There’s a growing movement changing how beauty is perceived in America and around the world.

Because of social media, where women freely display their inherent beauty in all shapes and sizes, the standard of beauty is changing. This change is highlighted by a recent study that was published in the International Journal of Fashion Design, Technology, and Education. It shows that the average American woman used to wear a size 14, but now she typically wears a size 16 or 18.

The study, which examined data from more than 5,500 American women, discovered that during the previous 20 years, the average waist size had climbed from 34.9 to 37.5 inches. The study’s principal expert, Susan Dunn, highlights the importance of the information by saying, “Knowing the average size can significantly impact women’s self-image.”

The fashion industry is urged by co-author Deborah Christel and Dunn to adjust to these developments. According to Dunn, “these women are here to stay, and they deserve clothing that fits them.”

The message is clear: in order to appropriately represent the genuine shape and size of the modern American woman, apparel manufacturers must adjust their sizing guidelines.

50 Iconic and Rare Historical Photographs

We at HistoryColored have decided to curate 50 interesting, rare and iconic photos from history. There are many reasons why a photograph may be featured on this list. Some of the reasons include: it was the first time something was ever captured on camera, it shows a famous figure from history, the image depicts an important historical event, it is a “rare” photo that does not get shared as much as it should, or it is an “iconic” historical photo. It may not fall under any of these categories but can still be featured in this list for a different reason.

These photographs are in no particular order. They have been curated and added to the list over a long period of time, so no decision was taken on how they should be ordered. Be sure to take the time to check out every historical photograph featured on this list!

As well as this list, be sure to check out the other photos featured on HistoryColored!

1. The First Photograph Ever Taken, 1826 or 1827

The first photograph in history, the view from a window at Le Gras in 1826 or 1827. — The oldest surviving photograph to exist. It was taken by pioneer photographer, Joseph Nicéphore Niépce. The scene depicts a view from a window in Nicéphore Niépce’s estate known as Le Gras in Saint-Loup-de-Varennes, Bourgogne, France in 1826 or 1827. Credit: Wikimedia Commons // Public Domain

2. General William Tecumseh Sherman, circa 1865

Side profile of Union Army Major General, and the Commanding General of the US Army, William Tecumseh Sherman, in his Union Army military uniform in circa 1865. Credit: Wikimedia Commons // Public Domain