The rise of hairy young women: ‘I know people who dye their armpit hair, so it stands out more’
When Phoebe Bridgers appeared at Venice international film festival with unshaven legs this weekend, it shouldn’t have made headlines – but did. What do young women make of the current expectations around depilation?

TL;DR
- Phoebe Bridgers' unshaven legs at the Venice Film Festival brought the topic of female body hair to the forefront.
- Some younger generations, particularly Gen Z and millennials, are increasingly choosing not to remove body hair.
- This trend is seen by some as cool, rebellious, and a sign of changing attitudes towards femininity.
- Conversely, some perceive a cultural shift towards more conservative ideas, making unshaven looks less common in broader society.
- Social media can contribute to pressure on women to conform to certain beauty standards, despite a desire for individual preference.
- While many women are comfortable with natural hair, concerns about judgment from peers and society persist.
- Laser hair removal is becoming a popular option for permanent hair removal among some groups.