For a long time, rigid definitions of physical perfection controlled the fashion industry with an iron grip. Ads for lingerie and other clothing lines were dominated only by models who fit certain narrow beauty ideals — and nothing else.
Thankfully, the world has begun to embrace the idea that all bodies really are beautiful, no matter what their size, shape, or color. This body positivity has wrought a sea change in the way that fashion brands now embrace inclusivity.
It’s about time. If there’s anything to be learned from 2020, it’s the idea that we all need to work together if we want things to change for the better. In an increasingly diverse society, there’s no place for immutable definitions of beauty.
How Does Body Positivity Mesh With Black Lives Matter and LGBTQ+ Interests?
It’s simple: People are tired of seeing websites, catalogs, and ads full of models who don’t reflect the human variety that’s all around them. Here at the Busted Bra Shop in Chicago, we understand that our customers are looking for a bra shop and other clothing stores where they don’t have to fit into some predetermined box in order to feel welcome, accepted, and served. They want to see diversity in all things, and they want to be free to choose the clothing that fits their personal aesthetic.
What does that mean? In our bra shop:
- Size does not matter. We carry bras with bands from 28-56 and cup sizes AA-O. If you don’t know your size, we will happily fit you.
- Gender identity and gender expression do not matter. Anyone who wants a bra, shapewear, or lingerie is welcome here, regardless of their outward presentation.
- Comfort is essential. While we do offer shapewear, we believe its purpose should be to enhance your confidence and make you feel more at ease, not hide your body. That’s why we don’t offer things like corsets or waist cinchers, which are designed to achieve unnatural standards of perfection.
We Take Our Cues From Real People and Create Diversity Via Representation
One thing is certain: The more that we all strive to see people as they really are instead of what we perceive them to be (or believe they
shouldbe), the easier it will become to band together, heal the social rifts that arise from open prejudice and implicit biases, and create lasting change.
Changes always start small. It can involve making a statement of solidarity toward those who are victimized or oppressed and taking a public stand against hate. It also involves things like promoting models on our site who defy the stereotypes of what it means to be either feminine or beautiful, including skinny models, models with curves, and people of color.
We’re doing our part. We don’t just hear you; We’re standing with you.
