Embracing Every Body Matters — Here's Why

Senior Content Executive2 years ago

In need of a healthy dose of body positivity? Look no further than @sophiegotsleeved.

A few years ago, Sophie embarked on a major health journey when she had gastric sleeve surgery to help her overcome her food addiction. Since then, she’s been able to rediscover her passion for exercise and has lost more than 50kg.

Now happy and healthy, Sophie uses her platform on Instagram to champion and empower women to love and appreciate their bodies through exercise and eating healthily.

The Importance of Inclusivity

Sophie recently did her first collaboration with MP Activewear. Unfortunately, the accomplishment was diminished by the apparent return of “heroin chic”, an unhealthy 1990s trend defined by pale skin, dark circles under the eyes, and an emaciated figure.

Sophie has battled with body dysmorphia and imposter syndrome throughout her life. And the celebration of unhealthy body standards makes these struggles harder. Bodies come in all shapes and sizes; there is no right or wrong.

In an Instagram post, Sophie responded to the news article celebrating the trend’s return:

“Growing up bigger is hard. Psychologically and physically, it’s a struggle. Everybody blames you, as if you simply ate too many chocolate bars. The majority of people pity you as if there’s something wrong with you for not being slim.”

Still, she didn’t let it affect her confidence or mood too much:

“Looking at these photos makes me so proud to represent the ‘real body’ element of society which the media is so desperate to edit nowadays. My cellulite, loose skin, stretch marks—all components which I wouldn’t be complete without.”

Embracing Every Body

MP Activewear’s mission is to be inclusive and accessible to everyone no matter what their size. Representing every body type is something that comes along with that and matters more than anything in the light of harmful rhetoric in the media about body image.

The collaboration with MP Activewear was Sophie’s first time shooting a campaign, and it’s something she “would never have even considered, let alone be bold enough to agree to!”

Sophie shared how the opportunity has empowered her to continue sharing her fitness story: “My confidence rises every time I walk off set and know that I bring a different, bold, and most importantly real element to the e-comm world.”

Shop Sophie’s look:

Take Home Message

Sophie is an inspiration for those who think they will never overcome their body image issues. She works hard to be happy and healthy, and she won’t allow others to decide what bodies are and are not in fashion. As she says in her Instagram post: “F your body standards”.

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