These magazines could tell me which clothes and shoes to wear, how to have my hair styled in order to fit in. They could show me the right kind of makeup to buy and how to apply it. This way, I would disappear into everywoman acceptability. I would not be stared at. The goal, ultimately, was successful camouflage as a human woman.
In 'Eleanor Oliphant Is Completely Fine,' the protagonist reflects on how magazines influence societal standards of beauty and style. They provide guidance on everything from clothing choices to makeup application, aiming to help individuals conform to an idealized version of femininity. By following these norms, the character seeks to blend in and avoid unwanted attention, striving for a sense of normalcy.
The desire for acceptance drives the character to adopt these prescribed looks, suggesting an internal struggle between individuality and societal pressure. Ultimately, the pursuit of "successful camouflage" reveals the complexities women face in navigating their identities within a framework that often values conformity over authenticity.
