I came across this great interview/mini article the other day, and it got my wheels spinning. Brittany Gibson is the author of “Fat Girl Walking,” and in addition she is a blogger and activist for positive body image for all. I especially enjoyed her use of the word “fat” as a way to take away the negative connotation and not give that word so much power.
During the interview, she discredits the statements that it is “brave” of her to wear a bikini simply because she is a plus-sized woman. She states she wears bikinis because they make her feel beautiful. Not to mention, she also reiterates that there are far more reasons why people could be considered brave, and wearing a bikini should not be one of those reasons.
I could not agree more with Brittany. Quite frankly, it’s brave (and I use the word “brave” VERY loosely) of anyBODY to wear a bikini or any kind of bathing suit for that matter. Wearing a bikini/bathing suit for your entire body to be exposed, judged, looked upon, scrutinized, etc., is quite the task for most people. Therefore, wearing a bikini/bathing suit should be seen as a sign of confidence, body acceptance, and comfort for anyBODY, not ONLY for those that are considered plus-sized, or dare I say FAT.
I love and appreciate Brittany’s campaign to promote positive body image and acceptance of all bodies and shaming the stigma that certain bodies should not wear certain things because it does not conform to the norm. Instead, everyBODY is entitled to wear whatever it is that makes them feel beautiful and confident.
By Courtney Thomas, LCPC at The Body Image Therapy Center. If you would like to get in touch with Courtney please call 443-602-6515 or email [email protected].