For many girls, walking into school can feel less like stepping into a learning environment and more like walking down a runway. From the clothes they wear to the way they style their hair, the pressure to look a certain way is a large problem. This weight often comes from social media, peer expectations, and cultural beauty standards that seep into daily life, including the school environment.

Social Media effect

Social media plays a significant role in shaping beauty standards. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat are filled with influencers showcasing flawless makeup, trendy outfits, and seemingly perfect lives. Many girls feel the need to make these filtered images, fearing judgment if they don’t measure up. The constant comparison can lead to self-esteem issues, especially when combined with the pressures of school life.

Dress codes for non uniform days 

Oh, and let’s not forget dress codes. A lot of schools make it even harder with all these random rules. Like, how are ripped jeans or a tank top “distracting”? It feels like they only target girls, which makes it even more frustrating. Instead of focusing on learning, we’re worrying about whether we’re going to get in trouble for our outfit.

Peer pressure and Fitting in

Peer pressure amplifies these feelings. Many girls feel an unspoken expectation to follow specific fashion trends or follow certain beauty norms just to fit in. The fear of being labeled as "different" or "uncool" can lead to anxiety about everything from the brands they wear to how they present themselves. Even minor choices, like skipping makeup for a day, can feel like a risk.

Final Thoughts

While schools are meant to be places of learning and growth, they often become arenas of judgment and comparison for girls. By addressing these pressures and promoting a culture of acceptance, we can help create an environment where girls feel free to be themselves. After all, confidence isn’t about fitting into a mold—it’s about breaking out of one and owning who you are.

Interviews 

The majority of the girls wake up earlier than the boys on school mornings. The thing that the pupils prioritize in the morning is different between genders, girls tend to prioritize self-care e.g. hair,makeup and boys tend to prioritize waking up on time and eating which are what both genders need. In these interviews girls spend their spare money on self-care products, whereas boys spend theirs on clothes or simply save it. Our research has shown that girls feel more comfortable and confident when their physical appearance looks good. The majority of boys feel confident in school regardless of their appearance. 

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