11 Things Women Think Are Cool—But Are Actually Cringe

11 Things Women Think Are Cool—But Are Actually Cringe

Societal norms and personal preferences shape the way we perceive what’s cool or cringe-worthy. Some trends that are celebrated by some are often frowned upon by others. This list delves into 11 things that many women may consider cool but can actually come across as cringeworthy. From rebuffing traditional femininity to aligning oneself with stereotypically masculine traits, these behaviors often reflect deeper societal pressures or personal insecurities rather than genuine self-expression. Understanding these nuances can lead to more honest and authentic interactions, fostering self-awareness and promoting individuality without the fear of judgment from others.

1. Bragging About “Not Having Female Friends”

Having no female friends is often worn as a badge of honor, almost as if it’s a testament to being uniquely different. However, this usually points to a deeper insecurity or discomfort with one’s own gender. It can manifest as a need to distance oneself from traditional femininity, often misunderstood as strength.

This behavior can alienate potential friendships, reinforcing the idea that women are inherently competitive or untrustworthy. Instead of celebrating this isolation, embracing diverse friendships can lead to richer, more fulfilling relationships.

Women’s friendships offer emotional support, understanding, and shared experiences, which are invaluable. Why miss out on such important connections?

2. Boasting About Not Wearing Makeup

Claiming superiority for not wearing makeup often comes with a quiet judgment of those who do. The truth is, makeup is a personal choice, not a moral failing. Some enjoy the artistry and creativity it offers, while others prefer a natural look.

This boast can be alienating, suggesting that those who wear makeup are somehow less authentic. But authenticity is about being true to oneself, not conforming to another’s idea of purity.

Women should feel empowered to make choices that suit them, without the need to belittle others. Makeup or not, each face tells its own story.

3. Claiming to Be “Low-Maintenance”

Declaring oneself as “low-maintenance” often implies a sense of superiority over those who care about their appearance. Yet, this can be viewed as a subtle dig at women who indulge in self-care and grooming.

True confidence doesn’t require putting others down, and taking pride in one’s appearance doesn’t equate to being high-maintenance. It’s about choice and personal happiness.

The label “low-maintenance” often tries to project simplicity, but it can mask a judgmental undertone. Celebrate individuality, whether it involves a meticulous skincare routine or an uncomplicated lifestyle.

4. Proudly Saying They “Don’t Do Drama”

Proclaiming to avoid drama often seems to come from those most ensnared by it. Drama finds its way into everyone’s life, but the key is in how one handles it.

Those who loudly disavow drama may unintentionally attract it, as the declaration can be a form of drama itself. It’s the calm, composed handling of life’s inevitable conflicts that truly defines a drama-free life.

Instead of distancing from drama vocally, let actions speak. Being genuinely unbothered by drama is more about personal peace than public proclamations.

5. Mocking Feminine Hobbies or Interests

Dismissing feminine pursuits as trivial often undercuts the validity of personal interests. Fashion, beauty, and reality TV are as worthy of enjoyment as any other hobby.

Some women mock these interests to align themselves with more traditionally masculine activities, seeking validation from male peers. But interests should be celebrated for the joy they bring, not for their societal value.

Valuing diverse hobbies enriches life, breaking down stereotypes and fostering inclusivity. Embrace your passions, whatever they may be, without the need for external approval.

6. Trying to Impress Men by Eating “Like a Guy”

Performing a “cool girl” appetite, by eating like a guy, often hides a calculated effort to impress. Burgers, pizza, and beer become props in this charade.

While enjoying a hearty meal is universal, doing so to appeal to male counterparts can be detrimental to authenticity. It’s a facade that prevents genuine connections, as it’s more about performance than preference.

Embrace your eating habits without glorifying them as a means to fit in. True relationships thrive on authenticity, not pretense.

7. Acting Superior for Liking ‘Guy Movies’ or Sports

Being a fan of sports or action movies doesn’t make one inherently cooler than others. Yet, some women project superiority for enjoying male-coded entertainment.

This attitude can alienate those with different tastes, as if traditional feminine interests are lesser. Liking what you like should be about personal enjoyment, not a competitive edge.

Celebrating diverse interests without comparison fosters a more inclusive environment. Enjoy your passions, whether a touchdown or a tear-jerker, without needing to prove anything.

8. Saying They’re “Not Like Other Girls”

The phrase “not like other girls” reeks of internalized misogyny, suggesting other women are somehow lacking. It’s a misguided effort to stand out, often at the expense of solidarity with other women.

This mindset undermines collective empowerment by pitting women against each other. True individuality doesn’t require belittling others or denying shared womanhood.

Embrace uniqueness without alienating others, finding strength in both individuality and community. Women are multifaceted, and there’s room for everyone to shine in their own way.

9. Flaunting a ‘Messy’ or ‘Chill’ Persona

Projecting a “messy” or “chill” vibe often masks an attempt to appear effortlessly perfect. It’s a paradoxical performance, where trying hard to seem laid-back becomes a facade.

This persona can be tiring to maintain, overshadowing genuine personality traits. True relaxation and authenticity don’t rely on projecting an image, but on comfort in one’s skin.

Celebrate who you are, messy or meticulous, without the pressure to fit an idealized version of nonchalance. The real appeal lies in being comfortable as you are.

10. Bragging About Keeping Up With Male Drinking Habits

Competing with men in drinking games is often less about enjoyment and more about proving something. While social drinking can be fun, doing so to match male peers can be unfulfilling.

This behavior often leads to health risks and doesn’t necessarily gain respect or camaraderie. True social connections are built on mutual respect, not competition.

Celebrate moderation and enjoy social settings without needing to outdrink others. Authenticity and self-awareness foster real connections, making the experience more rewarding.

11. Flexing How ‘All Their Friends Are Guys’

Boasting about having only male friends often signals internalized misogyny rather than social prowess. It’s a claim worn like a trophy, implying that female friendships are less valuable.

However, this perspective overlooks the richness and depth of friendships with women. These bonds often offer emotional support and shared experiences that are hard to replicate.

Instead of flexing social circles, embrace diversity in friendships. True social skill lies in valuing connections of all kinds, without diminishing the importance of female camaraderie.