I also believe this is a myth, Vicki. For the last 20 years of my working career, I worked in a predominantly female company. Sure, there were plenty of men employed in the company but even the CEO was a female. If there were a "pretty" female who didn't have the brains or guts to do a good job, she was out. All of our female (and male) leaders are extremely smart and qualified. Most of the female leaders are middle age - plus some.
Your idea of, "People who are attractive are more likely to advance in their career and make more money" may be true in some sectors but in my working career, I have not seen it. In fact, from what I have witnessed, an attractive person (man or woman) had to prove their worth, just like everyone else.
