Naturally Pretty Girls

Song Meaning

Elle King's sardonic kiss-off, "Naturally Pretty Girls," isn't just a simple blast of envy; it's a complex cocktail of self-awareness, resentment, and a subversive wink at societal beauty standards. The song meaning is rooted in the age-old battle between perceived natural beauty and the effort required to attain a similar aesthetic. King doesn't shy away from the bitterness, repeating 'Damn those naturally pretty girls' like a mantra of exasperation. But the genius lies in the layers beneath that surface-level frustration. The lyrics betray a keen understanding of the privilege inherent in effortless beauty. Lines like, 'It's rewarding to be beautiful. Nature wasn't kind to me,' cut deep, acknowledging the real-world advantages afforded to those who fit conventional ideals. There's a hint of sarcasm, too, in the observation that these 'naturally pretty girls' are probably 'boring,' suggesting that perhaps their appeal is only skin deep. The name-drop of Leonardo DiCaprio, while seemingly random, underscores the perceived power and allure associated with conventional attractiveness. Ultimately, "Naturally Pretty Girls" functions as both a lament and a subtle rebellion. It's a recognition of the societal pressures that pit women against each other, while simultaneously poking fun at the superficiality of it all. Elle King isn't necessarily condemning the 'naturally pretty girls' themselves, but rather the system that elevates them and, by extension, diminishes others. The song's repetitive structure mirrors the cyclical nature of these insecurities, making it a catchy and thought-provoking commentary on beauty, privilege, and the ongoing struggle for self-acceptance.