I’d describe myself as fairly style-conscious, I’m into skincare and beauty, health and well-being, and I know how to put together a polished outfit.
Sadly I’m coming to the realisation that I never feel as good - no matter how much effort I’ve put into the above - I NEVER feel as good as I feel when I’ve lost weight.
When I’ve lost weight, it doesn’t matter what I wear. I could be completely casual but still feel like I look amazing. When I’ve gained weight, it doesn’t matter what I wear. I could be in the best clothes / designer bag / jewellery but still feel scruffy.
I had a severe eating disorder in my teens and twenties, and I feel sad that it’s still with me in some way. For context, I’m late 30’s, and BMI fluctuates between 23-26 so nothing dramatic. Have a good job, family etc so I know there’s more to life.
Just feel sad really.
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Mrcpy · 18/03/2023 17:01
NeverDropYourMooncup · 18/03/2023 19:37
Rather than validating the mindset that drives ED, could we not consider that what the OP might have needed from her post was reassurance that she's beautiful, not encouragement to feel bad about herself and potentially relapse?
I'm sure, OP, that whilst you may feel that you looked better whilst in the full grip of your ED, to impartial observers, friends, relatives and anybody who cares for your physical and mental wellbeing, that you actually look absolutely wonderful, healthy and beautiful at your current, normal, healthy weight.
sixfoot · 18/03/2023 19:32
I agree with you, but there’s a limit!
I’m fine boned and best at around 18.5 bmi, when I lose too much weight I look haggard SO quickly. Because I’m tall it’s even worse! I saw a photo of myself after a bout of food poisoning and was shocked.
Schmutter · 18/03/2023 19:42
Rather than validating the mindset that drives ED, could we not consider that what the OP might have needed from her post was reassurance that she's beautiful, not encouragement to feel bad about herself and potentially relapse?
Save me from the disingenuous ‘you’re beautiful regardless’ trope. The OP made a measured post, stating a fact that is not extreme or indicative of a lingering ED.
The fact is, people look and feel better at a healthy weight.
Schmutter · 18/03/2023 19:42
Rather than validating the mindset that drives ED, could we not consider that what the OP might have needed from her post was reassurance that she's beautiful, not encouragement to feel bad about herself and potentially relapse?
Save me from the disingenuous ‘you’re beautiful regardless’ trope. The OP made a measured post, stating a fact that is not extreme or indicative of a lingering ED.
The fact is, people look and feel better at a healthy weight.
IndianSummer78 · 18/03/2023 17:42
I agree. Clothes are designed to look good on slim people. I've put on a few pounds and it's given me a small pot belly, nothing hangs 💯 right any more. Most clothes aren't designed for this shape and those that are aren't particularly fashionable.
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journeyofsanity · 18/03/2023 20:42
But how would clothes be designed to look good on a pot belly and lardy arse. I don't think it's the designers fault. Fact is, chunky bodies don't look elegant or graceful. Throughout modern times, nothing has ever looked good on chunky bodies. Everyone goes on about the 50s with the wide skirts and sweetheart necklines etc but they relied on minuscule waists.
I just find I look matronly now. I can look 'nice'. But I don't look elegant and casual clothes no longer make me look cool. Just a bit bla. Dammit.
IndianSummer78 · 18/03/2023 17:42
I agree. Clothes are designed to look good on slim people. I've put on a few pounds and it's given me a small pot belly, nothing hangs 💯 right any more. Most clothes aren't designed for this shape and those that are aren't particularly fashionable.
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