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Tuesday, August 14, 2012

Breaking The Silence: A Response To "Bloggers & Body Image"



Last Friday at around 8PM when I saw this post on IFB about "Bloggers & Body Image" pop up on my Facebook timeline (c/o of Kelly from Masque Mag), I winced and clicked, hoping for the best but dreading the worst. Based on just the Facebook comments, I knew it was going to be a controversial article before even opening it. As an overview, the premise of the article is to examine and provide commentary on the plight of non-traditional or niche fashion bloggers. The opinions expressed hinted at the idea that the most successful fashion bloggers are not just successful because they fit within the fashion industry's ideals (non-minority/young/skinny/modelesque/all of the above) but that they're also successful because their blogs just have better quality overall. They have discipline, they post higher quality images and they post more consistently.

Gabi Gregg & Myself 
Within the plus-size blogging community, for example, the author essentially argued that aside from bloggers like Gabi Gregg and Nicolette Mason (both of whom I love to pieces, by the way) there aren't enough high quality bloggers with curves or other non-traditional qualities for brands to take notice of anyway. After reading it at least three times and combing through some of the commentary surrounding the issue, I proceeded to write an honest and emotional response. I poured out my heart in the comments section. And almost immediately after writing it, I erased it.

As someone who has been very vocal about my issue with body image and the role it plays in social promotion within the fashion industry - both online and offline (if you haven't yet, please read my Why Don't You Love Me: An Ode To Outfit Posts article), it would only seem natural for me to have an immediate and honest response to this issue. I saw fellow bloggers like Marie Denee of The Curvy Fashionista, jump in with poignant critique in the comments section. I saw offshoot posts in defense of quality bloggers with curves over at Shamepuff. Up until today, I've even seen video responses from bloggers like Comme Coco voicing their opinions and frustrations. Still I refused to respond. I've kept quiet for the past few days, not because I was scared or "over it", or because I have any allegiances to IFB (though I am an occasional contributor for them and I do really enjoy it), but because I didn't think voicing my opinion would even make a difference. Sad, right? Sad that I'm at the awkward intersection of frustration and nonchalance with this industry, so much that I don't think my commentary or even writing this post your reading right now, matters in the grand scheme.

This past weekend, I was interviewed by a publication about my opinions on the plight of minority fashion hopefuls and our lack of representation in the industry. I was open and honest in my dialogue about it.  Over and over, I keep seeing and hearing these themes about the lack of diversity in fashion and the inherent void it leaves in the hearts of talented people who never really get a chance because they're not enough. Never enough.

Estee Lauder spokesbeauties: Joan Smalls, Constance Jablonski, Liu Wen
From the time I decided I wanted to pursue a career in the fashion industry, I've been faced with some hard, grim and painful realities. In my attempt to make my personal dreams come true, I've been slapped in the face with the truth about what it takes to make it to the height of true success - not just in the digital realm but within the industry as a whole. I've seen fashion/beauty editor friends who can't advance any further in their careers at mainstream publications because of glass ceilings, and so they're essentially forced to work for more "diverse" publications in order to be promoted and appreciated. I've seen bloggers with all the potential in the world, the most amazing style, and personalities to boot consistently overlooked by the very brands they promote on a daily basis. I've seen interns passed over for full-time opportunities because they weren't the right "fit". I've seen stylists with immense talent and drive and creativity, relegated to working on projects that never see the light of day. It's been a real cup of reali-tea for me.

Refinery 29 recently released an article "Obviously People Judge Your Picture Online..." citing an infographic from HSN Beauty about the correlation between beauty, images and social promotion. The results weren't surprising. The resounding theme includes the idea that people who are pretty or have more compelling images are more likely to get jobs, brand opportunities, endorsements, and be "liked" or "searched for" overall. Seeing this put quite a few ideas in perspective for me.

Coming from a background of nurturing and encouragement, and growing up in a household where I was told I could do anything I put my mind to, this environment came as a shocker. Nobody told me that I couldn't open doors for myself. That someone else had to open them for me. And that perfect proportions or straight hair would open the doors much wider, so that I could actually fit into their narrow openings. And the older and wiser I get, the more I begin to question if my opinion really matters when things are so slow to change. Like a tree falling in an empty forest, if nobody hears these cries, do they really exist? You decide.

I want your opinion. Is there an eternal cap on success for non-traiditonal beauties attempting to work in this industry? If my hair isn't stick straight and neither is my body, am I eternally doomed to being ignored by major labels and being offered opportunities? Furthermore, is it even worth taking about?
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70 comments:

  1. Loved this post to pieces, I think this is my first time actually VISITING and your righting style is amazing. Secondly - I think the author of the post (from what you've said I haven't read it) did not do their research at all. As a non-fashion blogger and one who doesn't seem to "know" all of the large ones out there, I follow Gabi yes, but also Chastity Garner, Naturally Fashionable, and some other very beautiful "non-traditional" sized ladies. I feel as if as a hair blogger, I can off hand name a handful then it is not lack of plus sized bloggers...it is lack of notice and acknowledgement. As has always been the case within the fashion world.

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    1. Thanks for visiting my site for the first time Ebony! And I agree with all the bloggers you listed above, non-traditional beauties who go unnoticed by the masses.

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  2. So glad this is being talked about. I see so many minorities that have GREAT blogs (i.e. YOURS being one of them) that are not recognized by major brands like others are. I figure if we just continue to post good content then eventually we too will have the same success if not even greater. Can't give up can we? Take care, and keep up the great work girl! Love your blog! :)

    Amberly
    asliceofglam.com

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    1. Thanks for this response Amberly! Totally agree, as frustrated as I get, silence isn't the best option.

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  3. I love this piece and love that you're very vocal on the subject matter. I have always wonder why size really matters or being pretty. That can all change in a blink of an eye. The substance that is provided and true content that your readers can relate to. I truly dont know size when someone has great style. It doesnt matter he and or she rocked the look and had it going on! Thank you for speaking up and being you 24/7/365

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  4. You, my darling, are one beautiful soul. Thank you for speaking out and I hope that next time, you don't delete it. Who cares if it doesn't make a difference to them or change what/who they post about. I simply think it's about your voice to OTHERS. To our readers, to the ones who want true, honest opinions.

    As I've learned, people can see through the bullshit.
    xx

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    1. That's a fact Christina! Honesty is always the best policy. But sometimes it take an extra nudge to be loud when you'd rather be silent. Thanks for the encouragement :)

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  5. First of all thank you so much for this post because this definitely needs to be discussed. I have been blogging a little over 3 years and while I am definitely a "work in process" case I do believe there is a cap on the success for some attempting to work in the fashion/beauty industry. I see it every day and all around me. The good thing about this is that by talking about we can possibly change this. I don't think we will forever be ignored by the industry but I do think it's going to take a fight to change things and I for one am willing to fight!

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  6. thank you so much for this post and for linking my video to it. I feel so hurt by IFB and I am not even sure why. Every day I do my best in this industry as a blogger and I am constantly overlooked for things because of the way I look. It cannot be about my posts because I dont see a huge difference between my pictures and others who are getting promoted. Regardless I will never give up because fashion is what makes me happy. But I can honestly say that I was truly HURT by teh article and MORE so hurt by the owner's poor attempts at defending it. I know I will NO longer support IFB.
    Jen
    www.commecoco.com

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    1. J, I know how it feels. As much as I love sites like IFB, they're not always going to share our sentiments and at times in voicing their opinions, they offend though I honestly believe that wasn't their intention at all. It just speaks to the need for us all to be more aware and to be careful of how we frame these scenarios. Thanks for your honest video post about it!

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    2. I no longer support IFB. It's clear they don't support me with their views and shoddy attempts at *clarification* of their opinions

      The fact that they heavily edited the original post says it all. Any other communities you guys can recommend instead of IFB?

      Delete
  7. Thank you for your open and honest post. This seriously needs to be addressed and I appreciate you for this. You know, when I did leave those words, I was so disheartened and saddened, as you too, have ties and love for IFB and was hesitant to stand or speak up and out about this...

    Thank you for being open, honest, and real with your thoughts on an issue that many bloggers hardly ever address... I appreciate you for this!

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    1. You inspired me Marie! I wasn't going to say anything, honestly, because I was just frustrated. But after reading your comments it all started to marinate and so I thank YOU for putting yourself out there and setting the example.

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  8. Ok, here's my second attempt to comment :-)

    I must have missed this IFB post during my weekend road trip, but I'd like to think that there isn't a cap for individuals don't don't fit mainstream beauty norms in the fashion industry, but in 2012, it certainly appears that way. Whenever I see pieces written about quality images in blogging, I often think "What makes these images quality?" I am often overwhelmingly in awe at the outfits the bloggers that are considered mainstream and popular, put together. I love the feeling of going to a blog and having a slight gasp because the outfit she is wearing is SO fabulous, even if it's not my style, and the truth is, I often have this reaction to blogs written by people who are overwhelmingly overlooked by brands, media, and blogging "communities." There are so many awesome bloggers, stylists, editors, directors, etc. out there that the fashion industry is missing out on because of their ethnicity, body shape, hair texture, eye color, etc, which is slowly making the fashion industry a bore for me. I just don't get as excited about magazines, for example, as I used to.

    I used to attempt to support IFB, but I have often felt like they didn't "represent people that looked like me, whether it be in their list, Links a la Mode, or articles, but this was icing on the cake. I don't think going in and trying to rectify the situation with an update was the answer, as what someone often says is what they truly mean. Nonetheless, I thank you for speaking on the issue, and I hope others continue to speak on image in the fashion industry, regardless of whether it changes or not.

    True style means wearing what you want and not caring what others think, so I hope that those stylish bloggers, editors, stylists will continue to share with the world and making their own path, even if mainstream does not give us the props we are due.

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    1. Thank you so much for re-posting this comment! I dunno how the first one got lost, but girl we needed to hear this. You said so much here, I'm not even going to reiterate but I will give you *3 snaps in a Z formation*

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  9. I completely understand what you mean when you say does voicing your opinion matter because what will it change.. I feel the same exact way. I love bloggers like you because like me you dont fit this mold that sometimes is projected onto us. Does it bother me, absolutely especially because Im confident in myself, or I feel you and other bloggers are amazing yet not receiving the same kind of recondition as others that quite frankly all look alike. Thank you so much for making this post because as uncomfortable as it maybe we should still be heard and understand and hopefully this is one step in the direction of change.

    Editor & Chic

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    1. Thanks for expressing yourself Tima! And yes, this is definitely one step closer, if anything towards encouraging open and honest conversation about it.

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  10. This is an amazing post and I'm so glad you decided to address this issue. Often times I feel that we are not represented on sites like IFB because we might not fit a certain mold. Thank you, thank you, thank you Christina!!!

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    1. Thanks for commenting Caprece! I'm glad I decided to address it as well. You really never know who feels the same as you on the internet until they leave a comment.

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  11. I really enjoyed reading your view and sadly I completely agree with you. Unfortunately, the industry is all messed up. To put it in nicer words. But you know what for me, it's more motivation. Instead of working for someone lets make our own companies, lets become these major labels, lets give those who we see have talent, opportunities. Lets show them that you don't have to be stick thin, have straight hair, curly hair...whatever. We have to unite and prove them completely wrong. Thank you so much for sharing!

    I love your blog and continue to do what you do!

    IvonneStacy
    www.IvonneStacyStyle.com

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  12. I have no words. You've spoken my heart... you're completely in tune with our reality and I applaud your bravery.

    I love you.

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    1. Love you too Jessie! This here was therapy for me, in so many ways...it will be for you too when your article is finished :)

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  13. loved this post! So sad to see that an industry that seems to promote finding and having new fresh and groundbreaking talent, still seem to be in a little bubble of their own.

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  14. I did the same thing as you after reading the edited version after seeing the post on Shame Puff. I wrote a long and spirited response, and then, defeated, I deleted it. I think it was at that moment I decided I was done with IFB. I unfollowed them, took them off my feed. They are a good resource, but enough is enough. And now there's claims of plagiarism that I just saw on GetOffMyInternets--what's next? Seriously.

    I don't know quite how to express how that post made me feel except to realize that their writers are ignorant and I am fed up. I still need some more time before making an appropriate response aside from, "I'm done with IFB."

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  15. Lovely post, Christina! So funny, I was just talking about this with Marie Denee last night. The industry is tough as nails. Getting recognition from my peers is just starting to happen, but brands? Fuggedaboutit. Fashion is a particular industry, one where it's almost ok to have Jim Crow era rules about acceptance, advancement. It is one of the last bastions where it's perfectly ok to be 100% racist, sizeist, ageist, classist, etc. I'm so happy every day that I'm able to share my passion via an online medium. I think IFB isn't completely blind to niche markets, but then again, perhaps they might need a tap on the shoulder to remember that hey, we're here, we're influential, we matter. And even if we don't get recognition from brands or the industry as a whole, I can tell from the comments my readers leave and the kind words people send me via e-mail, that we're making a difference. And as long as we do the best we can do, every day, that's all that really matters.
    Also: IFB, etc can't contest real numbers, traffic, etc. There is lots of potential online, there are no more gatekeepers, we determine our own trajectory. Let's work, ladies! xoxo

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    1. Claire thank you for taking the time to comment on this issue. As a veteran in the blog world as well as the offline fashion industry, you know how many times we've had this conversation in private when it needs to be more public. People like you definitely give us hope that there is progress being made. Thanks so much for the encouragement and keep setting an example - we need it!

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  16. :le sigh: The countless conversations in passing, at an event, on the sidewalk of a bustling NYC corner all amount to your post. Thank you for being brave enough to eloquently voice your experience as it is mirrored by many of us..and not just in fashion, but in any industry where marketing lacks diversity.
    We get to create our own force and strut our way in. No apologies, no regrets.

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    1. That's a really great point Yoli. Though I focused primarily on the fashion/beauty industries, it happens in tons of others. It starts with the conversation.

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  17. Such a wonderfully written post! Being another "non-traditional" blogger with curves & not-so-straight hair, I absolutely agree that the industry as a whole is a stickler for a certain image and if you don't fit that image, you won't be noticed. I've beaten myself up a million and one times, questioning why I even want to be apart of an industry like fashion and why for one minute I thought I could succeed in it, because of all of the barriers we face. But, growing up in a similar household with the most supporting parents and family in the world, having an unfaltering faith and confidence in my ability, I just came to the conclusion that I won't allow the "industry" to determine my success or not. We can't let ANYONE determine our success, we must make our own way. Claire from The Fashion Bomb who commented as well is a prime example that we can find and maintain success by pursuing our hearts desires, solely with the right amount of passion.

    In response to your last question, this issue is worth discussing, is worth fighting for, is worth pursuing because we owe it to ourselves and those who follow us to initiate some sort of change.

    We can do it! xx

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  18. This post was everything to me. Because of all the reasons and comments mentioned above I go abovr and beyond to connect with bloggers like me. Such as Style Bloggers of Color, BLM(bloggers like me) and the up and coming Divalicious Media. These are support blogs/organizations that are looking to present ourselves to brands with the strength of numbers. The brands and affiliates need to know we are not a niche market. We are a large part on the cnsumer base that is demanding to stop being ignored. Lets build together. Lets knock down their doors with numbers! I apologize if there are any grammatical errors. Im posting from a my cell phone.

    www.lovelicioustoy.com

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  19. I have seen a lot that goes down in the blogging community, and yes certain publications and brands are drawn to certain bloggers. I have come across many different bloggers who I believe are successful, but most don't show up on the front of many online publications. All I can say is...Be your biggest advocate and PR person. I love my blog. I love what it represents and it is growing. There is NO such thing as a glass ceiling for me and I make my own opportunities. IFB is a great site with a wealth of info. I am sure they are still growing and learning, hopefully. I hope to see more diversity in their featured bloggers in the future. If not their are other sites that showcase diverse bloggers and beauties.

    www.thefabbdistrict.com

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  20. I love the passion displayed in your comment on how we as people are preceived. My grandmother used to say to me that if you do not stand for something you will fall for anything. So I appreciate you taking a stand. Please realize that "YES" your voice matters. Maybe not to you but it does to others like me who follow your blog faithfully. Eventually those who need to hear what you and the rest of us have to say about this sort of discrimination will be heard. If our fourfathers had given up hope on their voices being heard when it came to equality among race where would we be today. So use the avenues you have access to to "STAND". I do want to say that even though man or mankind views our apperance and judges based on that, it is still not he nor she that elevates or promotes us. According to the word in Revelation 3:7 "What he opens no one can shut, and what he shuts no one can open". So know that whatever it is that belongs to you, you will surely receive it according to the word.

    Again thanks for being a light!

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  21. I am so happy you chose to voice your opinion on this subject because it does matter every little bit matters, every post on this situation and lack of diversity matters it might not be today but sooner than later we will all be heard if we stay at it, determination will pay off giving up never gets anyone anywhere but it can't hurt to try!

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  22. Like you i litrally poured my heart out into 3 versions of a comment for IFB, I didn't post it though. I was upset, disappointed, and still have some feelings of "i'm not surprised". I too grew up in a house where I wasn't told that I couldn't do certain things. I look at myself, and I look at the "top tier" blogs and I know that I am just as good as they are. I think the article on IFB for me was just eye opening for the simple fact that the terms she used where so offensive. She defended the whole article, saying that people missed the point. No we didn't miss the point, because she is one of those media outlets that are totally clueless to the whole different world of blogging outside of what she called "blonde-pretty-thin" or whatever. I'm not blonde, i'm not thin is what i thought to myself, and here she is essentially co-signing to the notion with her wording. I don't think anybody missed the point, she to me is part of the problem. When you look on IFB, she caters to kissing up to a certain type of blogger. When i first joined IFB I was excited, I think intitally I found more of the blogging world through that site, but I never felt like i was in a certain tier. IFB barely shines the light on these "non-traditional" bloggers, to claim that there aren't any out there we know different, we know there are handfuls of bloggers on color, curves and much more out there. I have3000 plus post to go through on bloglovin. I hope this gives other bloggers who fit this "title" awareness that we all start to support the hell out of each other, and comment like crazy. I don't know I just feel like that could make the world of a different just in terms of support and showing brands, that hey there is a huge fanbase out there for these niche bloggers, for these "not so standard" bloggers. I want to type more, but it's clocking out time. WOnderfully written article.

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  23. Very well-written response. I find myself feeling conflicted. There are a number of things that will make it that much harder for me to get the success I'm looking for from blogging: being Black, being middle-class (as in true middle-class, as in I can't buy J. Crew unless it's on sale), and being a Christian. For some reason though, posts like this one from IFB just make me want to keep going and keep pushing and keep trying to fill that void in the blogger "industry." Hope that doesn't make me masochistic...

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  24. On another note...your blog is adorbs, and I'm in love with your header, content, photos, all of it! Werk!

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  25. I'd like to add that this is so beautifully written and I've very well have fallen even more in love with your blog I wish you all the success in the world

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  26. I've never been to your blog before but I've been following the IFB drama since it started and I'm fascinated by the responses. Yours has to be the best, and most well thought through that I've found. The idea that our anger over being overlooked for the way we look is useless is pretty much how I feel. I can either go on knowing that I'll probably never see the levels of success that I'd like to see, or continue and simply do it for myself and whoever happens to enjoy it. By this I mean my blog. I'll probably continue.
    Thanks for the wonderful article!

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    1. Thanks Heather for expressing your opinion! The point of this article wasn't to bash or blame, it was simply to shed light on a different perspective and open up conversation about ways we can change it. My point really is that not everything is as simple as working hard. Sometimes there are fundamental issues in society that won't allow everyone to be included. And we have to work to change that - collectively :)

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  27. this post brought tears to my eyes, christina! it took so much courage to write it, and i'm glad you did. you're speaking for so many of us, including myself, who are discriminated against quietly everyday in this business. posts like this can help us heal and continue to support each other and collectively strive toward our dreams. you don't know how many people you've inspired and freed with these words, so proud of you ♥

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  28. I completely missed that article at IFB and apparently they have edited it to, as they note "clarify the intentions of both IFB and the author", which I think is a mistake on their part because it gives me the impression that it was not well thought out in the beginning

    What i do know is that when people are not a member of an "affected class", they sometimes have a tendency to downplay or even be oblivious to the issues of those who are.

    And Jennine's defensive response to some of the comments on the post sadly to me somewhat speaks to that.

    I mean if IFB did not want to discuss such a hotbed issue and all of the potential directions the conversation around it could take, they should not have gone there.

    But I digress on that issue.

    In answer to your question, yes I think that there will always be roadblocks and brands and people who will overlook minorities in every form. Dare I say that it is the conditioning of humans? We have sadly seen the studies and videos even with children who have not even been out in the world, showing bias.

    But what I think would really start to make a difference is if those of us who are subjected to this would continue to be pioneers. To not wait for, but to create what we feel others are denying us. To stand in the face of bias and call it out.

    In my 40+ years I think that I have almost become practical about these things, meaning, I acknowledge the wrong that is there, say what I need to say but in less of an emotional way than the bull in me in her younger days would have but yet my heart still aches a bit that these types of issues continue to cause people pain.

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  29. What a beautiful post! I definitely there's a lack of 'diversity' in fashion period whether it's modeling, blogging, etc. Consumers need to show magazines/designers that they want to see women who look like them. I think bloggers have slowly bridged that gap. However, the ones who do fit into the already accepted ideal by the fashion world are getting the big campaigns right now. I think that bubble will burst soon. Also another thing to do is create your company. Create that change! I know a friend who create a site for plus-sized models. It's gorgeous and the models are gorgeous!

    I definitely feel you about my ambitions of pursuing a career in the fashion industry. It has been a long, tough journey so far. Hopefully it will pay off soon. Congrats on all the success lady!

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  30. I'm not a fashion blogger in any sense although I love fashion and I have been following your blog for a while now. One of the reasons I love your blog and many others is because of the diversity it provides. It is frustrating as a woman when this diversity is not represented on a daily basis but its even more frustrating when brands are ignoring this despite the mounds of evidence in support. You have an amazing blog and although I haven't met you (yet!), you are an amazing person. Keep doing what you are doing.

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  31. The only reason I even follow any fashion blogs is because of blogs like yours. I've been left out of fashion forever....being brown-skinned and plus sized doesn't give you a lot of hype in the mainstream media, that's for sure.

    Disappointing? Yes. But also no surprise.

    I try to follow and support every "diverse" blog out there.

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  32. Girl! It's the way of the world and in my OPINION it WILL get worse, especially if we keep giving THEM this power over us. We need more non-traditional beauties, bloggers, models, etc... to start creating their own opportunities and then helping others create their opportunities. It is the ONLY way it/we will succeed. However, this is easier said than done. Great article girl! BTW it is worth the discussion!!!


    www.goodlooknout.com

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  33. First let me say, really great post and that your frustrations are shared. I've often felt that if I didn't live up to a certain ideal my blog and I wouldn't be taken seriously or brands wouldn't acknowledge me. It was a shocker to me too and being passed up for gig and engagements for other less qualified bloggers has certainly shone a light.

    With that said, I do believe that the only real limitations we have are the ones we accept. That's not airy fairy talk but more like sometimes you have to go around people or make compromises. I think fashion is extremely bias. I mean we have niche categories, hello! I'm not going to say that things can't be changed but it's going to take a hell of a lot to change them. This post helps and I think when consumer demand to see more than just Cauasian thin girls on blogs and on the runway, the industry will perk up.

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  34. Your post is very well thought out and written. It makes me sad that things seem to move at such a snail's pace.

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  35. Amazing article! So glad that you decided on sharing your thoughts regarding this issue. You have such a strong influence within this community and it definitely matters. I'm sure this post will encourage other bloggers/influencers to share there words and opinions. It's a shame that in this day and age we are still fighting this kind of battle but I'm hoping with posts like this, Comme CoCo's and Shamepuff's we are able to continue this sort of dialog and move closer to making some changes.

    -Shakiyla

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  36. Dont stop following your dreams. I am drawn to style blogs that show me beauty and style. You have it, Comme Coco and so many others.

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  37. I came here from a link that was left in the comments of Jennine's "Open Letter" on IFB. Thank you for writing this. I think that the question you end with says it all: "Is there an eternal cap?"

    Personally, I honestly don't know. 10 years ago did we ever believe we'd have a black man for president? Adele got on to the cover of Vogue this year. There are baby steps, and then there are quantum leaps. Perhaps these changes won't come full throttle while Ms. Wintour is still "en vogue", but times are changing.

    Wonderful post.

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  38. You go ahead girl. I cannot believe the audacity and ignorance of people.

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  39. I absolutely agree especially with the minority subject. It's very rare to see a very successful "non-white" blogger... sure some of it it may be due to high quality photography, designer outfit posts, etc... but there are plenty of cases where that excuse doesn't fit. I often times find myself putting an outfit post together thinking and even saying to my BF "if I was blonde or Caucasian, I bet this look would be a hit". I've actually become very frustrated with IFB because the continue to put focus on the top-tier bloggers, most who are not "independent" because they have agents and managements. They're just starting to keep up with the
    "joneses"!

    -Ashley
    www.pursuitofshoes.com

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  40. I just want to say....your opinion really matters!!!

    Go girl!

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  41. Too lazy to remember any passwords but the fashion industry is shooting themselves in the foot by glorifying only a minute number of thin, young, pretty, mostly Caucasian women with a few light skinned African Americans or not terribly slanted eye Asians. The average woman needs to see people that look like her in clothes-so she can judge whether the outfit would be flattering to her. What a waste of time to highlight women who would look good in flour sacks. As a size 12, short waisted hippy hippie I need to see a dress that plays to my strengths (large breasts) and minimizes my big hips. Drop waisted or empire dresses make me look five months pregnant without spanx. I have a pretty fat wallet to match my hips and designers are going to have to sell clothes that flatter me before my wallet opens. It hasn't been open in awhile- I am wearing older clothes that flatter me.

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  42. I think brands should appreciate customers of every size and shape. Regardless of whether they are mainstream in terms of looks or curvy.

    I think there are fewer curvy bloggers out there because, generally, curvy/fat/chubby women aren't as confident as someone who looks like a model. That's the media's fault but we won't go into that now.

    My favourite blogs are ones like this, Curves Cults Curls and Curvy Fashionista. I even have my own fashion blog and although I used it document my weight loss, I am still curvy and I write for women of every shape and size. Why isn't that what brands are looking for? Bloggers and people who are versatile in their tastes?

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  43. I really liked your response to this post (on your blog and on IFB). Like you, it took me awhile to respond and even still, I'm grasping for words because out of all the sites that would point out the very thing that I've noticed over the past three years I've been blogging, I didn't expect it to come from IFB. They are in the perfect position to do something about this but instead they are just perpetuating the very thing we're working against.

    And this just doesn't apply to plus size and African American bloggers. This goes for the petite bloggers, those that don't live in major US cities, over the age of 25, etc.

    I'm just still in shock...

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  44. I just read your post and think you have a very compelling, well-presented point. I personally have never read your blog before, but simply because I have never heard of it. It feels like the same 10 blogs are constantly being promoted, helped, getting agents, getting interviews in real publications, are friends with each other, link each other sites, etc. I have never thought about the reason. I browsed a few after reading your article and quite frankly your writing is better than most of them. I think it's because they resemble the same tired, layouts that most fashion magazines are composed of...and what we are used to seeing. Just because something is the status quo, does not make it true or right. I remember when Beyonce, Kate Winslet, JLO, all came out. All of these woman do not meet the status quo but are beautiful and bring something to the table. We decide (as viewers) what we think is worth seeing. But if bloggers like you don't blaze the trail, most of us won't get exposed to anything other the standard fare.

    Ironically, I also think that if guys actually read blogs (I know some do, but more) a different 10 blogs would be considered popular based on looks.

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  45. Oh CeCe, where do I even begin.

    First of all, I am truly shocked that IFB 1) published such an article 2) defended the author's position (in the comments) and 3) edited the post to clean it up later. Just bad, bad, bad all around. I actually would have expected much more from them,as they've always seemed to be advocates of diversity and equal treatment/compensation for bloggers.

    I was able to find a quote from the original article in the comments, and I was appalled. To insinuate that there is some kind of empirical connection between size/ethnicity/race and discipline/quality/content is faulty and ludicrous. Though I could, it is not even necessary to site examples of GREAT blogs by "niche bloggers" to comprehend the ridiculousness of such an assertion. To make an excuse for the effective discrimination of "niche bloggers" because their blogs just must be subpar is shameful. Personally, I have invested TIME and MONEY on my blog -- I own my domain, I am self hosted, I bought a DSLR camera with extra lenses, I bought new laptop, I bought and learned how to use photo editing software, I stay abreast of easy HTML tricks, I have consistently high numbers of subscribers and engagement across all my social networks, I stay up til 3am writing blog posts, and to be perfectly honest, my affiliate links prove that MY BLOG SELLS CLOTHES...and still, I have passed over time and time again for large campaigns, events etc... and my tweets and FB posts have gone ignored. DO NOT CALL ME LAZY, UNDISCIPLINED OR UNPROFESSIONAL when this happens. I have already accepted that I have to work TWICE AS HARD to get the same recognition as my white counterparts (and this does not take anything away from their hard work, talent, or success...they earned it!). But, DO NOT throw salt in my wounds when I am passed over by excusing it, and attributing it to my blog being sub par.

    Side note: I keep putting niche bloggers in quotes because as a black blogger, I speak from my experiences as a black woman (obviously!), and yes this resonates with other black women with similar experiences, but being black is not a niche (for me)! It is a part of who I am. "Fashion blogger" is a niche, "outfit of the day blogger" is a niche. "Personal Style Blogger" is a niche. My blog is written for anyone who wants to read it regardless of any race or ethnic background! AND, in terms of plus size bloggers, in particular...well, I am not plus sized, but I read TONS of blogs written by plus size bloggers because STYLISH IS STYLISH in any size! period. I get just as much inspiration from them as any other blog. When I go read these blogs, I am not thinking... let me go get some plus-size inspiration today...I am thinking, let me go get some style inspiration.

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  46. Your opinion DOES matter, your voice is so important, thak you for writing this. I understand 100% because unfortunately I live these realities. Since IFB is censoring/not approving all comments on the open letter article I have to wonder what they really stand for. As one commentor pointed out, IFB can *say* say it's diverse and promotes non mainstream
    Bloggers but the stock images hey use and te blogs they feature say otherwise. I was so incredibly disappointed over this and have been growing away from IFB for awhile, mainly because the articles written by Taylor Davies always seem to come from a privileged, elitist perspective and were often quite offensive.

    Again thank you for voicing your opinion. It is resonating within the blogosphere.

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  47. Excellent post!! Thank you SO much for voicing your opinion and thoughts. It's so sad to think that in this day and age that we're still not welcomed with opened arms in certain industries. I'm not that familiar with IFB because I don't consider myself a fashion blogger, but I'm sure that it's nowhere near as diverse as it should be. I've worked in mainstream publishing for nearly a decade and the lack of diversity is startling.

    Anyway, keep up the GREAT work!! With bloggers/writers like you, we'll eventually break that glass ceiling!!

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  48. Hey Christina!

    It's Pen, long time no tweet or blog, lol. I've been reading your site since discovering you on The Fashion Bomb Daily and I know we've met several times in person. In those times, I've always appreciated the fact that you keep it real and tell the truth. In essence, I'm saying all this to say, thanks for writing this post.

    I'm pretty much done with IFB because their lack of diversity is just too disappointing. And yes, I have reached out to them several times about having a "multicultural blogging" panel at the IFB conference and featuring more multicultural bloggers on the site itself. Those emails have been ignored. So Jennine's suggestions really make no sense and if she and her team "stand by" what they wrote, then why all the defensiveness?!

    Additionally, as far as creating a change by starting with oneself (which IFB suggests) I personally have done that. My blog, de la Pen is all about diversity and multiculturalism. I am African-American but I blog about everything from Asian to Hispanic to African-American to European models, designers, and style icons. I have worked very hard to make sure that my site reflects true diversity. When I started de la Pen, I noticed the lack of coverage of multicultural fashion so I dediced to make that my niche.

    And since starting my site, I co-founded The NetworkFAM which is a multicultural talent agency that represents artists, models, designers, bloggers, etc. As the Publicist, it's my job to promote the talent and since I work with multicultural talent it expands diversity in the market. In conclusion, I just can't continue to support IFB because they just refuse to really evaluate the issue and instead become defensive and ignore what they don't like. That's unprofessional and ridiculous. But kudos to you, Love Brown Sugar for having an awesome site and continuing to prove that diversity has a place in fashion!!!

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  49. It's absolutely worth talking about. Will it make a difference? Eventually. I suppose I was a first generation woman in the fire service, and I've lived long enough to see women become accepted and my trail-blazing is all but forgotten. I consider that a blessing.

    Diversity is real beauty.

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  50. I say: Always always always speak up. If we don't show up, they don't recognize our needs. You are one quality blogger that is working hard to change the game. Thanks for that.

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  51. Hi. Found this post via Already Pretty and really enjoyed reading it. I am a tall, plus-sized, not conventionally pretty blogger and I haven't made a very big splash. I don't think it's my content; my pictures aren't professional, but they are clear and I post 5 days a week. My writing is better than many, I think, but in the year and a half I've been blogging, I have less than 300 readers.

    But, I knew it would be like that. I knew that I didn't look like a model or have the budget of a socialite so I probably wouldn't be that popular. So, I guess what I'm saying is that I'm not surprised by my lack of popularity but I'm a little surprised to hear anyone say it's because I don't work at it.

    Again, thanks for your post on this; I really appreciated reading it.

    Gracey
    http://fashionforgiants.blogspot.com

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  52. Christina,

    Kudos to you for posting this amazing post! Your opinion as does everyone's matters! I think it's important that we continue to forge ahead and post, and voice our opinions to prove the naysayers wrong!

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  53. No disrespect because I appreciate people going in after their dreams, but for all aspiring fashion bloggers, I would ask yourself why you are passionate about this field. To be famous? To inform people? Because you love the industry? because you love clothes? People go searching for authorities on subjects, are you an authority on yours? If you don't necessarily fit the "look" maybe your business plan should be different from someone who does. The fashion industry is based on appearances, has been and thats never going to change; complaining about "society" isnt going to make it any better. If you aren't necessarily a model maybe you should hire some to model your style; be more of a kelly cutrone than an iman. The most successful fashion blogger I know only has one post with her in it. The others are full of beautiful rich photography encouraging and informing her readers of the newest trends.

    Thats another thing. Look at your site compared to other sites. If you have a friend from an accredited design school PLEASE ask them to look at your site. I'd say 70% is less about content and writing but about how you LOOK. If you have a beautiful well designed site, you will garner traffic. I'm just saying, with design, you get what you pay for and if you dont pay for much, you are never going to look as professional and put together as you want.

    -MyTwoCents

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  54. i got choked up reading this article. Thank you. I feel like every word you said were words ive told myself before. You can make a difference. Hopefully ill be as brave as you next time an issue like this comes up. It was very well written and unbiased.

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  55. I want to thank you for saying what many haven't said or have been afraid to say. As a "non-traditional" plus-size blogger, I honestly have found myself at times wondering...is it even worth it? Will brands really want to work with me - an not-size-two-who-doesn't-live-in-NYC, "regular girl"? It is stifling the competition and amount of "top-tier" and "it girl" types out there who seem to be getting all of the opportunity and are the bloggers brand wants to work with. Sometimes I see what seems to be an insurmountable obstacle to success in this industry if you don't fit a certain "image".

    However, I LOVE what has been happening lately in the plus-size blogger community, and "niche" blogging community as well. We are showing the industry and world that WE WILL BE HEARD, WE ARE WHO BRANDS CAN WORK WITH successfully and WE ARE BEAUTIFUL, FASHIONABLE AND IMPORTANT. I refuse to give up and know that someday our community will change the fashion industry/blogsphere as we know it today.

    Thank you again for your beautiful words and for continuing to be an inspiration to bloggers like me who are determined to "break the mold"! :)

    xoxo, Stephanie :)
    http://glamslamblog.com

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  56. For the past Five years I have had the same issues. Working in the Fashion Industry for years and everyone is thin, I'm so grateful that these pass five years Curvy girls are getting Face time and consideration. But us size 24 and up or my size 34 still are shunned because we are unhealthy or obese. They feel its no reason to celebrate our beauty or we don't shop, fashion doesn't concern us because we have no style options anyway. I have stop and started blogs several time feeling my voice has no audience. These past few months I've been struggling with myself to put my time and energy into a new blog and also pursuing my plus size fashion collection I've been trying to get started for the past five years. Having so many issues finding pattern makers and seamstress that understand grading and sewing pass size 14 (If you know anyone please contact me suppamdl@gmail.com). This article has help motivate me again. Support the Suppa Model Movement http://gravatar.com/suppamodel! Thank you LOVEBROWNSUGER I adore your blog and look forward to it every post!

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  57. I do agree with you. It's not just hard for plus sized girls though, you have to understand that even though these people make seem being skinny effortless it's really not as effortless as you would think.

    Being overweight may be unhealthy but bulimia and anorexia and over exercising at the same time is much worse for your health and in reality lots of these models will die much younger if they keep it up compared to somebody who is slightly overweight like the woman in your picture.

    I know it's your voice and frustration that expresses these things and it makes sense, I also get so angry that I am not one of those big muscled guys that everybody wants- especially in the gay community.

    Though we have to remember that none of us are above advertising even if we are rich and famous- meaning that even though I am not buff or whatever I hope that one day I might be and am trying.

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