How I’m Embracing Body Positivity ft. Tutti Rouge *

AD, GIFTED | Body positivity is something I’ve always struggled with; I’m not plus-sized but I’m not skinny either. I’ve always found myself somewhere in the middle which has been hard for me in the past. I’ve been bullied for being “fat”, but also told I’m not big enough to have body image issues! So does that mean I shouldn’t be embracing body positivity myself? No, it doesn’t, but it can certainly feel that way.

Because, feeling beautiful has everything to do with how you perceive yourself. It’s about embracing your flaws (real or otherwise), and being comfortable with the person staring back at you in the mirror. Although body positivity is so much more than outward appearances!… Or your weight. It’s also about how you feel on the inside. You may have heard the expression “beauty comes from within”, and while that’s true, being able to feel confident in your own skin is something everyone has a right to.

It’s often an ongoing process and one I’m still learning this myself. There are days when I feel confident in my own skin and others where I only see the flaws. And yet, there are still a few things I try to do day-to-day which help me feel better about myself. Which I’d like to share with you today.

How I’m Embracing Body Positivity + You Can Too

Being kind to yourself

Rather than focus on the negatives, take some time to write down what you like (or kinda like) about yourself. Whether that’s your eyes, sense of style or a personality trait. Try to focus on all the great things that make you, you – I’m sure there are many!

I loved this post from Jenny as it helped me recognise all the things I like about myself. But if you do find yourself having negative thoughts, take a moment and think, “would I say this to a friend?”. if the answer is ”no’, consider why you’re being so hard on yourself.

Reminding yourself of your achievements

I think a lot of us are so focused on where we want to be or even where we think we should be. That we forget about all the things we’ve achieved so far. So, take some time to think about what you’ve accomplished in your own life. From the big milestones such as owning a house or graduating to the smaller, material things, like your dream holiday or a new haircut.

Looking back on my own achievements makes me feel proud. Like my social anxiety and agoraphobia treatment, for example, I’ve come so far in the past year. Having been on a few road trips to new places and even staying overnight! Which makes me feel so good about myself.

Not comparing yourself to others

We’re all different. We all have different body types and shapes. And often live very different lives. But when you see so many people living a seemingly perfect life on social media. It can make you feel bad about yourself. If this happens, try and remember that people tend to put their best selves on these channels. And that some of these photos may be photoshopped or filtered.

But if you do find yourself having negative thoughts looking at these images, you could consider unfollowing the channel. There are so many bloggers and influencers out there embracing body positivity of all shapes and sizes. One of my recent favourites is Kara of ‘the whimsy soul‘.

Wearing things that make you feel good

Treating yourself is a wonderful way to promote self-love whether that’s new bath or beauty products, your favourite form of self-care, or an item of clothing you’ve had your eye on for ages. A little something that makes you feel good can be a great confidence booster.

I was very lucky to be able to choose some beautiful pieces from Tutti Rouge*. They’re known as the fuller bust company, with back sizes ranging from 28 – 44 and cup sizes covering D – J. But best of all their products are comfortable as well as sexy.

As a bigger busted lady myself I’ve often found it difficult to find bras in my size that don’t look too old or frumpy. Which certainly wasn’t the case with these beautiful pieces.

Style # 1 – The Liliana Noir/Sugar Pink

First up is the gorgeous Liliana Noir/Sugar Pink Bra * which I teamed with the Liliana Noir/Pink Brazilian knickers. * Which is not a colour combination I’d usually go for as I favour blues or reds, but I loved the ribbon details on this set. And the cute heart-shaped sliders on the bra straps.

Unfortunately, they didn’t have my regular size in stock so sent me one of the sister sizes. Sadly it was far too big for me. But having tried my regular size in the cream version, I think that would have been a perfect fit.

The knickers are very comfortable and supportive (I was given one size smaller than I usually wear) and I felt so good wearing them. The bra itself is half-padded which should give you a great naturally rounded shape (if you have the right size!).

Style # 2 – The Minx Noir

Next up is the Minx Noir Bra*, which is such a beautiful piece. It’s an underwired, non-padded bra with a sheer polka dot pattern that I love, and is lined with velvet. Like the Liliana Noir, it also comes with the cute heart-shaped sliders. I received this in my regular size but found the cups were far too big for me. The only thing I can think of is because the bra was non-padded. Which is such a shame as the pattern and style are gorgeous.

I teamed this with the Minx Noir High Waist Briefs*, which isn’t a style I’d usually go for! In fact, I was a little worried they wouldn’t fit me well, as I’m not used to wearing high waisted items. But they’re actually very comfy and I love the little peephole Esq. design in the back. The briefs, again, were very comfortable to wear but I could have done with a smaller size.

Style # 3 – The Liliana Creme/Nude

Last, but certainly not least, is the Liliana Creme/Nude Bra* which is a beautifully feminine half-padded bra with ribbon slot detail. And the same cute heart-shaped sliders as the two bras above. I received this in my regular size and it fitted perfectly. No spillage, the band didn’t feel tight or dig in and I felt so good wearing it. I’m hoping to get the Liliana Noir/Sugar Pink in my regular size when it’s back in stock.

I also chose the Liliana Creme/Nude Shorts* which isn’t a style I wear very often, but they were true to size as well, and fitted very comfortably. I think I may have developed a new found love for shorts! Along with a fab new lingerie brand to shop with.

Making time for yourself

I think self-love and self-care go hand in hand, and that sometimes we all need a break and to take care of ourselves. So, take a day or even a few hours and focus on yourself. A relaxing bubble bath always leaves me feeling refreshed. But I also love spending time curled up with a good book or watching one of my favourite shows on TV. So find something unique to you that you love and enjoy.

What steps are you taking towards embracing body positivity? Let me know in the comments. 😊