Photographer: Joanne Hobbs | Makeup & Hair: Riti
Describe your personal style. What are some of your signature colors, styles, and accessories?
Photographer: Joanne Hobbs | Makeup & Hair: Riti
I would describe my personal style as expressive. I wear a lot of black and denim, and if I am feeling confident I’ll wear a skirt or dress. If I want to be comfortable, I’ll wear denim and a t-shirt, or a hoodie and sweatpants. My signature styles are a corset and leggings or clothing items with lots of lace! I find that lace fits with just about anything. My signature accessory as of late is my alternative cross or my Beetlejuice bracelet. I dress how I feel!
If you could go back in time and give yourself advice as a little girl, what would you tell her?
If I could go back in time, I would give myself a lot of advice … I would tell myself that being different or an outcast isn’t such a horrible thing. Maybe standing out in the crowd was actually a positive thing! It took me years to realize that not fitting in helped me succeed in ways that I never thought I could; it taught me to believe in myself and to be my own cheerleader when no one else is.
For our readers who struggle with being comfortable in their own skin and wearing what they want, what are some practical things you would recommend they do to help them get to the level of confidence you have?
Photographer: Joanne Hobbs | Makeup & Hair: Riti
Stay positive and don’t let the critics slow you down. People are going to put you down because they’re jealous. What they think or view as their idea of beauty does not have to be your reality. I’ve learned that not adjusting your views will get you further. Love yourself! Sometimes that’s is the only way to self-acceptance. You deserve to feel proud about who you are.
How has your body image and self-esteem changed over the years?
Being an artist has helped me become more comfortable in my own skin. My body image and self-esteem have both improved over the years. I know now that I am important and just as worthy as anyone else! I still have days where I sometimes I don’t like the skin I am in. However, photography helps me learn my strengths and weaknesses and it taught me that self-love is important.
Photographer: Heinno Beukes Photo | Makeup & Hair: Abeer Elsir
From where do you draw inspiration for your work?
I find inspiration in a few different things. Everyday people and how they overcame their struggles, for example. Music also inspires me. I like identifying with different musicians! It’s nice to know that there are people out there who experience the same issues as I do.
Do you have a message you want to leave with our readers?
Keep practicing self-love and don’t let anyone change you into someone you are not. You are good enough to those who truly do accept you.
Twitter @unusualkitten1 | iStudio Unusual Kitten