Here’s a shocker for everyone reading this: I am not skinny.
Summer is here, and I know this can be a vulnerable for those who don’t have “bikini
bodies.” And I get it, I really do. There are times when I have wanted to cover
up or stay wrapped in a towel. But that’s no way to have fun in the summer. My
weight and body is something I have come to accept. I love myself just as it
is. This is not easy, especially when there are so many images that invite me
to think otherwise. A rare case of a brand offering support for girls who are
not perfect is Aerie’s
No Touchup Campaign. I can’t remember when it was launched, but I was extremely
happy to see models just as they are in their ads.
This is a good step in the right direction when it comes to
positive body image. Girls can come to accept freckles, body rolls, and
tattoos. Aerie primarily sells bras, underwear, and swimwear. Let’s face it,
even the best of us don’t always feel comfortable mostly naked. By seeing
models embracing their bodies the way they are, more of us can actually picture
ourselves in the same getup and smiling the same way. However, this campaign
has raised one issue in my mind. These models are still perfect versions of
themselves. I want to see me up there in an ad. I want to see someone whose
thighs clap for them when they run up the stairs. I want to see stretch marks
from girls who prefer going out for ice cream as opposed to going for a run. I
want to see someone who is not skinny because I strongly believe that ads can
persuade the world to see beauty in every woman.
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Body image is a difficult subject to write about. I want to
leave you on one note. Healthy does not mean skinny. Not every skinny person is
healthy and not every not-so-skinny person is unhealthy. Healthy means in
good physical or mental condition. To me, "healthy" has more to do
with being happy. So I'm healthy and I'm beautiful. If media’s not going to
appreciate your body, it may be time for you to start.
-Daniella
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