The perception of beauty varies globally, akin to language, gained popularity in 2014. Journalist Esther Honig went viral by sending her picture to graphic designers worldwide, asking them to make her look “beautiful.“
This trend inspired others, including biracial Priscilla Yuki Wilson and Marie Southward, who added a “plus-sized twist.” In 2014, a UK-based online doctor service, OnlineDoctor.SuperDrug.com, collaborated with the content marketing agency Fractl for a similar project. Fractl sent a stock image of a woman in her underwear to graphic designers in 18 countries, ranging from the UK to Syria, to explore how beauty perceptions differ globally.

The results varied significantly when it comes to beauty standards
Philippines

Skinnier and darker hair seemed to fit the Philippines’ expectation of what true beauty looks like.
USA

The US decided a thigh gap was an obvious choice along with a flatter stomach and a very airbrushed face in their perception of beauty.
China

China produced the most altered image, estimating the model’s weight to be about 100 pounds. Changes included the face, hair, underwear, and overall body transformation.
Colombia

In their perception of beauty, Colombia maintained a curvier design, with subtle changes such as more hair and less orange skin.
Egypt

Added an orange hue, a tiny waist, and black hair to the model.
Italy

Created a version almost as thin as China’s, changing the color of the underwear and shoes – a very different perception of beauty.
The Netherlands

Lightened the woman’s hair, made her legs thinner, and added boots and a pink bikini.
Peru

In their perception of beauty, Peru focused on making the model’s arms and stomach thinner, along with changes to the eyes.
Romania

Adopted an orangey hue and shaved off inches around the body.
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