Virtual avatars continue to gain prominence as they evolve from animations to ultra-realistic images. AI will be increasingly used to create idealized versions of ourselves. AI-ed images will become the shunned versions of Photoshopping from previous decades. Personalized deepfakes will challenge the authenticity movement, as ultra-polished beauty will adversely affect self-worth and confidence, especially among younger audiences.

The #MeToo movement has had a seismic impact across multiple industries where power and appearance have long been tightly intertwined. Industries plagued by coercion and exploitation will demand consent and agency. New icons will challenge old standards, exuding self-representation. Revenue may initially dip as legacy audiences resist, but over time, global engagement will create new DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) revenue streams as niche becomes mainstream.