This Girl Turned a Skin Condition into Art in the Most Badass Body-Positive Way

Every Body celebrates inclusivity and the representation of human beings in every shape and form.

Body positivity can come in many forms, from embracing all shapes and sizes to simply growing out that gray hair if you’re feeling it. Ultimately, it comes down to loving the skin you’re in — a sentiment one young woman took very literally, and after hiding behind her vitiligo for years, she turned it into an expressive and inspiring form of self-love.

Ash Soto was just 12 years old when she first noticed a small spot had appeared on her neck. At first, she didn’t think anything of it, but when another one appeared soon after, her mom took her to a dermatologist. She was immediately diagnosed with vitiligo.

Vitiligo is a condition that causes patches of skin to lose their color. Model Winnie Harlow has recently shed a lot of light on the condition, not attempting to cover her pigmentation changes through her career. For Soto, it only took about a year after her initial diagnosis for spots to appear on each part of her body, but she’d spend many years after trying to conceal the condition — makeup for her face, long sleeves, and pants for the rest.

View this post on Instagram

Something about you

A post shared by ASH SOTO (@radiantbambi) on

Ironically, it was Soto’s biggest attempt at a cover-up that led to her reveal it all. “The big turning point was when I made my mom let me get a spray tan one summer because I was tired of feeling not good enough,” Soto, now 21, tells us. “I felt so happy, but I knew I was trying to be someone I wasn’t. I remember going to the beach and I hadn’t realized that the tan would come off. Once I came out the water and saw the tan dripping and my vitiligo starting to surface again, I think in that moment I realized I couldn’t change the way I was and I had to learn to live with it.”

Eventually, after a lot of internal reflection and talking it through with her family, Soto decided to share her truth on Instagram. Her account had mostly been selfies of her makeup, including not only her immaculate liner and enviable brows, but a flawless, even complexion.

“It was one of the most terrifying things I’ve ever done,” Soto says, recalling her family’s fear of online bullying. “I knew I wanted to make a change. If people saw me being confident and happy in my own skin having vitiligo, then they could too. I would take all the hate in the world as long as I got my message across.”

So, in May 2016, she posted the photo that would change everything. In it, she’s sitting on a bed wearing a cropped top and underwear, her vitiligo-covered torso and legs no longer hidden. “They say your body is a canvas, I’m just painted differently,” she wrote in the caption. “Finally at a point in my life where I can say I love the skin I’m in. It’s a learning experience each day but I’m getting there.”

Soto’s account was flooded with responses, and though she had prepared for the worst, nothing could have prepared her for the opposite. “Every comment made me burst into tears, ’til this day, reading such positivity and kindness,” she admits. Though she intended to reassure others that they weren’t alone, she didn’t anticipate the sheer volume of people sharing their own personal stories of dealing with vitiligo doing the same for her.

As Soto grew more comfortable with her body, she started to see it as a canvas, and her love of art found its most personal outlet yet. She started tracing the patterns caused by the vitiligo spotting, and dubbed the series of pics the #MarkerChronicles. Eventually, she branched out to painting abstracts and even an iconic van Gogh scene on her body.

Soto says that her main pursuit will continue to be art, but she won’t limit herself to just that: A YouTube channel and, she hopes, a book about her story are in the works, as she ultimately keeps pushing to connect with more people to spread body positivity — vitiligo or not.

In her very first vitiligo post, Soto urged her followers — and herself — to “accept yourself and everything else will fall into place.” It’s safe to say that it certainly has.

What do you think of Ash’s body art and message? Let us know @BritandCo!

(Photo via Ash Soto)

So maybe your cup doesn't runneth over (not even close) — so what? You can still score a sexy stylish swimsuit that works with what you do have this summer. Instead of bulking up with padding or pushing your girls up to the point of discomfort, stock up on swimwear that flatters, fits, and feels good on. What's better than that? Nothing, of course. Create the illusion of curves with ruching, ruffles, and smocking, or take advantage of some of the trends that work best on smaller busts, like scoop-necks. Whether it's a bandeau-top two-piece or a plunging neckline, you're pretty much guaranteed to find the suit that flatters your flat chest ahead.

Kitty & Vibe Plunge Top ($52) and Cheeky Bottoms ($46)

Kona Sol Ribbed Front Ring One Piece ($40)

Want more style inspo? Follow us on Pinterest!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

It Ends With Us might have premiered in August 2024, but Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni's behind the scenes conflict continues to unfold in the new year. What started out as rumored drama escalated into legal issues when Blake filed a lawsuit against Justin on December 20, claiming his behavior on set was “disturbing" and “unprofessional," adding "improvised gratuitous sexual content" after the actress had already signed onto the film — all in all facilitating a "hostile work environment."

Here's why Justin Baldoni's lawyer called the claims "outrageous" — and what Blake Lively's team had to say.


Blake Lively & Justin Baldoni's conflict is reportedly more than a "feud."

Lia Toby/Getty Images

After Blake filed the suit, and the New York Times published messages between Justin Baldoni and his team, reporting they were behind a smear campaign against the actress, Justin responded with his own $250 million lawsuit against the NYT. Justin's lawyer Bryan Freedman told People the claims are "false, outrageous and intentionally salacious with an intent to publicly hurt."

But on January 6, Blake's legal team came back with another statement, holding firm that "this is not a ‘feud’ arising from ‘creative differences’ or a ‘he said/she said’ situation,” they said in a statement to People.

“As alleged in Ms. Lively’s complaint, and as we will prove in litigation, Wayfarer [Studios] and its associates engaged in unlawful, retaliatory astroturfing against Ms. Lively for simply trying to protect herself and others on a film set. And their response to the lawsuit has been to launch more attacks against Ms. Lively since her filing.”

“Sexual harassment and retaliation are illegal in every workplace and in every industry," the team wrote. “A classic tactic to distract from allegations of this type of misconduct is to ‘blame the victim’ by suggesting that they invited the conduct, brought it on themselves, misunderstood the intentions, or even lied. Another classic tactic is to reverse the victim and offender, and suggest that the offender is actually the victim. These concepts normalize and trivialize allegations of serious misconduct."

“Most importantly, media statements are not a defense to Ms. Lively’s legal claims," the statement continues. "We will continue to prosecute her claims in federal court, where the rule of law determines who prevails, not hyperbole and threats."

And their costars are speaking out.

Both Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni have found support from previous costars. Amber Tamblyn, America Ferrera, and Alexis Bledel, who starred with Blake in The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants, released a statement in which they "stand with her in solidarity as she fights back against the reported campaign waged to destroy her reputation."

"Throughout the filming of It Ends With Us, we saw her summon the courage to ask for a safe workplace for herself and colleagues on set, and we are appalled to read the evidence of a premeditated and vindictive effort that ensued to discredit her voice," the statement reads. "Most upsetting is the unabashed exploitation of domestic violence survivors' stories to silence a woman who asked for safety. The hypocrisy is astounding."

They continue that, "We are struck by the reality that even if a woman is as strong, celebrated, and resourced as our friend Blake, she can still face forceful retaliation for daring to ask for a safe work environment. We are inspired by our sister's courage to stand up for herself and others."

Instagram/brandonsklenar

Brandon Sklenar, who stars in It Ends With Us as Atlas, also supported Blake, linking to the NYT story on Instagram with a heart emoji. "For the love of god read this," he said.

Meanwhile, Justin's Jane the Virgin costar Gina Rodriguez told People in September that "sweet, sweet soul" Justin is "my brother forever. Forever and ever."

Stay tuned for the latest It Ends With Us (and Justin Baldoni & Blake Lively) news.

The fashion industry has been given a bad rap for their unrealistic expectation of beauty, and rightfully so. From magazine covers to commercials, we’d see the same type of model with similar build, ethnicity, and age. Now, through the championing of body-positivity, the fashion industry is beginning to make room for all to have a seat at the table. Last month, DSW hosted its first inclusive "Runway Redone" fashion show at Industria in New York City for their Fall ‘19 collection.

“I love the idea of giving women a platform to show off their individuality and confidence on a stage normally reserved for the select few,” said size-inclusive and body-positive activist Hunter McGrady, who hosted the show. “I also try to use my voice to evolve the industry for the better, so when I was given this moment to take a stance on the runway, I thought it was the perfect extension of my ongoing message.”

In partnership with Create & Cultivate, this show added DSW to the growing list of brands “walking the talk” of diversity in the fashion industry. The designer shoe warehouse opened their casting call to their community of customers and received over 4,000 submissions. The ten women selected, along with five style influencers and five DSW associates, represented diverse ages, ethnicities, cultures, gender identities, abilities, and more. All 20 models will also be featured in DSW’s Fall campaign.

“After this show, I’m confident and hopeful that fashion labels will follow DSW’s lead by inviting everyday women to be an accurate representation of their brand identity,” said McGrady.

The Sports Illustrated model didn’t start her career as the curvy woman she is now. After dieting and starving herself to maintain the typical beauty standard, McGrady realized her body wasn’t built to be thin. Since then, she’s worked to inspire other women to embrace their God-given bodies reminding them that they are #AllWorthy.

“I not only want to see positive change during NYFW, but I want to see it everywhere and every day in the fashion industry so that inclusivity becomes the norm for our society,” said McGrady.

(Photos Courtesy Smith House Photo)

The absolute best part about Valentine’s Day is the heart-shapedeverything. And if there’s one place that truly knows how to do cute home decor right, it’s Anthropologie. The retailer just dropped their Valentine’s Day home decor collection, and all of it is super cute for celebrating the season.

Scroll on for the cutest Anthropologie Valentine’s Day decor pieces to shop now!

Anthropologie

Red Heart Icon Juice Glass

Anthropologie's iconic juice glasses come in all sorts of designs, but this red heart one fits the lovey-dovey holiday perfectly. You can also shop ones with little lips and winged hearts to recall V-Day!

Anthropologie

Capri Blue Volcano Valentine Jar Candle

This bougie candle smells like heaven with notes of tropical fruits, sugared oranges, lemons, limes, and exotic mountain greens. This Valentine's Day version includes a stunning red jar topped off with a lid that reads "XO."

Anthropologie

Scalloped Bow Coir Doormat

Bows definitely encapsulate the cutesy feeling of Valentine's Day. This doormat with a lovely scalloped design will instantly make any guest feel welcome around Feb. 14!

Anthropologie

Conversation Heart Plant Stakes

Show your greenery some extra TLC with these sturdy ceramic stakes that read like those classic conversation heart candies!

Anthropologie

Recycled Glass Heart Bud Vase

After all, you're gonna need a vessel for this year's Valentine's bouquet!

Anthropologie

The Bistro Tile Stoneware Dessert Plate: Valentine's Edition

This cute dessert plate with motifs of hearts and cupid's bows will be the perfect platter for the V-Day desserts you whip up this year.

Anthropologie

Metallic Bow Striker Match Holder

Lighters are so last year – light up your favorite V-Day candle with this match + striker set shaped adorably like a lil' bow!

Anthropologie

Heart Cut Glass Candle Holder

Set the mood even more with some warm candle light – these heart-shaped holders will definitely help you out.

Anthropologie

Claudette Frame

Put a picture of you and your Valentine in this adorably on-theme pink and red frame, and you've got yourself an unforgettable V-Day gift!

Anthropologie

Handpainted Amorette Heart Icon Coupe Glass

Time to pour up all those tasty Valentine's Day cocktail recipes! This year's concoction will look so cute in this coupe glass.

Anthropologie

Amor Metallic Heart Table Lamp

This heart-shaped lamp is definitely a splurge when it comes to Anthropologie's Valentine's Day decor, but if you can really see yourself setting it up year after year, it's so worth it.

Anthropologie

Red Rose Dog Felt Critter

This adorable lil' felt dog figure is such a mood for V-Day.

Anthropologie

grantLOVE x Amber Sakai Candle Holder & Chaparral Candle Set

This cute candle set comes complete with a 24K gold-plated brass holder that truly makes it feel luxe as ever. It'd make an amazing V-Day gift!

Subscribe to our newsletter to shop more cute home decor pieces!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Following trends too rigidly can leave your space feeling dated and disconnected from your personal style, as they can quickly fall out of favor. Instead, focus on timeless pieces that truly resonate with you to create a space you love, which can eventually save you money on an annual refresh. From bulky recliners to tacky bed frames, here are outdated home decor trends that need to go in 2025. (How are some of these pieces still selling?!) Want to know what trends will stand the test of time? Check out Studio McGee’s 2025 Home Decor Trends for inspiration!

Outdated (and over-rated) furniture trends to retire in 2025:

Wayfair

Dark Espresso Wood

I’m not sure this ever qualified as good design, but espresso-colored veneer was everywhere just a few years ago. Heavy, dark finishes tend to make spaces feel gloomy, and frankly, cheap. Instead, opt for natural, solid woods like white oak or walnut. While they may cost more upfront, they're a smart lifelong investment because of their durability and timelessness.

Wayfair

Matchy-Matchy Furniture Sets

This room is cringe on so many levels. Rooms lack personality when everything matches perfectly, but also this trad furniture with rolled arms and decorative nail heads are a bit gag-inducing. Instead, choose sophisticated styles, from sleek curves to classic and modern silhouettes, paired with vintage pieces for a layered, lived-in look.

Wayfair

The Color Grey

It's had its heyday, but grey needs to go in 2025. It was just so overdone. I admittedly still have a grey sofa from West Elm that is now 10 years old and it *will* go in 2025. Instead, I'll look for earthy, natural, and warm colors to replace it.

Wayfair

Metal Beds

Metal bed frames can feel cold and stark when your bedroom should feel warm and cozy. They don't inspire good feng shui too because it's thought that the energy flows too quickly through metal, creating a sense of restlessness or heightened activity. Not something you want in your bedroom! A wooden or upholstered bed is a much better choice for a calmer, more grounded space to sleep.

Wayfair

Glam French Country

The charm of French country is its simplicity and authenticity — there’s nothing overtly glamorous about it. This bed is a little too "extra." True French country style emphasizes natural woods, organic fibers, and timeless, understated decor.

Shutterstock

Mid Century Modern

There is a timelessness to the clean lines and quality of midcentury modern design, but homes are becoming cozier, less minimal, and leaning into curvier shapes and elevated designs.

IKEA

Bulky Furniture

Heavy-weighted sofas with rolled arms are making way for low-seated, modular sofas in sophisticated shapes.

Wayfair

Futons

Sleeper sofas are becoming more comfortable and stylish, leaving the dorm-room vibe of futons a thing of the past.

Shutterstock

Boho

For those who love this aesthetic, don't worry. Rustic is still in, but in an elevated way with natural fibers, colors, and reclaimed woods still in the mix. That said, it's time to lose the macramé wall hangings, eclectic mix of furniture and textiles, and plants everywhere in rattan pots.

Wayfair

Teal Furniture

While playful and eye-catching, this color is a bit garish. Look for subdued and sophisticated jewel tones for colors that will stand the test of time. Here are home color trends that will be huge in 2025 and beyond.

Wayfair

Barn Door Beds

Barn doors, outside of a barn, are definitely out, but this tacky farmhouse look especially needs to go.

Wayfair

Industrial Anything

Metal chairs, exposed Edison bulbs, kitschy steampunk decor is a home decor scene that needs to stay way back in the past. Update the look with softer, more organic accents like a wood farm table with linen slipcovered chairs.

Wayfair

Recliners

Dad's Lazyboy needs to stay hidden in his man cave or officially go. The bulky chairs, while super comfortable, can dominate a room. Instead, look for accent chairs that are still really comfortable but look sleek and modern.

Shutterstock

Tuscan Kitchens

If you're on the hunt for a first home, you might see this popular kitchen trend from the early 2000s everywhere. Instead,upgrade to a modern Mediterranean look with warm neutrals and natural stone materials.

Wayfair

Glass-Top Tables

Glass-top dining and coffee tables can feel cold and impractical (they require constant cleaning!). Instead, choose wood or stone dining tables for a sturdier, earthier vibe.

Wayfair

Gold Hardware

Unlacquered brass is on trend in kitchens and baths, but this faux gold look that conjures up '80s brass needs to go.

Wayfair

Corduroy Upholstery

Corduroy upholstery may be affordable, but it often ends up looking cheap and dated. For a more refined and timeless feel, opt for fabrics like wool, velvet, or natural linen.

Wayfair

Chevron and Overly Geometric Patterns

Chevron patterns have been on their way out for a couple years now, but 2025 is the time to truly let them go. Buh-bye!

Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for more lovely home decor ideas!