As the year starts to come to a close, it is important to reflect on the past year. While there are some trends we are looking forward to leaving behind, one thing that inspired us most about this year was the appreciation and celebration of being “real.”
Ashley Graham became the first plus-size model to grace the cover of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition. Retailer Aerie ditched the concept of photoshopping their ads. Good American, a body positive and curve friendly denim line, was the biggest launch in apparel history. Brands like these started the conversation about being “real”; and it is our duty to make sure it continues.
CollegeFashionista Style Gurus believe strongly in the idea of being real. Find out what being real means to them as they share their no makeup selfie.
Mary Bordelon
What does being real mean to you? “For me, being real doesn’t necessarily have to mean going without makeup- it’s just the idea of being purely you. Whether that is a naked face or not, being real is being down to present yourself the way you really are.”
On REAL Campaigns: “I think we need more campaigns that promote real girls. With the insane growth of the trend of going all out with makeup, I’m worried that younger girls will think that it’s expected of them everyday. Campaigns that promote realness give me reassurance for them.”
Photo by @marybordelon
Diamond Buckley
What does being real mean to you? “Being real means that I’m not letting others influence who I am and how I treat people.”
On NO Makeup: “To be honest I wear makeup on most days, I just love putting it on. So I would say usually only when I’m in a rush is when I don’t wear makeup. I will say it took me a while to truly be confident in how I look without makeup. I was bullied when I was younger so I only started to get comfortable being makeup free maybe a few years ago.”
Photo by @j20th
Linda Thao
What does being real mean to you? “Being real to me is when you let all your flaws show. The good and the bad because it shows you have nothing to hide. People may judge you but don’t let them bring you down. As long as love yourself and you’re happy how the way you are, there’s no stop you from being you because no one is perfect.”
On REAL Campaigns: “I believe everyone should know that they are beautiful, no matter what. For beauty and clothing companies to promote being real, it gives people confidence and self-respect and to love themselves. It shows that we all don’t have to look a certain way to feel good about ourselves because there’s only one you and we’re all different in our own way.”
Photo by @lindathaomusic
