My #PinkShirtPromise: Every bully is bullied

Think about it… Every bully is being bullied.
I know this, because I was a victim of both and I hate myself for it.

I hate that I was being laughed at for being chubby, my entire life.
I hate that I did not stand up for myself.
I hate that I took out my anger on others.
I hate that I was a bully.
Maybe these folks have forgiven me, for being a coward and preying on the weak. If not, please take this as my apology.

I think I’m lucky, and got off pretty clean. Unfortunately, lots of victims of bullying don’t. I can’t even imagine what bullying looks like in 2016. Between social media and mobile technology, there are a plethora of weapons available to bullies. According to the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, 40% of Canadian workers experience bullying on a weekly basis and 47% of Canadian parents report having a child victim of bullying. But if we all speak up, we can put an end to this non-sense.

I give you the #PinkShirtPromise campaign, a cause that is very close to my heart. Thanks to Post-it® and Bayshore Shopping Centre, Ottawa will embark on an initiative to end bullying in Canada from February 17-24, 2016.

During that week, Bayshore shoppers are invited to post their personal pledge of kindness to the Pink Shirt Promise installation in centre court, and inspire others to end bullying using the social media hashtag #PinkShirtPromise.

PinkShirtPromise Bayshore Ottawa

For every pledge posted, Bayshore will donate $0.25 to DIFD (Do it for Daren), a youth-driven initiative focused on raising awareness and inspiring conversations about youth mental health. By February 24 – Pink Shirt Day – the objective is to have the installation adorned entirely in pink Post-It pledges.

Also, when you post your promise on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram you get entered for as chance to with an ET Canada Experience, which includes flights for two to Toronto and two nights hotel accommodation, and a $1,500 dollar shopping spree at Bayshore Shopping Centre!

Please join me and spread the love! 

Created by Shaw Communications, #PinkShirtPromise is an initiative for social change in support of the bullying prevention movement in Canada aligned with Pink Shirt Day.

PinkShirtPromise Post-it Pink Bayshore Ottawa End Bullying Ottawa Fashion Blog Mode XLusive

And in case you need a pink shirt, feel free to browse some of these awesome finds!

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Le Veston- My Denim Vest

Le Veston

A few observations. First, I feel so 80’s today with my new vest. Second, I might be obsessed with denim… hahaha

Today’s proutfit is brought to you by my new Old Navy light wash denim vest, perfect to hide chubs and rolls! he he We can’t all be sleek but we sure can try and hide our flaws!

This cut is perfect for me as it hits high, right at my waistline and really helps accentuate it. For a more pear shaped body type, or if you are blessed with a booty, I would recommend a longer version, the Plus Denim Vest.

These vests are perfect for the summer. They keep you cool, but covered. Give you a more tailored finish without being too restricting and best of all, as I mentioned above… it helps to hide imperfections. I will be wearing it with skirts and dresses./.. so watch out!

Yes, I have imperfections. It doesn’t mean that I hate myself. I am just on a mission to find flattering clothes and help you do the same!

chantal Sarkisian plus size fashion blogger ottawa blog mode xlusive
Paired a white t-shirt from Joe Fresh, a navy maxi skirt from H&M with my Old Navy vest!
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Proutfit: Black, White and Grey

Not much going on today with my proutfit. A little black, white and grey action. Maybe it’s a symbol of my blah mood.

This is the white skirt I had taken in. I love the embossed floral details of the fabric. It’s not stretchy, so going up stairs and getting into my car is a bit of a “thing”.

My black and white top is from H&M ($14.95). It’s a bit sheer, but does the trick for the price point. I also grabbed a green version of the same top, which I love!

My new go-to cardy is from J-Crew Outlet at Tanger. I love that it is short and hits me at my waistline. Very important to flatter the section that goes in.

I’ve had my black peep-toe patten leather Franco Sarto pumps for almost 5 years now. I had the heel changed twice and the sole reinforced. I love them. Very comfortable heel and great for conferences when you are on your feet all day long.

  

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Event: H&M Conscious Closet

Last night, I attended my first ever blogging event. Officially, I’ve been blogging for the last seven years, but my recent efforts really seem to be paying off. It all seems surreal.

Starting a plus size fashion blog is exciting but at the same time, it puts me in a vulnerable position. I’ve always been open about my personal life, and share everything on social media, but this is different. Especially when I most recently shared my weight loss journey on this blog. My role has now transformed from plus size fashionista to a motivational and self-acceptance coach. Not a bad gig at all! 

Now back to last night. Absolutely everything was gorgeous, the beautiful flowers, the delicious food and the company of course! I had the opportunity to meet new blogger friends, that I naturally connected with right away. We just have so much in common. Get your glam on, take pictures, post on social media… Check!

H&M Canada and Bayshore Shopping Centre teamed up to host a series of events that would promote H&M’s latest eco-fashion collections “Conscious” and “Conscious Exclusive”. Check out the Bayshore website, to participate in all their initiatives and contests. Make sure you use #HMConsciousCloset!

I’m a visual person, so I decided to share all my iPhone pics to show you a glimpse of what the event was all about.

    

The most incredible feeling to see your name and blog out there in the real world. Inside the box is a special gift that was picked out just for me from H&M Canada, by Emily Scarlett.
  
Alyssa Beltempo and Caroline Lacasse, Ottawa’s trendsetters
      
The elegant Emily Scarrlett from H&M Canada. My favorite part of the night is when Emily talked about all the different ways H&M recycles and reuses the clothes they collect from these initiatives.
  
What blogger events should look like
  
What blogger events actually look like
   
The table was gorgeous even with the mess we left behind after dinner.
 
5 course meal catered by Thyme and Again
 
I met some really great people last night and I look forward to connecting with them online!  

(You know who you are) xox Chantsy

Spoiler Alert- this is the gorgeous dress that I got in my secret gift. They were on point, since I already bought it! Looks like I get to swap it for another beautiful piece!
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