Through my image I show how comfortable I am with myself. I like my body and I like feeling free and enjoying the way I look. For me, it's a way of expressing myself. It's my personal hallmark.
I present myself as a sensual, sexy, uninhibited, elegant, harmonious, comfortable person...
I know some people might see my image as that of a provocative person who is trying to get other people's attention and get them to like her. There's also an erroneous belief that people who look the way I do have it easier, which couldn't be further from the truth. I don't choose how I look to please other people, I do it for myself. Just because I like it. If I focused only on what other people think, I'd distance myself from my essence and what makes me unique.
I feel proud of my body and what it represents for me. Why do I have to hide, then? This is how I am. I can't hide what's inside of me. If I did, I would drown.
I like wearing clothes that make my body, my curves, my skin... look good. I like checking myself out and feeling good wearing clothes that I like. I dress for myself, but when I'm with someone else I also want that person to enjoy what they are seeing.
I know that when I'm out there in the world, I am sharing my image with everybody and people can see me and stare. That, however, is not an invitation to do anything and I'm definitely not going to let anybody disrespect me.
When I'm walking down the street and I see my reflection I fall in love with myself. I have also felt vulnerable at times, though. I still have prejudices I need to get rid of. Sometimes, fear keeps you from feeling confident and you have to remind yourself who you are and feel strong.
I know that changing my image to allow other people to stay in their comfort zone is not the solution, it would be a mistake.
Having the right to choose what you want to express through your image shouldn't be a privilege. We all should be able to do it without being judged, invalidate us or invade our space, whether in a public or private place.
Those of us who are able to choose should also be more aware of how lucky we are, as a lot of people don't have the same opportunities and options in life.