No matter how progressive and positive we wish our world was, there are still way too many instances when a woman's body is offered up for unsolicited judgment and criticism. It happens all the time, whether in the political, entertainment, or athletic spheres. Take it from body positivity activists like Ashley Graham and Liza Golden, models who have both experienced and resisted this completely unwarranted negativity.
They're not the only models who have gone through it. Even Gigi Hadid, arguably one of the most famous modern-day supermodels, responded to body-shamers in an open letter posted on her Instagram. Now it's Danish supermodel Nina Agdal who is confronting the fashion and beauty industries, writing an open letter about her journey to self-confidence and how she maintains her positive body image even when other people offer up comments.
She posted this image to Instagram after a fallout with an unnamed publication who wouldn't run her photos. "A few months ago, I agreed to shoot with a creative team I believed in and was excited to collaborate with," she wrote. "When my agent received an unapologetic email concluding they would not run my cover/story because it 'did not reflect well on my talent' and 'did not fit their market,' the publisher claimed my look deviated from my portfolio and that I did not fit into the (sample size) samples, which is completely false. If anyone has any interest in me, they know I am not an average model body—I have an athletic build and healthy curves."
She went on to say that situations like this caused her to take "a step back from the insensitive and unrealistic pressures of this industry," while dealing with "paralyzing social anxiety." It's crazy that even a supermodel, someone who the rest of us like to think of as being "perfect," goes through the same insecurities and feelings of inadequacy that we do.
"Some days I'm a sample size, some days I'm a size 4, some a 6. I am not built as a runway model and have never been stick thin. Now more than ever, I embrace my curves and work diligently in the gym to stay strong and most of all, sane," she wrote. "I am proud to say that my body has evolved from when I started this crazy ride as a 16 year old GIRL with unhealthy and insufficient eating habits."
Now, at age 25, she won't let situations like this affect her, which we know is easier said than done. But just like she said, it took time and work—it was never an instant feeling of confidence. "Shame on you and thank you to the publisher for reaffirming how important it is to live your truth and say it out loud, no matter who you are or what size." She finished her letter with a succinct and important message. "Let's find ways to build each other up instead of constantly finding ways to tear each other down."
This article is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to be used in the place of advice of your physician or other medical professionals. You should always consult with your doctor or healthcare provider first with any health-related questions.
