I'm a size 10. Typically. And I say typically because my body doesn't always fit into the mannequin-ed version of sizing that Banana or Gap wants women to fit into (brands I love, however!). See, a size 10 leaves me, as an American woman, somewhere in the middle. Straight sizes are defined as size 0-4, and plus sized begins at size 12. The average American woman is a size 14. (I'm sure you saw all the hoopla about
Ashley Graham and
Robyn Lawley, both in the Sports Illustrated swimsuit addition this year. Two absolutely stunning models, both defined as plus size - when they are anything but "plus").
I can wear any size between an 8-12 on any given day, as I'm sure many of you can relate to. But as a woman, I am constantly pressed to define myself by my specific size. See, in America, we're obsessed with definition - we need to define our relationships, job titles, social status. Definition can sometime makes things easier. But sometimes it doesn't. In this instance I'm talking about women's clothing sizing. We have so many women in America trying to attain sizes that don't fit their body, because society/media/etc says so. Other countries suggest you measure your pants size by the actual circumference of your waist (e.g. Size 29, 30, 31). I think they're better off. I think knowing your measurements, and YOURS only, is the first step to body confidence. Hey, no one is perfect. I, of course, have days where I catch myself thinking, "I wish I could fit into blah blah blah size." And then I remember I am not defined by my size. I am somewhere "in between" and that is great. I know my measurements and don't always look at the tag when I go shopping. I pick what fits me.
I am not defined by my size. I am defined by my abilities and my skills and the amazing things my body does on a daily basis. I am defined by the fact that I aim to be the best version of myself, rather than working to be someone else.
In the spirit of this conversation, I'm excited to share that I've teamed up with
SmartGlamour, a fully customizable clothing line, that focuses on body positivity and knowing your specific measurements. I'll be hosting an evening at their
POP-UP SHOP this coming Thursday, April 9th from 6-9pm. At the SmartGlamour shop, women of every size, shape, height, weight and can shop in the same space, for the same designs, for the same price. Every piece is also customizable at an affordable price -- and best of all there's no need to worry about sample sizes – they always stock every size, XXS through 6X, for women to try on. Shoppers can purchase these items, or order a customized garment on the spot. It’s not just a place to shop – it’s an empowering, welcoming, comforting, and educational place for women.
Join us for an evening of shopping and body positive conversation! Here's the scoop:
When: April 9th, 6-9pm
Where:
436 E 9th Street, between 1st Avenue and Ave A
Who: YOU!
Hope to see you there! Let's change the fashion game, together.
xx
SJB
P.s. I want to issue a special shout-out to my beautiful baby sister, Katie, who taught me to always believe. You're an inspiration - I love you!