Explore the Jet Magazine archives Beauty of the Week, celebrating Black excellence, representation, and cultural pride through the decades.
Jet Magazine—a name that resonates with rich cultural history, iconic imagery, and a celebration of Black excellence. For decades, it wasn’t just a magazine; it was a movement. Among its many highlights, the “Beauty of the Week” feature became a defining element, encapsulating the charm, ambition, and diversity of Black women across the United States. Diving into the archives of Jet Magazine, we uncover a story that’s not just about beauty but about empowerment, representation, and cultural pride.
What You'll Discover:
The Origins of Jet Magazine
Before we delve into the famed “Beauty of the Week,” it’s crucial to understand the magazine’s roots. Founded in 1951 by John H. Johnson, Jet was envisioned as a digest-sized weekly magazine focused on African American news, culture, and entertainment. It became a cornerstone of Black media, covering everything from politics and civil rights to entertainment and lifestyle. During an era when mainstream publications often ignored or misrepresented Black voices, Jet was a beacon of authenticity and pride.
What Is the “Beauty of the Week”?
The “Beauty of the Week” segment debuted in the 1950s, presenting a full-page photograph of a Black woman, often clad in swimwear, alongside a brief description of her aspirations, hobbies, and career goals. This wasn’t just a showcase of physical beauty. It was a celebration of intellect, ambition, and individuality.
Why It Mattered
During a time when societal norms were steeped in Eurocentric beauty standards, “Beauty of the Week” offered a counter-narrative. It told Black women, “You are seen, valued, and celebrated.” Each feature showcased women of varying skin tones, hair textures, and body shapes, pushing back against a homogenized idea of beauty. It was radical for its time and remains relevant in discussions about representation today.
Exploring the Archives: A Treasure Trove of Stories
The archives of Jet Magazine are more than just nostalgic. They’re a window into the changing tides of culture, fashion, and societal values over the decades. The “Beauty of the Week” features are particularly fascinating, capturing snapshots of Black womanhood through different eras.
1950s and 1960s: A Quiet Revolution
The early years of “Beauty of the Week” reflected the restrained elegance of the 1950s and 60s. Featured women often posed in modest swimsuits, embodying a blend of glamour and propriety. Their profiles highlighted their ambitions—teachers, nurses, and aspiring businesswomen—painting a picture of the multi-dimensional Black woman.
This period also coincided with the civil rights movement. While the segment might appear apolitical at first glance, its mere existence was a quiet act of defiance against systemic erasure. It said, “Black is beautiful,” long before the phrase became a rallying cry.
1970s: Bold, Bright, and Unapologetic
The 1970s brought a burst of color and individuality. The featured beauties embraced Afrocentric fashion, natural hairstyles, and a confident aura that reflected the cultural zeitgeist of the era. Think Afro puffs, bold prints, and oversized sunglasses. Profiles often highlighted career aspirations in fields like law, engineering, and entrepreneurship, signaling the expanding horizons for Black women.
1980s and 1990s: Glamour and Grit
As the 1980s rolled in, the “Beauty of the Week” pages took on a glossier, more commercial vibe. Women posed against backdrops reminiscent of high-fashion editorials, showcasing not just their beauty but also their alignment with the decade’s aesthetic trends—think big hair, bold makeup, and power poses.
By the 1990s, the features started to reflect the growing diversity within the Black community. Women from various backgrounds and professions—from college students to corporate executives—graced the pages, each bringing a unique flavor to the spotlight. The casual yet confident tone of their profiles made them relatable and aspirational at the same time.
2000s: Modern Narratives
The new millennium saw “Beauty of the Week” evolving alongside shifting cultural dynamics. The rise of the internet and social media brought new ways of defining and celebrating beauty. Jet’s features adapted, incorporating modern styling and photography while maintaining the core essence of the segment: uplifting Black women.
What the “Beauty of the Week” Represents Today
Looking back, “Beauty of the Week” wasn’t just about aesthetics. It represented the dreams, ambitions, and resilience of Black women. Each feature was a snapshot of someone’s story, a reminder that beauty is multi-faceted and deeply personal.
In today’s world, where representation is often discussed in hashtags and trends, the enduring impact of Jet Magazine’s archives cannot be overstated. “Beauty of the Week” laid the groundwork for platforms celebrating Black beauty and excellence.
The Impact on Representation
Let’s pause for a moment and consider the broader implications. Growing up, how many Black girls saw themselves reflected in mainstream media? Jet Magazine filled a void, offering young readers role models who looked like them, celebrated not only for their beauty but for their ambitions and individuality.
Today, as we navigate a landscape rich with diversity campaigns and inclusivity drives, Jet’s “Beauty of the Week” reminds us of the importance of authentic representation. It’s not just about ticking boxes; it’s about creating spaces where people feel seen and celebrated.
How to Access the Archives
For those eager to explore these treasures, Jet Magazine archives are a goldmine. Digitized collections are available through various online platforms, and libraries often hold physical copies or microfilm versions. Browsing these archives is like taking a stroll through history, one stunning feature at a time.
Why It Still Resonates
What makes the “Beauty of the Week” features timeless? Perhaps it’s the combination of glamour and grit, aspiration and relatability. These weren’t supermodels detached from reality; they were everyday women with extraordinary stories. And that’s something we can all connect with.
Lessons from the Archives
- Diversity is Strength: Each feature celebrated the uniqueness of Black women, reminding us that beauty is not a monolith.
- Representation Matters: Seeing oneself reflected in media can have a profound impact on self-esteem and aspirations.
- Celebrate the Journey: The profiles were not just about where these women were but where they were going—a valuable lesson in embracing growth.
Key Takings
- Jet Magazine’s “Beauty of the Week” is a cultural artifact that still inspires today.
- The segment celebrates beauty in a genuine and empowering way.
- It offers a nostalgic look at Black history and culture.
- Jet Magazine broke barriers and shaped narratives about Black womanhood.
- The legacy of the magazine goes beyond beauty, celebrating the multifaceted essence of Black women.
