8 Readers Share Photos of When They Felt Beautiful

We asked readers on Instagram to share photos of times they felt beautiful, and they delivered! Here are eight moments that made us smile…

“When I’m walking a trail, outfitted in my cargo pants (that zip off at the knees!) and waterproof shell, I feel vibrant, alive and capable, which makes me feel like a million bucks.” — Tenley (above, wearing this hat)

“My son was seven months old in this nursing self portrait. Motherhood came to me at 43, following breast cancer. I didn’t know that breastfeeding would be so healing, would matter so much to me. We used formula, as well, as I could nurse from only one side, and through it all, I felt my beauty and power.” — Erin

“As an introvert who’s insecure about her place in the world, I knew I’d have to face my fears at my wedding as the center of attention. But I found enough confidence to come out of my shell and realize that I, too, deserved celebrating. I hope all brides feel as happy as I did that day.” — Anceeta

“The law firm where my friends and I (right) worked was one of the first to get fully on board with our city’s Pride Parade. We brought 50+ colleagues, their families, a huge rainbow float and the most amazing energy. Our home city has deeply conservative roots, so this day felt like a tangible moment of overcoming adversity. We went on to represent 2SLGBTQIA+ clients on a pro-bono basis to fight against attempts to limit queer and trans rights in our province.” — Emily

“For the orchid show at the New York Botanical Garden, I put on a dress that I had never worn before because an ex felt intimidated by me when I showed it to him. I paired it with my favorite heels, then hit the town with my amazing sister and friends.” — Ingrid

“This is me (left) with the all-women clergy team at my previous church. Growing up in a patriarchal church context, I find this image of women serving at the altar so beautiful. I hope I can open the door even wider to those who have been marginalized by the church.” — Leah

“While chaperoning my daughter’s kindergarten class field trip to a farm, I felt like a Grace Farris cartoon because of how my heart burst with joy that I get to be her mom.” — Allyson

“I read that mutual staring between humans and dogs releases oxytocin. Our dog, Frosty, shows me such intense (one blue/one brown eyed) adoration — this photo is him gazing at me while I’m puttering around our Brooklyn apartment. It’s impossible to not feel utterly beautiful when he’s looking at me.” — Liz

When have you felt beautiful? We’d love to hear…

P.S. Readers share what they wear to work, where they live, and what they like about their looks.