Turning Housewives Into Domestic Goddesses: The Portrayal Of British Women

World War pin-ups

Often considered the origin of pin-ups, World War One conscription posters implemented numerous tactics to encourage young men to fight. When Kitchener wasn’t pointing his authoritative finger at a passing lad there were beautiful women showing their support for British fighters, creating some of the first images of the domestic goddess.

These women were often depicted wearing patriotic clothing and their appearance was designed to emulate sophistication and familiarity – there was nothing overly distinctive about their appearance so that they could represent the sweetheart of every soldier. As the Second World War dawned, women were depicted in more authoritative poses, mimicking male posture in a distinctively feminine way. The image of the domestic goddess had now become synonymous with strength, power and beauty – three ideals which are still embodied by modern examples.

1950s advertisers

Once the wars were finished, Britain’s obsession with its domestic queens did not come to an end. Instead, women became the main form of advertisement for everyday products and this cemented their position as the queen of the home. Icons such as Marilyn Monroe helped to cement the image, making the portrayal of women one which combined femininity with practicality.

These vintage posters have experienced resurgence in recent years, with advertisers returning to traditional home values to sell their goods. The women of the 1950s retained the strength they had shown in the world wars but applied it to the management of their homes. Working women became more common over coming years and soon the domestic goddess was capable of more than just housework and the odd hoover repair.

Modern depictions

Whilst some may think the image of a domestic goddess has become obsolete, this is far from the case. Instead, the domestic goddess has simply taken on a new persona, with fashion gurus Trinny and Susanna just one example.

In the modern world, these ladies are known for their dedication to style and retain the strength, power and beauty that world war images gave to women. Their professional standing as businesswomen is also recognised as another symbol of female strength and empowerment – transforming the domestic goddess into someone who is in control of the world both within and outside her home.

Veronica Sharman is a regular blogger from Portsmouth. As a working mother, she manages her home efficiently and juggles a number of commitments. Veronica offers regular advice on how to become a domestic goddess by finding the easiest way to complete a hoover repair or cook the perfect meal.