This Woman’s Viral Pic Proves That Sizes on Your Clothing Labels Don’t Matter

Jun 15, 2017

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

It’s no secret that many clothing companies often use vanity sizing, marking sizes as smaller than they actually are to entice shoppers into buying. It not only makes finding out what size you *really* are basically impossible, but it can reinforce a frustrating and confusing relationship with our own bodies. But really, the problem is non-standardized sizing across the board.

Some companies, luckily, are starting to do away with sizing altogether. And as one woman’s viral before-and-after photo emphasizes, it’s about time. She’s proving that the sizes on clothing tags are basically meaningless.

Michelle Elman is a certified body confidence coach and body positive activist who often uses her Instagram account to celebrate her own body and document overcoming her own insecurities. Recently, she shared a picture of herself in the same dress taken five years apart. In the first picture, taken in 2012, Elman is a size 12. In the second photo, taken this year, she’s a size 20. The dress is a size 14, and as you can see from the photo, it fit her just as well at BOTH sizes. WTF?

View this post on Instagram
NUMBERS DON'T MEAN ANYTHING. I found a dress in my cupboard the other day that I had since I was in sixth form. The dress is a size 14. I bought it 5 years ago when I was a size 12. Now, I'm a size 20. And yet, I still fit it. Which just proves that NUMBERS DON'T MEAN ANYTHING. So are you really going to let a change a dress size dictate your day? Are you really going to let an increase in a number affect your mood? Same dress. Still comfortable. Still beautiful. (In fact, I think I look better and happier now!) A higher dress size doesn't mean: - you are less beautiful - you are less worthy - you are less lovable - you are a worse human - you are a bad person - you are a different person AND it doesn't even mean you have a bigger body. You could go up a dress size by simply changing stores... (or countries). You can change dress sizes because of the time of the day or simply due to whether you are on your period or not. If you look at your cupboard and you find it harder and harder to find something to wear because of a change in clothing size, I have a great solution for you... throw out all clothes that don't fit. Looking at your wardrobe shouldn't be something that makes you feel insecure and sad so make sure everything in your wardrobe fits! Numbers don't matter. Not the number on the back of your jeans, on the scale or even the number in your bank account. You are not a number. #OneTakeBeauty #BodyPositivity EDIT: For anyone saying I'm lying about my size. Check my stories
A post shared by Michelle Elman (@scarrednotscared) on May 29, 2017 at 8:07am PDT

In the photo’s caption, Elman puts it pretty bluntly: “NUMBERS DON’T MEAN ANYTHING.” The changes that have happened in her body over the years haven’t stopped the dress from fitting, but if she’d simply looked at the size on the tag and thrown in out during a closet purge, she never would have known.

“I think I look better and happier now!” she writes. “You could go up a dress size by simply changing stores (or countries). You can change dress sizes because of the time of the day or simply due to whether you are on your period or not.” Too real.

View this post on Instagram
When I found body positivity, I couldn't find me. Where was the girl with the scars? Scars are something you don't think about unless you have them. Scars are something that aren't discussed, especially when you do have them. Everyone in body positivity was talking about weight and so the only marks they discussed were weight related ones - stretch marks but HOW ABOUT SCARS?! This is why I started Scarred Not Scared. Instead of complaining about a community that was meant to be inclusive, I created a space for it. Instead of feeling left out, I forced myself in. Instead of saying "what about me?", I started saying "why not me?". Instead of feeling snubbed and ignored, I introduced myself, said hi and made friends with people who I can now call life-long friends. When I launched my campaign in 2013, I still hesitated when I called myself Scarred. The important thing is that I said it though, even if my voice wobbled while doing so. I made my first video about it, even though I didn't know all the answers and within a year, talking about scars became normal to me. Scarred Not Scared is my passion project, my pride and joy. Mindset For Life was my coaching business, my career, my job. You don't have a mindset for life, you evolve, you shift, you grow. Back in 2013, I didn't realise how much of my trauma I hadn't yet released. Now I have and now I must evolve. To mark the occasion, I'm changing my username. I'm still ME, I'm still Michelle Elman but now, I'm @scarrednotscared And I can't think of a better way to mark today than to be in that very same bikini that started it all, using the body I love to go swimming with one of the people in my life that I love most. See you tomorrow, for now, I'm off swimming with my bestie 😘 #SCARREDNOTSCARED
A post shared by Michelle Elman (@scarrednotscared) on May 25, 2017 at 7:00am PDT

Elman has had a number of health issues and undergone many surgeries in her young life. She started her online Scarred Not Scared community to advocate for body positivity and to help others overcome insecurities over their perceived imperfections — like her own surgery scars. Whether she’s putting vanity sizing on blast or reminder her followers to embrace all of their “flaws,” her perspective is a super important one.

“Simply having a working body — a body that keeps you breathing — you are lucky,” she says in one of her Youtube videos. “And you’re lucky to be here.” We couldn’t agree more.

Do you pay attention to clothing sizes, or just wear what fits and feels good? Let us know @BritandCo!

(h/t Good to Know; photo via Liam Norris/Getty )

11 Swimsuits That Look Bangin’ on Small Busted Ladies

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.

H&M Padded Cup Swimsuit ($35)

Marysia Pink Lehi Twisted Bikini Top ($169) and Pink Lehi High-Rise Bikini Briefs ($152)

PQ Gardenia Plunge One-Piece Swimsuit ($154)

Billabong Tanline Lulu Bandeau Bikini Top ($60) and Tanlines Maui High Waist Bikini Bottoms ($56)

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

Old Navy One-Piece Keyhole Swimsuit ($28)

Floralkini Rainbow Striped Triangle Bikini Top ($22) and Rainbow Striped Bikini Bottom ($17)

& Other Stories Gingham Seersucker Swimsuit ($69)

Aerie Printed Ruffle Scoop Bikini Top ($30) andPrinted Ruched High Waisted Bikini Bottom ($27)

Kona Sol Ribbed Front Ring One Piece ($40)

H&M Push-up Bikini Top ($20) and Bikini Bottoms ($13)

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.

The 'Gilmore Girls' Creators Are Packing On The Drama In First 'Étoile' Leak

If Gilmore Girls andThe Marvelous Mrs. Maisel have shown me anything, it's that creator Amy Sherman-Palladino always has an incredible story up her sleeve. Her new show Étoile, which is coming to Prime Video, promises to be a beautiful and sophisticated look at the world of dance, and if the fact that it's from Amy wasn't enough reason to watch it, it's also Prime's first new show to get a two-season order! Here's everything we know about the series.

What is the next Sherman Palladino show?

Writer/Producer/Director Amy Sherman-Palladino, Writer/Producer/Director Daniel Palladino seen at Netflix's Gilmore Girls: A Year In The Life premiere.Eric Charbonneau/Netflix

Following our beloved Gilmore Girls and The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Dan and Amy Sherman-Palladino's next series is Étoile, which is set at two world-famous ballet companies in New York City and Paris. When both companies run into some trouble, the decide to swap their most talented stars in a last-ditch effort to save themselves.

And based on the first set leaks from New York City, it looks like Étoile will definitely be packing on the drama. This short clip shows Luke Kirby standing outside Lincoln Center in a serious conversation (probably about the fate of his ballet company, TBH).

"Well, guess that plan for early retirement will have to wait," Dan and Amy said in a joint statement (via The Hollywood Reporter). "Instead, we’ve decided to embark on an international journey with an unbelievable group of players and the most talented ballet dancers in the world. We will sleep when we’re dead."

But this isn't the first time ASP has forayed into the world of ballet! Her ABC Family series Bunheads (which premiered on June 11, 2012) follows Michelle (Sutton Foster) who moves to her hometown of Paradise and starts working at her mother-in-law's dance studio The Paradise Dance Academy.

Who will star in the new show?

Photo via WB

The best part is that the role of Michelle's mother-in-law is played by Emily Gilmore herself, Kelly Bishop!

When does Étoile premiere?

Anya Juárez Tenorio/Pexels

We don't have an official release date yet, but considering THR recently revealed the show will finish filming soon, we're hoping to see Étoile in 2025. Just like Gilmore Girls is the ultimate fall rewatch, maybe Étoile will be the ultimate winter rewatch!

Who's in the Étoile cast?

Luke Kirby attends the The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel Finale Celebration at the Fonda Theater in Los Angeles on Mon, May 22, 2023. Todd Williamson/JanuaryImages/Prime Video

So far, we know that Étoile will star Luke Kirby, Gideon Glick, Camille Cottin, Simon Callow, Lou de Laâge, and David Alvarez. Yanic Truesdale, who played our favorite Gilmore Girls concierge Michel, has also joined the series as a recurring character! I'm so excited to see Yanic working with Amy Sherman-Palladino again — it's like a Gilmore Girls reunion!

What does Étoile mean?

Jeremy Thomas/Unsplash

Étoile translates to "star," and there are so many different connections here! We have the ballet stars themselves, but you also wish upon a star and reach for the stars when you're working towards a dream. If you ask me, Étoile is the perfect name for this series.

How many episodes does Étoile have?

Merve Sehirli Nasir/Unsplash

The first season of Étoile will have eight episodes total, but considering Prime Video ordered two seasons, we'll definitely be getting more episodes.

Are you excited to watch Étoile? Check back here for the latest news on the series, and stay updated on your favorite TV shows and movies on our Facebook!

This post has been updated.

amy sherman-palladino pop culture entertainment evergreen best reads tv show

Model and Activist Hunter McGrady Reflects on DSW’s First Inclusive Runway Show

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)

every body fall fashion fall style fashion week inclusivity new york fashion week plus size fashion body positive

17 “Stunning” Target Gifts Under $5 That Make The Best Stocking Stuffers

Opening my stocking is absolutely my favorite part of Christmas morning. There’s nothing a tiny lil’ gift can’t fix! If you’re looking to bulk up your fam’s stockings this year, Target’s got you covered with tons of fun finds under $5. I scoured 300+ Target stocking stuffers and found some truly stunning (and cute) options just in time for Christmas!

Scroll on for the best Target stocking stuffers you can shop for $5 or less!

Target

Wondershop Winter Road Trip Cozy Crew Socks

You can't ever go wrong with a cozy pair of socks! These recall the holiday season in the cutest way.

Target

Favorite Day Reindeer Christmas Cocoa Mix

This readymade hot chocolate mix comes complete with marshmallows for the tastiest cup around. Plus, how adorable (erm, a-deer-able) is that packaging?

Target

Room Essentials Disco Notepad + Pen Set

This shiny notepad will come in handy for collecting New Year's goals, work notes, and, of course, miscellaneous doodles.

Target

Real Techniques Miracle Complexion Sponge + Travel Case Ornament

Whether you hang it on the Christmas tree or stuff it in their stocking, any beauty lover will appreciate a brand-new blending sponge (and the handy travel case)!

Target

Teak + Tobacco Reading Light Candle

Got a bookworm in your life? They're sure to love this cozy candle that smells like a robust blend of teak and tobacco for their reading sessions.

Target

Anihana Aromatherapy Shower Steamer

Gift 'em a dose of self-care with this calming, sinus-relieving shower steamer! The aroma is truly heaven.

Target

Burt's Bees Lip Balm Set

This lip + hand care duo comes in the cutest Christmas-y packaging to evoke so much cheer.

Target

Wondershop Christmas Tree Mug

A $5 mug will always get me. This one comes in the shape of a festive Christmas tree for hosting all sorts of hot chocolates, teas, and hot toddies.

Target

Wild Fable Essential Gloves

Gloves make the perfect practical gift for those who live somewhere cold. These even have touch screen compatibility on the fingertips so they don't have to sacrifice comfort to make a call or send a text.

Target

Chapstick 4-Piece Lip Balm Set

If your giftee is anything like me, they'll always adore a new set of lip balms (even though their collection may be overflowing).

Target

Favorite Day Hot Chocolate Drink Bomb

I fear it truly doesn't get any more festive than a chocolate and peppermint combo. This $4 find is sweet.

Target

A New Day Cozy Knit Ribbed Embroidered Cherry Crew Socks

Oh, these socks are so cute! They have little embroidered cherries on the top and even come with an attached gift tag so you don't necessarily have to wrap them.

Target

Wondershop Christmas Cat Mug

Any cat lover will want to reach for this festive feline all year long!

Target

Da Bomb Bath Fizzer Snowflake Gingerbread Bath Bomb

This delicious-smelling bath bomb will infuse their next soak with notes of freshly-baked gingerbread. Plus, once it fizzes away, a little surprise (both adult- and kid-friendly) awaits inside!

Target

SpaLife Radiance Eye Masks 3-Pack

These under eye masks wake up tired eyes with vitamin C and coffee – the perfect post-holiday refresh.

Target

Vitamasques Candy Cane Lip Butter Balm

This sweet lip butter smells like a candy cane, all while nourishing dry winter lips. I'll take 5, thanks.

Target

eos Holiday Candy Cane Lip Sugar Scrub

This $5 lip scrub is a total treat to dehydrated, flaky lips. They'll be reaching for it every day!

Subscribe to our newsletter to discover more amazing gift ideas!

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

gift ideas target shopping holiday shopping editecom gifts

42 Affordable Gifts That Feel Like Splurges

The holidays are great, but they can be pretty taxing on bank accounts. We all want to buy gifts for our friends and families that feel like we went out but don't break the budget. We've worked hard to dig through Amazon and find the hottest gifts of the year that feel like a splurge but are wallet-friendly. No matter who you want to impress with your gifts, we've got what you need. From gadgets to purses to trending kitchen buys, you'll find just what you need to finish your holiday shopping.

Thanks for reading about our favorite finds from across the internet! FYI: We participate in affiliate programs and may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

This Purse Gives a Designer Feel Without a Designer Price

Amazon

Accessories don't have to be a huge, expensive gift. Made from premium vegan leather, this purse brings the style to any outfit, whether they lean more towards casual or upscale.

This Woman’s Viral Pic Proves That Sizes on Your Clothing Labels Don’t Matter

What is the next Sherman Palladino show?

Who will star in the new show?

When does Étoile premiere?

Who's in the Étoile cast?

What does Étoile mean?

How many episodes does Étoile have?

Scroll on for the best Target stocking stuffers you can shop for $5 or less!

This Purse Gives a Designer Feel Without a Designer Price

This Hydrating Cuticle Oil Is a Fan Favorite

This Winter Scarf Looks Like a Million Bucks

A Rainfall Showerhead With Incredible Water Pressure

This Set of Bags Keeps Everything Organized

These Earrings Look Like a Luxury Piece

This JBL Speaker Is Made for Adventures

These Cocktail Mixers Make Things Simple

This Teddy Fleece Is So Luxurious

This Mask Is Like a Salon Treatment

These Sea Salt Flakes Make Every Meal a Splurge

Elevate Any Look With These Earrings

These Cozy Slippers Feel So Bougie

These Socks Are the Ultimate Purchase

This Sol de Janeiro Set Makes the Brand Affordable

This Packing Cube Set Is So Glamorous

This Wallet Is Perfectly Coquette

Give Them a Good Grip With This Paddle

This Initial Necklace Is Beautifully Dainty

This Puzzle Is the Height of Luxury

A Coffee Table Book Always Looks Fancy

These Glasses Steal the Show

Give the Gift of Style With These Nails

This Fishwife Set Is All the Rage

This Purse Has Plenty of Storage and No Shortage of Style

Elevate Entertaining With These Tapers

This Might Be the Ultimate Gym Bag

This Loungewewar Set Feels So Luxurious

This Brush Is Worth Every Penny

This Soft Purse Goes With Everything

This Bowl Dresses Up Their Petware

This Salad Bowl Instantly Elevates Dinnertime

This Dumpling Kit Brings the Restaurant to Their Kitchen

This Cast Iron Skillet Looks Extra Fancy

This Hand Cream Smells Divine

This Seashell Necklace Is Dreamy

Prepare Smooth, Delicious Espresso With This Tool

This Candle Is an Internet Sensation

These Slippers Are Cozy and Cute

This Glass Skin Set Is a Fabulous Find

This Delicious Variety Pack Is So Tasty

Complement Those Meals With This Olive Oil