; women’s, their youth, beauty and ability to reproduce.”
“‘Age appropriate’ is the patriarchy keeping us small and boxed in.”
“Racism succeeds when you question your own intuition.”
“White women want access to Blackness but don’t want the suffering that comes along with it.”
“The wounded wound others.”
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews