Is “Pretty Privilege” Real?

What Is Pretty Privilege?

Pretty privilege refers to the societal advantages people think that conventionally attractive receive simply because of their physical appearance. These advantages can manifest in many areas of life, including better treatment in social settings, increased job opportunities, and easier access to potential dating or sexual partners. While "beauty" is often culturally and subjectively defined, pretty privilege is undeniably rooted in a widespread social agreement on what society deems attractive.

But, dear reader, this brings up the big question: Is “pretty privilege” true, or is it just a myth? Let’s not beat around the proverbial bush. Pretty privilege is absolutely real, and no, it’s not just about getting free drinks at the bar or skipping the line at the club (although, let’s face it, that happens too).

Fun Fact: Studies back it up. People deemed traditionally attractive are frequently perceived as more competent, likable, and trustworthy, even before they’ve done so much as open their mouths.

Why, you ask? As shallow as it may sound, humans have always been drawn to things they find aesthetically pleasing and biologically or evolutionarily superior. The prettier the package, the more we assume what’s inside must be top-tier. And while we might consciously try not to judge books by their covers, our brains still do it on the sly. But this goes much deeper into biology. It’s similar to why many men are naturally and instinctively drawn to women with wide “childbearing” hips.

For example, in professional settings, studies have shown that attractive individuals are more likely to get hired, promoted, or even get paid more. This is especially prominent in industries where physical appearance plays a critical role—ahem, modeling and (adult) acting leap to mind—but it can sneak into other fields, too. Sales jobs, customer service, and even tech—yep, pretty privilege can find its way into all kinds of offices. From a psychological POV, it’s important to consider the effect of a lifetime of “pretty privilege” on people's confidence in their skills and abilities.

And in the land of romance? The conversation about pretty privilege gets extra spicy here. There’s undeniable ease in dating apps or social situations when you tick all the “traditional beauty” checkboxes. More interest, more matches, more "right swipes." While this doesn't necessarily equate to *better* relationships, it often allows attractive individuals a larger pool of potential partners to choose from or the ability to ‘curate’ their dating options.

Of course, none of this is to say that attractive people have it all easy. Pretty privilege comes with its peculiar pressures—unwanted attention, assumptions about intelligence (or lack thereof), and as many labels as you can toss around. But don’t feel too sorry for the so-called pretty—those drink refills keep coming for a reason.

Is pretty privilege inevitable? Here’s the twist in our tale about good looks: pretty privilege isn’t an unchangeable constant. Social standards of beauty evolve over time and vary wildly between cultures or social groups. What is considered "pretty" in one era or community might not even earn a second glance elsewhere. Cue all the discussions around body positivity, inclusivity, and broadened beauty standards, which challenge traditional ideas of attractiveness and serve to level the playing field.

Furthermore, while we aren’t likely to escape some degree of bias based on appearance—let’s chalk that up to our biological programming—people are becoming more aware of how this bias perpetuates inequality. In environments where awareness and inclusivity are actively fostered, the whole "pretty gets all the perks" thing starts to lose its grip. The playing field can begin to even out when diversity is championed and different body types, skin colors, and gender expressions get to shine.

The other important thing to remember is that as much as we may naturally gravitate toward aesthetically pleasing individuals, personality, intellect, and emotional connection matter most in the long run. Sure, being hot might get someone through the door, but to stick around? It takes a lot more than runway-ready cheekbones. And hey, if none of that convinces you, just remember: pretty may fade, but a killer personality is always bangin’. Now, there’s a privilege worth flaunting.

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