It’s been a while since my last Having a Moment themed post, so before we embark on this busy holiday week, I wanted to share this little feel good moment of my week.
I am very easily influenced by fashion trends. I frequently become obsessed with a certain trendy style, like crop tops or high waisted bikinis (and overalls, but my search is still on for my perfect pair), even if it’s not “meant” for a body like mine. What I think is different about me is that when the trend is over, and after I’ve fallen in love with how that style looks on my petite, curvy ol’ body, I add it to part of my wardrobe forever. And that’s why I’ve continued the affair with my summer love, the jumpsuit, far into the fall (and beyond).
I love that online shops now have their own “jumpsuits & rompers” section, so much so that it’s pretty much the first section I navigate to at any given time nowadays. A month or two ago, I was craving a new jumpsuit that would work for the winter months. I threw a few in my cart from ASOS, aka my free shipping/free returns mecca and patiently waited. When they arrived, I wasn’t immediately sold on this little gem (can I pull off such a print? is it accentuating my hips way too much?), but as I tried it on more and more, the potential I saw in the piece grew. I had no idea when I would find the occasion to wear it, but I thought it could be a winner if I kept my stomach on the flat side and brought it out at the right moment.
But as the weeks went by, the jumpsuit remained unworn. And the truth is, as much as I preach confidence no matter what your body looks like, I’ve been feeling a little uncomfortable with mine the past few weeks. My first Rent the Runway experience was a fail, when the two dresses I got in my normal size were entirely too tight on me, totally knocking my confidence. I’m still in that “new relationship/going out to eat way too much” stage, and as much exercise as I do, I just haven’t been feeling myself. I just like bread too much.
Last week, I had a dressy event coming up in the #PrimarkUSA Philly Launch Party over in Fishtown (so many events in Fishtown lately, you guys). I had thought the jumpsuit could be a fit, but didn’t try it on until I was late getting home from work and had no time to plan an alternative outfit . . . so on it went. I was nervous. Even for me, it was such a bold piece. I channeled my normally-confident self and headed out the door.
We arrived, and after taking off my coat and taking a few deep breaths, I saw a few familiar faces. And there they were: the reassuring compliments. I’ve talked to you before about the importance of giving compliments to other women, and I can’t tell you how much they changed my night. They came from my friends and from people I had never met before. One blogger, who shall remain nameless, even squeezed my butt in line for the bar. Sure, I got a few “looks” from people who may have been shocked by a body like mine in a curve-hugging, loud print, but my night was already made. I was proud of myself for overcoming that brief moment of self-doubt, and my choice ended up giving me confidence for days to come.
The moral of the story? When you’re feeling not-so-good about your body, don’t hide in oversized sweaters and jeans until the time passes. Because the truth is, your doubts are all in your head. You are still killing it, and everyone you’re around will be sure to let you know. xx
