Florence Pugh Aims to Redefine Women’s Beauty Standards

Florence Pugh has consistently challenged the unrealistic beauty standards pervasive in Hollywood throughout her career. In an incident from 2019, she took to social media to defend herself against a review that remarked on the size of her thighs in comparison to WWE star Saraya Jade Bevis, known as Paige, whom she portrayed in the film Fighting With My Family. Pugh responded with a biting remark: “Oh dear, singling out my ‘chunky’ thighs doesn’t help normalize an ‘all shape & size’ Hollywood. That’s part of the problem. I hope viewers take more from the film than just the circumference of my legs.”

The Oscar-nominated actress has also ignited discussions with her stunning red carpet appearances, such as the striking pink, sheer dress she wore to the Valentino Haute Couture Fashion Show in July 2022, which notably displayed her nipples. In an outspoken Instagram post following the event, Pugh remarked on the cruelty of online commentary regarding women’s bodies. “What’s concerning is just how brutally some men can publically critique a woman’s figure. It isn’t the first time this has happened, and it certainly won’t be the last.”

In a December 2024 interview with the Sunday Times, Pugh elaborated on her unwavering stance as a body positivity advocate. “Not everyone is blessed with long legs,” she explained, recalling her early experiences in an industry plagued by narrow definitions of beauty. “It’s been disheartening to see talented and beautiful women criticized predominantly for their appearance. I’ve loved challenging these antiquated notions.”

Pugh aims to create a more inclusive atmosphere for young women entering the industry, leading conversations about body image that were previously absent. In September 2024, she shared her thoughts on social media’s harsh environment with British Vogue, lamenting the negativity surrounding her confidence and body weight. “Reading nasty comments isn’t easy,” she admitted. “But I believe in being authentic; I don’t want to present a false version of myself.”

In a February 2023 Vanity Fair interview, she mentioned that she never feels the need to conform to specific beauty standards to be seen as a role model. “My grandfather used to question why I displayed my so-called ‘flaws,’” she recalled. “But my aim is honesty. If I step out looking glam, I recognize the effort of my glam team, and I want people to know the real me behind the scenes.”

Pugh reflected on body image dynamics women face, noting, “Once you start developing dimensions, societal expectations shift.” In a candid moment, she discussed her struggles when entering Hollywood, where expectations of compliance with beauty standards often prevail. “I made a conscious choice to stand firm. I love food, and I enjoy my relationship with it.”

Using her platform for empowerment, she addressed detractors of her sheer gown, dismissing complaints about her breast size. “I’ve lived in this body for years and know my size,” she asserted. “I was raised by powerful women who taught me to embrace every aspect of my body. My mission is to reject outdated beauty norms and encourage respect for all bodies.”

In discussing her role as Yelena Belova in Marvel’s Black Widow, Pugh expressed a desire for autonomy regarding her fitness journey. “From the beginning, I demanded to be involved in the workout and diet plans,” she stated. “I didn’t want to be monitored; I wanted to control that aspect of my life.”

In March 2019, in response to a U.K. publication labeling her thighs “chunky,” she clarified her stance on Twitter. “Comments on my body, whether positive or negative, have no place in a film review. Highlighting someone’s body in that way doesn’t educate anyone; it only fuels unnecessary dialogue.”

Through each of her quotes and experiences, Florence Pugh continues to advocate for body positivity, emphasizing respect for diverse bodies and the importance of authentic self-representation.