Body Shaming: An Image Professional’s Expert Perspective on Overcoming Negative Self-Image

Hello, Ladies!

In today’s post, I’ll address the prevalent issue of body shaming in a three-part series.

Last week, I came across two thought-provoking articles on body shaming that I want to discuss. The first article, "These 5 Women Refuse to Let Their Physical 'Flaws' Define Them," featured in Women's Health magazine, explores the experiences of women who have struggled with self-objectification and the devaluation of their bodies. The second article, "8 Things Body-Positive People Are Sick of Hearing Because It's Not About 'Forcing People to Be Attracted to You,'" featured on Bustle.com, attempts to dismantle the notion that body-positive women are forcing society to accept a new ‘standard’ of beauty centered around curvier figures.

In my opinion, both articles have done an excellent job of addressing the complex issues surrounding body shaming. They highlight how society often judges women’s appearances based on outdated European standards, which contributes to the devaluation of women who don’t fit these traditional beauty norms. However, women are now challenging these ideals and amplifying their voices against body shaming, creating new narratives of beauty that encourage all women to embrace their authentic selves.

As an image professional and style empowerment coach, I often question whether weight and body shape take precedence over other body-shaming issues, such as Vitiligo, Psoriasis, Alopecia, thinning hair, and Multiple Sclerosis, as discussed in the Women's Health article. More importantly, how can I can as a Certified Image Consultant and Transformation Coach further help empower my clients to confidently accept their authentic selves, regardless of their weight, body shape, or other traits they may consider imperfect or unattractive.

Disclaimer: I am not a medical psychologist, therapist, or psychoanalyst, but as a Certified Image Consultant and Transformation Coach, I believe I play an important role in helping my clients unapologetically accept their entire bodies with confidence and respect for their well-being.

A good image professional should help clients identify areas where they feel less confident and coach them throught the process on how to strategically dress and style their body shape to enhance their unique features positively.

Thank you for reading, and stay tuned for the next instalment in this series on body shaming

In part II of this article, I will explain what Body Shape analysis is and how you can identify your unique body shape, in addition, specific styling tips you can implement immediately to enhance your confidence. 

Until next time! Image Consultant & Personal Stylist, Tonya J. xoxo

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