Sexy At Any Size
CBS This Morning's week-long series, Living Large, celebrates those who have made peace with their imperfect bodies and offers guidance for those who are tired of the guilt and self-deprecation that often comes with being overweight.
Is bigger better? Can a large-size gal find love like her size 5 sister? And, are there actually men out there willing to date any of the 50 million American women who wear a size 12 or larger? CBS This Morning talks with Ford model Katie Arons about romance and the larger woman, and about her book Sexy at Any Size.
Katie Arons grew up in California. She says she was "always the biggest girl in class, " and was put on her first diet when she was 9 years old. At the age of 18 she was a size 24, but in spite of all that, she is able to feel good about herself.
"I had a good family and I think that's what helped me to find myself at a young age and overcome it," she explains.
She grew up surrounded by men. She has five brothers, who played an important role in her self-confidence. "They encouraged me and believed in me and were always in support of me," she says.
And even though she dated, she says, with a chuckle, "I didn't date as many guys as I wanted."
So what does Katie think about large women and dating? "I used to think that guys who liked fat women were sick. Especially if they'd say 'I like your thighs.' I used to think that they are 'chubby chasers.' But then I realized that there are a lot of men out there who prefer being with a bigger woman. Really nice guys," she says.
The key is confidence, she says, and among the flirting tips that are included in her book she mentions making eye contact, putting on the lipstick and smiling.
"Smiling is important. It shows confidence, and confidence is the key to sexuality," she explains. And even while not dating, she encourages women not to be afraid to wear sexy lingerie. "To put on sexy lingerie under your clothes gives you extra confidence - an oomph," she says.
She also advises larger women that if they don't feel confident with men, to remember that "every woman, no matter her size, has some issue with her body."
It is important to feel comfortable with your body she says.
"You can do it by looking at yourself in the mirror naked. Really feeling yourself, those parts that you hate, start touching them, getting to feel them and know them and get confident. Every bump and bulge and every fault, because they're part of you. They're what make you unique and special. The men don't care. The men will often like it."
Click here for a list of resources used on CBS This Morning's Living Large series.
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