1. Stop Self-Criticism

The way we look at ourselves dictates our countenance and how we want others to treat us. What do we see? A beauty or a mess? 

When we look in the mirror, do we look for something to criticize or compare others with? Do we focus on our best features and give compliments?

The world’s standards of beauty, such as elaborated hairstyles, perfect skin, and fine clothes are all hard to achieve. Ironically, women succumb to this idea when, in fact, it is unrealistic and stressful (especially when a woman starts to criticize herself for why she’s not like this or that) at all. It is fleeting, costly, and shallow.

When we start to embrace the skin we are in, we begin to feel confident and look good. We stop criticizing and basing everything on our outward appearance, instead, we develop a kind attitude and self-acceptance.

Real beauty comes from within. It is being respectful, empowering, and selfless. This kind of beauty is unfading and priceless. 

2. Don’t Criticize Others

Be cautious about making comments about other people’s bodies. Don’t take part in “body shaming”. Remember that off-hand comments that may mean little to you can have a huge impact on someone else’s self-esteem and body image.

Compliments are often focused around physical appearance, but remember that you can also give them for many other personal attributes that are far more worthy of mention. Acknowledge someone’s intelligence, humor, courage, creativity or compassion instead of their weight, outfit, hair or makeup. While you’re at it, remember to acknowledge these positive characteristics in yourself as well.

3. Set Healthy Goals

Focus body goals around physical health outcomes, not emotional pressure to obtain a certain aesthetic. If you’re aiming to lose weight, think about it from a health perspective. Instead of aiming to fit a certain dress size focus on goals such as improving your fitness, training for a particular event, being social in a sports team, or just feeling more active in your day-to-day life. Read more about this in our guide ‘Loving Yourself Through The Weight Loss Process’.

4. Wear Whatever You Want

With a positive body mindset, no outfit is off-limits. There are many different body shapes and outfits which will enhance every type of figure. Whether you’re pear-shaped, hourglass, apple, or any other body shape, you should know that there are amazing clothes out there just waiting for you to show them off. There are no rules that say you can’t wear a dress or bikini if you’re anything other than a size zero!

Bandelettes thigh bands can help you feel comfortable and dress confidently no matter your body shape.

5. Seek Positive Role Models

Social media has been a blessing and a curse for the body acceptance movement. The proliferation of photo retouching and the surge in social media influencers have spread a body image ideal that is often unrealistic and unobtainable. On the other hand, social media has also allowed positive influencers and role models to gain exposure and notoriety that they would have never previously gained through traditional fashion and lifestyle media.

Why You Don’t Need A Thigh Gap This Summer

There are plus-size models and body positive influencers on social media who can inspire you for every different body type, whether you’re looking for ideas on the latest sexy dresses or Halloween costumes for curvy girls. Some of our favorite positive influencers include @denisebidot and @huntermcgrady – you can check them out wearing Bandelettes anti-chafing thigh bands on the runway for Chromat.