But the front page story in the Wall Street Journal about gap-toothed models being the new fad because their frontal lapse gives them "authenticity" did bring a close-mouthed smirk. How about the authenticity of really yellow teeth? Or the authenticity of wrinkles? "I think people want to see something different, something off," said a casting director choosing models for designers. The editor of W Magazine said younger generations eschew the photoshopped perfection of the digital age: "It's a love for the imperfect and the authentic," he opined.
The article goes on to talk about various models and celebrities with spaces between their front teeth--most of whom are otherwise perfect. Admittedly, embracing dental abnormalities consoles me, since my parents could not afford orthodontia, and, though my front incisors are solidly together, my lower teeth are staggered and my canines only fashionable with the popularity of Twilight.
With snaggle-teeth trendy, I can now focus on less apparent but more serious imperfections. Like recalling and righting the many affronts and missteps in my behavior over the past year. Like incorporating more uplifting and giving activities in my daily routine; not just promising to do them and conveniently allowing other "urgent" events to intervene. Like developing discipline so that I maximize productivity instead of succumbing to easy and undemanding stuff, like internet browsing and email.
Models' smile-styles and the Ten Days of Repentance form the ideal juxtaposition. Makes me grin--gap-teeth or no.
