By Sarah Montano, Professor of Retail Marketing Birmingham Business School, University of Birmingham With the news that Hailey Bieber has sold her Rhode make up brand to E.L.F. in a deal worth $1 billion we explore why celebrity beauty is not only hugely popular but also a major driver of economic growth, turning their famous … Continue reading “Billion Dollar Beauty”
Category: women
“Fierce as F**k, with Long Memories”: How Gregg Wallace Underestimated Women of a Certain Age
By Dr Julie Whiteman, Department of Marketing, Birmingham Business School As a middle-class woman of a certain age, it will be no surprise that I have plenty to say about the recent news of Greg Wallace’s alleged sexual misconduct. Co-host of the long-running TV reality shows Masterchef and Celebrity Masterchef, Wallace has been accused of … Continue reading ““Fierce as F**k, with Long Memories”: How Gregg Wallace Underestimated Women of a Certain Age”
Saoirse Ronan has a point – but independent travel is worse for girls and young women living in areas of high deprivation
By Dr Sarah Brooks-Wilson Department of Social Policy, Sociology and Criminology American-Irish actor Saoirse Ronan has a greater platform than most and her short remarks on the Graham Norton show recently have sparked widespread discussions about personal safety strategies that women regularly use. Although research evidence and crime data support the view that personal safety … Continue reading “Saoirse Ronan has a point – but independent travel is worse for girls and young women living in areas of high deprivation”
Why hold an academic event about Taylor Swift?
By Professor Sarah Montano Birmingham Business School, University of Birmingham We were delighted to host The Taylor Swift Phenomenon as part of the ESRC Festival of Social Science, a standout event that received BBC press coverage for its engaging exploration of cultural influence. Taylor Swift’s ascent to iconic status compels us to examine how society … Continue reading “Why hold an academic event about Taylor Swift?”
Jennifer Acheampong’s Journey from Ghana to Birmingham Business School
We sat down with Jennifer Acheampong, recipient of the 2023/2024 African MBA Scholarship to hear more about her personal story, her experience of applying for the scholarship, moving to Birmingham to study at the Business School and how she’s found her time at the school so far! Can you share with us your personal journey, … Continue reading “Jennifer Acheampong’s Journey from Ghana to Birmingham Business School”
Including older women, or extending sexism? Midlife women in popular culture
By Dr Julie Whiteman Department of Marketing, University of Birmingham On 8th March we heard much about ‘inspiring inclusion’ as part of International Women’s Day celebrations. Inspiring inclusion will mean many things to many people, recognising the scope of exclusion that permeates all aspects of our society. By focusing on inclusion, it is hoped we … Continue reading “Including older women, or extending sexism? Midlife women in popular culture”
International Women’s Day: Trans women cannot be left behind
By Dr Sophie King-Hill Associate Professor in the Health Services Management Centre, University of Birmingham International Women’s Day is a day that has been dedicated to raising awareness of the plight of women and girls for over 100 years. This day celebrates women and highlights the rights of women that are so vitally needed for … Continue reading “International Women’s Day: Trans women cannot be left behind”
Barbie (and Ken) at the Oscars: what does this say about gender inequality in the film industry?
By Professor Finola Kerrigan Professor in Marketing, Birmingham Business School, University of Birmingham The 2024 Academy Awards’ Ceremony will take place on Sunday. It comes just after 2024’s International Women’s Day and during Women’s History Month. Much has been made of Ryan Gosling’s best supporting actor nomination for his role as Ken in Barbie with … Continue reading “Barbie (and Ken) at the Oscars: what does this say about gender inequality in the film industry?”
Saluting Our Sisters: Voices from across the College of Social Sciences
October is an important opportunity to share and celebrate black history. This year’s theme is ‘Saluting Our Sisters’, highlighting the crucial role that black women play in shaping history, inspiring change, and building communities. As a College we have much to contribute and celebrate, be that the groundbreaking research of academics, student success stories, or … Continue reading “Saluting Our Sisters: Voices from across the College of Social Sciences”
Are you a Barbie girl, living in a Barbie world?
By Dr Sameera KhalfeyLecturer in International Relations, Department of Political Science and International Studies No – and I would like to say thankfully not. Life in plastic is not fantastic. Whilst the Barbie franchise has expanded its representation the doll remains a clear representation of societal expectations and norms. The new Barbie movie, directed by … Continue reading “Are you a Barbie girl, living in a Barbie world?”