Body positivity is the name of the game, and some of our favorite celebrities are leading the pack in a push toward accepting all shapes. Stars like Ashley Graham and Selena Gomez [1] use social media as a platform to spread empowering vibes to their fans. We suggest keeping up with them on Instagram for a daily reminder to embrace and love yourself just the way you are during 2017 and beyond. It's time to swap out that "new year, new me" mantra for a more affirmative alternative like "new year, same me, and I love that same me just the way I am."
- 12 Ways to Love Yourself More This Year [2]
- Chrissy Metz Is Our Body-Positivity Role Model [3]
Danielle Brooks
When she's not acting as Taystee on Orange Is the New Black [4], Danielle Brooks is busy spreading a message of self-love to her fans as a #voiceofthecurves. Follow her on Instagram for constant reminders to never compare yourself to others [5] at the gym and to love your body all the time — even after binge-eating on Thanksgiving Day [6].
Demi Lovato
Demi Lovato [7] is a known body-image hero for her fans, always defending her athletic build. The "Body Say" singer often shares motivating words of wisdom [8] in interviews and social media posts. "I've learned to appreciate my body for what it is. It helps to remind myself how far I've come," she once said.
Amy Schumer
Funny girl Amy Schumer isn't afraid to post a makeup-less selfie [9] (or seven) on social media, which is exactly why we adore her. Upon hearing that she was nominated for two Grammys, the comedian posted an inspiring photo of herself on Instagram [10], writing, "Is it fat shaming if you know you're not fat and have zero shame in your game? I don't think so." You tell 'em, Amy!
Kim Kardashian
Whether you keep up with her family or not, there's no denying that Kim has curves and she's not afraid to flaunt them. That's something to admire. Follow her for daily reminders [11] that you don't have to be a size 2 to be sexy.
Selena Gomez
Gomez is no stranger to the sexy bikini-gram [12]. An advocate for self-care and respect, the singer often posts footage of herself enjoying the finer things in life like doughnuts [13] and s'mores [14]. And lets never forget that epic swimsuit photo [15] she posted in 2015 with the caption, "I love being happy with me yall #theresmoretolove." *drops mic*
Michelle Obama
The soon-to-be former first lady is a worthy role model for many reasons, but her commitment to leading a healthy lifestyle is something to admire. She once said, "The truth is, being a healthy woman isn't about getting on a scale [16] or measuring your waistline — and we can't afford to think that way. Instead, we need to start focusing on what matters — on how we feel, and how we feel about ourselves." We couldn't agree more!
Gina Rodriguez
The down-to-earth Jane the Virgin actress is working to change the way Hollywood works [17]. A proud Latina, Gina recently posted a stunning Instagram [18] with the caption, "Throwback to reminding myself that curves are beautiful. That a leading lady doesn't have to look one way. We are all leading ladies. Celebrate the body God gave you ladies, it's the only one you got!" Preach, girl!
Gigi Hadid
Let's not forget when Hadid practically started a model revolution when she posted a powerful message [19] on Instagram in the midst of Paris Fashion Week in 2015. She addressed that although her "curvier" body is not typical for models these days, she's nevertheless proud of it. This year, she's developed a leaner physique through boxing, and she posts the occasional reminder [20] to #treatyourself.
Chrissy Metz
With the recent buzz surrounding the Golden Globe-nominated hit This Is Us [21], all eyes are on Chrissy Metz's character in her journey to self-acceptance. In an interview on The Real, the plus-size star opened up about her desire to open doors for other women like her, saying, "So many people feel as if they're defined by a number, whether it's their salary, whether it's the number on the scale. And we're so much more than that [22]."
Mindy Kaling
Mindy Kaling might just be one of the most relatable actresses [23]. An author and comedian, she isn't afraid to admit that there are things she'd like to change about herself. But she backs it up by saying, "I never need to be skinny. I don't want to be skinny [24]. I'm constantly in a state of self-improvement . . . but I don't beat myself up over it."
Ashley Graham
Ashley Graham is practically the poster child for having a positive self-image. The new America's Next Top Model judge now has a Barbie doll modeled after her [25], which had fans everywhere applauding. Follow her for ridiculously sexy snapshots [26] and reminders that women of any size can star on the cover of popular magazines like Elle and Cosmopolitan.