Liberte Free to Be blog

January 29, 2020

Liberte Free to Be Book Reading List, Series 2

I'm excited to start recording Series 3 of Liberte Free to Be but there's still plenty of time to catch up with series two's guests https://anchor.fm/outofthebubble

I love interviewing all these inspiring women and always leave feeling more motivated and with a spring in my step. I am a huge book lover and still get excited going in to a book shop and holding it whilst I read, I'm still struggling to get along with a kindle if I'm honest. It's a time to just get lost in someone else's world and totally switch off for a while so I hope this series book recommendations gives you some inspiration to try a new book and why not leave me a message and let me know what you're reading too?

We are starting Series 2 book list with a triple dose of inspiration. Frances Davies, Helen Butters and Niki Doeg are 3 of the 4 women who alongside Janette Benaddi formed The Yorkshire Rowers. These incredible ladies hold the title for being the first women to row any ocean when they rowed across the North Sea and that was just a warm up. They went on to complete the Talisker Whiskey Atlantic Challenge becoming the oldest all female crew to complete the 3000 nautical mile challenge in 2016, aged between 45 and 51 at the time. So when you get inspiring book recommendations from these three women you definitely take note.

Debra Searle- The Journey The life changing book that set the seed for their epic challenge.

Elizabeth Day- How to Fail Seeing failure in a positive light not as a negative.

Michelle Obama - Becoming No explanation needed, a truly inspiring woman.

Tricia Stewart, the driving force behind the alternative WI calendar back in 1999, which went on to become a global phenomenon and to date has raised over £5 million for the Bloodwise charity absolutely loves the The Wrong Boy. by Willy Russell I have to confess I've not read this book so It's been added to this years list.

The list of publications that guest Marina Gask has worked on during her extensive media career as a top journalist is extensive and is now co-founder of the online magazine Audrey. Marina is drawn to Tales of the City by Armistead Maupin and is fascinated by the forming of friendships that then become your family.

Talented fashion designer Debbie Wilkinson started her fashion brand Fruitbats & Screwballs from scratch in her late forties without having any formal fashion background. Debbie first read Watership Down by Richard Adams as a young child and although it traumatised her she still says this is an all time favourite. I have to admit just listening to the films music does it for me.

Louise Proddow is another 50 year old who has a very positive approach to her age and life with her social media platforms @rejuvage full of daily inspiration and she has definitely motivated me to get fitter in my midlife. Louise, like many of us always thought that the 12 steps was always just for alcoholics but reading Russell Brands Recovery re-educated her. She believes everyone has some kind of addiction in their life after reading this.

The go to television expert on consumer and retail, Kate Hardcastle MBE, otherwise known as the customer whisperer suggests anything by Michael Gladwell (Blink The Power of Thinking, Talking to Strangers, David & Goliath). If you have an inquisitive mind and like reading business style books these are delivered in a very practical, informative manner. Kate's also a big fan of audio books which I have only just started to getting to but they're great for people that travel a lot and want to fit a book in with a busy lifestyle.

Sam Sweets passion for nails and her business Sweet Squared is not only infectious but also really inspiring on how her hard work and 100% dedication has paid off. Sam absolutely loved Alexander McQueen so any of his coffee books are a perfect way for her to relax and lose some hours. Savage beauty by Andrew Bolton, Genuis of a Generation, Kristen Knox, anything creative like that.

Rachel Lankester's positive attitude to midlife is wonderful and her attitude to this next chapter in life is inspiring so many other women through her Magnificent Midlife. We talked about her experience of the early menopause, her attitude to midlife, the importance of exercise and finding space to move forwards. So I wasn't surprised with her current recommendation of The Wisdom Of Menopause by Christiane Northrup. Rachel loves it because it aligns with her positive slant on midlife and the menopause.

Sam Bunch, author of Collecting Conversations (100 women sharing there every day thoughts) and newly published Menopause- A Hot Topic, both of which I'm also giving away on my Instagram competition this month @rachelperu.

Sam's a huge reader, usually with 3 or 4 books on the go at one time, describes herself like a sponge wanting to take it all in. Sam was once on train when a man slightly under the influence of alcohol said he was going to give her one bit of information, that was to read this book Anam Cara by John O'Donohue. Sam read it and says it the most fabulous spiritual book and highly recommends it.

Jo-Anne Jewett has a long list of credentials including celebrity make-up artist, author, founder of the Make-Up Training Company, trainer and educator.

Jo recommends everyone should read 'Feel The Fear and Do It Anyway'' by Susan Jeffers and I have to say I totally agree. Its a fantastic book to keep revisiting. Jo told me she was never a big fan of affirmations but after reading this book she is now, she went on to buy a copy for her daughter. (I am excited to giving a free copy of this book away over on my Instagram @rachelperu1 as part of this blog promotion)

Kate Blakemore is the founder of Motherwell Cheshire womens charity which we found out all about, a qualified counsellor, trainer, speaker and radio presenter and at every step of the way works tirelessly to support and encourage women in the community. Although Kate doesn't describe herself as a business women she's certainly had to have a strong mindset to set the charity up and keep it growing from strength to strength so

Reading all of Richard Bransons books has been a huge inspiration.

Kate's also recommends Frank Skinners Autobiography.

If you'd like to enter my instagram book give away to win signed copies of Series 1 guest, Author Imogen Clarks best selling books, Sam Bunch's Collecting Conversations and Menopause - A Hot Topic along with one of my favourites Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway by Susan Jeffries please visit Instagram @rachelperu1

(*UK ENTRANTS ONLY)

Happy Reading x

To catch up on the Out of the bubble podcast- https://anchor.fm/outofthebubble

Published by Rachel Peru in Liberte Free to Be Podcast

Tags: bookrecommendations, inspiringbooks, inspiringwomen, outofthebubbleblog

January 24, 2020

Welcome to Liberte Free to Be blog

When I first started blogging I wasn't exactly sure which direction it was going to take so I think it's taken time for my ideas and aspirations to take shape. I knew I wanted to create a space full of inspiration and positive posts to help other women that may have lost their confidence along the way. When I was younger I struggled with a lack of confidence and it wasn't until I hit my forties that I finally managed to change that. Never in a million years could I have imagined being confident enough to start a modelling career at 46.

Liberte Free to Be blog is full of inspiring women that have reinvented themselves; body confidence inspiration; fashion; beauty and a glimpse of my life as a model. I'm a firm believer in taking yourself out of your comfort zone to help improve your confidence and mental well being, so I intend to lead by example and have some fun along the way! I started the Out of the bubble podcast because I'd made connections through social media with so many inspirational women over 40 that have stepped out of their comfort zone and started something new which really helped motivate me too.

Since turning 40 I have faced some of my own fears, including my fear of heights by throwing myself out of an aeroplane in a tandem skydive for charity. I have to say it didn't cure my vertigo but what it did do was help provide a memory bank of my own courage so when I have wobbles I can go back and remind myself what I can do which helps me take the brakes off again. Since then I have said YES to so many more things that I would never have done before - I swam the Great North Swim in Lake Windermere twice; cycled the127 mile Leeds to Liverpool Canal and also from London to Brighton. It has opened up so much more self belief that I don't want to stop experiencing new adventures.

Join me on my adventures whilst I continue to step out of my own bubble to enjoy new experiences, from roller skating lessons at 50 to trying new activities and sports.

Would you love to rekindle an old hobby or passion? Have you a burning desire to try something new? I'd love to hear from you.

I know it's a cliche, but the saying "you're never too old" is so true!

Maybe you can come and join me along the way.

Rachel x

Published by Rachel Peru in Liberte Free to Be Podcast

Tags: followyourdreams, inspiration, justdoit, motivation, nevertoolate, outofthebubble, trysomethingnew

December 8, 2019

Discovering Independent Fashion Designers at Fashion Fiesta Leeds, 2019

I love taking part in runway shows so when the opportunity came around to take part in the Fashion Fiesta 2019, I jumped at the chance. What's not to love about showcasing some fabulous up and coming Yorkshire designers alongside raising money for great charities. From hats to full-on glamour gowns and street styles, the fashion show and mix of designers covered everyones taste.

Simply Devine hats opened the show and I loved the 'hatinators', a clever balance of hat and fascinator run by award-winning milliner and businesswoman Liz Devine-Wright. Simply Devine is a Tadcaster based business which specialises in supplying beautiful Mother of the Bride; wedding hats and race day fascinators to customers up and down the country.

Josephine Bloom @josephinebloom

I am fortunate to have come across Josephine's work before as she very kindly contributed some of her designs for a magazine feature I worked on at the beginning of this year. The feature made the front cover of Canadian fashion magazine Feroce and her designs fit the brief perfectly.

Josephine's collection How Cheap Can You Get? focusses on physical forms of social acceptance. Playing with how society views women as being desirable, and encouraging more freedom in how women express themselves through fashion. Challenging, thought provoking and eye catching.

Fruitbats & Screwballs by Debbie Wilkinson

I am a huge fan of this designer. Debbie chooses beautiful wools and patterns turning them into the most amazing capes and ponchos. She has really managed to take capes to a different level and created something that is so much more flattering and wearable than any traditional capes I've worn. I loved modelling this cape and fell in love with the colours and faux fur detail that creates this eye catching and cosy collar.

I actually can't decide which cape I love most, I've always loved tartan and the colour clash on this one is fabulous. The belt detail and the way it's cut makes these so much more wearable and flattering, especially for bigger busted women who could easily end up looking like a tent in a traditional cape!

Anthony French @af_editions

Anthony French's designs, based in Doncaster really caught my attention and is somebody I would really like to see more of. A collection of knitwear and textile classics with a contemporary twist, I fell in love with this embroidered net skirt; It makes me want to go to a somewhere special next Summer so I can wear it. I love that he mixed it with a jumper to give it a modern more wearable feel to it and at £95 for such a special piece I think it's a reasonable price.

But it was the little touches that Anthony French brings in to his collection that I loved too, this cute colourful handbag finishes the more relaxed day time trouser outfit perfectly.

What's Your Skirt? @whatsyourskirt

Siobhan Thomas describes What’s Your Skirt?’ as being "inspired by 'The Confident Woman', she is a go-getter and knows her identity. The sophisticated and modern well-dressed woman with a twist of individuality is her daily style. She is glamourous, personable and ambitious. She loves bold colour and statement pieces.

I really love this skirt and have added it to my wardrobe wish list so will definitely be following this label.

Bekaka Franck Diabagate

This designer really added full on drama and glamour to the event with his designs. Real show stoppers, these Haute Couture designs are inspired by the late Mexican artist Frida Kahlo. I have to admit I really wanted to walk for this designer and it does seem that older models do get stereotyped when it comes to runway shows. I definitely could have rocked Queen of the catwalk in one of these dresses!

I loved the elegance of this outfit, modelling for Mikkimono designed by Sue Gillespie, simplicity and style. As a curvy woman I also loved to hear that Sue was inspired to create a collection that accommodated larger sized people which in fashion design still seems a rarity. It seems a shame that Sue isn't yet on any social media platforms which makes it even harder to find her designs. So how do we find out about independent designers? If you regularly shop away from the high street and are great at sourcing independent designers i'd love some tips as I would really like to head in to 2020 supporting more local independent designers.

I have only included a few of my personal favourites from the evening but the other designers involved are all worth looking into.

Corinne Coolican @coolibycorinnecoolican

Deepinder Kaur @dipskaur88

Jag Kaur - The Ujag Fashion house

Kelsey Locke @kelsealocke

MGE Clothing - Mel Fox @mgetheginme

Salma Badat @salmabadat

Thank you to the Fashion Fiesta team for not only raising awareness of some great designers and offering them an opportunity to be discovered but also for helping raise money for some great charities. This years charities were The Teenage Cancer Trust and the Lee Fancourt Mental Health Trust.

Photographs credited to Charles Waller photography

Published by Rachel Peru in Fashion

November 25, 2019

Curve Fashion Festival 2019

Since the 2015 launch thousands of women from all over the World have descended to The Curve Fashion Festival for a full day of shopping, catwalks, celebrity talks and much more. 2018 was my first year modelling at the event and I was delighted to be asked back to walk in the catwalk shows and represent curvy women over 40. 2019's event was sponsored by SimplyBe so you just knew it was going to be a good one.

The amount of preparation that goes in to these events is immense and I take my hat off to the organisers and all those involved behind the scenes because its huge task to be ready on the day.

Serena Arthur MUA did an amazing job of my make up. It's all in the eyes.

Black Velour Silver Gem suit

There is no guarantee when you're modelling that you will actually like the clothes but you know the stylists and photographers will make them look good on you. However I was obsessed with the suits that SimplyBe chose for me to walk in. I am a huge fan of a trouser suit as they are so versatile to dress up or down. This Black velour Silver gem suit will now be popping up at lots of my Christmas nights out and its so comfy too. The jacket is £55 and trousers £35.

Walking in the Black appaloosa spot print collar front wrap dress from the Blue Vanilla Curve range. £22.

I am a huge fan of Hayley Hasselhoff and am constantly inspired by her body and style confidence so it was a pleasure to have a quick chat behind the scenes after her stage event. I've also fallen in love with this suit, SimplyBe have got it so right this season.

There was a good selection of stalls to cater for everyones tastes including Matalan Papaya curve range where Felicity Hayward could be found showcasing the collection and taking time to chat with everyone. The open plan of the Exhibition centre really gave the festival a more inclusive and welcoming feel and I hope it comes back there again in 2020.

This year saw more diversity than ever before, including a gorgeous model in a wheel chair and men on the catwalk. If you haven't heard of American body positive fashion blogger and model Kelvin Davis, Notoriously Dapper then I strongly recommend you look him up. His confidence is infectious and as for his smile, it speaks volumes. It's such a refreshing change for a man to be able to speak up about body confidence and he does it so well. A real inspiration.

I take any opportunity I can to be able to model lingerie and represent women over 40. If we all saw more diversity and older women in the industry I think we would all be less critical of our own bodies and learnt to accept ourselves just as we are, flaws and all. Elomi lingerie fit my 34FF was the perfect fit. Why are we all so hung up on size labels? So many question that I don’t look a size 14-16, why do we have a preconceived image of what a size looks like and want to judge people by it. We are all beautifully different in our body shapes and a size label doesn’t alter that. I am fully aware that I am one of the smaller sized models at this event but it doesn't make me less able to represent my size group and I certainly don't make the fashion industry size label rules. I salute the other models that are larger sized than I am, beautifully confident and I can also appreciate how much more difficult it is for them to find good brands that include them in the fashion industry which is why the Curve Fashion festival is so important.

My excitement was real when I saw my second SimplyBe outfit. This silver glitter lurex tuxedo blazer and trouser suit fit perfectly. Blazer £60 and Trousers £45. I was over the moon to be gifted both my outfits at the end of the show. I might even wear this to a Black tie event on New Years Eve, watch this space!

What I would say to anyone who is thinking of going to this event next year but is worried about going alone is just do it. You will be welcomed with open arms, it's such a friendly and inclusive day for everyone involved and social media leading up to the event is a great place to shout out and make new friends before you arrive. Here's to 2020!

Published by Rachel Peru in Fashion

November 18, 2019

My favourite pieces from the H&M, Richard Allan collection 2019

As soon as I saw the Richard Allan collection in H&M I knew I needed to get this outfit. I have always been a huge fan of sixties fashion, I used to have my own vintage fashion business and I love the bold prints and styles.

If you haven't heard of Richard Allan before he was responsible for creating iconic silk scarves in the 1960's with fabulous bold, abstract prints, becoming the 'it' scarves of the decade. It's fabulous to see his daughter Cate Allan carrying on his legacy whilst adding her own vibrant style.

H&M describes the collection as

"Abstract, avant-garde design in high octane colour. H&M’s latest collaboration celebrates the legacy of iconic scarf designer Richard Allan with a contemporary new collection."

Modal polo neck and pleated skirt. Shop the look here-https://rstyle.me/+muqnNd-ghMjfZYTTu3uqGA

Modal polo neck £9.99 Shop the look here-https://rstyle.me/+f9Wmd1wKHdeEbCqYniW4iQ

This polo neck would look equally great with black jeans or leather trousers this Winter.

Modal polo neck and pleated skirt. Shop the look here-https://rstyle.me/+muqnNd-ghMjfZYTTu3uqGA

This outfit is my new favourite and who says women with big boobs and curves can’t wear full on pattern! I would have shied away from wearing this previously because we’re constantly told what we should or shouldn’t wear. I say wear what you want if it makes you feel good.

Pleated skirt £29.99. Shop the look here-https://rstyle.me/+muqnNd-ghMjfZYTTu3uqGA

I never used to like wearing pleated skirts but I've realised they are so versatile. This skirt would look cool dressed down with white trainers and a t-shirt as well as adding heels and pretty vest top for a night out.

Modal polo neck and pleated skirt. Shop the look here-https://rstyle.me/+muqnNd-ghMjfZYTTu3uqGA

I also bought this day dress and pencil skirt along with a blouse from their collection. I can't remember the last time I went for more than one piece but its clothes I know I will get so much wear from across all the seasons. I've already had so many compliments when I've worn them too. It's not surprising that some of the collection sold out so quickly.

Shirt dress with tie belt. Shop the look- https://rstyle.me/+7mGiOyd7CEGwePDnEVwv3w

Jacquared knit pencil skirt. Shop the look here- https://rstyle.me/+0pDuKO-bB22Vxisuk1PRtw

V-neck camisole top £12.99 Shop the look-https://www2.hm.com/en_gb/productpage.0794061001.html

Patterned dress £17.99 Shop the look-https://www2.hm.com/en_gb/productpage.0754274002.html

I like the length of this dress as I think it would look good over leggings. I'd probably add a belt to it as a curvy woman I like to add some definition to my waist.

A huge thank you to Charlotte Nelson Photography who kindly agreed to take these fabulous images whilst we were both at a recent Yorkinstameet networking event. It was such a great opportunity to see behind the scenes at Castle Howard whilst they were preparing for their dazzling Christmas opening. I can't wait to go back and see what it looks like this week. Watch this space!

Keep being fabulous! x

Disclaimer:

I am a member of the rewardStyle affiliate programme, this means that if you click on a link through to a retailer and purchase something, I may receive a very small amount or percentage of your purchase. This does not add any additional cost to you, the customer. Adding these affiliate links into a post happens after a review or opinion of the product has already been formed and so does not affect the products that I choose to write about.

Published by Rachel Peru in Fashion

October 21, 2019

Flat and Fabulous with Juliet Fitzpatrick

I am inspired by women on a daily basis which is why I set up the podcast and the blog in the first place, to be able to share these stories of women getting on with their lives in extra ordinary ways.My next guest blogger has been on an incredible journey through cancer and is on a mission to help show other women that living flat is is more than ok. Juliet is helping other women by being such an active campaigner and is also a shining example of why the media and advertising need to start representing more diversity in their advertising.

So let's meet Juliet Fitzpatrick.

"I've just turned 58 and live in Hertfordshire with Liam, my husband of nearly 30 years and our two whippets. I have two grown up children. My son is nearly 28 and my daughter is 24. I met Liam in the third week of our first year at Manchester University and we've been together ever since. Strangely, both of our kids also graduated from Manchester University so it's a full house! I studied History and then went on to get a post graduate qualification in Library & Information Studies - I think, mainly because I loved books and reading. That hasn't changed. I never really worked as a librarian but specialised in research and information gathering. I was determined to be a full time mother and loved it but it did mean that I sacrificed my career to be at home.

I did have various part time jobs after I'd had the children and they were mainly in the sports industry. Sport has been the huge passion of my life. I played loads at school and university and then went on to work in rugby and sports development. I love being active now and exercise as a way of being strong and fit rather than to lose weight. I think I'm fitter now than when I was at home with my kids.

Life was going along swimmingly until 2016 when everything changed. I was diagnosed with breast cancer in January that year and had a left mastectomy, chemotherapy and a targeted drug called Herceptin."

Breast Cancer Now campaign

Can you remember those early feelings when you found out the news?

I felt utter shock and misery. I couldn't believe that I would be losing one of my breasts. It was one of the things that I most dreaded in my life-long with having to have chemotherapy. I'm not sure why I had even thought about it before I had cancer but losing my hair and one or both my breasts filled me with dread.

How easy was it to get the surgeon to agree to the second mastectomy?

It was not easy at all! Early on, I asked to have a bilateral mastectomy but that was quickly refused by my surgeon as he wouldn't remove healthy tissue. I asked for the second mastectomy at every surgical check up after the operation but my surgeon kept asking me to wait a little longer. My breast care nurse was very supportive of my request and backed me up each time. Eventaully, I sat in the examination couch naked from the waist up and asked my surgeon why he thought that I'd want to live as I was with one large breast. At that point he agreed that he would do the second mastectomy so that I could be symmetrical and it happened 18 months after the first.

What changes do you think need to be made so that surgeons and the health service give back the women's choice more easily?

If women are to make an informed choice then the health care professionals need to give them all the treatment options that are available to them. They should not think that they know what the patient wants- in the case of mastectomy patients-that most will want their bodies back to what they were. I think that women should be listened to better and taken much more seriously. In reality, I don't think that it's that simple. Many trusts and clinical Commissioning Groups have guidelines that restrict surgeons from carrying out contralateral prophylactic mastectomies (like I had) or limit the timescale that such procedures are carried out. Hospitals often have reconstruction information events where details are discussed but that usually doesn't include flat. I'd like to try and get in to these events to put forward the flat option.Understanding what each individual wants is key and that only comes by listening and talking.

Stand up to Cancer Defiance campaign in October 2019– Photographer Ami Barwell for Stand Up To Cancer

When times have been really difficult, how, what has got you through them? What does your self care look like?

My family has been my constant support. My husband Liam and I supported each other when we were both ill- he after heart surgery and me with my cancer treatment. My children have been wonderful. Dan who was 24 was about to go on an elective to Australia at the end of his medical degree. He still went but called me every day and cut his trip short by a week once he knew that I'd have to have a mastectomy. Laura was almost 21 when I was diagnosed and doing her dissitation for her degree. She was amazing- looking after me and her dad whilst juggling her studies and exams. She got a First which was fantastic. She was the one who supported and encouraged me to look at my chest after my first mastectomy. Some of my friends stepped up and others didn't. I got very close to a new friend and now we are the very best of friends. We bonded through weekly dog walks and photos- she took the very first topless image of me.

The other things that got me through are growing my flowers, exercise once I'd had my hip replacement, walking, watching any sport going and corny Amercian dramas like Greys Anatomy and Chicago Fire. I love them and still watch them. Now, my self care revolves around twice weekly PT sessions and weekly psychotherapy sessions. I feel like I really need both to keep me on an even keel mentally, I also love being fitter and stronger physically than I have been for many years.

How did you get involved in the Dove Show Us project? Can you tell us about the idea behind the project?

I'd done a photoshoot with Sophie Mayanne for her Behind the Scars project which had gone well. Sophie was asked to submit a few women including me for another project which turned out to be #ShowUS. She was successful with three of the women, including me and we had a photoshoot in October last year. One of the images from the shoot went on to be chosen as a global image that has been used all over the world, including Times Square, Piccadilly Circus, a beach in Cannes and in numerous other countries.There has also been a lot of print media and advertising. Project #ShowUs is the worlds largest photo library created by women and non binary individuals to shatter beauty stereotypes. With over 5000 images, it offers a more inclusive vision of beauty to all media and advertising. Women from around the world are redefining beauty on our own terms.

Juliet on a billboard for the Dove #ShowUs image in May 2019

How did you feel seeing yourself on billboards in the centre of London and knowing thousands os people would have seen your topless breast less image around the world, including Times Square?

It was amazing to see myself on billboards at Piccadilly Circus and I felt so proud of myself. It was exciting and surreal all at once. I felt like I'd achieved what I set out to which is to increase the visibility of flat women whether that's in advertising, print media or through social media. I'm delighted that thousands of people will have seen it. I know that that image will have been seen by some women who are having to take difficult decisions about their bodies. If it helps one woman to know it's ok to live without breasts then I have been successful.

My friends and family have all been very supportive and proud of me for putting myself out there so openly. They know what my aim is and want me to succeed. I think that they’re quite surprised at what I’ve done because pre cancer Juliet definitely wouldn’t have done any of the things that I’ve done since I became flat. Dan & Laura frequently tell me how proud they are of me which is amazing for me to hear. Liam is a great sounding board and offers me such good advice when I’m unsure about whether what I’m doing is right for me.

What changes would you love to see in the media and advertising?

I’d love to see less reliance on skinny young models whose images have clearly been digitally altered. It would be good to see more older models and greater use of models with visible differences and disabilities. Just much more representation of society as it really is and not the imagination of brands or ad agencies. It would be great if images used in media and advertising were not digitally altered and the models appear as they truly were at that moment in time.

Behind the Scars photoshoot in June 2018. It ended up in a pop up exhibition in the V&A museum – Sophie Mayanne for Behind the Scars

Through out this process you started a blog www.bloomingcancer.co.uk which I have been plowing through the posts, you are so honest and I can see how this would help so many women.When did you decide to start the blog?

I started the blog about three months after I had my second mastectomy in February 2018. It was just at the time that my scar had healed and I asked my friend and photographer, Sue, to take photos of my new body shape. We’d talked about doing such a photo shoot for some time. She’d taken some photos of me when I was going through chemotherapy and had no hair, and also once my hair had grown back and I’d had my first post chemo hair cut. I knew that I’d feel comfortable with her and be able to trust her when I would be feeling vulnerable.

The photos were so good that I wanted other people to see them. I decided that I would start blogging as I hadn’t really written about my cancer and the decision that I’d taken to live flat. The response to my first post was amazing and so positive. Some women who were going through similar to me told me that they’d never seen a breastless chest before and that it had helped them to think more about what decisions they would take after mastectomy. It really kick started my whole campaigning and advocacy life and made me realise that I could make a difference.

The first topless photoshoot I did with my good friend in 2018– Sue Lacey Photography.

You have shown real determination to keep fit and healthy, how did you become Ambassador to 5kYourWay? Do you think we all put too much pressure on ourselves and compare ourselves to what others are achieving when it comes to exercise?

I saw a tweet about 5K Your Way and contacted the organisers to see if I could set up an event in Rickmansworth. It was as easy as that. What hasn’t been easy is actually managing to get people to come along to take part. My event has yet to really take off and I only have one or two regular participants.

I’m not sure about that. In the cancer world I think that people compare themselves to others in the context of being well enough to exercise. Some of us have recovered quicker than others and are able to do more. Others have more side effects or fatigue which is longer lasting. It can be discouraging for those who feel less able to exercise to constantly hear from others who are more able. I think that comparison is pointless but is so easy to do. I try hard not to compare myself to others but it isn’t always easy. Having a target to aim for is a much healthier way of thinking than comparing ourselves to what others are doing.

What's the best piece of advice you've been given?

Juliet is such an inspiring women and if you'd like to read more please check out her blog www.bloomingcancer.co.uk you can also follow her on Instagram @julietkfp and Twitter @Julietfitzy.

if you have a story to share please get in touch as I'd love to hear from you-

rachelperumodel@gmail.com

Keep being fabulous x

Published by Rachel Peru in Inspiring Women

October 16, 2019

Meet photographer Margaret Soraya and discover her breathtaking landscape photography.

I interviewed some really inspiring women last year and Margaret Soraya certainly had an impact on me. Margaret is a self confessed introvert and amazing landscape photographer. Margaret tells us what life is like as a photographer living in an idyllic village by Loch Ness in Scotland. At the age of 44 Margaret is really beginning to explore her passion for landscape photography and rekindling her love of the ocean. We talk about her journey, the beauty in travelling solo and following your passion. You can't fail to read this and come away feeling calmer and inspired by this lady.

Can you set the scene and describe where you live in Scotland?

I live in really small village on the edge of Loch Ness, I don't have the views from my house but I can just walk 2 minutes to the edge of the loch. It's pretty amazing really. I often go down in the Summer for a swim first thing, it's a pretty nice place to live.

I grew up in Manchester, I lived there until I was 19. I just had this vision of going somewhere really remote and I was fascinated by the highlands of Scotland and I love quiet places and landscapes. I got a summer job at first and travelled backwards and forwards whilst at college. Over the years I've moved around quite a lot but I settled in this village about four years ago and we're staying.

Did you study photography at university?

I started off doing a fine art degree in Coventry and then I switched to photography in South Wales but I only finished half of it. I never did really well to be honest, it was a struggle for me, the tutors didn't really like me very much. I don't think they liked my quietness and it's one of the things that's become quite powerful in my life now. It's something I feel quite passionate about, I am a quiet person and I am an introvert but I do have a lot of talent.

A lot of people overlook introverts and their talents just because they don't speak out. I left university a bit down hearted and I didn't do any photography for the next ten years, I just didn't pick up a camera again. I kind of lost my way after that.

Ironically the things that I would do, like in water photography, the waves and the sea, which no one really got, is something that I've just started to do more of now. A lot of the work I was doing back then is starting to be back in my life now so I obviously knew what I was supposed to do, what I loved doing, but other people were telling me it was the wrong thing to do.

After your long gap of not doing any photography what was the thing that sparked your interest again?

Well I got married and I had the children, I think my youngest was about six months old and I had this overwhelming feeling that I couldn't just do this, I know children are lovely but it was so all consuming and it wasn't me, I needed something more. I quickly decided to set up a wedding photography business, to make a little bit of money on the side but then simultaneously my husband lost his job. I had to make the decision to either stop doing it so he could go and do what he needed to do or make it work and I ended up bringing in the income for the household. So it was a bit of an accident really and it grew from there. Ten years on we split up and obviously that business then became really really important to me.

To make these decisions you must have had a lot of self belief. Have you always had that confidence or is a new development?

It's a funny word confidence isn't it. I've been thinking a lot about that recently and I would say all my life I have suffered with a lack of confidence. I think that comes from being put down by people when I was younger because I was quiet and it seems to have stayed with me throughout my life. But what I think I did gain, particularly when my marriage broke down was courage. The courage to say, ok I might not have the confidence to do this but I have the courage to try it, the confidence will then come from that and it has actually. I'm still working on that. As I step away from the wedding photography to pursue what I really want to do I'm having to find a lot of courage and confidence to do these things. I don't like being in the spotlight at all so standing on the stage to do a talk recently in front of 200 people was my idea of hell but I did it because I need to share my work and get out there.

What kind of tools did you use to help you make that first presentation in front of 200 people? What advice could you give?

You do stand there just before you go on and think why am I putting myself through this, why am I doing it? The truth is if it's something you feel really passionate about then don't keep it inside yourself. If you have value and want to share it with people why stand in the wings? You tend to find the people that are naturally confident and outgoing will always take the stage but that doesn't mean they have more talent or more to give than you. If there's something inside you then just go for it and find the courage and it will get easier each time. I started small, speaking at small camera clubs and each time I go the nerves dissipate slowly.

You now have this real passion fro landscape photography, what does a typical day look like for you shooting outdoors?

Well for my own personal landscape work I have a real passion for quiet places, I love really remote places and being by myself. The way that I work I have to be by myself, it doesn't work if I'm surrounded by people. I go off to the outer Hebrides a lot and I've started exploring the other Scottish islands as well. I travel a lot in the Winter and I've now got a converted Sprinter van so that means I can literally go park on the edge of nowhere and stay for days on end if I want to. It's quite an interesting thing to do, you really have to be happy in yourself, I think some people would struggle with that, but I think it's wonderful. Now I feel like it's time for me to do what I want to really do. The new business of retreats and taking people out to be part of it, exploring these remote areas and teaching mindfulness through photography is a new venture and it feels a wee bit scary but again its that courage thing again.

There still seems to be a real stigma in society around women travelling alone which then has a knock of womens confidence about it. How have you found the retreats, do more women come with friends or alone?

Theres a lot of women that come alone actually which is exactly what I was expecting and it's really interesting. I just love these kind of women that want to travel alone because it's quite empowering. I went to India three years ago on my own, I just picked a place, booked a flight and off I went.Thats the probably the most intrepid thing I've done and I'm proud of myself for doing that. I've always had itchy feet and wanted to travel and then when I got married I was kind of trapped for a while so once the marriage had actually broken I was lucky enough to do a bit of travelling with a travel journalist doing the photography for about five years. I've come to the point now where I think Scotland is just so incredible that the travel bug for going around the world has dissipated which is really nice.

This has all clearly enriched your life in a different direction. When you go off in the winter do you sill continue your wild swimming?

Yes, when I say 'swim' lets put that in adverted brackets! Outdoor swimming for me, there's no goal to reach, like oh I've done two miles outdoors today, for me it's about the experience. It's really hard to describe but when you go in to really cold water afterwards when you come out it's the most amazing feeling ever. It's like a massive natural high. When I swim in the winter I just dip but it's an amazing feeling being out and immersed in the water, it's fantastic.

You strike me as someone that has really found peace in your life , how ambitious are you for the future?

I would say I'm very ambitious, I think I've had so many years of being held back. When I first split up with my husband I lost everything, the house, everything went. So I had to start again from nothing, it was quite traumatic but its been a long road uphill for me. I think for the last ten years I've just been getting through and paying the bills so when I bought my house last year it was a massive achievement and turning point for me. I can start to see and move forwards now. My ambition has really come after that, I can see a future now.

Favourite song-

Make Your Own Kind Of Music by Cass Elliot. I love the lyrics, it's about doing your own thing, it doesn't matter if others don't like it.

Inspiring book-

Quiet by Susan Cain. I read this book a couple of years ago and it really changed my life. Anybody that struggles with being introverted should read it.

Inspired by-

American writer and lecturer Susan Cain. She had a similar journey to me. She struggled with being an introvert and now stands up and does talks, she's presented Ted talks and to watch her go through that journey is amazing. Other than that it's just women who are out there doing their own thing with passion and drive. I just love seeing women of any age swimming against the tide.

To see more of Margaret's beautiful photography you can find her on instagram @margaretsoraya and her website www.margaretsoraya.com

To listen to the full interview

Keep being fabulous
x

Published by Rachel Peru in Inspiring Women

October 10, 2019

My favourite products for Silver, White and Grey hair.

I stopped dying my hair 5 years ago and have fully embraced my silver hair now; I've found the whole experience liberating. There are so many different shades of grey you don't know what hair colour you will end up with until you stop dyeing. My hair is very white, almost silver, except at the back where it is a darker grey. People seem to assume because you don't have to colour it any more, you also don't have to worry about hair maintenance but it's not as easy to manage as people think.

Many women with grey hair have a constant battle with yellow tones which can be caused by so many different factors including air pollution, heat from styling, exposure to the sun, and a build up of hair products. I have tried and tested so many different silver shampoos and treatments in the last few years, I thought it might be helpful to share some of my favourites.

Why use a silver purple shampoo? I think it can seem quite scary at first washing your hair with a dark purple shampoo, there's the fear that you will end up with bright purple hair. If you imagine a colour wheel, purple is directly opposite yellow which means they can cancel one another out. When you tone your yellowing hair using purple, it cools down the tone of the yellow shades and removes the brassiness.

I have been fortunate to have been given certain products to try and had the opportunity to attend the Philip Kingsley hair clinic in Mayfair for an analysis and treatment session. I had already been using their products and was a huge fan of the deep conditioning Elasticizer but at the clinic I was shown how to really get the best out of the product. I've now started using it once a week, leaving it on for at least 20 minutes before I wash my hair with a silver shampoo.

I have fine hair but lots of it and since using Elasticizer I've found my hair feels and looks fuller, has more bounce and generally looks healthier. It's not a particularly cheap product but I think it makes a real difference and one I would recommend to invest in. #gifted

Pantene also brought out a new Grey and Glowing range this year and I was fortunate to work on their social media campaign so again was gifted the range to try. Silver shampoos all seem to be different and in the past I confess to trying some that have left me looking like I've had a purple rinse! This range seems to banish most of my yellow tones without any build up but I particularly like the illuminating mask. I usually wash my hair twice a week and alternate between the Elasticizer or a mask. It's an affordable reliable product which I use regularly.

I've also been introduced to the Sachajuan Silver shampoo and conditioner professional haircare range by Samantha Sweet at Sweet Squared. I had never heard of it before but have used it a few times now and it seems to really cut out those brassy tones; if you like cooler grey white tones I think it's perfect. Be careful not to leave the shampoo on for too long, 1-2 minutes only; I left it on for 5 minutes and the result was an icy white colour with a hint of purple. It's available to buy on Amazon, at £20 it is quite pricey but it does work well.

If you've never tried any of the White Hot Hair products then I highly recommend them. I really like the whole ethos behind this brand and love the products.The shampoo leaves my hair with a healthy looking gloss. My absolute favourites from this range are the Lifeshine Oil (£14) to keep the frizziness at bay and the Whooshing Creme (£13) is always in my handbag for that last minute boost of oomph when you need it. The prices are reasonable too. It's brilliant! #gifted

If I'm going for an evening out, I sometimes like to give my hair an extra boost and have used the Milkshake Silver shine whipped cream mousse for years. Not only does it work well, without leaving your hair feeling sticky, but it smells amazing too.

I don't think you can beat the Pro:Voke range for Silver Dry shampoo and hairspray for reliable results and great value for money. I have also tried their silver shampoo but found it was too strong for me and always left a strong purple shade in my hair. I also found it stained the bathroom more than any other products. I once had a terrible purple shampoo experience in a nice white bathroom in a smart hotel. I've never used it since!

#greyhairdontcare

Published by Rachel Peru in Hair and Beauty

Tags: greyhairdontcare

October 7, 2019

Fighting ageism in fashion with Jacynth Bassett

The week I chatted with Jacynth Bassett founder of The-Bias-Cut.com. We find out why at 26 years old Jacynth is so passionate about fighting ageism in the fashion industry alongside some tips on how to take steps to regain your fashion confidence.

Where did the idea come from Jacynth?

I was at university, studying Law but I realised it wasn't really for me. I wanted to do something that I found I cared about and I'd always loved the fashion industry, not just the clothes but the industry as a whole. I quickly got to thinking about my mum and how we'd go shopping a lot when I was a teenager. She had me at 40 so she was already experiencing ageing quite quickly when I was young. She loves clothes and she was really struggling to find beautiful things that she loved to wear. We'd go into shops and shop assistants would be quite dismissive of her and she would often say 'Oh this isn't for me and then bought me things because she felt she couldn't wear them. It was really from that I gained the inspiration, I wanted to give back her confidence through style and fashion.

During your period of research into how older women felt about fashion what surprised you the most?

I think what surprised me the most was the split view of what I wanted to do. I did a survey and one of the questions was about using women over forty as models of all shapes and sizes, all the people I surveyed were late forties, fifties and about half said they didn't like the idea. That really surprised me but what I realised was a lot of the women comments were based on their own pre-judged biased. It's what they have been used to seeing and then can't imagine what I was thinking of. A website that would really empower women they thought it would be really dowdy and frumpy. After I initially launched the blog a couple of those women then emailed me saying ,'If this is what you meant, I really like this'.

Have you come across that ageist attitude because you are younger in an older category, have peoples attitudes been different towards you?

Not really, I found people have really responded well to that, a lot of people have commented that they really like that I'm younger. Women seem to think I can bring an objective perspective in to it and I'm not just going to choose clothes that I would wear, although I do love all the clothes. I've had the odd patronising person but most people have been very positive and I've been welcomed with open arms. Just because I'm not directly affected by ageism doesn't mean I shouldn't care about it.

What is your age demographic for The-Bias-Cut.com?

Mainly forties to late sixties, but actually we have customers of all ages, because the brands we sell don't specifically target that bracket. The idea is everything is ageless. It's nice that I get so many women sending me messages and photos in the clothes, saying its given them loads of confidence from wearing their outfits.

You must see a difference in women's confidence when they are buying clothes that they feel really good in.

It's really interesting because when it first started people went with really safe options and as the business as gone on those customers have really started to step out of their comfort zone. We have an exceptionally low return rate on line shopping because women are having fun experimenting. When I do events I can guess which pieces they will gravitate towards and it's about saying why don't you try this but in a different colour because a lot of women put themselves in a box about what they can wear.

What about internet shopping for this particular age group, that's another challenge isn't it, to ask them to buy on line with confidence, how have you found that?

Challenging! I do have people that say to me surely that demographic don't buy on line but that's just not true, it's the fastest growing demographic for online shopping. There is still a lack of confidence there, mainly down to previous experience of shopping online where there's been lack of quality and fit, I do events which help show the customers our pieces directly. It's about building a good reputation based on the quality of service.

I like buying online because you have the luxury of having your wardrobe there to try with different shoes, your accessories.

Exactly you can see how it's going to fit in to your wardrobe there. I think you have less buyers remorse too.

Why do you think it is that women in their forties and fifties often lose their fashion confidence, what do you think the industry does wrong?

Well first of all its about the imagery. I think the stats are something like we see between 3000-5000 images a day so the majority of those adverts feature women that are younger. It takes someone with a very thick skin to somehow not be affected by that, even sub-consciously. When you have the likes off Cara Delevingne, whose my age, the face of an anti-ageing product, it's not great!

It's an interesting thing with ageism I've found through different discussions with people. There are people who say they are pro-ageing but they still have a very restricted idea of how we should age.I've had someone say to me that after the age of 50 you shouldn't care about looking sexy.

I don't get that. I've never felt more sexy than in my forties.

A lot of women have said they've been a mother, career orientated and then lost a sense of self and stuck in practical clothes or office wear all the time. Women have told me that want to be stylish again but they don't know how to get back there.

I really like the fact that you use non-model women, of all shapes and sizes who we can all relate to. I hate the term 'real women' because we are all real.

People can just apply to model for us and the number of women applying have really gone up since the beginning. It's really lovely to see that they are confident enough and willing to do that and try something different.

What I also love about you is aside from the-bias-cut.com you are also really proactive within the industry about fighting ageism. Can you tell us a little bit more about the kind of things you have been involved in?

So I started this campaign movement called 'Ageism is never in style' back in 2016.

It started as an online community on facebook, a group where people came together to share their thoughts and ideas. I share what's going on the industry, different articles and people can have their voice heard by leaving comments. It's an interesting thing ageism , because its about choice and I still don't think we're there yet with everyones understanding of that.I write a lot of articles for magazines, forty plus communities and speak at events. In February 2018 I had this eleventh hour brainwave that I wanted to create these 'Ageism is never in style' badges just before fashion week. I thought to myself this is either going to be a really big hit or let's just pretend that never happened, but yeah it took off massively. They're free and people were ordering them in batches to give to there friends and it really sparked off conversations. *these badges are still available to order free https://www.facebook.com/commerce/products/2006883626047089/

What piece of advice could you give to a woman that has that craving to get back to feeling good in their clothes?

The thing I always say to people is just give it a go. If it doesn't work on you can just take it off. I see customers more at our pop up events and I get such a lovely reaction to clothes and then they say but I couldn't wear that. It's not until they try things on and see for themselves and hear other peoples reactions to them. Just try it you might be surprised.

Last three questions I ask every guest

Do you have a favourite song that motivates you?

I do but its so embarrassing!! 'All I do is Win' which is a hiphop rap song by DJ Khaled, don't judge me!

A Favourite book

I'm going to be completely honest with you I don't read a lot of books even though I love them. Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte and I recently read Amy Poehler's autobiography, Yes Please, which was really interested, I liked how candid and honest she was.

Who Inspires you?

My mum is a big inspiration in my life.

Women like Natalie Massenet with the career she's had inspire me, there are lots of women that inspire by the things they've done.

You can follow Jacynth on Instagram @the_bias_cutcom Facebook @the-bias-cut.com and Twitter @the_Bias_Cutcom and check out www.the-bias-cut.com on line store for lots of fashion inspiration.

To listen to the full interview-

https://anchor.fm/outofthebubble/episodes/Episode-6-Out-Of-The-Bubble-with-Jacynth-Bassett--founder-of-The-bias-cut-com-e2s9ep

In the meantime .....keep being fabulous!

Published by Rachel Peru in Inspiring Women

Tags: ageism, ageism in fashion, fashion, fashion over 40, Jacynth Bassett, midlife fashion, the bias cut

September 30, 2019

Shopping with the Long and the Short of it

I had kindly been asked to join Ruth @wearitlikeruth and Lisa @thesearchforsassiness for a styling shopping trip at Marks & Spencers in Leeds. Ruth is 5'8'' and a size 10/12 and Lisa is 5'1'' and a size 6-8 so the idea behind #thelongandtheshortofit is to go out and show you what the same outfits look like on different women. Add my curvy 5'7'' size 14/16 in to the mix and you have a lot of womens shapes and sizes represented. It's hard when you go out shopping to imagine what you will look like as the images promoting the clothes are often full of younger, similar slim shaped women so it can make shopping feel a little daunting and unrelateable.(Loved the fact that we all turned up dressed in Autumn colours and maxi dresses too)

How come I have never heard of M&S Fit and style service? A free personal styling service which could really take the stress out of trying new looks and styles with an assistant helping you find that perfect outfit.

I love the colours this Autumn and It was hard to narrow the outfits down to only 5 as there is so many lovely things in the store at the moment. I think the problem with M&S is that their stores are so big with so much stock. I think it can be a bit too daunting for some people. I have been using there online styling TY Tuesday service recently and that's a great source of inspiration and help in choosing new looks.

We were all fans of outfit no.1 and the fact that the trousers come in different leg lengths suited Lisa too. Evie checked straight 7/8th trousers £35 with Checked double breasted blazer £69. I think the stiletto high cut court shoes in Yellow are such a good price at £25.

I loved the trousers, mine were a size 14 and they fitted perfectly. I have a 34G bust so I tend to struggle with a square jacket shape. My jacket was a size 16 and felt a bit shapeless on me so maybe I would go down size to see if that gives more definition.

I would never have picked this floral midi dress (£45) to try as high necks scare me a little. I was pleasantly surprised. I think because the waist is elasticated it gives the waist more definition and gives the dress more shape so I was less conscious of my top half. I love the colours and print too, especially paired with this beautiful coat. We all loved the double breasted wool coat, in fact Ruth couldn't resist it and went back to buy it a few weeks later. At £99 it is more of an investment for Winter but it has such a classic cut it will go with so many outfits and last for years.

The colour of this belted wrap coat is fabulous, although the style didn't really suit me, I need more of a tailored look so I tied the belt behind it to create more shape. I absolutely love the high waisted wide leg trousers at £39.50 and they remind me of Victoria Beckham classic look. I've never worn this colour before so it really is good take yourself out of your comfort zone and try new colours and styles. I used to live in Black, especially when I was self conscious of my body because I felt like I could hide and blend in. I love wearing colour now and I've discovered some colours really give me a boost of confidence, especially Red.

I think we were all impressed with the fit of the trousers, I chose some Magic lift straight legged jeans £35 in Dark indigo and they fit me perfectly. I have been living in white trainers recently and was tempted with these white and navy blue ones, £49.50, but not sure I can sneak another pair in the house! The aviator jacket at £69 looks cool dressed down with a plain white t-shirt, it also comes in Black which I think I prefer. The faux shearling material is actually lighter than it looks so that was slightly disappointing for a winter jacket, but I guess you could use more layers underneath.

This colour combination is everywhere and because I like to show my curves off knitted dresses have become a big favourite of mine so I was comfortable in this Blue ribbed fit and flare dress, £39.50. I am not a huge fan of the double breasted jacket on me again, although I love the Cognac colour, I think its the just this style doesn't work for me. Let's talk about the boots though as I can't find them on the website now so I think they might be out of stock and I am already regretting not buying them. I live in flats and trainers most of the time as I just don't feel comfortable in heels unless I'm wearing them for work. However these boots were just the right height, felt so comfortable and because they are laced up to the ankle they made my size 7's look much daintier.

The beauty of having some go to blazers in your wardrobe is that you can really dress them up or down. I personally prefer this jacket with the jeans rather than the dress.