Victoria's Secret
Jax
Unveiling the Illusion: Jax's 'Victoria's Secret'
Jax's song 'Victoria's Secret' is a powerful critique of the beauty standards perpetuated by the fashion and media industries. The lyrics reflect a personal and societal struggle with body image, highlighting the unrealistic expectations set by photoshopped images and 'itty bitty models' on magazine covers. Jax expresses a deep regret for not being told earlier that all bodies are different and that the idealized images are often manipulated. This realization comes with a sense of betrayal, as she reveals that these standards are not only unrealistic but also harmful, leading to unhealthy behaviors like extreme dieting and body shaming.
The song's chorus delivers a striking revelation: 'Victoria's Secret' is not a mystical standard of beauty but a construct created by 'an old man who lives in Ohio.' This metaphorical 'old man' represents the corporate interests profiting from women's insecurities. By personifying Victoria's Secret as a male figure, Jax underscores the disconnect between the creators of these beauty standards and the women who are affected by them. The repeated line 'Victoria was made up by a dude' serves as a powerful reminder that these ideals are not natural or inherent but manufactured for profit.
Jax also touches on the emotional and psychological toll of striving to meet these standards. She describes the pressure to conform, the constant battle with appetite and cellulite, and the damaging impact on self-esteem. The song is a call to reject these harmful ideals and embrace a more authentic and inclusive understanding of beauty. By sharing her own experiences and insights, Jax empowers listeners to question and resist the unrealistic standards imposed by the fashion industry, promoting a message of self-acceptance and body positivity.