IMAGE OF SHORT HAIRED WOMEN AND LEADERSHIP

Abstract

The purpose of this academic article is to study the image of short hair in women and how it affects perceptions of leadership in the modern world. Fashion trends, including hairstyles, have evolved over time, influencing the image people present. Hairstyles can enhance one's appearance, similar to clothing, as reflected in the Thai proverb, "A beautiful chicken is beautiful because of its feathers, a beautiful person is beautiful because of their attire." Historically, the association between hair length and gender roles has been culturally reinforced. Traditionally, women were expected to have long hair, while men had short hair. During wartime in ancient Thailand, women would cut their hair short to resemble men, helping them avoid danger from enemies. In contrast, long hair in historical Western societies often symbolized beauty, high social status, and a comfortable lifestyle for women. The article posits that short hair in women can be perceived as a sign of increased leadership qualities. Short hair is often associated with a masculine appearance, agility, and a commanding presence. Many female leaders and high-ranking women in organizations tend to have short hair. This perception is also reinforced in some films, where female leaders or main characters often sport short hair, signifying strength and authority.