Friend Friday - Body Image

Every blogger that posts outfit photos must deal with body image.  This weeks installment of Friend Friday questions deal with just that - Body Image!  I'm going to be honest on these ones and I will speak candidly.  So here we go...

1. Since you started blogging has your image of yourself changed?

I wouldn't say that my body image has gotten better or suffered since I started blogging.  More than anything I'm learning what works for my body type. 

2. Are you self-conscious about any aspect of yourself? If so, do you go out of your way to avoid it or do you post it/talk about it anyway?

Heck yeah I'm self conscious about aspects of my body - who isn't?  I love talking about what went wrong with my outfit.  This isn't me being down on myself.  I'm hoping that when I acknowledge something that doesn't look right, some other person with a similar hang-up can learn right along with me.  Some of my favorite bloggers will mention their personal body issues and how they dress in a way that doesn't emphasize those "problem" areas.  If I mention that I have a healthy backside, I'm not doing so to talk trash about my body.  I bring it up so that other gals with the JLo booty can see what works and what might not work as well!

3. Based on how you are feeling now, what do you think the future holds in the evolution of your body image?

Just in the short time I've been blogging my body image has improved.  I feel like I'm dressing with more confidence and walking with my head a little higher.  I feel like I've been more put together since I've been blogging and I'm dressing with more accountability.  I'm hoping the trend continues!

4. Do you photograph yourself for your blog? If so, how do you feel about the experience when you're having your picture taken? If you choose not to post pictures of yourself, what prompted that decision?

Almost all of my posts include photos of myself.  I've mentioned before that I'm more comfortable when it is only my camera, tripod and myself in the room (I feel silly and self conscious when anyone else is around).  There are certain pictures I look at and thing "Yup, that worked!" and other days I look at the photos and thing "Dang, did I really walk around looking like that all day?"  I know that I'm not model material, I'm simply trying to show what I think works for my body and pictures are the best way to show that.

5. What would you want every person who struggles with body image to take to heart?

For anybody that has body image issues, it is important to know that being stylish isn't dependent on your size, height, length of your legs, hair color, ethnicity, or complexion.  Having great style means dressing to accentuate the parts of your body you love, finding what works for you and building on it, and embracing your uniqueness!

For more great answers to these questions, check out the list of participants at Modly Chic.  Thank you Katy for another set of fantastic questions.