Glamour, Grit & Independence
Beyond the catwalk of the supermodels
To help me switch off my inner chimp brain before bed, I’ve been watching a new documentary series on AppleTV. It’s not like me to watch TV at bedtime, as I’d much prefer to read a book or journal. But due to a recent bout of insomnia, I’ve needed some escapism complimented by a hot bath with essential oils and as much zen a midlife woman can access.
Last night and the previous night, I binged watched the 4 episode documentary about the legendary Supermodels of the 80’s, Cindy, Linda, Naomi and Christy - it sent a wave of nostalgia through me.
It’s a cinematic journey that takes us back to a time when shoulder pads were bigger, hair was higher and the fashion industry was changing at a speed of knots. For me it was a trip down memory lane to an era of glitz and glamour and more importantly how sisters were doing it for their thing.
As I watched each episode of the girls strutting down the catwalks, having their hair and makeup styled and the behind the scenes of the magazine shoots, it was impossible not to reflect on the profound impact these women made. They weren’t just models they were trailblazers, and at 12 years old in 1986, I adored how much confidence they had, they seemed to ooze attitude and independence wherever they went.
For women like me and you who came of age in the 80’s and are now in their late 40’s/ early 50’s, the world has undergone remarkable changes. These supermodels were strong, confident and fiercely determined to forge their own paths in a male dominated industry.
It was evident in this Apple TV series that the legacy of these pioneering women lives on today. Women have continued to take strides in achieving independence and equality, in all aspects of their lives, slowly but surely. I loved the 80’s and it certainly marked the beginning of a cultural shift that has evolved over the decades.
Hence why I’m loving being 49! Women like me and you who were born in the 60’s and 70’s, are a testament to the progress made. We are witnessing and contributing to a world where women’s voices are louder, opportunities are more abundant and our independence is celebrated. It was a great series, and obviously produced with brilliant cinematography - Ron Howard was one of the directors - I love his work. The soundtracks used throughout the documentary really nailed it for me. What’s not to love about the 80’s hits?!
As I’m writing this Substack, I’m listening to Linda Evangelista being interviewed by Kirsty Young on the BBC Sounds Podcast ‘Young Again’. A tough listen but a very interesting story about ‘self-worth’, how Linda eventually found the courage to leave her abusive husband and coping with breast cancer. What a fascinating story.
Until the next time
Take care & stay safe xx
I haven’t watched the documentary, but I might after reading this. Whilst I appreciate that these women overcame a lot to succeed as they did, but I do wonder how much they really changed for the rest of us? In many parts of the world women don’t have a voice and even here and in the USA, women’s rights and voices are being diminished x