Social media has always been a space where lifestyles are showcased, admired, and critiqued. Recently, the rise of “trad wives” and homestead living has dominated platforms like TikTok, bringing a mix of nostalgia, curiosity, and controversy. Influencers like Nara Smith and Ballerina Farm have become prominent figures in this trend, showcasing their idyllic lives centered around homemaking, farming, and traditional family roles. While some viewers embrace and romanticize this content, others express concern or outright criticism, creating a cultural divide.
The term “trad wife” refers to women who embrace traditional gender roles, often focusing on homemaking, raising their children, and supporting their husbands as primary breadwinners. The homestead lifestyle is an extension of this, emphasizing self-sufficiency through farming, gardening, and making household goods from scratch.
On platforms like TikTok and Instagram, influencers like Nara Smith share content showcasing baking homemade foods and snacks, and crafting handmade goods. Ballerina Farm, another popular account, posts videos of an agrarian life in rural America, raising livestock, and making meals from scratch for her family of ten. Between the two accounts, there is a stark contrast in their comment sections and how people view their lifestyles. Nara Smith’s TikTok comment sections are typically filled with supportive messages or lighthearted jokes about her dedication to making everything from scratch. Ballerina Farm’s comment sections often attract more scrutiny. Critics accuse her of promoting unrealistic standards for women or perpetuating outdated gender roles. Others express concern over whether this lifestyle choice limits women’s independence and if she is truly happy.
The resurgence of trad wife and homestead content has sparked discussions about its political and cultural implications. Some observers link the popularity of this trend to broader societal reactions, including economic uncertainty and political shifts. Following events like the recent election of Donald Trump, a segment of the population seemed to idealize “simpler times” tied to traditional family values.
In uncertain times, the appeal of self-sufficient, family-focused living becomes more understandable. Homesteading content offers a sense of stability, control, and connection to nature that feels comforting in a world dominated by technology and global crises.
However, this content can also be seen as a reflection of conservative values, reinforcing traditional gender norms where women are homemakers while men work outside the home. Critics argue that while these influencers may choose this lifestyle, presenting it as universally ideal can have regressive undertones.
While these influencers promote traditional roles, many also run successful businesses based on their social media presence. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube enable them to monetize their content through brand sponsorships, product sales, and paid partnerships, blurring the line between authentic living and curated performance. For instance, Ballerina Farm sells artisanal goods, including meat and homeware products, generating substantial revenue.
Although some view domesticity as a way of rejecting modern consumerism and promoting sustainability. For others it is representative of an exclusive and inequitable past. As with any social media trend it is key to approach it critically while understanding its intrigue.
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