Most everyone knows who Malala Yousafzai is. Many people know her as the girl who was shot in the head by the Taliban when she was only fifteen. After that, most people don’t know what happened to her. Well, she has been busy doing more and more to further her fight to girls’ education.

On October 9, 2012, as Malala was on her way home from school, a gunman boarded her bus, asked for her by name, and fired three shots. Two of the shots hit other girls who were not critically injured and the third hit Malala. It hit the left side of her face, traveled the length of her forehead under her skin and ended up in her left shoulder. For a long time, she in a coma and in very critical condition. She miraculously survived and continued her fight for women’s education around the world.

Since the attack, Malala has been busy. Even while she was recovering in the hospital, her cause became more and more popular. The entire world was outraged- except her home country. Some Pakistanis claimed it was a hoax or a plot by the Americans to have an excuse to continue drone strikes, but many Pakistanis were outraged for this act of violence against a child. There was a global outcry for support of Malala and her cause. Madonna dedicated her song “Human Nature” to Yousafzai at a Los Angeles concert October 9, 2012. Former First Lady Laura Bush compared Yousafzai to Anne Frank, Angelina Jolie wrote an article about her kids’ reactions, and she later donated $200,000 to the Malala Fund (I am Malala).

Malala and her father set up an organization called Malala’s Fund. This organization raises money and awareness for girls’ education around the world. “We amplify the voices of the girls to keep them in the spotlight. We advocate at the international, national, and local level for policy and system changes that give girls access to a high quality education at a community level. We invest in community centered scalable solutions that provide quality education with potential for systems level change by empowering local leaders and educators.” (Malala Fund).

Malala has received many awards for her bravery. She earned a spot as one of

Times magazine’s Most Influential People in 2013 and she won the 2013 Heroic Woman of the Year. On her 16th birthday, she spoke at the United Nations to persuade politicians to take action to ensure every child has the opportunity to go to school. She received many other awards as well (Fanatics Fear Education, Malala Says).

Malala and her family currently reside in Birmingham, England. From there, she received her life-saving treatment at Queen Elizabeth Hospital. She is still a very active voice against oppression of women, and is still considered a target by the Taliban. She attends school in Birmingham, 

(Malala Fund).

Malala is using her reward money to run an orphanage in which those orphans are receiving a quality education. She also donated a large amount of money towards making a quality education system in Pakistan that will “ensure a bright future for our youth”. She is doing everything she can to serve humanity without any discrimination and by doing so, she has created a better image for Pakistanis around the world (Malala's Future Plans).

When Yousafzai did not win the Nobel Peace Prize in 2013, she was quoted saying she hopes to be Pakistan’s Prime Minister. In an interview with American news network CNN, she said it was her hope to one day become Pakistani prime minister. She had once hoped to become a doctor, but felt she could be a bigger help in politics.

     We at The Topline understand just how hard it is to find the perfect fit for one of the most important components of dairy showmanship, the show whites. It’s a typical Minnesotan show day, which means hot, humid, and mud puddles everywhere. Iodine spills, cow snot, and dirt all mixed in together before the show even starts. Not only that, but the scratchy and rough fabric of long pants irritating to the skin. The showmanship judge has also looked at the showman only once because it’s obvious the showman is uncomfortable and not having fun. Don’t even get us started on the painful, sharp feeling when a showman has been standing for too long in show boots that no longer fit properly. This article will inform all dairy showman that have ever been in the position of being put last simply because their jeans were not the right shade of white.

     Almost all showmen could agree the first body part to start aching would definitely be the feet. That’s why it is critical that the shoes and socks (more so the shoes), would be the biggest investment when it comes to show clothes. The shoes will, in theory, last much longer than the typical shirt or even a pair of white jeans. It’s very important that the showman realizes that they get what they pay for, and the more they pay the more quality they’ll have when it comes down to the most vital article of show clothing. At The Topline we’ve put together a list of high starred shoes and socks.

     Coming in at number one for socks, we have from footsmart.com, World's Softest Classic Collection Crew Socks, Pair Item #: 61641. “Cushiony terry lines the sole, enhancing shock absorption and cradling your foot. The contoured heel and toe pockets prevent slipping and bunching” (FootSmart). This versatile pair of socks repels moisture, which is perfect for the unfortunate muddle puddle splash or for washing cows, because there’s no denying the fact that sometimes the situation is unavoidable. This special pair of socks also comes in ten colors, great for personalization!

     Boots, on the other hand, can be tricky. There’s lots the showman has to consider when purchasing the best form-fitting pair that there is to offer. Not only that, but the showman must take into account the hours straight that they will be standing up on their feet trying to maintain that painful smile. In reality, show boots are not cheap, and many showmen may cringe at the idea of investing in an expensive pair of boots.

     Luckily, for the very low price of $85.00, a male showman can possess the Challenger Slip Resistant Boots, sported by Dickies. ”For enhanced fit and comfort, the collar and tongue of these are both padded. In addition, this padded collar will keep debris, sticks and stones from getting inside.” (Dickies). Not only are the Challengers comfortable, but they also come in a striking rich red color, which will stand out in any judging area.

     Women can have the satisfaction of owning just as stylish of boots with the Justin® Ladies' 8 in. Aged Bark Brown Gypsy Workboot, for only $59.99. These boots are especially “Made tough to last until the job is done” (Tractor Supply Co.). Which, in this case, is hours upon hours of showing! Not only will showgirls have the opportunity to be protected with the built in safety toe, the pink accents and white trim will bring a customized experience into the show ring.

 

     The struggle of finding white pants that are appropriate for the show ring (boy or girl), is all too real for any show-er that goes through spontaneous grow spurts. There are more possibilities for showgirls rather than show boys because white pants are now “in” for the ladies, but for boys, unfortunately, the hunt for the perfect show whites begin almost a whole year before the show takes place.

     Although it’s challenging to find good, sturdy show clothes, for guys, one company that always pulls through would be Wrangler. In fact, Wrangler offers the durable Men's 936 Cowboy Cut Slim Fit Jeans. This fancy pair of white jeans also comes in color of tan, black, or wheat, just in case the show boy appreciates the style so much they want extra pairs. These pair of jeans are only $25.18 when ordered through the Langstons website and it’s also written that these jeans are “The very same five-pocket styling that made the Original Wrangler Cowboy Cut Jean a legend” (Langtons). Which comes in handy for all the ribbons that the show boy will be receiving the day of the show!

     Girls have it a lot easier, but at the Topline we found the perfect style and flare for women in the show ring. Kohl’s offers the Chaps Straight-Leg Pants, which the show girl couldn’t get whiter if they tried! Kohl’s writes “These women's Chaps pants are a wardrobe staple” (Kohls). The jeans are on sale for $38.99, perfect for the overall showing experience! The bottoms of the jeans will tuck perfectly into the boots, or over them as well if that’s what the show girl prefers.

     We know how expensive and costly showing may be, not including the money that needs to be spent on the animal themselves (See our other article, “How to Get the Perfect Topline)! That’s why we hope that shopping for the showman doesn’t have to be as stressful and clustered as it has been in the past. We believe there are so many options for the show boy or show girl to stand out in the ring, and everyone just needs to find their perfect fit.

"Chaps Straight-Leg Pants - Women's." Kohl's. Kohl's Illinois, n.d. Web. 05 Dec. 2014.

“Dickies Boots: Men's Waterproof DW7512 Challenger Slip Resistant Boots." Dickies. Working

     Person Enterprises, n.d. Web. 05 Dec. 2014

“Justin Ladies' 8 In. Aged Bark Brown Gypsy Work Boot." Tractor Supply Co. Tractor Supply

 Co. n.d. Web. 05 Dec. 2014.

"World's Softest Classic Collection Crew Socks, Pair." :: Lounging / At Home. FootSmart, n.d. Web. 08 Dec.       2014

“Wrangler Men's Pro Rodeo Cowboy Cut® Slim Fit Jeans." Langstons. Langstons, n.d. Web. 05

 Dec. 2014.

 Beauty is ambiguous. There is no one definitive form of beauty. What is perceived by one individual as beautiful may be considered visually unpleasant to another. Naturally, such differences in opinions will occur. Overall, the majority of society can determine as to what is attractive and what is not. In conclusion, there are advertisements specifically structured to what the public wants. These advertisements influence people on what products to buy and what clothes to wear. Blindly trusting where the product comes from and how it was made without very much information at all. Aside from that the model advertising it was beautiful, which obviously means, it must work. Many have unintentionally been coaxed into this reoccurring, and brilliant, marketing tactic. Few have dug in to the inner-workings of a multi-billion dollar industry.

BEAUTY INDUSTRY ANALYSES

In the United States alone Americans have spent an obsessive amount of time and money in perfecting the concept of beauty. In 2005, the cosmetics industry grossed a 44.6 billion revenue. By 2011, the growing industry had accumulated a monstrous 53.7 billion. Jumping almost 10 billion dollars in only 6 years. These numbers aren’t as shocking in comparison to the global revenue of the cosmetics/beauty industry. In 2007, the industry accrued globally 206.72 billion dollars (in U.S. currency). In 2012, up to 244.8 billion dollars. The beauty industry is labelled “recession proof” (HR world) and has a projected worldwide revenue of 265 billion dollars by the year 2017. What in specific is the most sought after products in the industry? Facial and skin care are the leading products in the industry making up 27% of the overall revenue; personal care 23%; hair care 20%; make up 20%; and fragrance at 10%. Since skin care takes first place as the highest grossing product, let’s touch lightly on cosmetic surgery. In 2013, 15.1 billion cosmetic procedures were performed in the United States. The top five cosmetic surgical procedures: breast augmentation, nose reshaping, eyelid surgery (yes that is apparently a thing), liposuction, and face-lift. Ninety-one percent of cosmetic procedures that took place in 2013 were performed on females (Surgeons).

MARKETING MANIPULATIONS

It is no secret that the media plays off the consumers insecurities. When profiting billions is the name of the game, some of the dirtiest players come out of the woodwork. This has been an occurrence as far back as the 1950’s. For example, Clairol’s “Does she or doesn’t she?” campaign. Which triggered an explosion in sales. The percentage of women dying their hair skyrocketed from 7% in the 1950’s to 40% in the 1970’s. The televised and magazine ads for the product proclaimed things such as “If I only have one life, let me live it as a blonde.” Pushing the coveted yellow shade as a way to transform your life. How about body hair? Today women are depicted without virtually any body hair aside from what is found on the top of their heads. According to researcher Christine Hope (Scherker) fashion and advertising is directly to blame. From the 16th to 19th century European and American women kept body hair au natural. In 1915 came an “assault on the underarm" a eruption of advertisements warning women that unsightly, unfeminine under-hair arm must be shaved to look "as smooth as the face." Next women were encouraged to shave their legs and bikini lines to look more attractive in sheer stockings and swimwear. Now in 2014, a whopping 77% of women shave or wax almost all body hair. Last but not least, your nails are horrid. In 1911, Northam Warren produced the first nail polish. With his new find also came an advertising campaign. “With every move your hand—your nails are conspicuous,” (Scherker) the advertisement proclaimed. Having well-manicured nails meant you were sophisticated and surpassed the bottom feeders and their manual labor. The nail industry boomed from $150,000 in 1916 to $2 million by 1920. Last year the industry grew to an all-time high, accruing $7.47 billion.

COSMETIC BREAK-DOWN

Under current law in the United States, the FDA does not review cosmetics before they are marketed to consumers. Upon request by the consumer only, the FDA can investigate a potentially hazardous product. Unless a product specifically makes a medical claim, such as anti-dandruff shampoo, is it classified as a “drug” and requires the FDA’s stamp of approval. The United States FDA does not require animal testing in order for a product to be declared safe. China, however, conducts mandatory animal tests on all cosmetic products imported into the country. Brazil also requires animal testing on some, but not all, cosmetics. Even though in the U.S. it is not mandatory to conduct animal testing, some companies choose to. When a company chooses to develop or use untested ingredients in their cosmetics, conducting animal tests better evaluates the safety of these products. Some commonly performed tests would be (Society):

• Skin and eye irritation tests. Where chemicals are rubbed onto the shaved skin or dripped into the eyes of restrained rabbits without any pain relief.

• Repeated force-feeding studies lasting weeks or months to look for signs of general illness or specific health hazards such as cancer or birth defects.

• Widely condemned "lethal dose" tests, in which animals are forced to swallow large amounts of a test chemical to determine the dose that causes death.

There is a surprising amount of commonly used cosmetic/beauty product brands that still test on animals. Regardless of the existing and growing alternatives. Brands involving hair in skin care that test on animals in the United States: TRESemmé, Nexxus, Redkin, Nair, Aveeno, Clean & Clear, and many others. Brands involving cosmetics/make up: L’Oreal, Urban Decay, Ralph Lauren (cosmetics and fragrances), Lancome, and the list goes on.

 Do not be deceived by products that claim to have a fragrance, chances are if you buy apple scented shampoo there was no apple involved. Just a series of harsh chemicals made up to simulate the smell of an apple. The term “fragrance” was created to protect a company’s secret formula. According to EWG (Environmental Working Group) and their skin-deep database, “fragrance mixes have been associated with allergies, dermatitis, respiratory distress and potential effects on the reproductive system. It can be found in many products such as perfume, cologne, conditioner, shampoo, body wash and moisturizers,” (Cunningham).

Several alternatives to products containing harsh chemicals and those that test on animals are available. Physicians Formula, Bare Minerals, Sephora Natural & Organic Make-up, among many others. In order for a product to be classified as “100% organic” and use the USDA (NOP: National Organic Program) seal, it must consist of 100% organic ingredients. In Europe and the United States, there are no government regulations specifically for organic cosmetics. Contracted certifying agents supervise health and beauty products and award them “organic seals,” as shown on brands such as Physicians Formula.

What defines sex appeal? We turn to billboards, ads, commercials, and many other outlets to show us what it means to be sexy. Portraying a form of flawless beauty, we all grow so accustomed to covet. There are tips and tricks in every corner of the internet on how to enhance beauty, or buy products that claim to. Young women look at starlets with long locks, blemish free faces, expecting to be them, and young girls destroy themselves trying. The harsh reality is so many men and women in the media do not even look like themselves; money truly can fix every uneven line that was naturally drawn. This is how society as a whole functions, sex sells, and it is a journey learning how to decipher the real from the fake and not beating yourself up about it in the process.

 An ugly truth about the media, there is an era for “body types.” Ever notice how the earth shifted when the sexiest body on the planet was hands down a Victoria’s Secret model, and now its women like Eva Longoria or Kim Kardashian. As we evolve and desensitize to certain types of sex appeal, the shock factor lessens and lessens. Now people recognize “stick thin” is not the only figure that demands attention, curvy is back. “There is more to admire, more to love,” people say of bodies like Kim Kardashian. It was cute in the beginning, inspirational even. However, we can’t kid ourselves, right? “Curvy” means perfect big breasts, super-model skinny waist, flowing into a large behind with zero cellulite and sculpted legs. When it is not your job to be beautiful, like it is for celebrities, you have to put less effort into it. This results in normal every day looking women who are society’s true definition of beauty. However, there is a lot to be said for women empowerment and supporting the many different body types and faces. Truthfully, how many of you can say seeing a women posing naked on the cover of a magazine evokes a strong sense of empowerment? Could it be we are going about this all wrong, and actually demeaning our self-worth? In fear of sounding like a feminist, I will counter act by admitting feeling sexy is powerful. On the other hand, why is being sexy confined to showing skin? Can there not be an illuminating sex appeal just by how one carries themselves, or demands attention when entering a room; fully clothed perhaps?

”Now every girl is expected to have Caucasian blue eyes, full Spanish lips, a classic button nose, hairless Asian skin with a California tan, a Jamaican dance hall ass, long Swedish legs, small Japanese feet, the abs of a lesbian gym owner, the hips of a nine-year-old boy, the arms of Michelle Obama, and doll tits” (Fey). Tina Fey is just one of many who blatantly and perfectly worded the bitter truth of what is expected of women. Though I personally believe, the pressure is rising for men as well. Men are to be depicted with glistening tans, perfectly sculpted abs, and effortlessly style hair. Most magazines choose not to spend time emphasizing inner beauty, and the genuinely beautiful parts of being human. It appears to cause a ripple effect in humanity. In turn, we choose to care less about the things that last a lifetime, whereas beauty does not.

 Ever remember the line your mom fed you when you were young, “beauty is in the eye of the beholder, honey.” Then you walk away thinking, she is biased. For god’s sake, she told you being president was just as possible of a career as waitressing at the local pub if you have the determination. Reality check, it is true, and mom really does know best. If there really were no ads, no commercials, no media outlets of any kind it would be up to the individual to resolute what they find to be alluring and sexy. If everyone could just step back and appreciate the others differences and beauty, this world would be a much kinder and forgiving place. Body image issues are one of the ugliest parts about fashion and beauty. In the United States alone, 20 million women and 10 million men suffer or have suffered from a clinically significant eating disorder at some time in their life. 35-57% of adolescent girls from ages 10-18 engage in crash dieting, fasting, self-induced vomiting, diet pills, or laxatives (www.nationaleatingdisorders.org). The influence of the media on the proliferation of eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia cannot be disproven. From an early age, we are blasted with images and subliminal messages reinforcing the idea that in order to be happy and successful we must be thin. (www.Raderprograms.com) Fashion models’ weight averaged only 8% less than the average women 20 years ago. Today the average fashion model weighs 23% less than the average woman.

 It is always important to remind yourself it is not wholly about how you look on the outside. Confidence radiates, taking place of anything deemed “unattractive.” It is imperative when changing your lifestyle for the better, to start with how you perceive yourself. If you feel ugly, it will show no matter how much concealer is used. If hating the body you have is the first thing you do when standing in front of the mirror, try shifting those destructive thoughts. The beautiful part of humanity is that we are all so different and unique. There is no one characterization of beauty. With countless body types, hair colors, and facial structures, there should be no envy for what the other has. Yet, it is so ordinary to want what you do not have. Just like mom said, “beauty IS in the eye of the beholder,” do not judge your peers for materialistic purposes or surface related beauty if that is something you struggle with yourself.