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The ideal female was plump and fleshy with big hips. Women used corsets to give the illusion of a tiny waist.
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The flapper image became popular. Women bound their breasts to appear slimmer. Body fat was now seen as a sign of inefficiency.
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Women wore padded dresses to create the illusion of masculine, broad shoulders.
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Marilyn Monroe was the biggest sex symbol of the decade. She had healthy curves and was said to be a size 12.
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The iconic beauties were now stick thin. Models began to resemble prepubescent boys. Women didn't want to be defined by their breasts and skinny figures represented independence.
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The exaggerated hourglass was in. Reminiscent of the 30s triangle, women wanted to be seen as powerful but also feminine. There was added pressure to exercise to achieve a toned look.
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The decade progressed from the curvaceous Baywatch figures to tiny Kate Moss, The ideal woman became skinnier and skinnier.
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The ideal figure is now practically unattainable with thigh gaps, big breasts and tiny waists.