Happy Tuesday all!

Being a single woman isn’t some kind of death knell society makes it out to be. The biggest perk of being single is the ability to come and go as you please.  While for many (including myself) find that liberating, for some doing activities alone can be daunting.  There is nothing wrong with being apprehensive about doing things alone.  It took me years to become comfortable with venturing out solo.  But after years of missing out on events and activities I said “the hell with this” and decided to go on my own.  Are there certain things I won’t do solo? Absolutely but I can’t stop living my life if  someone doesn’t accompany me.  After years of doing various activities I’ve come enjoy my alone time.  Going solo has also helped strengthen my self confidence.  If you’re ready to venture out solo, here are a few activities to start you on your journey:

Go to a museum: Museums are the perfect place to go solo.  You can take your time and browse your favorite collections without worrying about other’s schedules or time constraints

See a play, dance or musical:  No one cares if you’re by yourself. Once the lights go down, all the focus is on the stage.

Go to the movies: I love going to the movies solo.  I am a huge sci-fi fan but my friends aren’t so I tend to see a lot of movies by myself.

Visit a botanical garden, park or arboretum:  Taking in all that beauty has a calming affect. Pack  your favorite, book, a blanket and a lunch for an impromptu picnic.

By the way, spending time alone isn’t just for single people.  I know several people who are married or in relationships who like doing things by themselves. Bottom line, single or not you should never stop engaging in activities that make you happy.  If that means doing those activities by yourself then so be it!

Have a wonderful day!

Dress: H&M (sold out; similar here)
Cami: ASOS (old, similar here)
Jeans: NYDJ (okd, similar here and here)
Sandals: ASOS (old, similar here and here)
Earrings: Etsy (old, similar here)
Bag: Staud (here)

Happy Monday all!

All my friends and family know I absolutely hate being hot. My entire personality changes when I’m hot and sweaty.  So I do what is necessary to be comfortable.  Therefore covering up my arms during the Summer is not an option for me.  I’ve learned not to care about what others may think of my fat, jiggly arms. My comfort level is way more important than what some stranger may think about me.   I totally understand it’s hard for some plus women to wear their arms out.  We are conditioned to believe our bodies are disgusting and should be covered up.  It took me years to become comfortable with wearing sleeveless clothing   Once I freed myself from those negative thoughts, it was easy wear clothing my helped me to stay cool during the Summer.  We all know self acceptance is easier said than done. I still struggle with accepting certain parts of my body.  But when it comes to my arms I’m 100% comfortable exposing them for the world to see.

Have a wonderful day!

Dress: H&M (sold out, similar here and here)
Earrings: Anthropolgie (here)
Sandals: Sam Edelman (old, similar here)
Bag: Amazon ( here)
Sunglasses: Nordstrom (old, similar here)

TGIF all!

About two Summers ago, I decided to stop wearing my Spanx shorts under my dresses & skirts.  I couldn’t stand feeling constricted especially on severely hot and humid days.  Now don’t get me wrong, I still wear Spanx panties when I need some tummy control but that is about it.  I now reserve my Spanx wearing for the Fall, Spring & Winter (ugh!).  Once I had liberated my thighs from Spanx, I had to find a cure for my chub rub.  As some of y’all know chub rub can be downright painful so I needed something that was going to allow me to move around with any difficulties.  After trying different products, I found Montistat Chafe Relief Powder Gel worked well for me.  I like that it’s non greasy and goes on smoothly. When I walk the gel provides a layer that minimizes my chub rub.  The only con is that I have to reapply it 2-3 times  during the day.  Sometimes if I’m sweating a lot, I’ll do a quick swipe for extra protection.  Despite that I would still recommend it if you’re looking for a chub rub remedy.

What are some products that you use to combat chub rub?

Have a wonderful weekend!

Happy Thursday all!

Memorial Day weekend is often referred to the “unofficial” start of Summer.  For me it signals the arrival of Summer dress season.  I’m a sucker for a pretty dress so I tend to go a little overboard.  My Summer dresses are the most versatile pieces in my closet.  I can wear them to work, street fairs, BBQs and to the pool.  In my opinion having a great Summer dress in your closet is a must.  Below I’ve highlighted a few styles that would make the perfect Summer dress staple.

Have a wonderful day and holiday weekend!

P.S. Memorial Day weekend is also known for it’s great sales.  So the majority of these dresses linked are currently on sale!

Wrap:

Maxi:

Spaghetti Strap:

Off The Shoulder:

Puff Sleeve:

Dress: Lou & Grey (wearing XL, sold out, blue version here)
Sunglasses: Amazon (similar here)
Sandals: Zara (similar here)
Bag: Cult Gaia (here)

Happy Tuesday all!

I knew during my recent vacation I was going to be spending 80% of my time in a bathing suit.  My vacation was about complete and total relaxation. Since I spent the majority of my vacation in a bathing suit, I made sure I had cute and comfy options with me.  Old Navy and Lane Bryant more than fit that bill.  I got so many compliments on my suits  The Old Navy polka dot bikini top got rave reviews.  Not once did I feel shy about my fat body. I knew I looked good in my suits. I also felt empowered seeing women of various different shapes and sizes living their best lives on the beach.  Seeing these women completely affirmed for me that every BODY is a beach body.

Have a wonderful day!

Suit One: Top: Old Navy (here)
Bottom: Old Navy (here)
Sandals: ASOS (here)

Suit Two: Top: Old Navy (here)
Bottom: Old Navy (here)

Suit Three: Suit: Old Navy (here)

Suit Four: Top: c/o Lane Bryant
Bottom: c/o Lane Bryant
Dress: H&M (sold out; similar here)