What Appearance Features Are Considered the Beauty Standards in 11 Different Countries

Our fascination with beauty is a global fixation, yet the way we perceive beauty varies greatly around the world. In an attempt to dismantle these beauty stereotypes, we are exploring the diverse interpretations of “beauty” within our own culture and beyond our boundaries.

England

In the United Kingdom, the prevailing ideal body image places emphasis on slender legs and arms, along with a toned, flat stomach. Women are often regarded as more attractive if they have fuller lips, a leaner facial structure, larger eyes, and prominent cheekbones. Additionally, the UK has a notable fixation on tanning, with Liverpool earning the distinction of being the most tanned city, where over 60% of women use self-tanning products at least five times a month.

Germany

In Germany, beauty is about being natural and minimalistic. A “fresh” look with little make-up is the trend. The skin should be radiant and healthy, and make-up should only highlight the facial features.

A fit body is also desirable, as Germans value an active lifestyle. They want to look good and feel strong and energetic.

Turkey

Long and thick hair is a sign of beauty in Turkey — the longer, the better. Women also like to wear make-up and have long and full eyelashes. Eyelash extensions are very popular here. Eyebrows are another important feature: they should be neat and symmetrical, not too wide or too thin.

Mexico

A tan is a sign of beauty in this sunny country. It indicates that a person enjoys the sun and leads an active lifestyle. That’s why a fit body is another standard.

Mexican beauty also features a thin waist, long shiny hair and plump lips. Make-up is minimal and natural, but eyebrows are essential. They frame the face and should be thick and well-defined.

Thailand

In this country, white skin is highly coveted. It is seen as a mark of belonging to a superior class. Being thin, not just slim, is considered attractive.

People also admire full lips, which they like to accentuate with nude lipsticks. Another valued feature is expressive eyes, which is why contact lenses are becoming more and more popular here.

Portugal

A tall and slender girl with strong legs and wide hips is the ideal of beauty in Portugal. People in this country value neatness and careful grooming very much. A “fresh” look is trendy: subtle make-up, tidy hair and manicure. Like in Mexico, well-defined eyebrows are also preferred here.

Italy

Natural beauty and uniqueness are valued in Italy. Make-up is only used to highlight and enhance the features of the face, especially the eyes. Glowing skin is attractive, so Italians take special care of it. Full, well-defined lips and shiny hair are also irresistible.

Argentina

This country does not have very strict standards, and natural beauty is the main focus. People here try to embrace themselves as they are.

Argentine women seldom wear make-up, only for special occasions. They also rarely dye their hair. A pointed and thin nose and blue eyes are considered attractive.

Dominican Republic

Beauty standards in this country are very strict, and naturalness is not appreciated. Dominicans are obsessed with a slim figure with a thin waist and very wide hips. Many women undergo surgery to achieve this.

Although most people have naturally curly hair, long straight hair is the trend here.

France

A woman who looks like she just got out of bed and doesn’t care what others think of her is attractive in France. This means no fancy hairstyles and minimal make-up. But this is the real art: you have to look casual and natural, but not plain. This very naturalness actually requires a lot of effort.

Unique features are also valued here: freckles, a gap between the teeth. Accepting one’s individuality is true beauty in the eyes of the French.

South Korea

Korea holds a deep reverence for the highly desired porcelain skin, a trait that has captivated women worldwide. The demand for Korean skincare and facial mask products has seen a remarkable surge in recent years, driven by Western women’s pursuit of agelessness and the quest for flawless complexions. Yet, for Korean women, preserving this immaculate fair skin is no minor endeavor, with its roots stemming from a historical period where tanned skin was associated with lower social status.

Women across the world adhere to a wide array of beauty standards, some of which may seem unconventional or even silly. These standards reflect the unique cultural influences and expectations that shape perceptions of beauty globally. But the concept of beauty standards in reality varies dramatically across the world, showcasing the striking differences in cultural preferences and ideals of attractiveness.