Often when I tell people what I do and what I’m passionate about – it usually revolves on saying that I’m passionate about helping women see their value, worth, beauty and falling in love with themselves and their bodies. When I tell this to the men who ask – they often follow up with – well what about the men? Why do you just talk to women about this stuff….
So, because of that, I decided that what better way to talk to men about this than feature a few men from around the world who have journeyed through to a place of self love and are sharing their message with the world. Over the next few weeks I will be featuring some stories of men who you may be able to relate to, you may see inside of what men have to deal with when it comes to body image, fashion, confidence and even some fun topics like dating.
Here are the links to the men I’ve featured so far:
So today…let me introduce you to….Kavah! His blog is: www.gentlemenscurb.com (all his social media handles will be listed below so you can follow him). Before we get to know Kavah a little bit….take a look at him on the runway….talk about fierce! Oh and just to tease you a little bit…Kavah and I will be collaborating an an exciting project when I visit NYC next week so stay tuned!
How and why did you get started with modelling and/or blogging?
I found myself in a space where it was becoming difficult to find clothing that fit me appropriately. It’s a chore to find shirts that fit me the way that I like. Some stores sell clothing that would fit me like a crop top. It’s a harder to find shoes. So, a friend of mines suggested that I should blog and be a voice for the men of size that had difficulty finding clothes that fit us properly.
What was it like growing up as a plus size male and what are things like today for you?
When I was growing up, I was always self-conscious. At times, I felt so was too big to perform certain functions or too big to play certain positions in sports. So, that made me very competitive because I played with a chip on my shoulder. Now, I embrace my size. I realize that I am not this size by an accident. Also, that I am not the only one that has these issues.
Women plus size models and bloggers are really helping to change the game when it comes to what we see in media as well as how brands are able to reach their consumers, however, we are only starting to see this happen with plus size men. Why do you think this is so important and where do you see this going in the future?
We are all human, but we all are built differently. That is what makes us unique! I think it’s important for all men and women of size to know that beauty isn’t “size specific.” Also, beauty doesn’t only look a certain way. That’s extremely important.
I recently heard someone say that being a plus size woman in today’s world is harder than it is to be a plus size male – do you think this is true, what are your thoughts either way?
I can’t say being a plus size male is harder because I don’t know what it is to be a woman. But, I know that both male and female have negative stereotypes associated with our sizes.
Why do you think it’s so important to be a voice for other men?
I think that it’s important to be a voice because there are so many men that have to deal with negative thoughts and projections because of their size. I am here to encourage others to embrace who they are.
What is it like looking for a fashionable wardrobe as a plus size man? Are there limited options or do you have lots of options?
There are a lot of limited options. There are many looks that I have to piece together. But, as of late there are many brands that are beginning to cater to men of size. So, I am very optimistic.
What would you say your style is?
Kavah. That’s the best way to describe it. I express my mood through fashion, I will definitely have to say my style is me.
What is your biggest challenge when it comes to fashion?
I don’t see any challenges…
I have learned to be confident in my body and believe me it took me a while to get there!
What are some of your favourite go-to brands?
There are a few go-to brands that I like. I can talk denim because I love it. Bad Rhino has some awesome denim, Old Navy has some awesome denim as well. (their big and tall selection is solid. Make sure you go on the website to order in your size.) Those are my favorite brands as of now.
What is it like dating a plus size man? Do you feel that you are judged based on your size?
There are some assumptions. One assumption is that I am clumsy. I will admit that I am not graceful, but I am not clumsy! Another assumption is that I am stupid. At times I can be absent minded, but I am not dumb.
I am comfortable with my size and I am not looking for a pity party of any kind.
With the online popularity that you have been receiving, I am sure there also comes with it a little bit of negative attention. How do you manage to stay so positive when there are quite a few critics out there commenting on what you produce?
You have to pay rent to stay in my head. In other words, if it isn’t going to benefit me, then I will ignore it. Not everyone is going to approve of what you do, so you have to be ready for all criticism.
What does life look like for you outside the fashion world?
I am simply working to be the best version of myself.
What is the message you hope to portray to other plus size men?
Don’t let anyone discourage you. We all have a light, make sure you allow your light to shine as much as you can early and often. Embrace who you are as an individual and be proud. Take pride in yourself and take pride in your appearance.
Website: www.gentlemenscurb.com
Social Media:
Instagram: www.instagram.com/gentlemenscurb
Facebook: www.facebook.com/gentlemenscurb
Twitter: www.twitter.com/gentlemenscurb
Snapchat: KNGXHTHN
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