In recent years, many have believed that women should shave their body hair to meet beauty standards of smooth, hairless skin. This ideal has often been linked to femininity, elegance, and even a certain delicate look. But now, we’re seeing more and more women bravely pushing back against these long-standing, gender-based stereotypes.
These women aren’t just standing strong in their choices—they’re also inspiring others to do the same. They’ve come to understand that their journey toward self-acceptance can offer hope to other women who feel pressured by society’s beauty standards. They’ve become role models, showing that there isn’t just one way to be beautiful, and there’s no single path to being a woman.
By embracing their body hair, these women are really embracing their freedom to be themselves, without apology. They’re breaking away from society’s expectations and creating their own version of beauty. In doing so, they’re sending a message of self-love and respect, letting the world know that women should be appreciated for who they are, not for who they are told they should be.
1. “You’ll find it easier to feel comfortable with your hair by making small actions little by little every day…it’s a journey.”
2. “I was out shopping today when a guy noticed my legs and paid me a compliment. It made my day.”
3. Sofia doesn’t let a razor touch her skin.
4. “Feelin’ myself.”
5. Julia Michaels at the 63rd Annual Grammy Awards
When Julia responded to body shamers with the humorous line, “eat a bag of worms,” it showed just how strong and determined she is. She refused to let negativity influence how she feels about her own body. In a society where body shaming is unfortunately still common, her bold response serves as a reminder that we all have the right to embrace our bodies without fear of judgment or criticism.
Julia’s stand for body positivity didn’t stop at Instagram. She brought her message to the red carpet at the Grammy Awards, proudly showing off her armpit hair. This moment wasn’t just about her—it was about challenging the expectations of how a celebrity should look. By staying true to herself, Julia opened the door for more inclusivity in the entertainment industry.
The outpouring of support she received from fans speaks to the power of her message. By embracing her body and defying beauty standards, Julia became a role model for people who feel pressured to meet unrealistic ideals. Her influence goes far beyond her music, encouraging everyone to love themselves just as they are.
6. “I don’t think I own a razor.”
7. Madonna’s daughter, Lourdes Leon, has always embraced her body hair.
As a rising model, Lourdes has been photographed proudly showing her underarm and leg hair, sparking a mix of reactions. In a world where beauty ideals still hold strong, her choice to show her body hair is a bold statement about self-acceptance.
One of her most notable moments came during New York Fashion Week, where she walked the runway with her unshaven legs on full display. By confidently strutting down the catwalk, Lourdes challenged the strict beauty standards of the fashion industry. Her presence at such a high-profile event sent a strong message that individuality should be celebrated.
When Lourdes appeared at a red carpet event in a semi-sheer dress, proudly showing her unshaven legs, she made another bold statement. Her confidence in these moments shows she is unafraid to challenge societal expectations, even while under the spotlight.
8. Frida Kahlo in the 1930s
9. “We have razor-free legs and armpits, but what about razor-free faces and chests? Trying to embrace my hirsutism.”
10. Julia Roberts was one of the first celebrities to flash underarm hair on the red carpet in 1999.
At the time, Julia Roberts was already a beloved actress, and her choice to walk the red carpet without shaving her armpits made headlines for all the right reasons. In an industry where flawless grooming is often expected, her choice was seen as a bold and revolutionary move.
Interestingly, Julia later revealed that her decision wasn’t meant to make a statement. She was simply being herself. This adds even more depth to the story because it shows how authenticity can create powerful moments, even when they aren’t planned to be political or revolutionary.
Julia’s honesty reminds us that societal expectations about appearance can be complicated. Her decision highlights that living authentically can have a huge impact, even when it’s not meant to make a bold statement.
11. “After running pictures!”
12. Amandla Stenberg wears a sleeveless black gown and doesn’t care about shaving or removing the hair under their arms.
What makes this moment even more significant is that Amandla identifies as non-binary. By showing her underarm hair in such a public space, she challenged society’s expectations of women’s grooming while also emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance. She became a role model for those who feel pressured to meet rigid beauty standards.
Amandla also shared her underarm hair on Instagram, further spreading her message. Social media has become a major platform for promoting body positivity, and Amandla’s post showed how embracing your authentic self can inspire others. She used her platform to raise awareness about the importance of loving yourself, no matter what society says.
The heart of Amandla’s message is that beauty and self-worth shouldn’t be determined by external standards. By standing firm in her beliefs, she hoped to inspire others to feel more comfortable and empowered in their own identities. Her message resonates strongly with young people who are still figuring out who they are and how to love themselves.
13. “Flowers and sunshine”
14. “Over one year razor-free!”
15. “Society needs to accept that women have hair too.”
The choice of whether or not to shave has become a significant topic of discussion in recent years. It’s a conversation that touches on personal freedom, social expectations, and the evolving ideas of what beauty really is.
When we think about this choice, we’re joining a larger dialogue on body positivity and self-empowerment. For many, choosing not to shave is a way to assert control over their bodies. It’s a clear statement that they won’t be held to society’s arbitrary grooming standards. Instead, they’re embracing their natural selves and pushing back against the idea that hairlessness equals femininity and beauty.
Deciding to put down the razor can reflect a person’s values. Some might stop shaving to show solidarity with those who’ve made that choice, seeing it as a way to align their actions with their beliefs about beauty and authenticity.
Others may continue to shave simply because they enjoy it or feel it’s part of their personal routine. What matters most is that there’s no one right way. Everyone should have the freedom to make the choice that’s best for them.
This discussion goes beyond personal choices and is part of a broader movement that challenges beauty standards. Women who choose not to shave are often at the front of this movement, encouraging self-acceptance and diversity. Their decision not to follow traditional beauty ideals sends a message that beauty is not one-size-fits-all, and it should never define a person’s worth.
As we continue to navigate the changing landscape of beauty and personal expression, it’s important to approach the subject with empathy and respect. The goal is to create a world where everyone can decide what’s right for their own bodies without facing judgment or pressure. In this world, self-empowerment and acceptance are what truly matter.
