RA#3 Proposal

            New fashion trends roll in just way seasons do. From hairdos to shoes, and everything in between, females in our society are portrayed on the front covers of magazines as what the “ideal” look is, from head to toe. But what has come to shape the ideal weight, hair color, eye color, and “in style” outfits through the young female generation in our society? From advertizing media - such as magazines, billboards, and commercials, to articles - women are plastered all over them to: first call the attention of women, and then to lure them into looking that way. Through a survey, I’d like to know if seeing all these images have an effect on girls or women in shaping the way they appear or dress. I believe that magazine, particularly fashion magazines, have an influence on the way females dress and appear through the portrayal of constantly changing trends.

            Many researchers, some being psychologist, have studied the influence magazine portrayal of females have had, particularly on teenage girls. Many come to conclude that the results are negative because in trying to look a certain way, they come to force themselves to lose weight, or begin to dress in sensual ways. But I’d specifically like to hear the personal opinions of girls, ranging from the youngest age being in middle school – twelve - to college, and hear how much attention they give to fashion magazines to base their appearance off from. What are the most popular fashion magazines being used? Does it differ in age? Do they pick it up based on whose image is on the front cover that month?

            Through a posting online, I’d like to see how many girls respond to using fashion magazines to follow trends. Some of the questions I’d like to ask are:

1. Are you between the ages of 12 and 26?                       

Yes                                     No

            2. How often do you buy a new fashion magazine?

                        a. Once a week

                        b. Every two weeks

                        c. Once a month

                        b. When I like who is on the front cover

2. Which fashion magazine do you most follow? (May be more than one)

                        ______________________________________________

3.  Do you get new ideas on how to dress from this magazine(s)?  

                                    Yes                                    NO

I feel like through this, and mush more thorough research, I’ll be able to have an idea on how much fashion magazines do come to begin trends in our society. Appearance, to many, is one of the most import aspects – especially for women – and for many different reasons. But I do believe that magazines, and many other forms of media have played a very important role in causing this effect.