• HOME
  • BEAUTY
  • FASHION
  • LIFE
  • YAP
  • ABOUT
  • CONTACT
  • ARCHIVE

Vicki Duong

March 18, 2025

Blog Engagement Is “Low,” Yet Here You Are

It’s always amusing when someone takes the time to comment just to point out the supposed lack of interaction on my blog—while actively engaging with it. The irony is palpable.

Now, addressing the critique that I’m too “embarrassed” to acknowledge criticism: there’s a distinction between engaging in constructive dialogue and entertaining comments rooted in faux outrage. Your comment wasn’t published, not because it “owned” me, but because I chose not to feature it on my platform. The beauty of running my own blog is precisely that—I decide what gets highlighted.

What’s truly hilarious is the notion that someone can dictate to an Asian person (me) what should or shouldn’t be offensive to Asian communities. If you believe I’m the first or only individual to highlight issues with the fox eye trend, a brief exploration online will reveal that many have voiced similar concerns. For instance, CNN addressed how the ‘fox eye’ beauty trend has been criticized as racially insensitive, noting that it appropriates Asian eye shapes that have historically been targets of mockery.

Regarding Ariana Grande: she was used as an example, not as the sole focus—just as Doechii was an example of face tape done right. Zeroing in on Ariana as if my intent is to single her out is quite telling. For context, I’ve been a fan even during periods when supporting her was challenging, amidst her personal controversies and evolving public persona. Her album Eternal Sunshine was my top pick of the year in 2024 (it’s literally in print, which is embarrassing for YOU), and I watched Wicked multiple times in theaters. She remains one of the premier vocalists of our time.

But here’s the thing: loving a celebrity and being critical of them are not mutually exclusive. Celebrities are public figures, not deities. They’re not meant to be worshipped, and calling out problematic moments doesn’t mean you hate them. It means you’re capable of critical thought. Stanning doesn’t require blind devotion. If anything, real fans should be able to acknowledge when their faves miss the mark.

This piece wasn’t an attack on Ariana but rather an examination of a broader pattern where beauty trends commodify racialized features. If your interpretation is that I’m waiting for her to don chopsticks in her hair to critique her, that perspective reflects more on you than on me.

Lastly, addressing the jibe about my blog’s engagement metrics: you found it and interacted with it, which contradicts your point. Also, a friendly reminder—while comments may appear anonymous to other readers, I can see who submitted them. Something to consider before attempting to critique my engagement levels while actively contributing to them.

If you have strong opinions, perhaps consider starting your own blog. In the meantime, here are several reputable sources that have also critiqued Ariana and other celebrities regarding the fox eye trend, and btw, Google is free:

  • CNN: Discussed how the ‘fox eye’ beauty trend has been criticized as racially insensitive.

  • HuffPost: Explored instances of ‘Asianfishing,’ highlighting how celebrities like Ariana Grande have been accused of trying to “look Asian,” and discussed when makeup crosses into appropriation. ​

  • Fashion Journal: Analyzed the fox eye trend as cultural appropriation, detailing how the beauty trend commodifies Asian features. ​

Thank you for reading. No hard feelings—I’ll be here, listening to Eternal Sunshine on repeat and loving having a blog to be my petty self.

Posted In: YAP · Tagged: Ariana Grande, Asian fishing, Asian Representation, Beauty Industry Critique, beauty trends, Call-Out Culture, Celebrity Beauty Trends, Celebrity Controversy, cultural appropriation, face tape, fox eye trend, Hot Takes, Internet Culture, Internet Drama, Makeup Culture, online discourse, Pop Culture Criticism, Racial Stereotypes, Social Commentary, Trending Topics, Viral Beauty Trends

Connect

The Fine Print

vickiduong.com does participate in some advertising and affiliate marketing links. LEARN MORE.

vickiduong

Let the record state that it’s my honour and privi Let the record state that it’s my honour and privilege to be ugly to men who are losers. 

Also because a few of them keep getting mad that I’m deleting their comments, this is my platform babes, I can do what I want. Water off a duck’s back.
The top you can barely see is from @bellavvenice , The top you can barely see is from @bellavvenice , bought at @shopsiista
Quick reminder: not all “opportunities” are worth Quick reminder: not all “opportunities” are worth taking. #sheinvancouver
Four days. Cenotes, jungle biking, Mayan archaeolo Four days. Cenotes, jungle biking, Mayan archaeological sites, and somehow still time to relax.

I didn’t think a short trip could feel this full, but @intrepid.travel proved me wrong.

Their new Short Breaks are basically designed for people who want a real experience without disappearing for two weeks. And yes, there’s currently 15% off until April 13, head to the link in my profile for deets. 👀

#VacationDoneRight #IntrepidTravel #OnlyIntrepid #Sponsored
If your sunnies are always sliding down your nose If your sunnies are always sliding down your nose and leaving surprise cheek contour… hi, same. 🙃

Turns out it’s a low bridge nose thing (super common for Asian and BIPOC folks), which explains why most frames just… don’t sit right

These from @kaytran_eyewear? They actually stay put. No slipping, no cheek marks, no makeup all over the frames from my high cheekbones doing the most.

🕶️ Wearing the River in Sand
A little Short Break with @intrepidtravel A little Short Break with @intrepidtravel
I’m not a religious person, but I always say that I’m not a religious person, but I always say that being in nature makes you understand spirituality, because how could I ever think that this could all be random?
Was craving tacos and ended up here. Was craving tacos and ended up here.

Copyright © 2026 Vicki Duong · Theme by 17th Avenue