I. 100%. Agree.
I think that what a lot of critics of makeup and fashion misunderstand is that they are art forms, and humans are naturally drawn toward whatever personal aesthetic floats (their own) boat. The face is a canvas that can be painted on afresh, every single day, and doesn’t take up any storage space at all. For anyone artistically inclined, it’s a fun hobby.
And yes, even when I’m not going out anywhere, I sometimes like to put on makeup and dress in an outfit that makes me feel good.
It’s definitely true that some of the interest in beauty and fashion is about sexual attention, but I think you’ve hit the nail on the head.
… then again, sexual attention is a literally species-sustaining, innate human instinct. (Which isn’t something to shame people for either.)
I really appreciate your perspective and your insights! Thank you for sharing this.