Bethenny Frankel on Business, Beauty, and Reality TV’s Future
Aug 25, 2023
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Bethenny Frankel, reality TV star and entrepreneur, discusses the Real Housewives aesthetic, protecting her daughter from Beauty Culture, mocktails as the new margaritas, beauty brands she's obsessed with, the Reality Reckoning, iconic Housewives, the current RHONY season, and rumors of starting a Bethenny beauty line.
The rise of mocktails is attributed to the 'sober curious' movement, offering a fun and flirtatious drink alternative without intoxication.
The Real Housewives franchise has evolved, prioritizing wealth, glamor, and showcasing the women's businesses and products.
Deep dives
The Rise of Mocktails and the Sober Curious Movement
Many women are embracing mocktails as an alternative to alcoholic beverages. Bethany Frankel, in her own experience, stopped drinking hard alcohol and began exploring the world of mocktails. She discovered that women want to feel like they're having a fun and flirtatious drink without actually consuming alcohol. The popularity of mocktails is attributed to the "sober curious" movement, where individuals want to explore a sober lifestyle without making a drastic statement. They seek the experience of a cocktail without feeling like a party pooper.
The Evolution of the Housewives Aesthetic
The appearance and presentation of the Real Housewives franchise has evolved over time. Initially, the focus was not on wealth and glamor, but on the women's individual stories and unique personalities. However, with the rise of Erica Jane on Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, the housewives aesthetic shifted towards brand logos, glamor, and fashionable appearances. This change influenced subsequent seasons and franchises to prioritize wealth and flashy presentation. The women's businesses and products became a central part of their narratives.
The Power of TikTok in the Beauty Industry
TikTok has had a significant impact on the beauty industry, making it accessible to a wider audience. The platform has allowed niche beauty experts to gain millions of followers and viewers, leading to the success of many beauty brands that would have remained unknown otherwise. Notable brands discovered through TikTok include True Botanicals, Merit, and Rare Beauty by Selena Gomez. TikTok has democratized beauty expertise and enabled individuals to learn and share makeup tips and tricks.
The Freedom of Being Fearless in the Beauty Industry
Bethany Frankel discusses her fearless approach to the beauty industry. She emphasizes that she doesn't feel the need to conform to the expectations of the industry. Bethany has the agency to choose what projects and partnerships she engages in, rather than being driven by monetary gain. She also highlights the importance of being relatable and maintaining a natural appearance, contrasting with the heavily produced and polished images often associated with the beauty industry.
Bethenny Frankel talks to Jess about the Real Housewives aesthetic (and how it’s changed); how to protect her daughter from the downsides of Beauty Culture; why mocktails are the new margaritas; the beauty brands she’s obsessed with; and the Reality Reckoning. Plus, she names the most iconic Housewives, weighs in on the current RHONY season, and addresses rumors that she’s starting a Bethenny beauty line.