Body Image

 A few shots from last week, when it was still sub-zero (celcius, that is.) Will I ever fall out of love with this sweater? It has definitely been a winter staple, and for only $20, I think I've gotten more than my money's worth.

 * black and white nubby sweater-- F21 * purple pencil skirt-- thrifted * maroon tights-- Hue * maroon peeptoes-- Franco Sarto * shell belt-- H&M * fuschia fuzzy hat-- H&M *

 For today's FBFF, we're talking about Body Image. As always, thanks to Katy for the questions!

1. Since you started blogging has your image of yourself changed?
Not in an dramatic way, but I think blogging has increased my confidence in a number of realms. I'm more confident taking style risks, my casual writing skills have certainly grown, and overall, I feel more comfortable in my own skin.

2. Are you self-conscious about any aspect of yourself? If so, do you go out of your way to avoid it or do you post it/talk about it anyway?
I am self-conscious about my weight. I've gained about 10 pounds since my acid reflux kicked into high gear (I need to eat something every 2 hours, so I munch throughout the day. Carbs are my acid-busting friends.) While I know I am not overweight, I am above my personal normal. I don't really talk about it- if I choose not to exercise and make an effort to lose the weight, I don't feel that I deserve to complain about my clothes fitting a bit tighter.

I've also got the bustline of a surgically-altered call girl, and am pretty conscious about dressing/taking photos from angles that minimize (pun intended) me.


3. Based on how you are feeling now, what do you think the future holds in the evolution of your body image?
Hrm. Not too sure, honestly. I feel pretty comfortable now, and I hope that only grows in the future.

4. Do you photograph yourself for your blog? If so, how do you feel about the experience when you're having your picture taken? If you choose not to post pictures of yourself, what prompted that decision?
I do-- photograph myself, that is, meaning I take the pictures. On the rare occasion when hubs or a friend has taken shots, I've felt unbearably self conscious. When it is just me, my dishwasher (as a ledge) and my camera, I'm perfectly at ease.

5. What would you want every person who struggles with body image to take to heart? 
There is no one definition of beautiful. The easiest way to feel comfortable is by feeling loved, valued, and attractive, no matter what your dress size or the scale says.