Fitting in and/or standing out : Lebanese-Canadian women’s experiences of beauty culture

Abstract

Using a feminist perspective, this research project examines the intersectionality among ethnic identity, beauty culture, body image, and societal pressures as experienced and reported by women between the ages of 19 – 45 years of age. This qualitative study is based on the reports of 11 Lebanese-Canadian, Christian women living in a Canadian provincial capital. While exploring how Western beauty culture and its standards affects the lives of this ethnic group, a beauty subculture unique to this community emerged. Participants describe this beauty subculture as having its own set of strict beauty standards and high expectations emanating from Lebanese – Canadian influences that add to the existing pressures felt from Western beauty culture. This study explores how these women construct, negotiate, and navigate their identities throughout various social environments and stages of their lives. Findings show that Lebanese Canadian women feel a constant struggle between blending in with one’s ethnic peers, yet standing out by conforming to Western beauty culture ideals.