Beauty Secret

This. Right here. This is what it is all about. With Pinterest and YouTube and everything else swirling around us, there is a lot of debate as to what is beautiful. But Coco Chanel said it best, "Beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself." Because above everything else you are you and I am me, and that is beautiful.

There have been so many moments in my life that I have felt like if I just had hair like someone else or I just had the body of so and so, that I would be more beautiful. We all get caught in those traps. As women and as girls. But the times I have felt most beautiful and the times I shine the brightest are the times I am being me. The times I am cracking a joke in the back of a room, the times I am volunteering for something I care about, and the times I am supporting my husband. Those are the times when I feel most beautiful.

So if I can give you any advice... it is to be you. And be just that. Don't worry about what every other girl has. Sure there will always be things we want to change and want to improve upon, but that is because we are works in progress. There is always room for growth. There is always room for improvement. But that does not mean you should sit around and think bad things about yourself just because you can. Be confident with where you are and be confident with where you are going. And while you are working on becoming the best you, still be you! Be yourself and be beautiful.

This quote by Coco Chanel is everything to me right now. It is a daily reminder that my beauty begins the moments I decided to be myself. Whether I put my best foot or my worst foot forward, as long as me it is beautiful. Through success, through failures, through trials, through errors, and through the happiest moments of my life. Beauty comes from Deidre being Deidre. And beauty can come from you being you. Don't you forget it, darn it!

Fashion Fits Everyone || Volume 18

I have adored Jessi from Haircut and a General Attitude since the very first time I read her blog. She reminded me of a Carly Rae, but this past year I had the change to meet her and build a friendship. I absolutely think she is wonderful. I admire her fashion and her attitude. And I can't wait for you to meet her.

I don’t usually talk openly about my body and my relationship with it but I really love this series that Deidre is putting together and I wanted to show my support so here it goes!

I’m a pear shape. I have a tiny waist, not much in the chest area and wide hips. I won’t lie and say I’m completely comfortable in my own skin, we all get down on ourselves sometimes. I've always had issues with my lower body seeming so big in comparison and I've never been the biggest fan of my legs. I feel like lately that’s beginning to change slowly but surely! I've noticed in the past year or so that taking care of your body goes a long way to making peace with it. I usually eat fairly healthy and I definitely notice the negative way I feel, physically and emotionally towards myself when I don’t. I also started running regularly a few months ago to train for my first half marathon and not only has it helped slim my legs a little but more importantly it gives me a huge confidence boost and makes me a happier person. 

Happiness and beauty go hand in hand. Audrey herself said “happiest girls are the prettiest girls” and Marilyn Monroe said “imperfection is beauty”. I've always found the things that make a person different and unique the most beautiful and intriguing (whether physical or as part of their character). Beauty doesn't come in a mold, it comes in the little details that set you apart and show your personality. A face full of freckles, a beauty mark, a head of wild curls, curves that are just your own, a smile that brightens the room, a contagious laugh. Beauty comes in so many different forms. 

Fashion should make you feel more beautiful and add to your confidence, not make you feel like you have to be a certain size, shape or way. To me, fashion is an expression of yourself, your personality and what makes you you, so how could fashion not fit everyone? I believe that you can wear whatever you want and make it look good with a little confidence and your own take on it. That’s my style advice. Don’t be afraid to wear anything you love. Wear it with confidence. Own it & make it your own!

Fashion Fits Everyone || Volume 17

Katie from Chalk It Up To Better Luck has been a reader and a friend over the last few months. I have enjoyed getting to know her through comments and emails. And I am thrilled to have her on Fashion Fits Everyone today. Take it away girlfriend!

Once upon a time, I was engaged. A handsome man I thought was way out of my league fell in love with me and I felt like I held the world on a string. He gave me that sense of self worth and made me feel like I was beautiful. One day, he fell out of love with me and I no longer had the confidence that I had when I was with him. In fact, I felt worthless. In all that drowning in self pitty, I found some solace in retail therapy. I bought a pair of red high heels, I put on some lipstick, and I actually felt confident when I saw the girl in the mirror staring back at me. I realized that I could give another person the power to decide how I would feel that day. I started to experiment and dress bold. I wore colored tights, dresses, and high heels to work every day. I painted my lips red and smiled in the mirror and eventually that suddenly beautiful girl I saw on the outside was what I felt like on the inside.

I learned that I had to create my own happiness, I couldn't let someone else control it. Amazingly enough seeing myself as beautiful all on my own completely changed my life. It completely changed me. I hope that all women know how important it is to love yourself even when it isn't so easy.

I am small. I've always been small. I'm 5' 3" and 105 lbs. Because I'm short I like to wear heels a lot. Lately, I've invested in more expensive ones so that they don't all have to be considered "sit down" shoes. I like to wear clothes the exentuate my curves because, well, I dont' have any. I've learned that wearing clothes that make my small frame look strong and confident instead of tiny and frail are the best things to wear. 

I love to go for a bold look. I'm not afraid of a few sideways glances. I don't care what the occasion is or how everyone else will be dressed, I live by the motto that you can you never be overdressed. I would say that everyone should take risks. Go bold or go home.

Everyone deserves to feel beautiful. Everyone deserves to put on the perfect pair of jeans and think to themselves, "I really look great in these" It doesn't matter what size you wear or what anyone thinks of you. Fashion really is for everyone.

Fashion Fits Everyone || Volume 16

Today's Fashion Fits Everyone is featuring Miss Ashley.

She is my go to photographer and a gem of a friend.

I have always loved chatting with her, and even more her style.

As Marilyn Monroe said, "I'm very definitely a woman and I enjoy it." I couldn't agree with her more! Having three older sisters at a young age I was always into fashion, wearing makeup & planning out my outfits. I loved putting new outfits together & would plan out my outfits weeks at at time. I even had a journal of my outfit schedule. Fashion is something that is and should be fun for every girl.

I am a curvy girl! My body has changed a lot since I stopped dancing in college a few years back. I have to come to learn one thing with that change which is despite my shape or size that you (and I) still have to LOVE who you are despite your body. True beauty comes from within. If you are confident, you are beautiful. If you are a genuine sweet person, you are beautiful. I have always had a booty and thighs and so to dress I try to layer, drape, and wear darker colors on bottom. Even though I am 5' 8" I still rock the high heels and tall wedges. Shoes have always been my favorite and add so much to your outfit!

I would say my style is very eclectic. A little bit of the classy girl in me mixed up with my sassy edgy side, add in a little bling and some bright lips and you have my style down! My biggest advice to everyone out there is TRY IT! Try new things, bring back old trends, and make new ones. I have so many friends who say to me "only you can pull that off! I wish I could." This is where confidence comes in. If you want to rock it, do it! Sure, at times I may feel silly wearing a new trend or that bright red lipstick. It does take some adjustment but I say go for it! Be confident. Bust out the bright colors, or the pattern mixing. Confidence is the prettiest thing a girl can wear. Try it!

I do believe that fashion does fit everyone! Wear what makes you feel pretty, sexy & that reflects your personality. Be yourself. There is nothing better. Be true to your own fashion. A little secret for you: there are no rules. Be your own kind of beautiful!

Fashion Fits Everyone || Volume 15

Today is Brooklyn from A Little Too Jolley!

She is the happiest girl you will ever meet.

And I am happy to have her here today.

I remember my sophomore year of high school I decided that I honestly didn't care what anyone thought anymore, it was time to be me. And as good-intentioned as that decision was, I decided that it meant I could wear sweat pants and messy pony tails everyday. After a few months of dressing like that, I realized I hated how it made me feel. I was REALLY girly, so I might as well dress like it. I started incorporating chunky necklaces, and skirts in my wardrobe, and when people asked what I was dressed up for I'd tell them, "LIFE!"

One of the hardest things about fashion for me is my body type. I'm 5 foot zero inches and have a wild hour glass figure. As grateful as I am for my curves, it's hard to find shirts that flatter my figure but will button all the way to the top. And my big booty makes it hard to find jeans that fit appropriately. In my fashion trials, I've learned to NEVER settle. If I don't absolutely love the way something fits at the store, I don't get it. And I try to find tops that tuck in at my waist, the tiniest part on my body. Once I decided it was okay to not be a stick thin size zero, I started finding clothes that flattered me!

Fashion is for everyone! Fashion is about dressing the way you want and in a way that makes you feel good about yourself. I am a full time cosmetology student which means I have to wear all black every day, which is boring. So I dress up my all black with a leopard scarf or a colorful necklace and some heels, it makes the dress code my own.

I get inspiration everywhere, other fashion bloggers, magazine, Pinterest and sometimes my husband! I am all for finding great deals through thrifiting, and I also don't hesitate to pay full price for an item if I know it will get tons of use. You don't have to have a specific body type to dress cute, everyone can. Have confidence in yourself! Generally speaking, people are too worried about themself to ever worry about what you're wearing and doing.

Fashion Fits Everyone || Volume 14

Today is Kyla from Fordology. 

The cutest pregnant lady you ever will see. 

I have loved getting to know her this year.

I think you will love her too.

I was fortunate to grow up in a home where I was told daily, that I was beautiful. I always felt confident with my unique physical qualities (red hair and freckles) and my style. It wasn’t until high school that I began to struggle with how I looked and dressed because of what others thought. It led to depression, anorexia and lots of self-doubt. It was one of the biggest struggles I have battled in my life. After high school, I made a promise I would always LOVE myself and not worry about what others thought.
I am so excited to have the chance to share my thoughts about fashion. I absolutely LOVE the “Fashion Fits Everyone” series and have enjoyed the incredible stories that continue to inspire me to feel comfortable in my own skin, especially as my body continues to change.

It wasn’t until I got pregnant with my son that I began to feel a little of that self doubt as my body changed. It was so easy to feel fat and unfashionable as my clothes became too small and my body changed. I began to feel the pressures of maternity fashion and being that perfect petite mommy-to-be. During that awkward stage of “is she fat or pregnant?” I did everything I could to hide my body. It wasn’t until I was almost 6 months pregnant that I decided to ROCK that baby bump and really love my body and style again. I realized how incredible it was that I was growing a human being inside of me and I wanted the whole world to know it.

Here I am again, now 6 months pregnant with my second child and feeling more confident then ever to LOVE how I look and ROCK my maternity style. My second baby is carrying much differently then my first one did (boy vs. girl) and I had to start wearing maternity pants MUCH sooner then I did with my son. But, lets be honest, maternity pants are awesome and with most of the styles you can’t even tell they are maternity jeans! There are so many great trends right now that are PERFECT for a growing belly and everyone else to. (Especially for fall and winter) Leggings and skirts are a must have. Stripes and prints are great. Sweaters with a form fitting shirt underneath. (This one is my favorite to rock that bump out in front.)

I absolutely believe if you wear something you LOVE with confidence, then it’s fashionable. None of us have the exact same body type or personality so “fashion” can’t be one look or brand or size because everyone is different. We live in a time where there are so many new trends happening everyday. Someone takes a risk and wears something THEY love. Some people love it. Some people hate it. Who cares? Feel comfortable in what you are wearing. Be able to look in the mirror and say I look FABULOUS today!

“Fashion Fits Everyone” because… fashion is individual. Size 0 or size 20. Skinny jeans or maternity jeans. Forever 21 or Fendi. Whatever you wear, love it and let the world know it’s you!

Fashion Fits Everyone || Volume 13

Fashion Fits Everyone is featuring Dearest Lou.
This is a woman I have always admired.

Her outfits are always on spot and I have loved watching

her style go from pre-baby to pregnancy to post-baby.

Everyone has their own idea of what beauty is and what is and isn't fashionable. I personally don't go around judging people based on what they are wearing or whether or not they are wearing "top brands". I think what is most important when it comes to fashion is that the person feels confident and beautiful in what they are wearing. My husband always says I'm extra beautiful when I'm confident and happy. I think that the single most important "item" a person can wear everyday is a smile.

After getting pregnant and having a baby my body type completely changed. Prior to pregnancy I was more of a pear shape with a tiny waist and small chest. Now I'm somewhat of an hour glass shape with a not so defined waist (; I would be lying if I said that dressing my body after baby has been easy. I've had my days where I've had no confidence what-so-ever and would do anything to have my old body back. However, when I see my little guy smiling back at me I almost immediately stop thinking any bad thoughts about my new body and realize that it was all worth it for him.

My style is still as crazy and unpredictable as it was before I got pregnant. The only thing that has changed is I try and focus on hiding the "pooch" (lose skin around my tummy after pregnancy). In order to do this I just wear a size up in tops or wear flattering bottoms that are high in the waist. I have days where I want to dress more feminine, bohemian, or vintage. It completely depends on what I'm doing that day and how I feel. I like to have fun with fashion and try a little bit of everything.

I have a love/hate relationship with fashion blogging. I love having a place to share my personal style and let readers know what stores I'm currently loving or what item I'm in search of. However, sometimes blogging can bring a person down. It's so hard not to compare yourself to other bloggers or people and wish that you had their body type, complexion, or money to spend on clothes. The best advice I can give you guys is to try and mix and match items you already have in my closet in order to save money. You would be surprise with the outfits you come up with and the money you can save. Also, try your best to not compare yourself to others and be grateful for the clothes and body you do have. Fashion fits everyone.

Fashion Fits Everyone || Volume 12

Today I have Brandi from Run Style Run. 

A happy lady from Idaho striving to be grateful for the 

small things in life and live every moment for what it's worth. 

I am so excited to be guest blogging here on Love, The Skinnies. I love this series "fashion fits everyone." Society makes us all believe that you're only fashionable if you are 6 feet tall and a size 0. But in reality, most of us fit in the average category. Doesn't mean we can't be fashionable which is why I love blogging so much. You meet real women in real sizes who have their own style! I find so much inspiration through blogs and instagram photos of real life women who I can relate to and I love it much more than a runway show.

I have always been a shopping lover all growing up. I love buying a new pair of shoes or the first time I get to wear a new top. I of course, live on a small budget so a handful of years ago I started rummaging through thrift store racks. I started discovering items that cost an insane amount retail price, people complimenting items that I had spent $2-$5 on, and I found myself competely hooked! Now 80% of my wardrobe is second hand. Not only do I love that I am recycling but a lot of thrift stores give back to the community in some way. I donate and buy which makes me feel like I'm helping the world in a small way. If you've never thrifted before or think you never find anything. Try again. Have pacience, have a list of items you may want to look for. It is totally fun, like treasures hunting, and so worth it!

As for finding what works for my body type, I feel like it's a constant learning experience. Sometimes I have worn things and later wondered what I was thinking. I have found a pattern in things that I don't get tired of. That would be a white tee, jeans, and leather boots/shoes. I have worn and loved these items for years. I never regret buying them. They can be worn over and over and half the time no one would notice. You can switch them up by wearing a sweater, jacket, or fun accessories like a scarf or layering necklaces. A trend that has never changed. Really... NEVER changed. I love that.


If I were to define my style I would definitely say it is more eclectic than anything. It can range from boho to preppy, grunge to simple simple. Currently I am crushing on oversized tees, maxi skirts, beanies and wool hats, fun boho tops, ankle boots, large scarves, military jackets, overalls, large carry all bags, layering necklaces, button-ups, and destroyed denim. Besides thrift stores, I love Anthropologie and will invest in a few items from there every so often as well as Madewell and Free People. I also love searching for specific items online. I never pay full price for anything though. If I find something I like, I will find it in the cheapest price possible. I search ebay and dig through racks at thrift stores. You would be amazed at the things I have patiently waited to buy and found treasure hunting! When looking for inspiration, I love re-creating outfits I see with pieces in my own wardrobe! I do try to have my own style, use my own creativity, and wear what I like. I admire anyone with their own sense of personal style. I want people to see that I am comfortable in my skin, comfortable with having my own style, and hope to inspire them to feel the same inside.

Fashion Fits Everyone || Volume 11

Today I have Sue, the author and creator of the blog Chevron and Lace. 

She creates beautiful items there, as well as on her lovely shop.

Last week I headed South down to Utah Valley, I got to see the lovely Deidre and talk to her a little bit more about exactly how fashion fits everyone. It was no surprise to me to hear how passionately Deidre felt about this series. As she described to me her feelings on the subject, how much she truly believed the statement and hoped that women everywhere would believe it, the thought occurred to me that I believed it, too. That's why I spend my days doing what I do. I'm not much of a crafter, but I can sew, and that's where Fashion Fits Everyone "fits" in.

I learned how to sew when I was 17, but I really learned how to sew when I realized that clothes were expensive, and it was so hard to find something that fit me perfectly and was exactly my style. I started learning how to follow online tutorials and picked up a few sewing tips and tricks along the way until I felt confident enough to design and create patterns myself.

I love it because it's so... me. It's not necessarily what all the models are wearing, nor the SIZE all the models are wearing, but it fits my body type and my style just perfectly (small boobs and no butt that I blame on the one-and-a-half-year-old running around my house). And most importantly, it makes me feel confident. A confidence that, when I'm not trying to build in myself, I try to build in others, and most-of-all, in my husband and my daughter. One-and-a-half is not too early to teach confidence.

My philosophy when it comes to fashion is that if the clothes don't look good on you, they have failed you, not the other way around. Clothes are made to fit a person, their lifestyle, their beliefs, and their story. If the clothes don't tell the truth about you, then they have failed, and it's time for you to try something that works for you.

What advice would I give? Be willing to step out of your comfort zone a little! Be willing to try on that dress that your sister says she thinks would look great on you! Be willing to hide behind the changing room curtain and slip on those leather leggings! If you're not happy or confident with how you look now, then something needs to change. Not you. Something. And if it doesn't fit exactly right, you can always buy a sewing machine. I hope you stop by my blog first when you do! Fashion. Fits. Everyone.

Fashion Fits Everyone || Volume 10

Today I have a fashion guru and a girl I love to shop with.

Let me introduce you to Bri from Breezy Days.

My freshmen year of high school I was a part of the basketball team and so desperately wanted to wear my basketball gear every day like the rest of my teammates. I whined about it incessantly until my parents put their foot down and insisted that I utilize my feminine wardrobe. I was upset that I couldn't fit in and be like the rest of my team {such a typical teenage thing right?}, but my dad would tell me that guys respected a girl who could get sweaty during a basketball game but then get gussied up later that night. A nugget of knowledge I've always kept in the back of my mind.

Getting dressed up and presenting my best self has always been an outward expression of my inner self-confidence. Although, I won't say that it's been easy to find clothes that fit my figure. My measurements are a perfect hourglass, but I have a large bust line and a little bit of what we call the family "pooch". Even when I was running 4-5 miles a day during basketball season, I STILL had that dang stubborn pooch! My curvy shape made me stand out more than others, and also made it a little harder to hide.

Through the years I've found that the classic 50's style of dress really suits my shape and makes me feel confident. I gravitate towards pencil skirts/dresses, fit & flare dresses, flow-y blouses balanced out by skinny jeans and ballet flats. Not only am I super picky with what I wear, but I also love a great deal! I tend to shop at Ann Taylor Loft sales, Anthropologie sale rack, Ross, Target, and American Eagle.

I would attribute the healthy attitude I have towards my body-image today to the constant encouragement from my parents growing up. They would spend the extra time to help me find pieces of clothing that made me feel comfortable and confident. My mom taught me to stand up tall and not hide my feminine shape. My dad taught me the importance of keeping my body healthy and being happy where I'm at, but always working to be a better version of myself. I'm a shortie at 5'3, a curvy size 8 with a 34D bust line...fashion definitely fits everyone :)

Fashion Fits Everyone || Volume 9

Today we have Janae from Discovering Janae for Fashion Fits Everyone.

An honest writer who is comfortable being just her.

And I love it. I think you will too.

I believe that having true beauty is having confidence in yourself. Knowing that you are secure in the world and that you have a place in it. I feel that beauty is something that radiates from within. To me, the most beautiful people are those that are happy. Beauty is not something that you put on but rather I believe that it's something that shows others if you love and take care of yourself. Everyone is beautiful, no matter what their body type or fashion style.

My body type or shape? Maybe a pear? All I know is that I've got curves and I love it! Which is funny because I haven't always been this way and it's taken me a long time to come to terms with it. But I'm happy with the body that I have been given. My style is both comfortable and practical. Except for special or fancy occasions you will always see my wearing my trusty Columbia brand ankle high boots, blue jeans, light tee with some layers depending on the weather. My style is usually pretty neural filled with blacks, grays, and creams. But when I'm feeling like I need a splash of color, blue is my go-to color!

If I could give someone fashion advice it would just be to go with what is comfortable! Life is too short to be wearing something that you don't like. Feel free to express yourself and feel comfortable walking out into the world. And remember that any outfit is never complete without a smile!

There really is fashion out there that does fit everyone. Maybe what works for one person might not work for another, but that's half the fun! Whenever I think about fashion and beauty I always think of this lovely video done by Emma Thompson and the organization Endangered Species. It really doesn't matter what you wear on the outside but what you decide to think on the inside.

Fashion Fits Everyone || Volume 8

Today I have Ember from Budget Splurge Beauty.

She is another one of those women that commented and I knew right away....

I HAD to have her on the Fashion Fits Everyone.

Beauty and fashion are so often seen as solid things with boundaries, rules, and trends. To me, fashion is so fluid. I am a fat girl who doesn't shy away from the word fat. I also don't listen to basically any of the "rules" that fat people are supposed to adhere to.

I believe in wearing what makes you happy, not necessarily what is most "flattering". Crop tops, tight skirts, horizontal stripes, you name it, I wear it. I spent so much of my life avoiding fashion because I thought that was doing everyone a favor. The person it was not doing a favor to was myself, and my confidence. Once I had the epiphany that fat girls deserve respect too, and not to shy away just for their bodies, I started dressing so much better. I developed a sense of style. 

My style tends to lean more 'dark' or 'alternative' but I'm also a huge fan of dresses and feminine patterns. Makeup is what pulls my look all together. I love bold makeup, I hate boring makeup. I can be wearing a boring outfit but I will be wearing a colorful smokey eye and a bright red lip to top it off. 

I think it's important to acknowledge that fashion fits everyone because there really is a style out there for everyone- you just have to be brave enough to look for it! Fashion isn't just for the people who can fit into the model sizes. It's for everyone, of every shape and size.

Fashion Fits Everyone || Volume 7

Today I've got my friend and reader Jenn from What You Make It.

When this series first started she left a really wonderful comment,

and at that moment I knew I had to have her on Fashion Fits Everyone!

It is fantastic to see a series like this because there is NO ONE who hasn't struggled with insecurity! It makes me think of Mean Girls ("My nail beds suck!") - everyone has something they don't like about themselves, if not multiple things. But I believe that if we can collectively develop the bad habit of insecurity, maybe we can collectively choose to instead tune our perspective to see the the things we love about ourselves and others.

In my sophomore year of high school, I went from skinny to all-out curvy. My biggest insecurity was my chest. I can verify a lot of those "busty girl problems". It didn't help for people to say, "some girls would kill to have your curves!" Honestly, I felt - it's about to get real - like I looked provocative in whatever I wore. I felt like no matter what my outfit, people would inevitably look at that one part of my body, and I don't mean my face.

Over the years, I've gotten a better sense of what's flattering on me. Wearing things that are fitted, but not tight, accentuate rather than take emphasize. Scooped and v-necklines look great, and I love a good pencil skirt! It works better for me to wear things that are tailored rather than drape-y or clingy.

But the best piece of advice I ever got was this: "It's not what you wear; it's how you wear it!" And I agree - first wear what makes you feel confident, and then rock it! Hold your head high and don't worry about it anymore. I guarantee the less you have to fuss with it and the less concern you have over how it looks, the more amazing you look in it. 

Fashion fits everyone because you define your style to work for you - not the other way around. No one should have to feel like they are wearing themselves out trying to fit a "perfect" image of fashion. I don't wear runway-fashion (I don't want to, nor can I afford it), but I can take elements I like and create my own look that works for me. That's how style was created, isn't it? Figure out what works for you, and then wear it with confidence! And surround yourself with positive people who see you as the beautiful person you are.

Fashion Fits Everyone || Volume 6

This woman here is an inspiration. I have admired her for longer than she realizes. I met her once almost a year ago when I was a tiny blogger and she impresses me more every single day. Following her journey to being healthy has been beyond inspiring. Introducing Diana from Livy Love.

Like any girl, I have a true love for make up, fashion and just always trying to look your best. That's not to say I don't love snuggling up in my pajamas, but I do love to get pretty when I am going out and hanging with friends or a date with my husband. I think that confidence plays a huge part in all of this because by the way someone dresses, shows a lot about their self esteem and how they view themselves. I have been on both ends of the spectrum! I have been where hiding behind my clothes was a comfort and I didn't want to put myself out there too much because I wasn't completely confident in who I was. I have also been extremely proud of myself and I think people have responded to that positively which in turn makes me want to keep being that way.

My body has changed quite a bit over the last few years. I have had 2 babies, gained some weight, lost 40 lbs, gained it all back and then some and now have lost 70lbs. I have had to learn how to dress my body after so much change, which hasn't been super easy. It sure has been nice to go down a few sizes smaller, but what used to work for my body doesn't always keep working. I think I would say I am a pear shape. I have hips, a big bust and my waist is getting slowly smaller. I like being curvy. I feel like in the media, there are far too many stick thin girls and I will be honest, it kind of looks creepy. I do just want to be healthy so if wearing a size 12/14 pant means healthy, then I am all for that. I like to wear form fitting tops that accentuate my waist. I guess this style is empire. It's flattering for basically every body type and I feel comfortable in it.

My style consists of lots of colors, patterns and textures. I am not afraid of coral pants or a sequin top. I wouldn't probably wear them together, but balance is key. I shop a lot at Asos or Forever 21 which is known for pretty trendy fun clothing and I am such a fan of all of that. If you are searching for your style, don't be afraid to experiment. There have been so many times where I have seen a blouse at a store, never thought I would like it, try it on because the color was pretty and ended up loving it. You may think your body is only meant for a certain fit or look, but you just have experiment with all the options out there.

Not everyone considers themselves fashionable and honestly that is totally okay. I don't think fashion is the answer to every life problem, but I know it has boosted my self esteem on many occasions so for that I am truly a fan. If you look good in yoga pants and a cardigan, you rock that outfit with confidence and people will see it. When I feel pretty, I know others around me feel my confidence. I hope by doing that I can help others who need a boost when they are having a "fat day" because lets be honest, we all have those now and again. We are all unique and beautiful women and lets show off our best selves!

Fashion Fits Everyone || Volume 5

Today I have Kelsey from Stories of Kel here to talk Fashion Fits Everyone. 

I've loved learning about Kelsey through blogging and become friends off the internet.

She is a strong individual and I admire that.

I am here to tell you than fashion truly fits everyone. I am pretty tall (5’7) and have a pretty slender frame. I am a size 2 with hardly any curves. I am definitely no fashionista but I have come up with some tricks to complement my body type. I’ve had long hair all my life and have found that it over dramatizes my long neck and makes me look kind of haggard. Because of that I recently have tried to keep my hair short and spunky to make my face look a little rounder. I also have the flattest décolleté so I distract from it with fun accessories or scarves.

I am a firm believer that every body type is beautiful. I have wasted enough hours of my life wishing I had a different body type. If you counted up the hours spent comparing yourself to others what number would you come up with? I bet most of us spend more time than we would care to admit I’ve spent countless hours wishing I had thick long hair, an exotic eye color, more curves, and even a shorter neck. In my teenage years I even went through a kick where I did hundreds of calf raises every day hoping that my legs would stop looking like chicken legs. How ridiculous is that? Who cares how long your neck is or what color your eyes are? 

It is amazing how much pressure the world puts on us to be perfect. I have noticed this much more ever since I started blogging. I felt inferior because I certainly did not dress the way many fashion bloggers did. You mean I need to throw on a pair of heels, have 10 pieces of jewelry on, the trendiest top, and perfect makeup to go to the grocery store? This certainly wasn’t practical for me. I am a total jeans and a t-shirt kind of gal. Who says that isn’t beautiful? I decided it was time to forget what the world defines as beautiful and find beauty deep inside myself. I had been growing out my hair for years trying to achieve a certain look and I finally just photo chopped it off. Can you say liberating?! I have found that once I stopped comparing myself to others and embraced my inner beauty I had much more confidence.

I would encourage you to spend less time criticizing yourself in front of the mirror, stop trying to fit into that pair of jeans that just won’t fit, and stop wishing you had what others have. Do your best to make yourself presentable in the morning and then go out and rock it! Don’t waste another minute putting yourself down.

Fashion Fits Everyone || Volume 4

Today I have Brandilyn of Mom Clothes (formerly Cats & Cardigans!) 

and I'm so happy she agreed to join in on Fashion Fits Everyone. 

She is a stunning mother. I love the fact that she dresses for her mom life and completely embraces it.

For me, fashion and beauty is all about what makes you feel comfortable. As a reader of fashion blogs, I'm constantly seeing posts starring stilettos, leather leggings, a bold red lip, the whole nine yards. It's easy to think that I should be wearing the same trendy pieces if I'm going to be posting about fashion and outfits, too. Here's my hang up, though: comfort. I'm not talking sweatpants comfortable (although of course I indulge in that often, too!), I'm talking about looking like you, in outfits that reflect who you are and the things you find beautiful.

In this season of life, a mother is who I am, and I find joy and beauty in days spent stacking blocks, wiping up spilled Spaghetti O's, and drying tears. I don't have the budget for designer labels, and even if I did, it would be silly to wear clothes that had to be dry cleaned when I know they're going to get dirty fingerprints on them! This is what dressing for my body type means to me--wearing clothing that makes me feel put together and comfortable in my life, even when it would be so much more glamorous to dress for someone else's life.

Bottom line: my advice for body type and style? Dress for your life, in clothes that make you feel gorgeous!

Fashion Fits Everyone || Volume 3

Fashion Fits Everyone brings you the sweetest girl today.

She is fabulous and stunning.

Don't miss out on Miss Rachel Sayumi.

I truly truly believe that beauty comes from the inside out. Sure, there are some very beautiful people out there... But if they are rude, selfish, snobby, etc, it TOTALLY makes them not beautiful anymore, no matter how pretty they are on the outside! I believe in being nice to everyone, since you never know what another is going through. With fashion, I believe in staying true to yourself. If you wear clothes that you love and feel comfortable in, then that's awesome (although, I always believe that dressing tasteful and classy is true fashion-- none of the Snooki business!). When beauty shining inside out goes hand in hand with fashion you are comfortable in, THAT is when confidence comes in! Knowing that you are doing your best to be a good person, and feel comfortable with who you are, your confidence will peak!

My body type is a very strange one! I'm very short (5'1"), and I have very skinny arms.. however, my chest, tummy, and legs definitely have some curve to them. I'll be honest, it makes it SO HARD to find clothes that fit!! Everything is always too big and baggy in the arms, and length-wise, everything is always too long. The number one thing I have done to fix this is to learn how to sew. It's such a miracle!! I have taken in so many shirts, shortened the length, and taken in the arms. I heard a saying once that when buying clothes, buy the size that fits your widest part the best, then tailor the rest of the garment to make it fit everywhere else. That is what I have done, and it's been amazing! For my body type, I think that pencil skirts look really good. I love pairing a flowy top with a tighter pencil skirt, since that gives me breathing room for my tummy and chest up top, but doesn't make me look frumpy when a pencil skirt is on the bottom. It's definitely been a journey to get to know my body, and how to clothe it!

I believe that "Fashion Fits Everyone".. because I don't believe in fashion itself! I have a strong belief in "personal style", but not "fashion". What the heck is fashion, anyways? Does it mean wearing what the models on the runway at New York Fashion Week wear? Because, uhmm... I would NEVER wear a lot of the outfits I see there!! Yikes! Does it mean wearing exactly what is on the store mannequins, or in catalogs? Uhmm.. boring!! I think that if you are true to yourself, and wear what you feel best in, that is PERFECT. Be you! Have fun! Don't be a clone. :)

Fashion Fits Everyone || Volume 2

Passion and fashion is here today. 

Today's Fashion Fits Everyone featured blogger is 

Jessica from Love, Love, Love.

 I absolutely adore her and I think you will too.

I think every girl has something beautiful about them. When you find what makes someone beautiful, share it! I remember the first time someone told me my eyes sparkled. I immediately lit up and felt special. My eyes are one of my favorite features; they give me confidence and help me feel beautiful.

My style is something else that gives me confidence. I don't have to be wearing the newest trend or an expensive piece of clothing, but when I'm true to my style, that's when I feel beautiful. I would describe my style as trendy, thrifty, and ultra girly! I love wearing heels, pearls and lace.

While I'm not the thinnest girl on the block, my husband likes my curves, and I've grown to like them too. I have an hour-glass body type, so I look for tops and dresses that accentuate my natural waist, like the fab army vest I'm styling above. I also love straight-legged jeans because they show off my figure, especially when they add a pop of color to an outfit.

One thing I've learned from being a style blogger is that fashion doesn't come in one shape or size. You can be beautiful and stylish regardless of the number on your dress tag. My advice is to find your look and then run with it! When you feel comfortable with yourself, people will start to notice. Don't let clothes intimidate you. Be true to yourself and remember that fashion fits everyone.

Fashion Fits Everyone || Volume 1

Body image and beauty have been on my mind a lot lately. After four years competing in pageants, a year or so in blogging, and a million girl's nights... how could those things not cross my mind? I'm a normal girl with normal girl insecurities. Am I fat? Are these clothes too tight? Can everyone see this acne that looks like a mountain? Is my hair long enough? Do my finger nails look weird? Are my pores too big? Do I have on too much makeup? The list of questions goes on and on and on. And maybe you haven't asked yourself any of those, but maybe you have. Or maybe your questions are a little different. No matter what the angle, it is our nature, as women, to compare ourselves to other women.

I always try to show confidence. In my walk, in my speech, in my fashion, in everything. But underneath it all. I am so self-conscious it is ridiculous. I'm not telling you this to make me you feel bad or to fish for a compliment. But confidence is a process... and it is a process that I am just barely coming to terms with. It has taken me a lot of time to push back those ugly comments from boys and girls that I grew up with about my weight, about my style, about my personality. There will always be critics. But before the critics come those who love and support you. And that is where my confidence stems from.

About a month into marriage, Adam and I were getting ready to go out on a group date. I got dressed. Looked in the mirror. And then told Adam I needed to change. I changed. Looked in the mirror. And then told Adam I needed to change, again. And this went on three or four times until I eventually broke down. I sat down on the ground in front of the mirror and put my head on the ground. I started crying and saying I looked awful. This was the first Adam had seen me acting like this. I am sure he was wondering “what the heck is going on”? But he was wonderful. He sat down next to me, made me look up at him, and said, "Deidre, you are beautiful. And if going out with these people makes you feel like this... then we shouldn't go out with them." He was right. So I put on the very first outfit one more time. Touched up my mascara. And we left. And I felt confident and I felt beautiful. Not because of my clothing. But because Adam supported me.

This has always been a struggle for me. I am a comparer. I always compare how I look against other women. Which is ridiculous. Because my body type is not the average woman body type. My body is the average tall girl body type. I am 5'9". I am a size 10. I have a normal shape. Hips and all. But I have skinny legs. And no tone in my arms. So how do I dress? First of all. I don't try to pretend I can wear a certain size. Who cares if I buy a large rather than a small? No one knows about that but me. Second. I wear things that make me feel confident. If I put on a shirt that feels a little snug or I look in the mirror and think... eh? I change. No point in going out feeling self-conscious all day. Some clothing have their off days. No harm in that. Third. I always wear straight leg pants to show my little legs, I never tuck in things unless I am wearing something high waist-ed, and I always wear something with sleeves to hide my lack of tone. You learn your best and worst features, and you learn to dress for comfort and confidence.

There is nothing little about me. I will never be a size zero. And I haven't been 5'4" since I was in 6th grade. So why do I compare myself to those women? Because I am ridiculous. But in all my days comparing, reading fashion blogs, and looking through magazines I have also gained confidence. The one thing I have come to realize is that fashion fits everyone. I love looking flipping through photos of celebrities, girls I know, and girls I just admire and seeing that they are confident. The girls that are small, the girls that are average, and the girls that are larger... You don't have to be a certain size to rock the latest style. I admire all the different shapes, sizes, and so on of these women. And their examples of style have taught me something - that as long as I am confident with my body, fashion fits ME! That is the beauty of fashion. It is there for everyone. Want to wear a pair of leather pants? Do it. Want to wear a mini skirt around town? Do it. Want to try out the latest pattern? Do it. Want to wear you comfy sweater from 6 years ago? Do it. Fashion is for you and for me and for EVERYONE.

With that being said. I have finally come to terms with things. I am beautiful. I am unique. And I am stylish. And I am confident with who I am. I don't need to compare myself to anyone else. Because I am me. A one of a kind woman, and for that, I am grateful.

Feel Beautiful.

I wasn't going to post today. But then I saw this and needed to share.

via

We all have those things that are important to us and make us feel happy and beautiful. For some it is being a mother. For other it is volunteering. For some it is work. And for some it is just wearing makeup and getting your hair done. Besides being a wife and having my husband help me feel beautiful daily, dance really does make me feel better. From the inside out. And I feel young, free, and alive. Dancing is something that will always be important to me. What keeps you young and free? What makes you feel beautiful? 

Love,

Deidre