Size 16 but don't feel I look it

[mamapio]

I have put on weight the past few years so have completely avoided dating. However, I recently joined OLD and have a date tomorrow night.

Absolutely terrified what he will think of me. I've always had body dysmorphia, am never able to have a clear idea of how big/small I am or if I'm ugly or pretty. I just view myself as fat and ugly no matter what size I am or what I do to my face.

I am 5 foot 3 and about 14 stone (maybe a bit under) and size 16 bottom and size 14 top.

Can you advise if I look my weight/size or much bigger? Am I fat? Is this something I should warn my date about?

I'm genuinely thinking about pulling out but then don't want to be alone forever

It's also not even very big. As seen here.

What people mean by "doesn't look size 16" is that OP doesn't look huge, ungainly and ugly. Because of course she doesn't. She looks lovely and shapely. But that's not what "size 16" means.

You look lovely. Go and enjoy that date!

(And put away your washing! 😂😂)

@Achwheesht your post brought tears to my eyes. You both sound brilliant

I'd say you look like a very well proportioned size 16. I really hate to comment on people's bodies but as you've asked. Do you run? Your legs look very toned. Muscles weigh more than fat and boobs weigh a lot too! I'm a very similar built and weight to you and I'm got a pair of jeans that's a size 12, 14, 16 and 18 and they all fit the same. Some are from the same shop but different cut. Don't let the number bog you down. There's nothing wrong with being size 16 and you look very pretty. Not that there's anything wrong with it, but I wouldn't think you're a traditional 'fat' if that makes sense. Just average, healthy. Tbh if someone is going to judge you on your body in this way, that's a great early sign it's not the one.

This too. The reality is, most of us are quite overweight and it's unlikely your date will rock up weighing within the healthy range. A healthy weight is quite a lot thinner than people imagine! OP there's nothing to worry about. If you feel like you'd want to lose some weight for the health benefits, go for it, but not for the date. Go have fun.