Naomi Campbell Makes News with Bikini Pics (But Why Isn't it All Good News?)

Former supermodel Naomi Campbell has recently made headlines with photos taken from a vacation in Hawaii with her beau, Vladimir Doronin. But disparities between media sources over Naomi Campbell's recent bikini pics bring up an interesting observation.

There is a big difference between conflicting opinions on outfits. The "Who Wore it Better" sections of popular celebrity magazines capitalize off these differing opinions. But these variations go a lot deeper than mere garments.

Mediatakeout.com's interpretation included calling the model "ashy", claiming that she's losing her looks. Her disappearing hairline has long been a source of fodder on the website. Despite this, media sources talk about how fabulous the supermodel looks. Furthermore, they've likened the model's "ashy" lips to a thick application of sunscreen.

Putting millions of other forty-somethings (and some twenty-somethings) to shame with her taut muscles, Naomi is famous for more than her enviable figure. Interestingly, it is Mediatakeout (an urban gossip blog with a predominantly black audience) that condemns Naomi, while mainstream sources champion her stalwart physique. Why the inconsistency?

Are African Americans more critical of each other than other groups?

That black people seem to be critical of each other could be considered a gross understatement. There is so much talent amongst the race, that virtually anyone new coming along must do a lot to impress the eyes and ears of the masses. Even Naomi Campbell's prestige as a world-renowned supermodel isn't immune to the treatment. Today's entertainment world simply has no tolerance for any sort of human imperfections. But this is true of the world in general. It won't be the first time that we've made fun of a celeb flubs.


Other ethnic groups are in awe of African American "youth."

It's no secret that other ethnic groups are quite envious of the smooth skin that often accompanies the twilight years of many black people. Naomi is no different. Side views of Naomi now, and ten years ago reveal a figure that looks exactly the same. It's no wonder that other ethnic groups (who spend a fortune on surgery for the same results) are in awe of the supermodel who does not seem to age.

There was probably a girl in high school or college (or maybe even your coworker) who seems to look impeccable at all times. Nary a hair misplaced would you find on this person's head. In fact, you probably can't remember a time when said person looked "a hot mess." But boy, wouldn't you like to see that? Sometimes, it's gratifying for people to see those they envy at their occasional worst. Sure, it sounds bad. But it's normal. Ha, ha! You're normal just like me, is pretty much the real sentiment behind harsh words. Who wouldn't take the opportunity to pick apart a supermodel's perceived imperfections?

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Why Are They No More "Supermodels"
Four Reasons Why "Unpretty" Works for High Fashion Modeling