The many faces of the fitted blazer.

I've spent almost my entire life in a war with my body.  Constantly dieting, working out, running, and pretending I like it.  As I approach my 36th birthday I decided to make peace and end the war.  I will still try to eat healthy.  I will not deprive myself of yummy food... ever.  I will still work out.  I will not spend every precious spare moment at the gym.  I will love my body, no matter its shape, size, color, or jiggliness.  (Yes, even jiggliness.)

Hating your body is an American mindset for almost every woman, and a lot of men, today.  We've all heard the media controversy over photo shopping beautiful women to make an impossible body standard.  This isn't that blog.  This is my journey to rediscover and learn to love my body and how to dress it fashionably... on a budget.

I have always hated having my picture taken.  From my teen years when I was riddled with acne to my twenties when the college 30 hit, getting my picture taken had become something I avoided at any cost.  As I try to learn to love the skin I'm in, I must face this phobia.  My wonderful friends at HotShots Photography have graciously partnered with me to help show you my unique style and budding love affair with myself.

Amethyst dark skinny jeggings and pop art tank from Deb Clothing

Suede booties from Walmart

Fitted blazer from Lane Bryant

You won't see high fashion on this page.  I shop at Walmart, Target, Payless Shoes and other local stores that cater to the big girl.  The key is to purchase staples that every wardrobe needs and add pops of your personal style.  Like the blazer you see in these pictures, a lot of my staples were purchased many years ago from bargain bins and clearance racks.  

Printed tank from Target

Capri pants from J C Penney

Fitted blazer from Lane Bryant

Pumps from Payless Shoes

I am always shopping and looking for fun bargain clothing that won't break my budget.  If any piece of clothing or accessory cost more than $30, it was probably a gift from my mom.  I personally feel you shouldn't have to give up all sense of fashion because you can't afford what's on the runway.

Pleated blouse from Macy's

Slacks from Target

Pointed toe pumps from Payless Shoes

Fitted Blazer from Lane Bryant

Take a long look in the mirror and make peace with what you see.  It won't happen all at once.  You will stumble and fall.  But with time and persistence, you can love your body and dressing it.