We are getting close the end of my round up of Body Positive men. I hope you’ve enjoyed getting to know these gents and learning about their perspectives as much as I have been. If you haven’t had a chance to read the rest, here’s the line up so far
Riccardo, Benjamin, Ady, Kavah, Troy and Marquis
So today…let me introduce you to….Kelvin! His blog is: www.notoriouslydapper.com (all his social media handles will be listed below so you can follow him). So let’s get to know Kelvin….notice all his fine details in in photos – that’s one of my fav things about his style!
How and why did you get started with blogging?
I started blogging after a bad shopping trip. It left me feeling down and insecure about the way my body was shaped. I figured there were a lot men suffering from this as well so I decided to make a style blog about being body confident
What was it like growing up as a plus size male and what are things like today for you?
It was okay for some time period. I remember not having the options of stylish clothes in the husky section as a kid. But when I got older I just wore what I wanted to and found things that I liked. I have my own style and don’t really care what anyone else thinks about it 🙂
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?
I think men have been misrepresented in the media like women have been for years. Now, men are starting to realize that and take advantage of being their own man. Confidence in key in life. It’s hard to see yourself as a desirable person when all you see is the opposite in the media. Men are finally starting to realize they are awesome in their own skin as well. Everyone deserves to be celebrated!
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 don’t know but I do know that women have a lot more options and body diversity in media than men do. I don’t know if I could ever tap into how a woman feels about being plus size or the representation of that in the media. I only know that there are just a few plus size male models (Myself, Zack Miko and Dexter Mayfield) compared to the many female ones there are. We all deserve to be celebrated and we should support one another in the body positive community not compare struggles of plus size men and women.
Why do you think it’s so important to be a voice for other men?
Because so many men struggle with body image and are afraid to be vocal about it due to society’s view on masculinity. We need to redefine masculinity and help men be more vocal about body issues because they are real.
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?
I only have struggles when finding pants and suits. I can find shirts just fine these days. Suiting has gotten better because you have made to measure suits for men now at a reasonable price. I feel as if most companies are still struggling in the pants area. Options are limited there for sure.
What would you say your style is?
My style is Notoriously Dapper 🙂
What is your biggest challenge when it comes to fashion?
Trying to stay original and not compare my style to others.
What are some of your favourite go to brands?
Ace Rivington, Frank and Oak, Gap, Adidas and Indochino
What is it like dating at a plus size man? Do you feel that you are judged based on your size?
Dating as a plus size man is great. I’m happily married with two beautiful daughters. I date my wife quite often!
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?
I wear what I want and ignore the haters. Internet fame can make you or break you, you can’t let some troll that lives in a basement in Texas ruin your day. They don’t know you, so keep it moving and stay focused on your wonderful life, friends and family.
What does life look like for you outside the fashion world?
Life outside the fashion world is great. I have a wonderful family that supports me and loves me. I have some things in the works! But overall life is beautiful 🙂
What is the message you hope to portray to other plus size men?
I hope to portray an image of confidence, hope and joy. I want men of all shapes and sizes to look at me and say “Wow, he can wear that. So can I.” and feel confident in themselves. To defy doubt and push forward without having any regrets. Go to that party, wear that outfit, ask that person you admire out for dinner and live the life you were made to live!
Website: www.notoriouslydapper.com
Social Media:
Instagram: @notoriouslydapper
Facebook: @notoriouslydapper
Twitter: @notoriouslydapp
Snapchat: @notoriouslydapp
Leave A Comment