Remember that viral blog post about untranslatable words from different languages? We find that beauty often comes across the same way—traits some cultures love are traits women halfway around the world wish they could trade in. We often think about beauty in a narrow space, but next time you're tempted to rag on yourself about one of these, step back and remember that it's all in the eye of the beholder—and maybe yours just needs a new POV.
A prominent nose
Ever seen a Renaissance painting or a Grecian or Roman bust with a laser-straight, bump-free, refined-tip nose? Didn't think so. Besides being classically—in every sense of the word—beautiful, large proboscises are a sign of good luck in many cultures. In Japan, it's even a compliment to tell someone her nose is big.
Gap teeth
All the reassurance you'll ever need: Anna Paquin, Ashley Smith, Binx Walton, Brigitte Bradot, Georgia May Jagger, Jessica Hart, Lara Stone, Lauren Hutton, Lindsey Wixon, Vanessa Paradis.
Any kind of butt
Biologically, a big butt signals fertility, which is like wearing a "mate with me" sandwich board. (That might explain why 2014 was the year of the bountiful backside.) Less 3-D derrieres, on the other hand, show creative fertility—after all, that's what it takes to make mom jeans, which flatten pretty much any ass, look cool.
Freckles
You weren't convinced when we shared a fake-freckle tutorial à la Preen, Chloé, and Olivia Wilde. That's all right—we'll raise you a Caroline Trentini, a Gemma Ward, and a Cintia Dicker. Did we also mention that, in face-reading, freckles signify a friendly personality?
Big ears
Legend has it that, because the Buddha's were elongated from wearing heavy jewelry, those born with similarly large ears will run into wealth. Other awesome stuff associated with oversize auditory organs: good fortune and originality.
Pale skin
What's that sound? Oh, right—every girl in the northern hemisphere lamenting her winter pallor. Just remember that 1) tans weren't very cool for most of human history, 2) Emma Stone only got to be so uncharacteristically bronzed for a role, and 3) sun damage isn't sexy. Slap on some SPF, blush, and highlighter, and you're (figuratively) golden.
A high forehead
Movie trivia: Cate Blanchett shaved her hairline to play Elizabeth I. This totally supports the idea that high foreheads are regal and absolutely deserve not to be hidden under a pair of bangs. Don't be insecure, girl. Own that ponytail. Work that updo.
You should also check out:
"I Have Those Days": Cindy Crawford Is Just Like Us When It Comes to Body Confidence
-
Confirmed: Dua Lipa's Diamond Ring Is of the Engagement VarietyIt has a romantic backstory, too.
-
Every Stylish Woman I Know Is Obsessed with this Expensive-Looking Nail Polish Shade24 luxe options that work with every skin tone.
-
The History of Fashion's Embroidery RenaissanceTracing the gilded thread from ancient Egypt and Tudor courts to the Spring ’25 runways.
-
Patrick Ta's Major Glow Bronzing Body Oil Gives My Skin a Vacation Glow—Without the VacationPatrick Ta's newest drop gives a vacation glow without the vacation.
-
Laura Harrier's Met Gala Makeup Stays Glowy-Not-Greasy Thanks to This $14 Setting SprayLocked in "from the carpet to the dinner and to all the after parties."
-
Zendaya's 2025 Met Gala Makeup Is Going on My Bridal Beauty BoardFeminine and edgy, all in one.
-
Starface and Heaven by Marc Jacobs Merge Skincare and Streetwear in a Grungy New CollabEveryone's favorite pimple patches team up with a fashion icon.
-
These Products Are My Secret to Dewy, Sun-Kissed SkinPrepare to glow.
-
Everything You Need to Know About Marie Claire’s Skin and Hair AwardsCould your brand survive an editor testing session?
-
The 11 Best Spring Makeup Trends Are Sexy, Sensual, and Perfectly LuminousIt's dew or die time.
-
Simone Ashley’s Indie Sleaze Glam Is a Cool-Toned DreamThe actor was spotted in New York City looking like the epitome of cool-toned beauty.
