I have never been what you might call ‘busty’ and am in fact the opposite. From a young age I have had small breasts and it always bothered me. I remember a Year Six PE class, where I was being teased for hiding my breasts. My own friends would laugh and tell me that I didn’t need to hide my chest ‘because I was as flat as an ironing board’. It used to bother me immensely and when I saw my friends with larger breasts and curvier bodies I would get upset. I grew up in an era where being ‘slim’ and not ‘curvy’ would typecast me as a ‘boy’ instead of a ‘woman’ or girl. It really (excuse the pun) got on my tits when I was told that I was not ‘womanly’ enough to be considered as ‘feminine’. I thought to myself why is it that our genitalia defines how ‘womanly’ or not we are? Isn’t that just a means of segregating women into camps and making them feel as though they can never be attractive to the other sex?
For a long time I saw myself as unattractive; being told daily that you are not beautiful or curvy enough has an effect on your self esteem and mine dipped. I would be envious of anyone who had large boobs and would stand in front of the mirror naked, often in tears because I despised the way I looked. When I first started wearing a bra at the age of 13 my so called friends and peers laughed, told me I should stuff my bra to appear more feminine. Even guys would get in on the act and throw balls at my chest during PE because [and I quote] I wouldn’t be able to feel a thing as I have ‘no tits’. I tried to pretend I didn’t care but gradually the bullying about my physical appearance made me loathe the woman in the mirror. I had an unhealthy obsession with self-harm and not in the physical sense either. I never cut myself but I would list all the reasons why I was ‘never attractive’ enough and relish in fantasies where people would ridicule the way I looked. I didn’t know it at the time but I had [ and still do to a lesser extent] Body Dysmorphic Disorder, an anxiety disorder that causes you to have a distorted view of how you look. For me it would be particularly bad when I was being bullied because I believed every word that they said. I was too slim, too flat chested, didn’t have a bum and worst of all according to them was ‘ugly’.
I grew up thinking I was ugly and when I fell into fashion almost by accident something changed. I realized you didn’t need to be beautiful or a particular body shape to wear ‘stylish clothes’. Gradually over the years I began embracing my slim figure and realized that if we are all made the same, it would be a very boring world indeed. But still the destructive thoughts crept in and it was difficult to overcome this anxiety, especially when I met new people. Seeing other people with curvier bodies and larger chests made me feel anxious about my own body and I believed that they saw me in the same light. When I saw people whispering in corners it made me think that they were talking about me. When I saw people laugh I was convinced that they were laughing at me and when people looked at me I would never think that people were actually interested in me romantically. Male attention often makes me feel uncomfortable and even when they compliment me and are sincere I believe that they are lying. Its the paranoia talking but in the moment I feel anxious and believe they could not possibly ever see me as attractive.
Its taken a long time but largely due to fashion and writing I have learnt to deal with Body Dysmorphic Disorder. I no longer fixate on unhealthy fantasies concerning my image and have started wearing clothes that I could never wear five years ago. I hated drawing attention to my small chest and would avoid wearing low cut tops because I thought I could not wear them as I was not ‘busty enough’. But isn’t that the point of fashion? That fashion has no limits and no matter what shape or size you are you can wear whatever you want? I am sick and tired of being told that I can’t wear a certain dress because I am not curvy enough or to stuff my bra with socks because there is nothing there. In fact when I saw this plunge slit maxi dress from River Island my heart stopped; for the first time I would wear a dress without a bra and not give a flying f**k about people looking at my nipples. Sure I have small boobs but does it matter? If I had all the money in the world and was told to get a ‘boob job’ I wouldn’t do it. Do you know why? Because now, for the first time in 23 years, I feel comfortable in my own skin.
When someone commented on one of my Instagram pictures ‘small nipples’ with a laughing face I clapped back ‘ does my womanhood offend you’? Is it really that funny to make fun of someones chest size when I could retaliate with far harsher criticism? Oh I am sorry that I have small boobs but you don’t see me making fun of your small dick do you? But I digress, living with BDD often made it hard for me to go outside of my comfort zone and embrace clothing that would accentuate my petite features . Now though, thanks to brands like River Island I am happy and in fact proud that I have this body. Sure I might not be entirely comfortable with the way I look without makeup or still have days where I dislike my shape but for the most part I’m happy. I might not have perfect breasts or have a fuller figure but I know there is one thing that I do have and that is style.
Remember style doesn’t define you, you define style. If you have small boobs shout it from the rooftops. Have big boobs? Feel blessed, because remember no matter now tall or short, how thin or curvy you are no one is perfect and it is our imperfections that make us beautiful.
Are You Comfortable In Your Own Skin?
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Please note I am writing a post on ‘dealing with body dysmorphic disorder’ and would love submissions if this is something you have dealt with personally. Remember I am always here if you need someone to talk to, no matter what time of night it is. Truth be told I have 3-5 hours sleep a night and will most likely be awake even at four in the morning. You are not alone and neither am I, if you have BDD I would love to talk x
Shop The Look
Well, I had the exact opposite problem growing up, I was one of the two girls with very big boobs in my class. I was the first one in my class to have to wear a bra on the age of 11, I was always feeling embarassed, because I was quite petite and thin with big boobs. Even now, I get sometimes depressed, because I can’t wear some clothes I like – the dress you are wearing for example. But through the years I have tried to make piece with myself. Noone is perfect, not even the models! We just need to be reminded from time to time. 🙂 You look amazing and you are very beautiful, by the way, and I am not just saying it trying to be nice. I mean it!
I’m really comfortable in my own skin. I had to learn to love myself and shut down anyone who tried to make me feel less attractive because of my height, weight, or skin colour. You have no idea how many people would kill to look like you Ana.
I love this outfit especially the fur coat. I have a question, how do you get the bottom part that says shop the look? Is it a plug in?
Thats a great dress from River island. You have a great figure can’t believe people use to bully you about it…most people aspire to having a body like yours…….. Happy New Year!
You are beautiful just as you are. I understand it’s hard to overcome BDD, especially when bullying is involved. Kudos to you for bringing it to light and helping others identify this.
I am so sorry you have had to deal with people giving their ‘opinions’ on your body for so long. I had the opposite problem (I have always been big chested, from quite a young age!) and I had similar issues with people making comments and actually just grabbing my boobs like I was a piece of meat, it’s meant I’ve had a very complex relationship with my body and at times I’ve definitely felt like having a reduction as it felt like all people looked at was my chest! Like you I have grown to embrace my body and now don’t care what people think but it’s been difficult!
Good for you for posting this, it’s so inspiring and you look absolutely beautiful!
happy 2017 hun 🙂 xx
I’m the complete opposite. I have big boobs and i find them very uncomfortable and sometimes painful, especially when i go to my fitness classes. I love the dress.
Goodness, I can’t believe you were teased!!! You are so stunning inside and out, I bet those who teased you or said you had a “flat iron” are mega jealous now.
This dress looks magnificent on you, and NOT many people can look as stunning as you in this RI dress, doll! I am so glad you now know who you are and how GORGEOUS you are!!!!
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It can definitely be hard to compare yourself to how you think your body should be – I’m the opposite, I’m all boob and wish they were smaller sometimes. You look AMAZING in this outfit though, and the few negative comments clearly come from people with their own hangups who haven’t found a positive way to deal with them yet. You do you so well, and I love your confidence and bravery for sharing this <3
You look so lovely. And I have small boobs too. I’ve also learned to embrace them. They are what they are and I’m told it’s better to have small because big ones can hurt your back 😉
I have never liked my body, I have always had big boobs and was so happy a year ago when I lost weight they actually went down a size. It is such a shame that people get teased about their bodies, I do love you dress x
I had the opposite problem as I had boobs from the age of 10. It was so embarrassing when I was in primary school but I love them now. Us women are so hard on ourselves and the media does not help us to accept who we are, curves or no curves.
Body positivity is an adventure for any type of body, but posts like this make it so much easier for people out there who haven’t yet found their own voice. I’m a plus size girl in the other side of this battle – so thanks for sharing the other perspective.
I know you may not believe me however you truly are beautiful – you figure perfect, why? Because it’s YOURS and no one else has the right to comment on it negatively! You are very brave to speak so openly and honestly. You are so stylish!!!!
Em
Good for you! Glad you found yourself and are proud of yourself now! We all are dealing with something whether we want to admit it or not! Thanks for sharing your story!
Sweetheart you are not ugly, and I’m glad you can embrace what you have. In all honesty when you hit 40 you’ll be grateful cause while your well in doubt friends have saggy boobies yours will not be! My friend had perfect perky smallies and then she got implants, well she regrets it, unless you want to keep having them done, even implants tend to sag after a few years! Be happy and shake what you got!
wow someone said that to you on Instagram!?!? that’s insane. I grew up where everyone was trying to get very thin and envious of small everything. I think you look amazing!!! i’m glad you’ve used writing and fashion to grow and move past horrible people. It honestly shows a reflection of how unhappy those people are when they make comments like that to you, so don’t worry about them. They must have something going on in their heads where they do not like themselves for them to be mean like that. That’s what I’ve learned growing up. Show your confidence and tell them how you love your body and that its none of their business but yours! 🙂 <3 sending positive vibes
Thank you for sharing your story, you look beautiful! I’ve definitely struggled with body image as well and I think so many women will relate to your story and be inspired by your journey toward loving your body!
Absolutely amazing. So glad I finally took the time to hop onto your blog and read something! BDD is extremely serious, and your honesty about your experience with it is refreshing and just amazing. Self-love is a hard journey, especially in a world filled with photoshopped images of women that already only represent 2% of the population. Much love your way, and thank you for sharing!
Absolutely love your outlook on body image! More women need to hear this. Keep it up!
I hated my boobs when I was a teen too. Mine were average size but I wished they were smaller.
i’d say you look pretty fab lady! I am probably average and will be honest and say i’m not happy at the moment as I am carrying more weight than I am happy with BUT, three babies in less than years so I know it will take time to get back to a happy size.
Great post x
I had the same problem. I was a 28AA until I had children and hated my boobs or lack of them. It’s a part of our body we can’t help but be conscious of and compare to others and people can be very cruel. I’m sorry you’ve had to deal with that. I think you look beautiful!
I’m a plus size blogger with small boobs (the irony!) and I’ve finally realised that I don’t need to wear padded bras and pretend I have boobs, not having them is pretty awesome too
I remember as a teenage I was always the smallest in everything and then one day I grew taller (5’7 is still tall), grew boobs (32DDD) and had a little butt which am ok with. Like you said, you dont have to have it all to be fashionable or stylish, you define style. Great post
There is so much pressure on how we ‘should’ look. I count my blessings to have breasts at all – having worked with many breast cancer sufferers. Kaz x
I never realised this about River Island but how great is that! I definitely believe in all of the pressure to look good, I’m probably the most comfortable and happy with my body than I have ever been (however some pounds need to go this year!) Your photography in this post is really beautiful!
I’m with Rodanthi on this – growing up I’ve always had big boobs – the grass is always greener as they say! You look stunning in your outfit – if your boobs were my size, it just wouldn’t suit the elegance and sophistication of the look – you are great just the way you are!
You are so beautiful, it makes me sad when others are made to feel this way. I have small boobs and I love that they are smaller. I had HUGE boobs when I was pregnant and I really struggled with knowing how to dress them! I also love River Island, one of my favourites!
I’m really lucky to be content in my own skin – I’m fairly large chested and sometimes its difficult to get some styles to look right but a quick tut and I move onto another style. I’m very intrigued how you manage on so little sleep though (and still manage to look incredible!) Happy New Year to you.
You look stunning! I think jealousy plays a big part in most people’s mean comments. I had the opposite problem growing up, so I guess it’s always hard for women to feel comfortable in their own skin. Beautiful photos and wonderful attitude!
It is disgusting how people judge us by our body. I was also very flat chest when growing up and was constantly picked by my friends. But then I realised that they didn’t do it because I was flat chest but because they were comparing themselves with me and where they couldn’t compete they would start sabotaging my confidence by body shaming.
I am so glad you didn’t let them get into your head and turned out a beautiful and confident lady and that’s what matter my friend. Your dress and handbag are gorgeous.
I was teased from being 13 because I did have boobs and quite big ones at that. I still do and I’m happy with that!
I feel like everyone has their insecurities and sometimes I feel like it sucks to be me and I don’t feel confident how I look. It’s not an easy job to learn how to love yourself, no matter how you look. It should be something that should be taught repeatedly because it has such an importance. I never liked my acne and acne scars, I never liked how tall I am, I’m staying home sometimes just because I don’t feel like being in public surrounded by people who I think are always looking at me, even though that is not a true. These so much unimportant and little things that mean nothing are just in our heads, I hope everyone overcomes them as fast as possible, it just brings you down at a times, instead of being happy and confident.
AlI i can say is if they saw you now they’d be stunned, you look gorgeous and very feminine. These people are clearly small minded and of lower intelligence and it’s pointless wasting your time with those sorts. I know the cruel words can cut deeply and affect your own perception of yourself . I’m sorry you had to go through that but hope now you are surrounded by real friends x
I used to think I was ugly too. But slowly each day I am learning to embrace what God has given me and the more I take care of my body. The better I feel about it.
Your new dress rocks and I love that it helps with your confidence! BDD is definitely something that should be discussed more. I think many people have body image issues that they hide.
Loving ourselves is SO important. I have small boobs compared to my size so I always look a bit out of proportion but I don’t mind. I either wear a very padded bra or a normal one. Being comfortable in my own skin is what is 100% important xxxxxx
Thanks for sharing in such an honest way. People can be so cruel. Your outfit is fantastic. It really suit your figure.
This is such a powerful post. Being comfortable in your own skin does not come naturally for everyone and is an issue that needs to be addressed. You are beautiful and I’m so glad you’re blogging about your past, sharing it to the world and letting people know that they are not alone. Very brave of you.
You looks beautiful and the dress loos stunning on you. I believe in body positivity and self love.
Embrace and love yourself.
I am tired of people judging women based on their bodies and their face. It’s too much and it’s too toxic as well. I’m glad that you decided to love your body, you’re beautiful and smart and there’s nothing that could change that!
I don’t think anyone is happy with what they have growing up. I always wished my boobs were smaller! x
I was flat chested until my 30’s and breastfeeding children gave me the bust I had always dreamed of. I am not happty with my body though as I am overweight, but am working hard to loose some inches
I have more than my ample share and often have the same feelings as you but in reverse if that makes sense. I see some amazing lingerie but know I wont ever fit into it x
Beautiful gown, you look really elegant. So frickin pretty. xx
I had the exact problem, my chest was totally flat. I had a breast enlargement in 2006. I definitely don’t regret it but I do kind of miss my old boobs now. Sometimes it’s easier to dress a smaller chest. Jo x
It’s so awful that so many of us have faced bullying and teasing because of things we can’t change – like the way we look. I really struggled with my body when I was at university, I am not sure if it was an age thing, or being away from home for the first time but it really took it’s toll on my mental and physical health, I had to have regular visits to the on campus dr. I still have issues today with disordered eating among other things (nearly a decade later!) I am not sure I am ever going to be happy with my body, but I am getting there.
And also, can I just say. Wow Ana! That dress looks amazing on you.
I am at the other end of the spectrum, always battling with excess weight. Have endured a lot of bullying because of it. No more. I am happier in my skin than I ever was before and am glad you are too x
You are beautiful inside and out and don’t listen to other people said, When I was in High School I have a large boobs and I wish it’s smaller just like with my other classmate.
I so know how you feel. I too was bullied in school for how I looked and years later I am struggling with how I see myself. Thank you for this post.
The older I get the more comfortable I am in my own skin. You are a beautiful lady.
Good for you to overcome that negativity. Society kinda feeds into the whole idea that you need to have big boobs, especially when shirts and dresses are built for a 36C.
I don’t understand why people need to be so rude to tell someone they are ugly or such. There is no need for it! Don’t know how they could ever tell you that either but you are very beautiful and have a wonderful figure 🙂
You look amazing and your confidence shines through. I think as woen we are constantly battle against the stereotypes that the media tries to mould us into. One of the more positive things about social media is that it has allowed us a little freedom and slowly but surely we are standing up for ourselves and normality not a media defined image. We are all different and as a result we all suit different things and for the first time in a long time I feel that we a re slowly taking control and finding our own lights to shine under!
Wow, that dress is stunning on you! I’m the opposite. I have a hard time accepting my bustier chest. I think we should all love ourselves however we are and just be our best selves. As a woman, it’s hard. Hope you keep this confidence through the new year!
First off, you look incredible in that dress and whole outfit, absolutely beautiful. Secondly, I know exactly how you feel. I don’t want to go woe is me but I’ve literally had Dr’s turn around and say ‘ so you’re underweight, are you sure your not bulimic?’ I literally wanted to cry there and then. I felt so offended- And some people still don’t get why. Learning to dress correctly has really helped and also just taking into account that a lot of comments on how ‘slim’ you are is from jealousy! As long as you know your healthy, that’s what matters x
TheBrondeGirl
I have had a bit of experience with both sides of this, as I was a very late developer and was “flat as a board” through most of my teens. I had people tease by saying I should put some bandaids on those mosquito bites, etc. Then seemingly overnight I suddenly had quite large boobs and found myself on the other side of things. Either way, people should not be judging or commenting on the size of your body. It took me many years to become comfortable in my own skin, and I’m so glad you are now comfortable in your own skin.
its horrendous how people can leave such comments. you look absolutely stunning. whatever sized breasts shouldn’t matter. people need to get over it
oh my, I wish I could give insightful words but truly all I can think of and say is you really are beautiful. You have a body I would dream of! so you go girl, be you. be happy in 2017!
I am comfortable in my skin, but I know that others don’t like looking at me (I’m fat) and I guess so that they feel better about that, they make fun of me behind my back. I am saddened for those who think only those that look like them are worthy people.
I am now comfortable in my own skin but it’s taken 3 kids and lots of surgery to accept myself the way I am. I would love to have bigger boobs but hey you’ve got to be grateful for what you’ve got. At least they’ll never go saggy and I can sleep on my front. Let’s look at the positives 🙂
You are beautiful and I am sorry that you had to go through that growing up. I had the opposite growing up and was often the one who had “too” much. It is amazing how the things we go through growing up can affect us even as adults. I am working hard to help my daughter love her body no matter.
I love this post like me I struggle with certain low cut tops and dresses as have small books – I live in gel bras will have to check River Island out now
This is an amazing post and you look gorgeous in that dress. And what is t with women not being meant to have visible nipples – despite the fact that if we cover up we have “shelf boobs” or are “inappropriate” in a low cut top! 😂🙄
I loved reading this. I think we are in a society where people aim to bring us down no matter what we look like. It’s fab that you love your body your in now. I did not like mine and am learning to do the same but it’s never easy big, skinny, small or big chest.
I don’t believe anyone truly loves their body – head to toe. There is always at least one thing that will bother you. I hate my small boobs too, but have learnt some things make them not look as bad, and it’s all about embracing the good parts of your body. So many tops, busty women can’t wear! x
I’m so glad that fashion helped your BDD! It’s not done the same for me unfortunately 🙁 But I’ll get there one day too. Thanks for sharing!
I struggle with this same issue and I’m so happy to read this post. You look so stunning in that dress and your words have really inspired me! Thank you!
I think size doesn’t matter. As long as you’re comfortable in your own skin that’s what is counts. The dress is looks so gorgeous on you. Love the color!
This is worth reading, you will define the style not they style will define you. I’m glad that you overcome it. In fact having small boobs were great, you can wear and fit what you want and go out of style.
I have a close friend that could relate.
i am right there with you. I have never had big breasts, but I have learned to accept that and see the positives in it. My sister-in-law’s are huge and she is constantly complaining about her back hurting. I am sure that those things don’t help. That’s a positive in having small ones!
You look great! I think we always have parts of our body we don’t love – – I know I do but I try to embrace the parts I do love! Thanks for sharing
You are gorgeous! I’m glad you are comfortable in your body! And that dress looks killer on you!
Look at that amazing gown!!!!! You look like a beauty queen! Honestly, if I knew what I knew about boobs now, I would have been a lot happier at 12/13!
Awesome post. At 23 I contemplated a boob job to transform my small chest. I went to five different doctors for consults. But at the end of the day I couldn’t do it. I’m 37 now and have never regretted my decision.
I went through the same challenges as a young girl, teased and called iron board too. I have come to love my breasts and am very comfortable in them, they fit my body, and they are me.
You are beautiful and this was a brave and magnificent post!
Such a stunning dress. I absolutely love the style and the color! I think it would be perfect for a lot of events. To be honest I was fairly small chested up until college and I was often made fun of as well. However I was a competitive gymnast and stunted my growth some. Through college I guess you could say I bloomed and even more so after getting pregnant. I am comfortable in my own skin. Sure would I love to be a bit taller… cause I really hate having to get a stool to get stuff out of the top cabinets but hey if I was taller I wouldn’t be able to whine to my husband to get something where I end up getting his help in the kitchen or wherever I need it. See its a ploy!
Being comfortable in your own skin takes time though and I applaud you for getting there.
Oh you look really beautiful! No one is perfect so you can’t really compare what others have, right?
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That’s so good that a dress has made you feel happy in your own skin. I don’t feel happy in my skin so I am trying to do something about it x
This is such an honest and brave post – you write so well about this. You look bloody gorgeous so I’m not sure where those kids were coming from! Loving the attitude to embrace all shapes and sizes!
You look so femme in this pic. I love it.
Oh you are beautiful, Ana – inside & out. Society can be harsh but I know we’re stronger than what other people say we are or who they think we are. I admire your courage for being able to share your story with us and I hope you inspire a lot of women. Through the years, I’ve learned to shrug off unnecessary comments from people who do not matter.
PS. Your gown is just fab. You look like a princes.
I know so many people who could benefit from reading this, I love how empowered you are now! You are beautiful and I would kill to have a figure as great as yours. I’m so glad you are on the mend from BDO as it can be a crippling state to be in. Love the dress and LOVE this blog post.
Happy New Year Beautiful Lady!! What an inspirational post, well done for sharing your experiences. You are completely right, nobody is completely in love with every part of their body. We all have that one part of our bodies that we wished were bigger or smaller. I say dress for your body, dress the way that makes you comfortable and well own it!
Big Love,
Siobhan
You look stunning. I’m glad you’ve learned to embrace your beauty. It’s what makes us all unique!
Judging people by their body / looks / boobs is incredibly superficial – it took me a long time – once I hit 35 and probably became wiser that looks are really skin deep. I really feel comfortable in my skin and I think it makes me more confident towards people. I think you look great and love your styles.
It seems so hard that someone as gorgeous as you would have seen yourself as anything else! I’m glad you’ve come through and are dealing with your BDD. I empathise and sympathise on so many points. Look forward to reading more of your story X
I don’t mind my boobs, they are fairly big, however, I do sometimes wish they were smaller to wear some of the fashion around now a days! xo
Gorgeous dress you’ve chosen! I think current fashion trends favour those with smaller boobs as most busty women couldn’t go without wearing a bra, but that trendy right now!
You’re so brave for sharing your vulnerability with your readers. I think a lot of women struggle with not accepting their bodies – I know I had a similar experience for the exact opposite reasons. I was always too chesty and top heavy and was made fun of through college and still to this day. I struggle with it often and still contemplate a reduction. You are stunning and that dress looks killer on you. Keep slaying!
Beautiful dress! I too have small boobs. Growing up I used to want bigger boobs like all my friends. However, when I met my husband he told me more than a handful is a waste! Lol. Ok…that changed my mind! 🙂
Girl you are so so gorgeous. Growing up in got made fun of because I’m pretty thin. I used to think there was something wrong with me. No I’m 32 years old and I have 4 kids and I love that I’m thin. I actually like my personality. Personality is what makes a person beautiful. Keep doing what your doing. I love all your pictures. Your amazing.
We all have things about us that we wish we could change, but I find that the more confident and comfortable you are in your own skin, the less people both you!
I love the dress!
Ana, this tender warm pink suits you so much! You look like a Hollywood diva from old movies. So elegant! Happy New Year!!!
In my high school group, I was he one with no tits or booty. I never got the boobs until I had children. As for the booty- it’s okay. My husband loves it although I do often think of getting a breast reduction at times. To offset the booty.
you look great. everyone is a different size, and all is good. also, love the dress!
I have the same “problem” that you had. I am a very small chested girl. I have learned to love and embrace that and I am glad that you have too!
I love this! As the president of the Itty Bitty Titty Committee myself I’ve always been so self conscious about my breast size, this is such a great reminder today!
Some people can be so cruel! glad you like the dress, it looks amazing, river island have some brilliant clothes
Thank you so much for sharing so open and honestly… I wish I could give you a hug! People are so cruel. I had the opposite but same experience in a way (I developed extremely early) but people were just as awful. Boys were mean and girls were catty and awful.
You are a stone cold STUNNER! And your soul is beautiful too. Sending you love! Xx
Once I hit my 30’s I was comfortable.
But I would add that having large breast isn’t always a blessing either.
Love your own body, always. If no one is perfect, doesn’t that mean that we all are perfect in our own way.
Rocking that dress girl!
I never had boobs growing up but hit 21 and boom. Large boobs so I am opposite, but sometimes I hate them because they can be painful. I am an active girl too so it’s a real pain. I do suffer from a touch of BDD and have done mildly for years. I just try to appreciate what I do have but it is tough.
I think we should embrace all of who we are. Sure, some things can be improved but we should love self in whatever state we are in.
My mummy was taunted in school for the exact opposite – she was big busted. Glad you found confidence at last, my mummy is still trying to regain her body confidence after having me.
Interesting post. I have the opposite issue. I have huge boobs. My entire life. One of the only gals at school and now that I am working, one of the only ones at work. To make matters worse? I am pregnant and my two lady friends that I thought would never get any bigger just tripled in size. Now I am a triple DDD. Except for back pains right now caused by the pregnancy, and barely finding the right clothes to wear, I am happy with what I have. I make it work the best that I can.
I am so sorry you had to endure such horrible comments when it came to your body. I am even happier to see that you have overcome all the negative criticism. I have no clue why people have to be so mean.
You’re gorgeous! I can’t believe you were teased. I know some girls always used tissue paper to stuff their bras to make them look bigger. They should love themselves like you do now!
Happy New Year!
I think you look amazing as always, i have the opposite end of the scales and always have had since 13/14 – its a pain physically and mentally as people always talk to your chest!
I have the opposite issue and it is definitely no picnic. That dress looks just stunning on you and would be indecent on me. Haha!
Somedays, I’m comfortable in my own skin and somedays I’m totally not. But generally, I’m happy being me.
Unfortunately I’m not able to relate. If anything I’d like a reduction in the end.
I think you are absolutely gorgeous! I have had the opposite problem for my whole life, but people still made fun of me as a child just as they made fun of you. It’s wonderful that you have learned to own your look!
I think it’s great you’re writing about both Body Dysmorphic Disorder and anxiety. Both are issues that need attention and to be destigmatized. I definitely agree with you that fashion shouldn’t be limited by a person’s shape or size!
I hate it when people (especially the men) ruin a woman’s confidence by taking notice of her body. It doesn’t matter if you have big boobs or small ones because it’s your body and no one has the right to say anything against it. I’m glad you’re over all the insults thrown your way. You’re a lovely young woman.
People with small boobs get to wear the best clothes! I has the opposite problem growing up! Fun read!
This is such an inspiring read. I think you are absolutely gorgeous and make the most of the beauty you have. I’m so glad a fashion brand was able to help you embrace what you have. You are beautiful 🙂 x
It is a beautiful dress. We come in all shapes and sizes. I am trying to learn this year to not worry so much about what others think and say and just worry about myself.
Girl you look amazing in that look! I struggle with small boobs as well.
That’s just crazy!
You’ve shaped up to be a stunner! The bullies can laugh at themselves today
I love River Island! I think its an amazing thing when you accept yourself. I have big boobs and depending on the clothes I can feel uncomfortable lol.
Isaly Holland | http://www.memoriesbyisaly.com
You are gorgeous and big up to you now for standing up to bullies! Kids in school dont realise how much harm they cause to the other person by making fun of them! its horrible!
I have had BDD all my life. I still cannot grasp, despite how many people say, that my body is fine. I really think it comes down to your own perception and until you learn to love yourself that won’t change. I think you are stunning and I adore River Island clothes. I always find myself feeling so much more comfortable and confident when I am wearing clothes that hug me right. I can’t believe people have taken the time out to negatively comment, but I’m glad you retaliated so well. x
Thank you for being so honest and open, I find it so rare to come across another sufferer and I have the same mentality. It is so hard to overcome and learning to love yourself is one of lives biggest hurdles. I think you are beautiful too and have such a beautiful soul thank you xxx
I think you look amazing and you know your own style, which always flatters you so well.
As I get older, I become more comfortable in my skin. It didn’t help as a teenager that family used to make fun of my small stature. It is one thing that I want my daughter not to have any issues with.
This dress is beautiful- could totally be rocked no matter what size you are!
I used to be blessed in the chest, but lost weight and am now a member of the itty bitty titty committee- definitely has its pros and cons 🙂
Ana,
You must know that You Are ENOUGH, you are beautiful magnificent, a Unique being. One of a kind and that your cowardly ex-school mates can never take away. Now its time you fully embrace and believe it. You look absolutely gorgeous in the pictures above too!
Julie Syl
Girl, you are absolutely stunning and you are ROCKING that dress. Honestly…I wish conversations about chest size would just go away. As someone who “developed” pretty early in life, (I had boobs in 4th grade,) they’re overrated in my opinion. I’ve learned to be okay with them…but so many times I go shopping, I have to go up a sizes to fit the chest…as someone who is 5’2″ with an extremely short torso…going up a size in a shirt to fit the chest means things are too long and too big everywhere else. I guess all of that to say, the grass is always greener. I’m glad you’re finally accepting of the way you were created to be. 🙂 you’re beautiful, Ana!
I suspect puberty is difficult for pretty much everyone but I can relate to what you’re saying.
I had the opposite issue. It really sucks that no matter what we look like, so may of us ave insecurity issues that are linked directly to what society says is desirable. That needs to stop. You are gorgeous!
That furry jacket is everything! On to the boobs part. Big or small, boobs are boobs. I’ve had both and honestly it didn’t make a difference to me. Got to embrace whatever you are given.
I am so sorry to hear about you being bullied. I love your style so much! You look incredibly beautiful and this outfit suits you perfect! <3
Cheers, Eliza | http://www.fashion-confession.com
I hate the way the media portrays one body style as the “right” way to look. I say, embrace our differences. It sounds cliche, but we are all beautiful in our own special ways.
It always seems to be the case that we want what we don’t have, doesn’t it!? I’m sorry you had to face such awful bullying, but glad to hear you’re happier with the way you look now <3
Can I just say that you look incredible ALWAYS the photos you take on here are amazing and ai for one have never noticed any lack of boobage!!! There are so many expectations for women to live up to nowadays its an impossible task, we can’t olease everyone! And did you know that actually a lot of people find small breasted women much more feminine and attractive!
You are beautiful ! But, I also know we are our own worse critics. No matter what stage I am in life, or what size I am, I am always picking apart something. It has taken me a long time to get somewhat comfortable in my own skin and work on getting fit and strong instead of worrying about numbers on the scale.
I had the opposite problem, I was a DD cup when I was 11 and was teased mercilessly. I am now also finally happy in my skin, and I am so happy that you feel much better about yourself too xx
This looks like a really fun place for pictures. The dress looks stunning on you!
I had anorexia and BDD for a long time. I completely empathize with you when you say that you feel like people are talking about you in the corner. I still feel like that and all though I am now ‘curvy’ I still have a lot of food and body image issues.
Thank you for such an open and honest post, I know that it was really hard to write.
For what it’s worth, I think that you look very feminine and gorgeous.
I can so relate! Ive been small chested my entire life. And for a plus size girl it’s almost unheard of and pretty awkward looking! No tops fit me because plus size shirts literally sag in the chest area. I can’t find bras that fit. Anywhere. I live in sports bras almost 24/7. Everyone told me that they would fill out when I got pregnant. HA! They were wrong! Boobs never got bigger, couldn’t even breastfeed. Turns out I have kind of a rare condition where my boobs did not grow properly in puberty. So not only did i hate them for the way they looked but now i hate them because they tried to starve my son to death.
So just know you are not alone!
As a counselor, I applaud you for tackling this issue and for being so transparent! It’s so very unfortunate that society has to make us feel less than for how our body looks. I once read somewhere that around 90% of women are unhappy with their bodies and this has grown over the years due to media and false unrealistic expectations. Please keep up the great work of building awareness! And just being you. 🙂 You are beautiful!
Oh man I’m with a few of the girls that have already commented. I’ve always had the opposite problem! Then I had three kids… Ha. I love the idea of using fashion to accentuate in a modest way!
I’ve been on the opposite end of the spectrum my entire life. I’ve had dreams of barely filling an A cup. That would be my absolute dream! I think you are gorgeous and “womanly” just the way you are <3.
Girl you are STUNNING! Eff anyone who says otherwise. Society has a way of making us feel we aren’t enough. Standards of beauty change, but people need to realize that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes. Thank you for a wonderful post.
I don’t think we are ever happy with our shape. I have had big boobs my whole life and I hate them. I hate the fact I never feel elegant, or fashion because of my bust. You wear clothes beautifully, I envy you.
I’m at the other end of the scale and at times is almost impossible to find tops to fit. Work with what you’ve got i think!
I hate how cruel people can be!!! Good for you for overcoming all of that!!! I think you look fabulous 🙂
I’m so sick of beauty standards and ideal figures, that’s should be left in the past. I think it’s awesome that you’ve decided to accept your body and to love it. Because you’re beautiful and no one can take that from you.
I am the opposite as I have rather large boobs, but this can be just as problematic.
I felt like this when I was younger. I was always bullied in school for having pancake boobs! 2 kids later I don’t care lol. This dress is great and very flattering x
It’s awful how cruel people can be, especially teenages. I guess most of us is not so comfortable with our bodies. No one is perfect. i still need to learn how to be more gentle for myself. Nowadays when getting older it doesn’t matter so much how I look, but earlier it was a huge issue for me and I found myself so ugly.
I always had the total opposite problem by having a D cup by the time I reached middle school & DDD by the time I finished high school. I always hated them but wouldn’t have really wanted the opposite either. I got a breast reduction when I was 18 to a C and now i’m back up to a DD I guess there’s just no getting rid of them. Point of that little rant is I guess it’s hard to like your body either way, I’m glad you embrassed what you’ve got, I could really learn from your example.
You look great! Having the opposite problem there are so many things I can’t wear!
It’s such a shame that you’ve grown up with so much bullying! You look beautiful and I’m pleased that you’ve managed to feel comfortable and stylish with brands you enjoy! 🙂
I didn’t think I was particularly busty until the day I had to buy underwear from the bigger sized section. I still don’t feel particularly comfortable in my skin and it’s a shame. All women should be proud of how they look and I’m so happy you have found that
I totally understand love I some times struggle with my own self-esteem, there are days that I feel confident and beautiful and then there are days when I don’t feel that confident. I sometimes blame it on hormones lol.. but sometimes I feel social media puts you a bit on edge on how a woman should be or look like. 90% of the time I am happy the way I am. I am not supper skinny or chubby either but I have to love myself just the way I am. I always try to be positive and brave get out of my comfort zone sometimes and wear something fun. You are beautiful and that dress looks stunning on you.
What a great post- thank you for being so honest. I’m pleased you are starting to feel better about yourself and can share your story to help other people.
Kids can be so cruel! I’ve felt this way at times growing up because of how dark my skin is. It took until I was about 20 for me to fully embrace it.
I’ve always been uncomfortable about my small boobs, but now I’m a mum I don’t worry about it so much, well they’ve now been drained lol! But you look fabulous in that dress