How do you define a black woman’s beauty? By the length and looseness of her hair? By the shade of her skin? By her weight? By her shape? Does she have to look as close to Madame Halle Berry as possible to be beautiful?
Months ago, one of the least attractive white men in America, Howard Stern, implied that the big-screen actress Gabby Sidibe was unattractive and declared that she would never work again (unless she played the lead in Blind Side 2).
Of course, Stern would have never made that comment about a much less talented actress, who was maybe two or three shades lighter and several pounds slimmer than Sidibe. Something specific to Madame Sidibe made her “too big” for Vogue magazine and too unconventional for similar mainstream mag covers. Critics have buzzed about her looks, because she doesn’t have the usual slim, waif-like features of many Hollywood actresses and she carries a deep chocolate complexion that stands out.
Isn’t it ironic that the fashion industry often runs away from the unconventional, when it should be spearheading it? Any real fashion guru should be able to appreciate the aesthetics of Madame Sidibe. If you look at Sidibe’s face, you’ll notice a cute-as-a-button set of eyes that wink and slant when she smiles…cheeks that ooze rosiness, and most importantly, a wonderful mouth that highlights gorgeous teeth, and lends itself to the beautiful way she speaks.
Sidibe even acknowledged her own beauty on The View in February this year: “I’m pretty,” she said. “I wake up with myself every morning, so my opinion is the only one that count.”
And, we agree. Sure, she could stand to drop a few pounds, but she’s adorable, funny and smart. She acts better than the popcorn talent we have to endure these days, and she’s become a role model for many who aspire to win Oscars and reach their dreams.
Thoughts?
