The Confidence Issue
From sexual empowerment to positive ageing, we’ve rounded up expert tips and inspiration to help you navigate uncertainty and be comfortable in your own skin

If there’s one thing we’ve learned already this year it’s that women’s bodies and life choices are under more scrutiny than ever. From the misogyny and ageism directed at Madonna’s appearance at the Grammy awards to the disproportionate personal criticism levelled at every high-profile female politician or commentator who dares to put themselves in the spotlight, is it any wonder that so many women confess to feelings of self-doubt?
In this month’s Confidence special, we explore the ongoing pressure to conform to outdated stereotypes, and hear from inspirational writers who have followed their own path to sexual confidence and become empowered by age, rather than diminished by it. We also investigate the role the beauty industry has played in this conversation and the importance of financial confidence in a cost of living crisis.
It’s hard to think of a more fitting role model to lead our Confidence Issue than the trailblazing actor, director and mother Salma Hayek Pinault. In our exclusive interview she opens up about the challenge of being undermined at work, the politics of female sexuality, and growing into her power with age. It’s a hugely inspiring read and a beautiful shoot, which captures the real Salma and embodies the laid-back confidence of a woman who is done with being underestimated or sexualised via a male lens – and is genuinely owning her narrative.
Enjoy the issue.
On age, empowerment and being sexualised on screen
“I want to live a life where I’m not defined by my age and appearance”
Women's confidence is being squashed by the anti-ageing myth—here's why society isn't ready to ditch it
How sexual confidence can transform your life, whatever your age
How to boost your financial confidence and save smart, according to experts
5 lessons in confidence from our cover interview with Salma Hayek Pinault
Marie Claire Newsletter
Celebrity news, beauty, fashion advice, and fascinating features, delivered straight to your inbox!
The leading destination for fashion, beauty, shopping and finger-on-the-pulse views on the latest issues. Marie Claire's travel content helps you delight in discovering new destinations around the globe, offering a unique – and sometimes unchartered – travel experience. From new hotel openings to the destinations tipped to take over our travel calendars, this iconic name has it covered.
-
Taylor Swift reveals when she actually started dating Travis Kelce - and why she's refusing to hide their relationship
She's opening up about it *all*
By Jadie Troy-Pryde
-
Forget the South of France in summer, winter’s the time to go
By Penny Goldstone
-
The biggest dating trends for 2024 might just get you back on the apps
Feeling jaded by modern dating? Take a look at this
By Lauren Hughes