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Angela’s Journey — Part II — A Journey To Healthy Living (Written by Liz Nord)

Posted in Articles, Books, & Magazines, Body Image, Confidence, Eating Disorders, Family & Friends, Fitness & Health, Inspiration, Models, My Story, Photographers, Plus-Size Modeling, Recipes & Food, Self-Esteem, Unique Beauty with tags , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on May 20, 2010 by Liz

Photographed by Lindsey Bowen

Angela and I started Plus-Size Models Unite to create an open forum where women of ALL sizes, shapes, ethnicities, and ages can connect and share their personal stories; exchange ideas; create a supportive and positive atmosphere; and promote positive body image, confidence, and self-esteem.

We have several plus models, non-models, and public figures who will be sharing their personal stories, experiences, and advice. Our hope is that you will find comfort and inspiration in reading the stories and advice other women share, and that you will contribute your stories and thoughts to help inspire other women along their journey.

We support women to make the decision to find the inner strength to accept, respect, and embrace their uniquely beautiful self. We welcome and celebrate all women. We need to encourage each other! We started this blog by publishing Angela’s Story.

If you read Angela’s Journey Part I, at (http://plussizemodelsunite.com/2010/03/10/hello-world/), you will have a better understanding of who Angela is and her emotional and physical journey through bulimia to healthy living. This is Part II of Angela’s story (written by Angela and I together)

Photographed by Marc Von Borstel

Angela’s Journey Part II

My recovery from bulimia has been a journey. One day I made up my mind that I would stop abusing my body and I did just that – I stopped, but the thoughts, feelings, and urges that had accompanied the abuse did not stop right away.

Every time I ate, I was tempted. I had to talk myself out of “it”. When I was out to dinner or out of my normal routine or when I could not control what food was available to eat, I was haunted. I could not enjoy my meals. I was always thinking about what exercises I would have to do tomorrow or that night right after I ate. I would think about what I put into my body and how badly I wanted it out.

My thoughts raced. “I could just go into the bathroom and no one would know” or “Right when I get home I’m going to jump on the treadmill and run” or “Tomorrow I am not eating or I will only eat…” It was all about control for me. Every day, I would fight the battle. I fought the urge. Even if I felt sick from eating chocolate cake or whatever I was feeling guilty about eating that day, I would deal with the emotions and get through it.

I have matured a lot in the last ten years and my priorities have changed. Having a family and raising children has been a huge revelation for me. My body is amazing. It has allowed me to give birth to our two beautiful babies. I want to be around for my family, to see my grandkids, and to enjoy my life with my kids and my wonderful husband. My husband always says, “Life is a beautiful thing.” Yes it is!

I hope my story can help aid women on their personal road to recovery. The mind is a very powerful thing. Have faith in yourself; know you are important, and that you do matter. Don’t give up! You are definitely not alone and you are not weird. I know I felt alone during my time of suffering from bulimia.

Every day is a new day. Enjoy each day, feel your emotions, listen to your body, and take care of yourself. Take ten minutes out of every day to write in a journal, meditate, or relax. When I see the smiles on my children’s faces, hear “I love you mama”, or feel the kiss of my husband; I know that I would much rather enjoy those moments than obsess about fitting into a certain size. Those are the real things that matter.

I don’t struggle with bulimia anymore. I do have bad days when I feel frumpy, bloated, or I wish a shirt wasn’t so tight. The way I have dealt with my recovery is to be good to my body, to eat healthy, stay active, laugh, and enjoy my life. To be healthy I need to love, take care of, and know my own needs and myself. I also feel that is important to be able to find a “team” of women you can relate to. It is important to know that you are not alone. Connect with other positive women. That is like a breath of fresh air.

Think about what you love about yourself, what makes you special. Don’t dwell about what you don’t like, but what you DO like! Walk with confidence, smile, and surround yourself with people who are on your team.

*We want to give a special thanks to Sunny Gold at http://healthygirl.org/ for publishing Angela’s story on her web site. Sunny is the Health Editor for Glamour magazine and she will be guest posting on our blog soon. She is currently quite busy putting the final touches on her new book.

**We will be publishing Part III of Angela’s story in the coming weeks ahead.

***What do you love about yourself? What makes you special? What makes you feel better when you are having a down day? What are you passionate about?

5 Comments »

Did Lizzie Miller Start a Body Image Revolution?

Posted in Articles, Books, & Magazines, Beauty, Hair, & Make-up, Body Image, Celebrity, Confidence, Designers, Events, Family & Friends, Fashion, Fitness & Health, Inspiration, Models, News, Photographers, Plus-Size Modeling, Recipes & Food, Self-Esteem, Shopping, Trade Tips, Travel, Unique Beauty, Work with tags , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on May 14, 2010 by Liz

Photographed by Seth Sabal

Lizzie Miller caused quite a stir while posing nude for the 2009 September issue of Glamour magazine. She has been referred to as “the woman on page 194.” When we first saw her image in Glamour magazine, our initial thoughts were “Finally! What a breath of fresh air.”

Finally, the time had come to see an image of someone that we could relate to. It took someone like Lizzie to start a wave, to start a crusade for women everywhere. There is more to Lizzie than being “the woman on page 194.” We hope this interview will help you see the true beauty that radiates from within her.

Glamour Magazine – Photographed by Patrick Shaw

Please tell us where you are from, and how you got started in the modeling business.

I’m from San Jose, CA. I got started with my modeling career by going to a Model Search that I had heard about on the on the radio. My mom was convinced it was a scam, so I paid for part of it. The model search was held at a huge hotel in San Francisco and had all sorts of agencies there. I was called back by a few of the agencies. Since I was only thirteen, my dad kept in contact with the few agencies who called me back (including Wilhelmina) and we made a trip out to NY the following summer. I signed with Wilhelmina then.

Please tell us about your experience regarding the September issue of Glamour magazine, which featured you nude along with an article about feeling comfortable in your own skin.

It was my first nude shoot, so before it, I was a little nervous. But it was weird, as soon as I was on set; I was comfortable and felt confident. I pleasantly surprised myself that day! I thought I would be nervous! But, I actually felt really good. Everyone was really professional and made me feel even more comfortable.

Photographed by Rafa Galler

What misconceptions do you think society has of plus-size women?

I think the biggest misconception is that all plus-size women are unhealthy and overweight — which is not true. I guess that brings up the question: What qualifies as “Plus Size.” I’m a size 12-14 and 5’11, and for my body, it’s a comfortable size. I’ve always been athletic and have never been a skinny girl. But, I enjoy working out, playing sports, and eating right. Now, if I’m craving some sweets, I do let myself indulge but, it’s all about checks and balances. Let yourself have a cookie–not five.

Most of the fellow plus-size models I work with are proportionate and in shape. Their bodies just happen to rest comfortably at a size 12 or above.

Have you ever struggled with self-esteem or body image issues in the past? If so, how did you reach the point of accepting and loving your body as it is?

I think every girl, at some point, has struggled with body image (including me)! It’s a huge problem and it’s not talked about enough. I use to be so self-conscious that I wouldn’t even change in from of my friends and family; I would run to the bathroom. But, being in this industry has made me feel comfortable with myself because you HAVE to be. It started with me changing in front of one stylist, then another, and another. They’re not even looking at me; they’re more focused on getting the clothes ready, etc. So once I realized that they’re not staring at me, I became more comfortable. After 8 years of changing in front of many different people, you get used to it.

Another trick I would try when I was younger was that I would wear my bikini around my house before going to the beach so I could get use to the feeling of showing that much skin. The more you do it, the more comfortable you become.

Photographed by Rafa Galler

What advice would you give to young women who are struggling with self-esteem, confidence, or body image?

Do not be so hard on yourself. If you slip up and eat a lot of cookies one day, just workout the next day. Stop comparing yourselves to other people. Everyone has a different body shape and some people are just naturally skinny. It’s exhausting trying to be really skinny when your body is athletic and curvy. It was so liberating for me when I finally accepted myself the way I am and stopped comparing myself to other girls.

Plus-Size Models Unite embraces women of every shape, size, ethnicity, and age, which includes women who are short, tall, plus, thin, and every woman in between. We applaud diversity and support women to find the inner strength to accept, respect, and embrace their uniquely beautiful self. We know you feel the same way. Please tell us your thoughts about promoting the fact that beauty comes in every size.

I’ve always said beauty comes in all shapes, sizes, and colors. I think skinny girls have just as many self-confidence issues as curvy girls. It comes down to the mind. If you think you are beautiful then you will be because your confidence will exude through you. Everyone has a different body type and the most important thing is recognizing which shape YOU are. Not what the girls looks like in magazines and not like what the girls look like on TV. We all need to stop comparing ourselves to unrealistic expectations of Beauty.

Photographed by Rafa Galler

What does being healthy mean to you?

Being healthy means getting enough sleep, staying active, and eating healthy food. I go by the color rule. Always try to have some color on your plate (greens, colorful fruits, etc); most unhealthy things are a brown color (or fried). Find exercise that’s fun! If it’s fun, it won’t feel like working out. I love to dance, so I take any dance classes that sound interesting to me–as long as it has great music! Music is definitely important for working out. If you’re not a runner and want to become one, make an
awesome upbeat playlist and it will be more fun as well. (I don’t jog on the treadmill that much–I prefer dance classes, but when I do run, a really good playlist helps me!)

Out of all the places your modeling has taken you – where is the most memorable?

The most memorable place I’ve been is Barcelona, Spain. I’ve always wanted to go there and the shoot happened to fall on Valentine’s Day weekend. Since I travel so much for work, I had acquired A LOT of frequent flyer miles. So I used those miles to get my boyfriend a ticket to go with me. It was such a great weekend!

Photographed by Rafa Galler

Where do you like to shop for clothes and who are your favorite designers?

I shop all over. I really like Mystique Boutique; it’s a small store that has several locations in New York. I also like Zara, Arden B., H&M, and Urban Outfitters. Some of my favorite designers are Max Azria, Roberto Cavalli, and others.

What are some of your favorite beauty products or must-haves?

MoroccanOil deep conditioner. (http://www.moroccanoil.com/)

Please tell us about your singing career.

I’ve been singing ever since I could. I was always in school choir and musicals. I’ve been taking one-on-one voice lessons for two years now and piano lessons as well. I write lyrics and come up with melody to songs. I’m learning piano, so the writing music part became easier.  I’m currently working on my demo tape and getting my written lyrics out there for people to hear.

What are you excited about right now?

I am really excited about an upcoming shoot in London that I have for Spririto Catalog! I have never been there before, and I always love to visit places that I have never seen!

*Thank you, Lizzie!

Lizzie Miller has been with Wilhelmina on the Plus Size Board since she started modeling at age thirteen. She told us that she has two sisters and a supportive mom and dad.

What do you think about Lizzie’s Glamour magazine shoot? Do you think Lizzie Miller started a body image revolution? How do you feel about your body image? We would love to hear your thoughts!

92 Comments »

Plus Model Katie Lansell-Smith Says Be Confident In Who You Are!

Posted in Articles, Books, & Magazines, Beauty, Hair, & Make-up, Body Image, Celebrity, Confidence, Designers, Family & Friends, Fashion, Fitness & Health, Inspiration, Models, Photographers, Plus-Size Modeling, Self-Esteem, Shopping, Travel, Unique Beauty with tags , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on April 10, 2010 by Liz

Photographed by Jason Sullivan

Katie is passionate about plus-size modeling and the impact it has on women around the world. She has modeled in Australia, Germany, and the UK. Several of her many clients include Peter Morrissey, NVEY Eco Organic Cosmetics, Myer (Myer is Australia’s largest department store), Autograph, Sara Fashion, Kmart, BeMe, and a plethora of additional clients. She has rocked the catwalk for numerous designers and has graced the cover of many magazines. A few of the magazines she has been featured in are Marie Claire, Women’s Weekly, Fernwood, and Women’s Health Magazine.

Katie also writes articles discussing healthy body image and studied Media, Journalism, and Cultural Studies while attending college in Sydney, Australia.

While interviewing Katie for this interview her kindness and love of life were abundantly clear. Thank you for being who you are, Katie!

How and when did you being modeling?

When I was younger, I did a few television commercials and was asked to do straight size modeling overseas. However, my parents were concerned, as they did not want me to start until I had grown into myself and accepted my body and curves, instead of feeling I had to conform to what the so-called “norm” was for modeling at that particular time. So, after a few years of traveling around the world and gaining some life experience, I came back in a totally different frame of mind. A very close friend of mine in the industry convinced me that I should get into fuller-figure modeling. I met Chelsea Bonner, my agent from Bella Model Management. She is an incredible woman, who has helped me all the way. So, I guess that’s how this wonderful journey started for me, and I am forever grateful for everyone who has supported me.

Photographed by Claudio Raschella

How do you think plus modeling is helping redefine beauty?

In my experiences plus modeling has helped me to be more accepting of my own unique look and shape, but speaking on a broader scale – plus modeling, I believe, redefines a very restricted idea of what beauty is into something that the everyday woman can aspire to be. Every woman should feel beautiful, not just the women who are in the magazines. Plus Modeling emphasizes to women and men around the globe that beauty comes in all shapes, sizes, ethnicities, and ages.

What advice would you give to aspiring plus size models?

I would say to aspiring plus models to absolutely throw yourself into this wonderful career. To make sure that you are confident and stand strong in who you are. To always be professional, friendly, and maintain balance in your life. To never give up, as sometimes you might feel like you want to, but success is just around the corner. Do not let rejection get you down. I believe we always get the jobs we are meant to have and trust in that. Go for it!

Peter Morrisey Man and Woman Catwalk Parade

What does being healthy mean to you?

I believe being healthy is about being balanced in your life. Being positive in your mind, exercising, eating well, but also allowing yourself the occasional indulgence. Enjoying yourself by being surrounded by uplifting friends and realizing that everyone is on a journey and it might not be the same as yours, but accept people for who they are.

What advice would you give to girls and women, who are struggling with body image and self- esteem issues?

I would want them to know that the first and most important relationship we can have is with ourselves, and with that, we are able to have beautiful relationships and experiences with others. I have always found Yoga (meaning Union) to be an incredible way for me to become present and connect my mind, body, and soul and to quiet the negative internal dialogue. I would highly recommend finding someone you can trust and talk to, whether that is a friend, counselor, parent, or sibling.

Know what works for you and what makes you feel better. Any time you feel down play that song, do some exercise, talk to that friend, or just write a list of the things in your life that you are grateful for. My mother always said to me, “when life throws you lemons, make lemonade’’ and I find this is a wonderful way to look at any situation in life.

Photographed by Paul Westlake for MYER

What is your most memorable modeling experience?

My most memorable experience is, without a doubt, having the opportunity (from my agent in Australia), to go to Germany and Model last year. I fell in love with Germany, the people, and the culture. My agency in Germany, OKAY MODELS, was so wonderful to me and looked after me, which is so special. They made my experience one that I will never forget. The most incredible shoot that I have done so far was the Bella model Vanity Fair style shoot that was shot a month ago By Claudio Raschella. Eleven of Australia’s top plus models were given the opportunity to work together. The energy of the day was so uplifting.

What is your beauty must have?

I  can’t live without Yves Saint Laurent ‘Touché Éclat’. It always brightens up my face. Also, I think a sexy red lipstick is an absolute must have in every woman’s make-up bag.    ;-) My favorite red lipstick is from NVEY ECO (an organic make-up).

Photographed by Jason Sullivan

Where do you shop for clothes?

When I want to feel glamorous, I shop at Camilla   (www.camillaonline.com.au) as her clothes are always guaranteed to make you feel like a million dollars. And, as winter is just around the corner (Katie is in Australia), I get my cashmere fix from Banjo and Matilda. They are a little piece of luxury. (www.banjoandmatilda.com.au ) Lastly, I shop at Myer (Australian department store) as it has an amazing range of clothing. (www.myer.com.au)

I am very fortunate to live with my best friend, who is an incredible stylist, so she always gives me styling tips before I go out at night.

What are you excited about right now?

I am so excited about the impact that plus modeling is having on women around the world and the shift in beauty ideals. The endless opportunities that the future hold for women is so exciting. ;-)

Thank you for being such a sweet heart, Katie! We look forward to hearing from you again!

14 Comments »

Do You or Someone You Know Struggle With Body Image, Self-Esteem, Confidence, or an Eating Disorder?

Posted in Articles, Books, & Magazines, Body Image, Confidence, Eating Disorders, Family & Friends, Fitness & Health, Plus-Size Modeling, Self-Esteem with tags , , , , , , , , , , on April 9, 2010 by Liz

 

Photographed by Mark Von Borstel

Eating Disorders Resources

Eating concerns range from mild problems with food and weight to serious, potentially life-threatening conditions. Eating issues affect a person’s emotional and physical health. The earlier a person with an eating concern seeks treatment, the greater the likelihood of physical and emotional recovery.

The following resources contain useful information about eating disorders and body image. We encourage you to look at the materials and use what you find helpful.

If you know of resources in your area, we encourage you to post a comment and list the resource name and their contact information. Thank you!

Web Resources

Eating Disorder Referral & Information Center
www.edreferral.com

National Eating Disorders Association
www.nationaleatingdisorders.org

Pale Reflections
www.pale-reflections.com

Binge Eating Disorder Association
http://bedaonline.com/

Overeaters Anonymous
http://www.oa.org/

Helpguide
http://helpguide.org/mental/eating_disorder_treatment.htm

Hardy Girls Healthy Women
http://www.hardygirlshealthywomen.org/

HealthyGirl
http://healthygirl.org/

HealthyGirl is an organization for girls and young women who overeat or have weight issues, founded by Sunny Sea Gold, a health editor at Glamour magazine. HealthyGirl.org offers help, support, and tips.

When you click on the links above, you will leave the Plus-Size Models Unite’s blog. Plus-Size Models Unite does not manage or control web sites outside of www.plussizemodelsunite.com and is not responsible for content on such sites.

1 Comment »

Hello, World! Angela’s Journey – Part I. (Written by Liz Nord)

Posted in Art, Articles, Books, & Magazines, Beauty, Hair, & Make-up, Body Image, Celebrity, Confidence, Eating Disorders, Events, Family & Friends, Fashion, Fitness & Health, Funny Experiences, Hobbies, Inspiration, Lane Bryant, Models, Movies, Music, My Story, News, Photographers, Plus-Size Modeling, Recipes & Food, Self-Esteem, Shopping, Trade Tips, Travel, Uncategorized, Unique Beauty, Work, Your Story with tags , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , on March 10, 2010 by Liz

Photographed by Lindsey Bowen

Hello World,

I am Angela Jones. I am a mother, daughter, sister, wife, friend, partner, and a plus-size model. I have not always felt great about my body, but I have gained strength, and learned to love myself – just the way I am.

My friend, Elizabeth, and I decided to start Plus-Size Models Unite to create an on-line community where women can share their personal stories; exchange ideas; discuss the plus-size modeling world; create a supportive and positive atmosphere; and promote self-acceptance, positive body image, and self-love – no matter what our size or shape.

Plus-Size Models Unite is for women who have struggled, do struggle, will struggle, or have attained self-acceptance, self-love, healthy living, and a positive body image. Our hope is that you will find comfort in reading the stories and advice other women share, and that you will contribute your stories, ideas, tips,  pictures, videos, and modeling experiences to help inspire other women along their journey.

My Story

When I was a little girl, I remember being referred to as sturdy, strong, bigger-built, and big-boned. I remember my grandparents commenting on my build, and other people commenting on the physical differences between my sister and me. I did not think about the comments or comparisons when I was a child. It did not faze me.

I was in fourth grade the first time someone made fun of me. One of the neighbor boys called me “fat,” and I honestly had no idea what he was talking about. However, after a few times, I started to realize that he was being mean, and I ran home crying to my mom. My mom was wonderful, supportive, and my greatest advocate. She called the boy’s mother, and the boy apologized. Unfortunately, that was only the beginning of my trouble with body image.

In sixth grade, I started to become frustrated with my body. Our class had to “weigh-in” for P.E. It was the first time that I was embarrassed about how much I weighed. I couldn’t relate to any of the girls in my class. My classmates were sharing with each other how much they weighed, and I was horrified. My weight was up there with the boys’, and I was embarrassed. It was the first time, of many, that I lied about how much I weighed. I ate healthy food, exercised regularly, and took good care of my body. I was active in sports, and loved the feeling of being part of a team. I should have felt good about myself, but I did not.

Kids teased me and laughed at me because of my freckles, mole, and body. My mother called my mole a “beauty mark.” I took pride in that, and I felt unique and special. On the bus, boys would tease me about having a “big butt.” I never had a comeback – I would just take it. I did not know what to do, and I was shocked that people could be so mean. It hurt.

I had great family friends that attended both elementary and high school with me. They were boys around my age, and they stood up for me. They were respectful and always nice to everyone. I will never forget their kindness, and we are still friends today. Other kids were so mean. I knew a girl at school who was overweight. Kids called her “Heavy Evy,” and that made me furious. I remember watching her run into the bathroom crying. I knew how she felt.

In high school, I remember a girl calling me a “whale” and a teacher telling me that he “liked my butt.” I did not understand why people were making such inappropriate comments because I did not feel that I was overweight. I had many friends, and I was active in school activities and sports. It was all so confusing and made me feel self-conscious. I didn’t like to wear snug, tailored clothing or draw attention to myself. I was embarrassed. I tried to cover up my mole with foundation and thought about having it removed many times. I felt like I never looked good enough.

Every morning, I became frustrated when trying to get ready for school. I searched for something to wear that seemed acceptable, and I would panic and sweat from anxiety. I would become so frustrated that I would throw a fit and yell at my mom. It was horrible. I did not feel pretty. In high school, I constantly asked my mom if I was fat.

I continued to struggle with body image, even though I had my mom as a solid role model. She treated her body with respect, took good care of herself, and was never controlling about what we ate. As time went by, I went through many different eating habits. I would only eat a potato with mustard or cabbage with mustard. I would eat only salads and no carbohydrates. The only condiments I used were mustard, ketchup, and salsa. I never starved myself, but if I started feeling hungry, I would preoccupy my mind with a bike ride, walk, or run.

My bout with bulimia started right after I graduated from high school. I moved to Hawaii to attend college. I was living by myself in a dorm room, I did not know many people, and I was lonely. I met some girls, and I immediately noticed how skinny they both looked. I wondered how they stayed so slim. I soon found out. They would eat tubs of ice cream and then throw up.

I had never heard of such a thing, and I was disgusted. I went home alone, and started picking myself apart. I stood in front of the mirror grabbing my fat, thinking that I would feel so much better if I could only make “it” go away. The first time I made myself throw up I was in my dorm, and I threw up in a grocery sack. I didn’t binge and purge. I would eat healthy and purge. My problems with body image intensified, and I began throwing up in the bathroom at work. A co-worker caught me purging once. She was very kind and offered her support. I moved back home, to Washington State.

I started receiving positive reinforcement regarding how “good I looked.” I was always confused by the compliments because I felt like I was dying on the inside. I put on a happy face, and said I looked “good” because of healthy diet and exercise. I was running religiously. I ran a marathon, several half-marathons, and worked out constantly. I eventually ruined my teeth from all the acid that I produced while throwing up, and I have two fake molars now because of my bout with bulimia.

I moved to Beverly Hills to become a nanny. For the first few months in California, I did not purge. I didn’t know anyone there, and I became lonely again. I didn’t feel like I fit in and the purging started. My frame was the smallest it has ever been. A woman, who I worked for as a nanny, called my mom to express her concerns. My mom had already suspected something was wrong.

When I moved back home, I confessed to my mom, and she was heart-broken. I continued abusing my body up until the day I met my husband, Taylor. The timing was good, and I was ready to make a positive change. I promised Taylor and myself that I would never abuse my body again, and I have kept that promise. I have thought about doing it, but I have kept my promise. I had my priorities wrong, but I am not ashamed of what I went through.

After having children, I developed a deeper respect and appreciation for my body. I realized a woman’s body is amazing and capable of creating wondrous miracles.  I have a daughter now who is looking up to me as her role model. I am teaching my children to respect and love their bodies.

I pretended for a long time that the unhealthy part of my past never existed, but I am hoping this experience helps bring me closure, and will help other girls and women, who may be going through a similar experience. We want Plus-Size Models Unite to be a great place for women to inspire each other.

We will be posting more articles regarding Angela’s journey. Share your story!

33 Comments »

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