Blogger Georgina Jones recently wrote an article for Bustle entitled “Why we need to eliminate the word ‘curvy’ from the plus size vocabulary.”
Although she made some very interesting points, I have to disagree with the conclusions she drew.
Jones states that “when somebody calls [her] curvy, [she feels] like [she’s] not being the right kind of fat,” since her body doesn’t have the type of curves typically accepted by society. I can certainly understand this sentiment, and if Jones prefers not to be referred to as curvy, that is completely valid. However, not everyone shares Jones’ relationship with the word curvy, or with any other body descriptor for that matter.
(Image courtesy of Proud2BMe)
An individual’s relationship with their body is immensely personal by its very nature. Our bodies are with us from birth to death, and our relationships with them are influenced by our unique life experiences. It follows that the words we choose to positively describe and celebrate our bodies will differ.
Last February, I asked the readers of my blog to share one word they love to use to describe their bodies. The responses I received were incredibly diverse. Answers ranged from “strong” and “statuesque” to “thick” and “fat.” All these words were empowering and body positive for the individual who submitted them. Using a word to describe your body positively is never a bad thing, even if someone else might not use the same word to describe him or herself. If calling myself “potato-shaped” makes me feel like a babe, I should be allowed to do so unapologetically, even if it seems silly to other people.
For me, the word curvy does not necessarily refer to the typical “hourglass” curves. It can be used to describe the curve where the neck meets the shoulder, the curve where the calf meets the knee, or the gentle rolls that appear on my stomach when I sit down. The word curvy is a celebration of these parts of my body and many others. Curvy doesn’t need to imply sexiness, but it can, if and when I want it to.
To continue reading the rest of the story from our partner, Proud2BMe, click here.
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