Finding My Fit With Panache

If you’re a regular reader of my blog, you’ll probably know that I’m really into body confidence. I’m a firm believer in embracing who and what we are, that no one has the right to judge someone else, and that we should be comfortable in our own skin. Yes, if we’re not happy then we should change things – but only ever for ourselves, not for anyone else. And definitely not to conform.

The thing is, I don’t always practice what I preach. Especially right now, when I can’t seem to shift the extra baby weight I’m still carrying. It’s affecting my confidence and my happiness; I find joy in having fun with clothes and, right now, I’m struggling to regain this enjoyment because I’m not as comfortable in my clothes as I once was. Some of my dresses won’t zip up, some jeans create a muffin top, some jackets pull across my back. I catch sight of myself in a window or mirror or photo and realise my body has changed after being through pregnancy (and actually I love this, because it represents my beautiful little boy), but it’s also heavier and larger than it was a year ago. Weight has been an issue for me for as long as I can remember and so when I’m over a certain point on the scales, or my favourite jeans no longer fit comfortably, I get really down. I’m aware of how superficial this sounds, but it’s true. Does anyone else have similar feelings?

One part of my body that I’ve always struggled with is my boobs (you can read more about that in this post) and as I gain weight, so do they. So, while I try and work towards losing a stone I need a few pieces of clothes that fit well and make me feel good, including underwear.

Panache has always been in my go-to list of underwear labels as they go beyond a DD, but their bras are always really pretty. After a few little conversations on social media, the PR team got in touch to ask me to be part of their new campaign, #findyourfit. My low body confidence is currently at its peak so I agreed to join them on their quest to help women feel great about themselves by finding the right size of bra. I’m a back size and cup size bigger than normal and though I don’t want to accept it as a long term change, I do need to make sure I’m well supported and comfortable in a good bra that fits my current size (I’m not confident enough to reveal the size publicly I’m afraid – one step at a time!).

It’s amazing how much better I feel about my body when I’ve got good underwear on, and that’s really the backbone of the #findyourfit campaign; that by making sure you’re fitted by an expert and wearing a bra that suits your body, lifestyle and wardrobe, you’ll feel so much better regardless of whether you have any body hang ups. It’s incredible how a good bra (and knickers) can improve your posture and change or adapt your shape, and in turn this changes our attitude.

I’ll admit, even though I’ve #FoundMyFit with Panache, when I saw the photos of me wearing the undies I was disappointed – I’d had higher hopes. The images have actually motivated me to get back on a consistent healthier eating plan and do more toning exercises. But in real life, day-to-day, when I’m wearing my new Panache bras (running around after le bubs, walking the dog, heading to meetings, having coffee with friends), I know that I stand up straighter, my clothes sit neatly and, well, I feel better.

There’s definitely more to body confidence than a new bra, but it’s an important part of feeling good about yourself. Think of your underwear as the basis to your wardrobe: start from the bottom and work your way to the top. The better the foundation is, the stronger the rest will be.

I’m Wearing: Andorra bra, Panache; fox necklace, Alex Monroe; dressing gown, Archerfield House. 

Images: Kris Miller.

Location: Archerfield House (lodge 3).

This post was kindly sponsored by Panache.

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3 Comments

  1. Linda 28th July 2017 / 10:08

    Fabulous post-I totally agree, body confidence can affect you at so many different times but more so post pregnancy. I struggle with finding pretty delicate underwear for the opposite problem you have. It is a struggle to feel feminine when you lack the curves and rely on uncomfortable padding and gel inserts. As I get older I have ditched the need for oomf and opted for comfort but I am still on the look out for pretty!

  2. Barbara Lindsay 28th July 2017 / 22:07

    Well written and so true!

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