The Power of Natural Charm: Celebrating the Legacy of America’s Women

American women enjoyed tremendous changes in the 20th century. Jeannette Rankin made history in 1916 as the first woman elected to Congress. In 1925, Nellie Tayloe Ross broke another barrier by becoming the first woman elected as a state governor. And eight years later, Hattie Caraway achieved another milestone as the first woman elected to the U.S. Senate in 1933. Together, these trailblazers marked significant progress in women’s political representation.

It is not only our independence and grit that should be celebrated, but, according to socialite Marjorie Oelrichs, our beauty too:

One of the greatest charms of the American woman is, I think, her naturalness. She is natural in manner and appearance. She is natural, too, in her mind–direct, unaffected and to the point in her thoughts. She excels in good grooming.

The American woman’s naturalness, both in her demeanor and her mindset, is one of her most appealing qualities. She is admired for her authenticity, appearing comfortable in her own skin and free from pretense, whether in her mannerisms or her appearance. Her naturalness extends to her thoughts: unaffected, and reflecting a sense of clarity and practicality. This straightforwardness is refreshing for many, and aligns with our cultural values of efficiency and individualism. This is the delicate balance between self-care and authenticity, natural charm and thoughtful presentation: the American woman presents herself well without appearing overly contrived or artificial.

Ms. Oelrichs encapsulates an ideal that values the confidence of a woman who is both well-kept and true to herself. While our author’s words reflect a specific cultural perspective, they also resonate with a broader, more modern conversation about authenticity, and the rejection of unrealistic standards.

The value of authenticity is an enduring one that continues to be celebrated today, perhaps even more so than in generations past. In an era where social media and societal pressures often promote unrealistic standards, the emphasis on “naturalness” serves as a reminder to embrace individuality and reject artificiality. We incorporate authenticity into our modern concepts of self-care because we prioritize our mental well-being and genuine self-expression. Being true to ourselves and presenting ourselves with care deserve to be aspirational in a world defined by labels and hashtags.

Ms. Oelrichs’s book, Home Beauty Course, was published in 1927.