I have been wanting to write a blog post for ages, I love reading other peoples first introduction to PUG, but I never really thought anyone would be interested in hearing my story until a couple of weeks ago. So now I have decided to take this opportunity to say a big heart felt 'Thank you' to Laura, Micheline, everyone who works so hard behind the scenes at PUG and every person on here that has created such a loving, supportive and uplifting community, that is a joy to be apart of.

Firstly a little about me; I am originally from the UK but moved to Australia about 4 years ago to start a new life after graduating from University. I am 6ft tall, and have been chasing the skinny dream since I put on quite a lot of weight when I was 16. In my family it's not really OK to be overweight, my Mum started buying me weight loss milkshakes to have for my school lunch but I would have those and then go and buy myself a real lunch (a milkshake isn't a meal?!).

My generally loud and friendly nature, combined with my height ensured I was always noticed and I relished the attention from both males and females. I would seek the approval of others, trying to make people like me with my loud personality but at home I would cry that my clothes made me look awful and I couldn't even buy trousers that came to my ankles. No one saw that part.

In Australia my life was a little different, I started working in a bar, where self expression was celebrated. I began to share my love of rockabilly music, and all things pinup, although I continued to wear regular clothes. I also happened to lose 9kg although this wasn't intentional. I began to wear a little red lipstick and hair scarves and trying to find vintage inspired clothing in regular stores. A friend introduced me to PUG about 2 years ago, it took me 1 year to place my first order (even though I only ever selected the same 2 dresses!). I was scared. What if people laughed at me? What if it made me feel crappy? What if it didn't fit? Eventually I plucked up the courage and ordered the Sailor Swing and the Hello Sailor Wiggle dress. From that moment of ripping open that Fedex box I have never looked back. I have never felt so confident, pretty and walked so tall, as those first moments of trying on those dresses. 

Fast forward a year and I now embrace my pinup style. I love how my curves feel, and enjoy telling people where I got my dress from. I have never had so many compliments, and it honestly feels great. I have learnt to accept these compliments and return them to the many beautiful ladies (and gents!) out there. 

So this brings me to my recent experience, I have just returned from Thailand, my first holiday in about 3 years. I arrived in Bangkok but unfortunately my luggage didn't. This is when it hit home as to how much PUG means to me. I know we shouldn't be attached to clothes so much, but as I wandered the shopping centres of Bangkok trying to find something flattering for me to wear until such time my bag turned up, I got upset. I felt like it had taken so long for me to be comfortable with my body, and have genuine confidence and in one flight it had been taken away. The sheer amount of people, the heat, no PUG...the anxiety was crippling and I thought I was going to have a panic attack (the delays, changed itinerary, lack of toiletries and wearing 2 day old knickers didn't help either!). I didn't realise the dresses and this community meant so much to me and what would happen if it got taken away.

3 days later (Not quite a lifetime as the title suggests! Although it felt like it...!!) I received my bag and sighed a breath of relief. Now I could finally enjoy my holiday, rocking my dresses with the feeling that PUG is definitely here to stay in my life.

So once again thank you, each and every one of you. I hope to share the positivity, encouragement and give my support to all ladies, whatever shape and size to make the world a better place (starting with my Mother!) one dress at a time :) xxx

All of these dresses are available on pinupgirlclothing.com although availability depends on who took advantage of the amazing Black Friday sales! For reference I am wearing a medium and my measurements are 36-27-41 xx

Please excuse the instagram photos!