In recent years, the Clean Girl aesthetic has become increasingly popular among young women. It’s characterized by a minimalist, organized, and clutter-free lifestyle, often associated with a sense of cleanliness and well-being. However, beneath the surface of this seemingly innocent trend lies a concerning issue: the Clean Girl aesthetic is essentially diet white supremacy.
The roots of the Clean Girl aesthetic can be traced back to the “clean living” movement of the 19th century, which was predominantly white and upper-class. This movement emphasized purity, both physically and morally, and was used to reinforce societal norms and values. The Clean Girl aesthetic is a modern iteration of this ideology, which continues to perpetuate white supremacist ideals.
One of the main reasons why the Clean Girl aesthetic is akin to diet white supremacy is its emphasis on purity. Just as the clean living movement of the past associated purity with white superiority, the Clean Girl aesthetic today equates cleanliness with moral superiority. Women who adopt this aesthetic are often seen as more virtuous, disciplined, and put-together than those who do not.
Another reason is the connection between the Clean Girl aesthetic and the “white picket fence” ideal. This concept, which is deeply rooted in American culture, is a symbol of the perfect, white, nuclear family living in a pristine home. The Clean Girl aesthetic reinforces this stereotype by promoting a lifestyle that is associated with white middle-class values.
Moreover, the Clean Girl aesthetic often involves the use of certain products and brands, which are predominantly white-owned. This creates an economic advantage for white businesses and perpetuates the idea that white products are superior to those of other ethnicities. This is a clear example of diet white supremacy, where the consumption of certain products is associated with whiteness and superiority.
Furthermore, the Clean Girl aesthetic can be seen as a form of self-policing, where women are constantly monitoring their behavior and appearance to ensure they meet the standards set by this aesthetic. This self-policing is reminiscent of the oppressive surveillance mechanisms used to maintain white supremacy throughout history.
In conclusion, the Clean Girl aesthetic is just diet white supremacy in disguise. It perpetuates harmful stereotypes, reinforces white middle-class values, and promotes the consumption of white-owned products. It is crucial for us to recognize and challenge these underlying issues to create a more inclusive and equitable society.