In today’s world of evolving beauty standards, the intersection of cosmetic procedures and body positivity continues to spark passionate discussions. While some view enhancements as a form of self-expression and empowerment, others argue that they perpetuate unattainable ideals and undermine self-acceptance. Understanding both perspectives offers valuable insights into this complex debate.

The Appeal of Cosmetic Procedures

Cosmetic procedures, ranging from Botox to liposuction, have gained mainstream popularity, with millions opting for enhancements every year. Advocates argue these procedures allow individuals to take control of their appearance, boosting confidence and enabling personal expression.

For some, altering perceived imperfections helps address insecurities and aligns their outward appearance with their internal sense of self.

Procedures are also increasingly accessible, with innovations making them safer, quicker, and less invasive. Proponents highlight the importance of choice, emphasizing that each person has the right to decide what makes them feel comfortable and happy in their body.

Body Positivity and Its Origins

Body positivity, as a movement, emerged to challenge narrow beauty standards and celebrate diverse body types. Its core message encourages self-acceptance and promotes mental well-being by rejecting societal pressures to conform. Critics of cosmetic procedures often argue that they conflict with this ethos, reinforcing the notion that beauty must adhere to specific standards.

The body positivity movement also questions whether cosmetic enhancements are driven by individual choice or societal influence. For instance, does the pressure to conform to beauty ideals subtly push people toward these procedures under the guise of self-improvement?

Bridging the Divide: Cosmetic Procedures and the Body Positivity Debate

Understanding Motivations

Striking a balance between the freedom to choose cosmetic procedures and the principles of body positivity requires nuanced understanding. The key lies in addressing the motivations behind these decisions.

Is someone seeking a procedure for personal satisfaction or due to external pressures? Fostering environments where diverse forms of beauty are celebrated can reduce societal pressures and make the choice to undergo cosmetic enhancements truly personal.

Promoting Education and Mental Health

Educating individuals on the risks and benefits of procedures while promoting mental health resources can also help navigate this divide. Empowerment can remain at the heart of the discussion by fostering self-reflection and encouraging self-worth, regardless of cosmetic changes.

Supporting open conversations and providing access to resources ensures that decisions about cosmetic enhancements are informed and aligned with personal authenticity.

A Personal Choice in a Complex World

Ultimately, the debate isn’t about choosing sides but embracing individuality and authenticity. Whether someone opts for cosmetic procedures or advocates body positivity, respecting diverse perspectives fosters a more inclusive society.

Beauty, after all, is multifaceted, and embracing this diversity can help bridge the gap between differing views.

The beauty industry has often championed narrow ideals, leaving many feeling excluded. However, a wave of voices and campaigns has emerged, championing diversity and redefining what beauty truly means. Here are five standout individuals and initiatives paving the way for body positivity and inclusion.

Notable Beauty Beyond Size Voices and Campaigns

1. Ashley Graham: Leading the Curve Movement

Supermodel Ashley Graham has redefined what it means to be a top model. As the first size 16 model to appear on the cover of Sports Illustrated, she uses her platform to celebrate curves and advocate for size inclusivity in fashion.

Graham’s body-positive TED Talk, “Plus Size? More Like My Size,” has resonated worldwide, encouraging individuals to embrace their uniqueness.

2. The Dove Campaign for Real Beauty

Since its launch in 2004, Dove’s “Real Beauty” campaign has become synonymous with inclusivity. Featuring women of different sizes, ethnicities, and ages, the campaign challenges traditional beauty norms.

Dove also supports initiatives like the Dove Self-Esteem Project, which educates young people on body confidence and self-worth.

3. Lizzie Velásquez: Redefining Beauty Standards

Born with a rare condition that prevents her from gaining weight, Lizzie Velásquez faced bullying and judgment. She turned her experience into a powerful message of self-acceptance and advocacy against body shaming.

Lizzie’s viral TED Talk and her documentary, A Brave Heart: The Lizzie Velásquez Story, inspire millions to see beauty beyond physical appearance.

4. Rihanna’s Savage X Fenty: Fashion for All

Rihanna’s Savage X Fenty revolutionizes lingerie by celebrating all body types. Her inclusive runway shows feature models of varying shapes, sizes, and skin tones, setting a new standard in the fashion world. The brand’s “You’re Beautiful, Every Size” ethos is a call for empowerment and confidence.

5. The #EffYourBeautyStandards Movement

Created by plus-size model Tess Holliday, the #EffYourBeautyStandards movement celebrates bodies of all shapes and sizes. Tess began the hashtag as a personal statement and watched it grow into a global phenomenon. It has inspired countless individuals to share their stories and embrace their unique beauty.

Breaking Barriers, Redefining Beauty Beyond Size

These voices and campaigns prove that beauty is not one-size-fits-all. By challenging outdated standards and celebrating diversity, they pave the way for a more inclusive future.

Whether on the runway, in a hashtag, or through heartfelt speeches, their messages remind us that true beauty lies in authenticity and self-love.

Body neutrality has emerged as a refreshing alternative to body positivity, encouraging individuals to embrace their bodies without placing undue focus on appearance. Unlike body positivity, which centers on loving every aspect of one’s body, neutrality shifts the narrative towards functionality and personal growth.

This perspective recognizes that self-worth doesn’t have to be tied to how one looks but rather to who one is and what one can achieve.

The Rise of Body Neutrality

In recent years, body neutrality has gained traction as people seek a more inclusive and balanced approach to self-acceptance. While body positivity initially aimed to challenge societal beauty standards, it has unintentionally created pressure to constantly love one’s body, a standard that can feel unattainable for many.

Body neutrality provides a space to exist without feeling the need to celebrate or criticize one’s body, offering freedom from the cycle of self-judgment.

Key Principles of Body Neutrality

Focus on Function, Not Form

Body neutrality emphasizes what the body can do rather than how it looks. Celebrating physical capabilities like strength, endurance, and health helps individuals foster a more practical appreciation for their bodies.

Eliminating Self-Objectification

This movement encourages people to view their bodies as vessels for experiencing life rather than objects to be judged or admired. This mindset can reduce the mental burden of constantly evaluating appearance.

Prioritizing Emotional Well-Being

Body neutrality supports the idea that how you feel emotionally matters more than fitting into societal standards. This shift prioritizes mental health over physical aesthetics.

How Body Neutrality Differs from Positivity

While groundbreaking in its early advocacy, body positivity often places an intense focus on appearance, albeit in a celebratory way. This can inadvertently pressure individuals to constantly feel good about their bodies.

In contrast, body neutrality acknowledges that it’s okay to have days when you don’t feel great about your appearance and shifts the focus to valuing yourself as a whole.

The Role of Media and Society

Media plays a significant role in shaping perceptions of body image. With growing advocacy for body neutrality, brands, and influencers are beginning to promote diverse narratives that prioritize individuality over unattainable beauty standards. Campaigns that feature real people with unfiltered experiences help dismantle the culture of perfection.

Practical Steps to Embrace Body Neutrality

Practice Mindful Self-Talk

Replace negative self-talk with neutral statements like, “My body allows me to do the things I enjoy.” This simple shift can help you focus on gratitude for your body’s capabilities rather than its appearance.

Engage in Joyful Movement

Focus on activities that make you feel good rather than exercising for appearance-based goals. Joyful movement, such as dancing, hiking, or yoga, fosters a positive relationship with your body by emphasizing enjoyment and health over aesthetics.

Curate Your Media Consumption

Follow accounts and platforms that promote body-neutral content. By engaging with diverse, realistic portrayals of bodies, you can cultivate a healthier perspective and reduce the influence of harmful beauty standards.

Building a Compassionate Future

Adopting body neutrality can create a ripple effect, fostering a culture where people are valued for their character and abilities rather than their looks. By shifting the focus from appearance to self-respect and functionality, this movement empowers individuals to live more authentically, free from societal pressures.

The body positivity movement has reshaped conversations about beauty standards, encouraging individuals to embrace and respect their own bodies. Originating from activism in the 1960s and gaining momentum through organizations like the National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance (NAAFA), this movement has empowered people of all sizes to challenge harmful stereotypes.

Where did the body positivity movement originate?

The fat rights movement began thanks to the efforts of radical fat activists, such as the Fat Underground and the London Fat Women’s Group, who sought to combat fat discrimination. These activists laid the foundation for mainstream fat activism, advocating for body acceptance and respect for marginalized bodies. Initially a small group, these advocates focused on creating their own spaces to challenge societal norms around body size and physical appearance.

In 1969, Bill Fabrey, a young engineer from New York, became one of the pivotal figures in early fat activism. Disturbed by the discrimination his fat wife, Joyce, faced, Fabrey was inspired by Lew Louderback’s 1967 article, “More People Should Be Fat,” which challenged societal biases against fat people. Motivated to take action, Fabrey contacted Louderback and, with his support, founded the NAAFA in 1969.

NAAFA became the first organization dedicated to addressing discrimination against overweight people and advocating for their rights. This milestone helped solidify the groundwork for the broader body positivity movement.

What was the body positivity movement in the 1960s?

The body positivity movement of the 1960s was primarily rooted in fat activism, a social and political movement advocating for the rights and acceptance of individuals with larger bodies. During this period, activists sought to challenge the pervasive discrimination, stigma, and negative stereotypes associated with higher weight.

As mentioned, one of the most notable initiatives of the 1960s was the formation of the NAAFA in 1969, originally established as the National Association to Aid Fat Americans. This organization worked to combat workplace discrimination, medical bias, and societal prejudice against fat people.

Additionally, grassroots groups like the Fat Underground emerged, advancing a more radical approach to fat liberation, emphasizing self-acceptance and rejecting the harmful narratives perpetuated by diet culture and beauty standards.

This early iteration of the body positivity movement laid the groundwork for today’s advocacy, focusing on respect for marginalized bodies and challenging the idea that one’s worth is tied to one’s physical look or ability to conform to societal norms.

The Role of Social Media in Fat Acceptance and the Movement

With the rise of social media platforms, the movement became a global phenomenon, reaching diverse communities and enabling widespread dialogue. Social media allowed fat activists and advocates for fat liberation to amplify their voices, bringing attention to issues like diet culture, low self-esteem, and the unrealistic beauty standards perpetuated by traditional media. 

On many a social media feed, the movement encouraged a body-positive mindset, fostering self-expression and promoting the inclusion of brown fat people and fat black individuals. It emphasizes that acceptance isn’t about losing weight but being confident in their appearance. 

Intersectionality and Diversity of Positive Body Image

Although white women initially dominated the visibility of the movement, the contributions of Black women and other marginalized groups have been instrumental in ensuring its inclusivity. Recognizing the diversity of experiences tied to body weight and societal pressures, advocates have worked to include perspectives that address the challenges of fat people across racial, cultural, and socioeconomic lines.

Impact on Culture and Media

The body positive movement has transformed industries by pushing for representation of diverse body sizes in media and advertising. Campaigns featuring plus-size models have challenged traditional and cultural standards of beauty, inspiring confidence in audiences worldwide.

By addressing the stigmas faced by fat people, the movement has also fueled discussions around mental health and the importance of embracing one’s body as it is, no matter what societal expectations dictate.

Challenges and Future Directions

Despite its successes, the movement continues to face challenges. Critics argue that some aspects of the movement have been co-opted by brands, diluting its original intent. Others highlight the need to address the systemic barriers that disproportionately affect marginalized bodies, such as healthcare discrimination against fat people. However, organizations like the NAAFA remain committed to advocating for the rights of all individuals, ensuring that the movement continues to inspire change.

The positivity movement has paved the way for broader acceptance of diverse bodies, fostering a culture of empathy, respect, and inclusion. By amplifying voices from all corners of society, it challenges norms, disrupts stigma, and redefines what it means to love and accept the human form.

FAQs

What’s your take on fat burning, detox drinks? Celebrities love them, nutritionists think they’re a sham; however, we’ve recently come across a new drink that has been very effective for Filipino consumers. Have you heard of Lean N Green Slimming Coffee? How about Green N Lean coffee? (for our friends who are frequent misspellers ?)

Here’s our Glow Lean review so that you can learn more about the product, as well as decide for yourself if the beverage is worth investing in.

About the Lean N Green Coffee

Simply put, this is a healthy alternative to your daily coffee. Lean N Green Slimming Coffee is an instant coffee beverage that will speed up your weight loss journey. It provides an energy boost while lowering your appetite, removing toxins in your digestive tract, and improving your metabolism while converting fat into energy.

Note: Lean N Green Slimming Coffee is NOT a substitute for a good diet and exercise. The coffee is most effective when paired with healthy lifestyle choices.

Other than the fact it is a healthy weight loss coffee, their biggest selling points are that the coffee is:

All natural, 100% Organic
Sugar-Free
Halal Certified
FDA Approved

What is inside Lean N Green Slimming Coffee?

Each box contains a quantity of 7 sachets of coffee, weighing 21 grams each for a total of 147 grams of product.

From net weight to nutritional information, the product packaging is actually really informative without being an eyesore. A lot of the time, people buy weight loss products because of marketing, and while salespeople and advertisements can be really persuasive, you should always do your research before buying anything that can directly impact your health.

Glow Lean Coffee Nutrition Facts

What’s impressive about Lean N Green’s packaging is that it lists all the appetite-suppressing, detoxifying, fat-burning ingredients in the front so that you are well aware of what you are consuming. This kind of full disclosure isn’t that common with weight loss drinks and supplements, which is something that consumers can appreciate.

As you can see in the picture above, the active ingredients are indicated in the front. If you turn it over, you’ll see the full list of ingredients. They are:

Green Coffee Bean Extract, Garcinia Cambogia, Psyllium Fiber Husk, L-carnitine, Green Tea Extract, Marine Collagen, Coffee Arabica, Nonfat Cream, Stevia, Maltodextrin, Silicon Dioxide, Carrageenan, Sucralose

If you’ve noticed, the last four ingredients have not been included in the front of the package. Those are common food additives, so nothing to worry about. Maltodextrin and Carrageenan are used to thicken liquids, while Silicon Dioxide is an anti-caking agent so the product doesn’t clump. Sucralose is a calorie-free sweetener, like Stevia.

FYI, ingredients are always listed in descending order, so in reality, there’s very little of the last four ingredients compared to the active ingredients.

What are Glow Lean Coffee’s benefits?

Other than its fat-burning, immune system, and weight loss benefits, Lean N Green claims to lower the risk of cancer, heart disease, stroke, blood pressure, diabetes, arthritis, depression, and much more.

Here are the specific benefits of each active ingredient:

Green Coffee Beans

• Filled with powerful antioxidants
• Protects heart health
• Contains Chlorogenic Acid that helps in converting fat and glucose into energy

Garcinia Cambogia

• Has high levels of Hydroxycitric Acid (HCA) which suppresses appetite
• Blocks fat production
• Reduces belly fat

Psyllium Fiber Husk

• Eliminates toxins in the digestive tract
• Reduces appetite
• Prevents constipation

L-carnitine

• Burns fat for energy

Green Tea

• High in antioxidants
• Protects brain health (manages stress, anxiety, and depression)
• Promotes heart health
• Increases the number of calories burned for better digestion
• Lowers blood sugar

Collagen

• Improves hair, nails, and skin
• Reduces cellulite and stretch marks
• Repairs joints
• Prevents sagging skin
  

Coffee Arabica

• Indigenous to Yemen
• Usually contains 12mg of caffeine per gram of bean
• Caffeine is well known to have a short-term increasing effect on your metabolic rate

Stevia

• Packed with antioxidants
• Less caffeine than coffee beans
• Reduces risk of diabetes
• Enhanced energy levels
• Improved focus and mental performance
• Zero calorie sweetener
• Lowers blood pressure
• Controls blood sugar and insulin levels

How to drink Lean N Green Coffee

Preparing Lean N Green Coffee is pretty straightforward like you would with most instant coffees, but there are a couple of additional instructions to ensure the beverage works without the risk of dehydration.

To make yourself a cup of Lean N Green Coffee, all you need to do is mix one sachet into a cup (150ml) of hot water. You can enjoy it hot or shaken with ice to make it into an iced coffee.

It’s best to drink the coffee 30 minutes before breakfast, followed by 1 to 2 glasses of water 5 minutes after you’ve finished your drink.

To store the coffee, keep the sachets in a dry area no warmer than 30°C.

Remember, Lean N Green Coffee should be part of a healthy diet, not replacing one. The drink is only effective if you’re eating well and regularly exercising.

Now for the taste.

The coffee has less caffeine, which means that Lean N Green doesn’t really have as much of the bitter taste that most coffees do. This is perfect for non-coffee drinkers, as well as coffee drinkers who drink coffee for energy and not necessarily for taste.

What are the side effects?

Advertisements claim that there are no side effects with Lean N Green Coffee, since it regulates bowel movement, meaning no constipation or LBM. Also, you won’t be experiencing any palpitations with the drink, as there is less caffeine.

Thus, unlike most detox teas and coffees, Lean N Green does NOT cause constipation, LBM, or palpitations.

While all of the above is more than what you can ask for in a weight loss drink, some people still might experience some side effects at the beginning, especially regular coffee drinkers who prefer a strong brew.

If you’re used to drinking really strong coffee from Starbucks or the sugar 3-in-1 instant packs or drinking several cups a day, then it might take a few days to adjust to the lowered caffeine level of Lean N Green.

On your first day, you might already feel some of the effects, especially the reduced appetite and cravings, but your energy levels might go down as your body is adjusting to the new coffee. One person might take a few days to adjust, while another individual might not have any trouble managing their energy at all. Everyone is different. Just be aware that this could happen to you, but you can always adjust by incorporating high-energy foods into your diet.

Lean N Green Coffee

Overall, the product stands up to scrutiny even as just a coffee to sip in the morning. Despite the lowered caffeine content, it really does seem effective in controlling your appetite and taking away cravings. Plus, it tastes pretty good!

Order today, and let us know in the comments below how the coffee works out for you!

The bra-free life isn’t for everyone, obviously. Women with bigger breasts still rely on bras for the simple fact that they offer support, giving them balance and taking a load off their back. However, ladies with small or flat chests can easily go braless without any risks to their health, and being braless is much more common than you think. Take it from Julia Baretto.

Without shame or embarrassment, the young star explains that she finds bras simply useless since she’s got nothing for them to hold on to, so what’s the point in putting herself through the pain of wearing a bra?

But before you go burning all your bras, there’s something that needs to be said. There’s a time and place for the sans brassiere look, so as uncomfortable as those breast contraptions can be, they’re needed in certain settings. Unless you’re properly covered up, conservative environments like places of worship or the office, or even meetings like job interviews where the first impressions are so crucial, wearing no bra is risky and totally inappropriate. Going braless is not just about feeling liberated or comfortable; it’s also about the where and when.

This post isn’t meant to encourage you to stop wearing bras. That choice is still yours. These are more so guidelines should you choose to go braless, so that you avoid any unwanted outcomes, like people actually noticing that you’re literally naked underneath your blouse.

Here are a few things to help you feel a little more confident when you’re bra-free in public

Tips for Not Wearing a Bra

Consider wearing prints and textures

One way to distract everyone from your braless ensemble is by wearing prints and textures. Prints like a Retro floral print loose long sleeve blouse will distract the eyes from your chest, while textures are good for disguising any evidence of nipples.

Stay away from light colored, sheer, thin fabrics

The last thing you want to do is show everyone that you’re not wearing a bra, unless of course that’s the kind of vibe you’re going for. The type of fabrics you want to go for need to be thicker and opaque, like an Off shoulder long sleeve blouse. You also need to check that your top isn’t see-through in any lighting, as the sunlight might make it really noticeable that you aren’t wearing anything underneath your cropped tee.

Layer up

If you’re really conscious of other people noticing you’re wearing one less undergarment than most women, then layer up! Cardigans and jackets are the perfect cover-ups, as well as great ways to add more style into your outfit. Scarves also serve that purpose, so you could wear silk scarves when it’s warmer out and wool ones when it’s colder.

When you feel like it’s too hot for layers and scarves, and you just want something IN CASE of a nipple emergency, an Oversized plaid shirt can be wrapped around your waist for that 90’s grunge look.

Another option you have is by wearing a cami or tank top as sort of an undershirt or an alternative for a bra.

Invest in nipple stickers

If you want no evidence of you not wearing a bra, the solution to this answer is nipple stickers or covers. They come in fun shapes, like flowers and hearts, and they’re always in that Band Aid-like skin tone color so they look like the blend seamlessly under a slightly sheer top.

Stop looking at your chest!

Naturally, you’re going to feel very aware that you don’t have a bra on, especially if you’re going out braless for the first time. It’s fine to check every now and then in case of a nip slip, but try your best not to constantly look down to see if your nipples are piercing through or not because the more you look down, the more attention you are drawing to your chest, making others focus on the lack of a bra. Never leave the house braless if you have that sort of mental discomfort, since chances are that you’re going to reflect that in your behavior in public.

Got any other tips to add on to our list? Leave them in the comments down below!

“Underwired bras are super comfy,” said no one ever.

All our lives, we have been told that we need to wear these kinds of bras not only to achieve the lift for an enhanced cleavage, but also to prevent premature sagging. For a while, underwired bras were our only viable option to get that chest and back support, despite any discomfort. Although now that we have a bunch of wire-free options, it begs me to wonder why a lot have women haven’t changed their bra shopping habits just yet.

At the end of a long day, the first thing a woman usually does once she gets home to get comfy is rip her bra off (unless she takes her shoes off first, then it’s the second thing). No matter if you were fitted properly for an underwire bra or not, there’s no denying how restrictive they can be. These bras can only be comfortable for a certain amount of time..

That probably isn’t enough for you to avoid the wire all together, but maybe our reasons below might convince you otherwise.

FYI, our list doesn’t include myths like, “underwire bras cause cancer” or any of those ridiculous claims related to breast health. We’re simply stating our reasons why it would be more comfortable for you to choose wire-free options.

So here’s why you should stop wearing underwired bras completely:

1. Your body is always changing

Throughout a woman’s life, she will go through so many changes in her body. Even as a adult, she will experience some transformations, whether she goes through weight gain/loss, has a baby, or simply because it’s that time of month again. Bras fit differently depending on where you are in your cycle.

Generally, the fit of underwired bras will change from the time you bought it to a year after, and they give very little room for growth or weight loss.

2. The wires are eventually going to poke through the fabric

Like any other item you have in your wardrobe, bras go through that inevitable wear and tear from all the stretching and washing. Unfortunately for the underwire variety, that means the wire might end up poking through the fabric, thus poking you either in between your boobs or at the side. Then you have to buy new bras, and the cycle is never ending.

3. A bra doesn’t need an underwire to be considered sexy

So often, we’ll go for the underwire to perk up our breasts because brands like Victoria’s Secret and La Senza are advertising bras that scoop the underboob and add a cup size. The truth is that bras don’t need an underwire to be a push-up bra. In fact, a Gorgeously Lace Bra and Panty Set is wire free and comes with foam bra inserts to give smaller chested ladies more help in the cleavage department.

And let’s not forget, bras don’t have to be push-up to be alluring. Bralettes, such as a Tabitha Tie-Front Bra, are unexpectedly seductive and prove that cleavage, or big boobs, for that matter, is not entirely necessary to feel sexy in a pair of intimates.

Something else you can wear in the place of an underwired bra is a bodysuit. A Full Body Suit can be worn with high waist jeans, with the option of covering up with a blazer or some other outer layer. But because it is a one-piece that requires you to strip completely every time you use the bathroom, it’s probably best that you limit using bodysuits as a substitute for underwired bras.

4. You can never go wrong with a sports bra

If you need an alternative to your basic underwired bra, why not just wear a sports bra instead? Nothing gives you the support like a bra that will hold the girls in place as you’re running errands over the weekend. And you don’t have to stick with generic black ones, as there are plenty of fun designs for sports bras that you can show off with under low-cut, backless or sheer items. You can also just wear it as a top with overalls or shortalls, rather than having to wear a tank with an additional bra.

5. There are also more wire-free options for bigger busts

It is definitely easier for women with smaller boobs to make the switch from underwire to wire-free, compared to those with a more sizable chest. While an A-cup lady might not feel the need for an underwired bra, someone with Double D’s might rely on the wire for the lift and support.

Believe it or not, there are loads of brands that have supportive bras for big boobs, using thicker cups, padding, and adjustable, sturdy straps so that you can manage coverage and lift. Some companies even have patented lift technology! Another concern that busty women tend to have with bras is that the selection available to them are often deemed matronly, but sexy and stylish designs do exist, from strappy sports bras to push-up. There are even bralettes for bigger cup sizes, though they’re definitely more suited as lounging around bras.

So what say you? Will you convert to the wire-free bra?

Are you feeling the heat, ladies? Manila’s weather forecast has been filled with lots of sun, clear skies, and rising temperatures. The scorching heat is making it difficult to slip into other than a tank and shorts, although realistically, how often can you get away with that outfit combination?

With summer just around the corner, we’re rummaging through our closets for our breeziest items to get survive season. Usually that comprises of flowy dresses and skirts, airy tops, and other lightweight clothing that don’t cling to your clammy skin due to humidity. One type of top that you definitely should be adding to that collection are crop tops. The less fabric you have to deal with in the hot climate, the better.

Obviously, crop tops are more of a weekend kind of deal and aren’t suited for corporate environments. But to get through all those outdoor summer events, from music festivals, night markets, daytime fairs and all that, you’ll need a variety of options at your helm to let your skin breathe (and possibly lessen body sweat), and we’re definitely here for the crop top.

With how little these tops are, a lot of ladies are still very hesitant about taking the risk for reasons related to modesty and body image. But modesty and crop tops can go hand in hand. It’s all about how you wear them.

Besides, not all midriffs are created equal. There are crops that could pass off as bra tops, and there are ones that end just below your bellybutton. Some crop tops even have that high-low cut so that you’re covering your back.

Still not convinced? Here are a few more reasons to wear crop tops this summer:

#1 Anyone can wear a crop top

Although the media continues to portray that only slim girls can wear things tiny tops, that is so far from the truth. What midriffs essentially do is that they draw more attention to your waist, not the lack of abs, giving you the curves that other clothing items fail to do. It’s up to you whether you show off your stomach with mid-waist jeans or cover up with high waist shorts and a kimono.

You don’t have to bare much of your belly if you don’t want to; it’s merely an option. The Mandala Print Halter Top looks great with a variety of waistlines. As mentioned in previous posts, just remember to wear your confidence with whatever ensemble you have on.

#2 It’s a perfect fit with a high waist silhouette

Even if you’ve got enviable, rock hard abs, you can’t deny that crop tops were made for the high waist look. Doesn’t matter if you opt for a midi skirt, skinny jeans or mom shorts, a crop top will look fabulous with just about any high waist silhouette (given that the separates don’t clash in colors or prints, of course).

Also, that sliver of skin peeking out between the top and bottom is just enough to add a touch of sexy to your getup, and it isn’t too much for crop tops that are more on the daring side, like our Bustier Crop Top or Sexy Cutout Spaghetti Strap Crop Top.

#3 It’s better than tucking in your top

The tucked-in look is cute and all, and very retro. But let’s face it: it builds up and traps heat, causing you to sweat more. You want to let your skin breathe, and avoid layering of fabrics, whenever possible.

And if you’re tucking in a loose top, your blouse ends up wrinkling from being squished into your bottoms. This might not be an issue for most, since the top can be thrown into the laundry basket after wearing it. However, the problem lies within the fabrics of your separates. For the most part, jeans are your safest bet, as the thick material tends to hide any extra fabric tucked underneath. Unfortunately, with something like a pencil or bodycon skirt, the wrinkled top is visible underneath, which is just as unflattering as it sounds. So whenever you can substitute a tucked in blouse for a nice little crop, do it.

Looking for a crop top alternative?

If you’re going for the athleisure vibe, consider switching your crop top with a sports bra. It’s great for sweat control, and it’s an excuse to wear them outside of the gym. Plus, sports bras are way more comfortable than a bra and crop top.

For more tips on styling crop tops, check out our post about Ashley Graham.

The media has very skewed perceptions of beauty. From long, straight hair to slim figures, it’s hard to be a confident girl or woman in this day and age. Arguably one of the most irritating of all Filipina beauty ideals is the idea of lighter or whiter skin.

It’s hard ignoring the billboards and commercials that associate “dark” with words like “dirty” and “ugly.” And it doesn’t help that it’s deeply-seated in our culture that skin tones mirror economic status. It sounds ridiculous to us now, but the way that the beauty industry goes on about achieving a fairer complexion, it’s obvious the shame from having dark skin still exists.

Despite the countless ads that promote whiter skin, remember this: you are beautiful just the way you are, whether you have light or dark skin. Your skin color shows off your heritage and there is no shame in that. And if you happen to get darker because you’ve spent your time in the sun, so what? A little tan never hurt anybody, and it’s time that we learned how to comfortable in our own skin (literally). Also, we really should be celebrating our ancestry by wearing clothes that highlight our skin tones, rather than lighten them.

How should us brown girls dress? It’s all about choosing the right colors to bring out your skin color, so let’s find out which ones suit us best.

1. Earth tones are great for casual outfits

Style experts across the web say that earthy tones are what works best with the Morena complexion, which does make sense. Browns and creams look great against darker skin, and greens at a nice pop of color into your ensemble. One shirt color for morena is olive green. It’s a great neutral to have in your wardrobe, and it looks awesome on pants, utility jackets, blouses, shorts, you name it. For an effortless olive green top that matches well with denim cutoffs and pleather leggings, check out our Loose Bat Sleeve Shirt.

2. There’s a gray tone for every Morena

According to Who What Wear, gray is another color that brown girls should have in their closets. For sisters on the darker side, light gray is the best color that suits morena skin. Medium skinned girls should go for dove gray, while lighter ladies should opt for charcoal gray.

3. Crazy colors like metallic and neon highlight medium skin

You might have heard that bright colors are no-no’s in clothing colors for morena skin. While metallic and neon hues tend to dull darken skin because of the contrast, medium skin tones strike that balance that neutralize the crazy colors.

Remember not to go overboard with either the metallics or neon. Unless it’s a pantsuit, the general rule of thumb is to limit the metallic or neon to one piece. It’s best practice to pair crazy colors with slightly muted hues. You can also add a matching accessory to streamline the outfit. For example, you could wear our Slim Business Blazer with a matching pink heel.

4. Navy blue is the perfect color for evening occasions

Darker colors tend to be more popular for nighttime soirees, but it holds especially true for brown girls. Some girls may be more conscious of dim lighting and aren’t sure how well colors they would wear in the daytime will fair in the evening. Navy blue is a safe bet for a morena specific skin tone, especially when it comes in a gradient as that is said to accentuate the figure. However, a basic navy dress like our Slim Long Sleeved Midi Dress will do.

Don’t limit yourself to navy blue, though. Feel free to experiment with other deep tones, such as a dark purple or burgundy.

5. When in doubt, go with black or white (or both!)

The two colors that you can always count on, no matter what your skin tone is, are black and white. For those that want to enhance their tans, or simply enrich their complexion, white will do the trick. Black and darker shades, on the other hand, have somewhat of a luminous effect to your complexion. People say it draws out the gold tone in your skin. Whether you agree with that last statement or not, you can’t argue against the fact that black is an absolute must for your wardrobe.

Got any tips for colors or style for your brown sisters? Feel free to add them in the comments below!

With a body that thousands of ladies can relate to, she continues to break grounds in plus-size fashion and the global industry at large. And come on, look at how gorgeous her pictures are on Instagram. If you ask me, we could all take a couple notes from her, especially in terms of showing off our tummies! Just look at her in her denim outfit below, with her curves perfectly accentuated. Does she even have a belly?

(INSTAGRAM // theashleygraham)

She clearly loves the way crop tops look on her (which is totally justified). In fact, she’s even turning her regular tops into midriffs, knotting them in the front to show some skin. She just screams confidence in her all-black airport OOTD in NYC.

(INSTAGRAM // theashleygraham)

A role model and fashion influencer, Ashley Graham is today’s style inspiration for midriffs. But as motivational as her Instagram is, we could all use a bit of guidance to brave the crop top in public. So how does one go about feeling comfortable in a stomach-baring top?

When in doubt, match your crop top with high waist bottoms.

If there’s one rule to remember when sporting a crop top, it’s this one. Whether they’re denim shorts, a midi skirt or leggings, the one fit you can rely on is the high waist. And you’ll find this to be true across all kinds of midriffs, long or short, loose or tight, long-sleeve or tube, printed or plain.

But high waist bottoms aren’t your only options.

It’s all about the proportions of the pieces you have on. Normally, something that sits higher on your waist is a safe bet when it comes to crop tops. However, when the top is a little longer, similar to our Sleeveless Printed Tank Top, it’s okay to coordinate it with something mid-rise. This does take a bit of courage to pull off, so if you aren’t totally there yet, you always have high waist jeans. Just take comfort in the fact that you can work with different fits when it comes to the midriff.

Find crop tops with more coverage.

Not ready to show it all? Thankfully, crop tops come in a myriad of styles and lengths. So for the newbies, start with midriffs that end around your belly bottom. That way, you only have a bit of skin peeking out. Depending on the design of the top, you might not even show any skin unless you raise your arms.

Always play to your curves.

If you have a bigger bust, don’t hide it! Highlight your sexy figure of yours with a fitted top. You can wear one with a higher neckline if you’re concerned about showing cleavage.

Don’t forget to style your outfit.

Several components are required to create a fabulous outfit, so don’t make it all about the crop top. Accessories, shoes, hair and makeup play just as big of a role as your clothes. Remember that your top is only one piece of the puzzle that is your ensemble.

Crop tops are amazing substitutes in classic outfits.

The white t-shirt is one of the most important wardrobe basics that you will find in literally every person’s closet. It matches with every piece you own, with one of the timeless pairings being the definitive white tee and blue jeans. But to be honest, the white t-shirt can be boring at times. A white crop tank like Ashley Graham’s is a chic alternative to the closet essential. Though she isn’t wearing blue jeans, you can see how her white midriff offers more style points than a plain white tee.

(INSTAGRAM // theashleygraham)

It may take some time before you’re ready to conquer the crop top. Body confidence is a struggle for us all. But if you ever need a bit of a boost, Ashley Graham is the perfect person to look up to.