When discussing hegemony in the media, Kim Kardashian stands out as a great example for today. Kim has been around celebrities and celebrity culture her whole life. Her father Robert Kardashian was the defense attorney in the OJ Simpson trial, and her stepfather was an olympic gold medalist. She was a friend and stylist of Paris Hilton in 2003 and rose to fame with the rise of her family’s reality TV show “Keeping up with the Kardashians” in 2007. This show still remains on air today, streaming on Hulu as “The Kardashians”
During the instagram and social media boom from 2009 - 2012, Kim became a cultural phenomenon, shaping beauty standards and redefining what is considered “ideal” for millions around the world. Through her massive social media presence, reality tv, and business like SKIMS, Kim’s image has become the blueprint for a specific body ideal: the exaggerated hourglass figure characterized by a small waist, wide hips, and enhanced facial features.
Her social media posts which showed off her sculpted surgical body, flawless skin, and glamorous lifestyle quickly attracted millions of followers. These images became aspirational to some, and soon not only fans were copying her look but the entire beauty industry began reshaping itself to cater to the “Kardashian aesthetic.” From cosmetic surgeries like Brazilian Butt Lifts (BBLs) to contouring makeup techniques, the “Kim effect” has left an indelible mark on beauty culture.
What makes Kim Kardashian a powerful example of hegemony is the way her image dominates media and advertising. This repetition creates a cycle where Kim’s image is seen so frequently that it begins to feel like the “norm.” Fashion and beauty brands frequently collaborate with her, reinforcing her influence. Media outlets constantly feature her in headlines, and influencers imitate her look, further enforcing her aesthetic as the standard.
While Kim’s influence is undeniable, it is important to recognize and challenge the hegemonic forces at play. Her rise as a modern media icon is a testament to the power of hegemony in shaping societal norms.Her influence, while remarkable, underscores the need to critically examine the cultural narratives we consume and promote. Encouraging representation of diverse body types, ethnicities, and beauty standards in media can help break down the dominance of any one narrative. By questioning and expanding our definition of beauty, society can move toward a more inclusive culture.
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