Guest post by Zoe Kharasch, sophomore
September 24. Not just a date in passing, not just a typical Wednesday, but the annual Joe’s Brewery Bikini Contest. When I saw the promotional page on social media, I immediately wanted to sign up. Not just for the $1,000 cash prize, but for myself. With a height of 4’11”, womanly figure and lack of workout experience, I suspected I’d stand out from the other contestants.
Arriving that night and seeing the 11 other girls who were all toned, tall and model-skinny, my suspicion was confirmed. However, I cast all doubts aside and with a smile plastered on my face, I walked out onto the stage with all the confidence in the world. I knew that there would be people who would point out my thicker thighs and soft curves, but I couldn’t care less. I felt like it was my responsibility as a woman to show that you are allowed to be fabulous at any size. It was an absolute blast to strut down a runway wearing five inch heels and shake to the music in front of a huge crowd. All eyes were on me in that moment, and no matter what the opinion, I left my mark up on that stage.
When they announced the top six girls who would be advancing to the second round, my name was not called. However, I did not feel rejected. I did what I needed to do for myself and to be honest, I’ve never felt more beautiful. At the end of the show, one girl came up to me and told me how much she loved seeing a “natural body” up there. Even if that girl was the only one who felt that way, it was at least one person I made an impression on.
Women should never look at other women and feel discouraged. Instead, they should realize that everyone is different and embrace themselves as they are. Nothing is more powerful than confidence.
Main photo of all contestants: