This is a step away from my normal posts, to get a little more personal about myself and my journey as a plus size content creator….
#ExpressYou
In general, my loved ones get more upset about the hateful things that are said to me on social media than I do. Sadly, I’m used to it.
The word “fat” and its synonyms have been spewed at me as a way to put me in my place or tell me I’m unworthy since I was in 5th grade.
I understand that being big means I’m expected to act small. That’s just not who I am.
I don’t believe that being beautiful is measured by a numeric scale and I’ll gladly be the one trolls are attacking, because by standing strong I know I’m inspiring someone…even if that someone is teenage me.
I appreciate my body in ways I can’t explain for withstanding the trauma done to it over the years. It deserves to be revered, not hidden.
I don’t need validation from anyone, but I AM human, so it would be a lie to say that moments like being featured on Express’ website, a brand I’ve shopped for years and oftentimes even find that items I get excited about aren’t carried in my size, is beyond exciting. For me, this is a step towards representation for people with a belly that want to look hot, too!
Moments like this are surreal and emotional and force me to face my imposter syndrome head on.
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Plus Size Content Collaborations
Since taking the plunge on creating fashion content over a year ago I have found myself *pretty* crying often.
- Every time I reach an engagement milestone (especially with the ever changing algorithm and recovering from being shadow banned earlier this year – that’s a whole other story and made it very hard to keep motivating myself to put out content knowing that if enough trolls on the internet report it because they don’t like my body, I’ll be punished – that one made me ugly cry more than pretty cry lol).
- When I got accepted to the Amazon and LTK.it platforms and reached 1000 followers on TikTok so I could utilize their link feature.
- Every single time I get a message from someone sharing that they appreciate my content and how I continue to put myself out there even when they see the horrid comments made to or about me.
- And of course, every time a brand reaches out and wants to collaborate, or renew a partnership, because I am floored that they want me to be a representation of them in any way. It’s exciting, it’s humbling and it’s also a huge responsibility. One that I don’t take lightly.
I’ve also had a lot of ups and downs the last year and sometimes the weight of continuing to put myself out there coupled with the commitments I have agreed to, are overwhelming. I know, I know first world problems of my own making, but I would be lying if I didn’t share that there are days when putting on makeup and smiling at a camera is the absolute last thing I want to do.
I spend hours of filming and editing a week on top of my full time job and my life as a wife, cat step-mom, daughter, sister, aunt, friend, and someone who is trying to keep up with what is happening in the world. But the reason I keep showing up is because of the community and the brands that are reminding me that I AM accomplishing my goal of making it ok for size 16/18/20 bodies to not only exist but to THRIVE in the world. What I’m trying to do goes beyond outfits, it’s about letting others know self confidence isn’t innate and it’s ok to not feel it somedays, but don’t stop putting yourself out there. Don’t stop taking up space.
In this month of thanks it feels so very fitting to use this post to give a massive thank you to everyone in my life (real and online) who keeps showing up for me and supporting me. I am immensely grateful for you.
Podcast Appearance
A few months ago I was invited to be on the Very Vogue with Val Kleinhams podcast to talk Minnesota, plus size fashion, and my “why.”
It was cathartic to be able to talk through body acceptance and how I do my best not to let it affect me. Give it a listen!
I wish you the very best going into the new year!
XOXO, Tara
Tara Jane Style 
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