I think what you're talking about here might be referred to as the 'charm' factor, and in my experience it is just as much about your manner of interacting as well as your appearance, and it's something you can lean on when you're trying to get agreement from people. It's a combination of looking like someone that people might like to know AND also paying attention to them in a way that gives them a bit of a boost, and helps nudge them into your camp.

BTW I think this works for other forms of attractiveness too, not just appearance. Height, thinness, having an accent that hints at socio-economic origins, even what primary school you went to can influence people's opinions. Someone who has won an award for outstandingness or someone who is wealthy and therefore has a different kind of influence can also apply the 'charm factor' to influence people. However there's a whole other set of skills needed to do this well and ensure your ongoing success. All the charm in the world isn't going to help you if you've got no ability to strategise, for example.

Sushee, you have every right to be offended by the insinuation that it is looks rather than skill that have got you where you are. Interestingly, as this NYTimes blog points out, if the people making these comments are other young, single women, there is good reason to believe it could be jealously over an attractive competitor.