This 1990 feminist classic explores unrealistic beauty standards and the pressures of societal expectation that women experience — from their relationship to food and work to their sexual relations and religion.

The second half of the 20th century was marked by radical shifts in the way Western society perceives gender.

Feminist authors and activists rose to prominence in the 1960s and 1970s, like Betty Friedan and Gloria Steinem. Such figures worked towards gender equality through their advocacy.

History teaches us that every feminist breakthrough is usually followed by some form of backlash.

In the 1990s, feminine ideals of domesticity were replaced by unrealistic beauty standards for working women.

1990's The Beauty Myth is American journalist and feminist author Naomi Wolf's first book.

The Beauty Myth explores the unrealistic beauty standards that have limited women's potential since the Industrial Revolution.

Much like Betty Friedan's Feminine Mystique, The Beauty Myth has become a classic read for feminists everywhere.