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In today's world, the pressure to be thin and slinky is still intense. Although the average woman in America is a size 14, the media and entertainment industry are still obsessed with thinness. Despite the increase in plus size models and clothing options, women are still encouraged to love themselves when they hit their tiniest size rather than loving their curves.

So how do you learn to love your plus size self? It isn't just a matter of waking up one day and deciding that you are beautiful and worth it. You may have to start small. We're here to give you some solid tips on how to improve your self image as a plus size woman and start seeing the beauty in the mirror.

To begin with, pamper yourself and get comfortable with your body. One of the best ways to start loving you is to make your body feel good. Getting a manicure and a pedicure regularly or even doing your own nails will always make you feel well groomed and put together. If you can, a massage every once in a while wouldn't hurt either. You should also consider a regular, low impact exercise program. You'll be amazed how good you feel after a nice walk in the evening or a session of water aerobics at your local gym. Additionally, you can keep your full figure and tone up at the same time. Not all exercise programs are designed for weight loss - some can be for improving strength, flexibility or just to get to know your body better. Don't ever forget that you can be curvy, gorgeous and fit.

Next, make sure you have clothes that fit. Far too often plus size women just grab clothing that covers them up or that isn't constrictive and uncomfortable. You may also not know how to shop, or what looks best on your figure. You may have gained some weight quickly, or it may have been a gradual climb. You may have always been curvy and voluptuous, but perhaps you've always been encouraged to cover up and wear baggy clothes. There is no reason to hide! Just because you have curves or you aren't the size that all the magazines say is beautiful - who cares?

Have you ever seen Marilyn Monroe in Some Like It Hot? She was plus size at a size 14 and she was curvy and completely gorgeous. Her sheer and sexy dresses and well fitted outfits showed off every part of her figure. Are you wearing plus size jeans that fit and show off your luscious behind? Are you wearing well cut plus size tops that show off your cleavage or your fabulous shoulders? If not, you are doing yourself a disservice. Every woman has areas they can enhance and with all the great styles out there, you can show off your goods and distract from the things you don't like.

Don't be afraid to try different clothing makers and plus size clothing websites and stores to find clothes that fit you the right way. You may look fabulous in low rise jeans and peasant tops, or your figure might lend itself to tailored slacks and button down shirts. Don't be afraid of materials that you love and that look and feel luxurious. The most important part of shopping is to know your size. Take your measurements and know your sizes - and know that different manufacturers will fit your body in different ways. Feel free to order clothes online to try if you aren't comfortable shopping at the mall. Do whatever you need to do to populate your wardrobe with clothes that make you feel amazing.

Another great way to feel sexy is to have a sexy secret. Plus size lingerie can be a great indulgence that lets you feel super hot beneath your every day clothes. For instance, have you tried out the newer boy short panties style or have you taken the time to appreciate the simple pleasure of matching your plus size panties and full figure bra? Have you experimented with plus size corsets or a plus size bustier? Have you embraced your inner goddess with a plus size garter belt and stockings or a sexy plus size body stocking? All of these plus size lingerie options can do the job of making you feel beautiful, daring and sexy.

Finally, you need to let go of societal expectations and assumptions about beauty. This is probably the hardest lesson to learn. You may have been yo-yo dieting for years, or you may have an unsupportive family, spouse or circle of friends. You may have the feeling of insecurity ingrained in your brain, but you can overcome it! The more you love yourself, the less the opinions of others will matter. The more you love yourself, the happier you will be and the more you will understand that your curvy and beautiful body is something to be celebrated, not hidden.