The “ideal” female body is always changing.
From the timeless allure of Marilyn Monroe to the skinny silhouette popularized by models like Kate Moss, beauty standards have continuously evolved. Beauty ideals are constantly being redefined, as well as the idea of the “perfect body”. From Elizabeth Taylor to Kim Kardashian, for a long time the ideal female body was considered to be the curvy hourglass, with the proportions of around 36-24-36 in.
Studies reveal Kelly is scientifically perfect.
However, newer studies have challenged the traditional hourglass figure as the most perfect. Instead, Newcastle University has found that the ideal female is body curvier with a fuller shape. They found that the perfect body has a BMI of 18.85 with a 93 cm bust, a 61 cm waist, and 87 cm hips. Another study found that the hip to waist ratio is important, with the ideal being .65–.75.
The British actress and model, Kelly Brook has closely fit these ideal body proportions with her 18.5 BMI and body measurements. And her hip to waist ratio also fit the ideal range, according to men.
This means that her body, which society today may call slightly plump, is the ideal size and shape.
The most perfect body today
At the end of the day, finding the perfect female figure has been an ongoing challenge. What we may call ideal is shaped by scientific research, societal influences, and shifting fashion trends, as well as cultural views of an ideal body shape. And it soon becomes clear that the definition of beauty is subjective and complex, involving a whole range of body shapes and sizes.
This newest understanding that a slightly fuller figure is more perfect than others highlights the importance of embracing diversity and recognizing that beauty knows no singular mold. Every body has its own beauty and story that deserves to be shown off, no matter its size and proportions.
And of course we have to mention the phenomenal Ashley Graham and her work to revolutionize the fashion industry as a plus-sized model. Did you know she was nominated the world’s sexiest woman in 2023, ahead of stars like Margot Robbie, Emily Ratajkowski, and many more?