Last week, a bikini photo of Khloé Kardashian, unedited and unfiltered, was accidentally posted online by an assistant and was quickly shared around the net.
The photo featured the mother of one at a “private family gathering”, wearing a bikini and smiling in front of a pool. Kardashian, who didn’t give permission for the photo to be posted, swiftly tried to stop the spread of the image.
Many criticized the Kardashian team’s efforts to take down the photo, citing Khloé as part of a family that backs “body positivity” but simultaneously contributes to the impossible standards of beauty many women face today.
Recently, the Kardashian in question took to Instagram to address the issue.
In a post that featured a bikini selfie in a bathroom, Khloé opened up about the “pressure, constant ridicule, and judgment” she received her entire life and acknowledged that people have referred to her as “the fat sister” or “the ugly sister”.
“I’m of course not asking for sympathy, but I am asking to be acknowledged for being human,” she wrote. “I am not perfect but I promise you that I try every day to live my life as honestly as possible and with empathy and kindness.”
The reality star went on to say that despite trying her best to stay fit and healthy, there have still been people who disregard her hard work and chalk it up to money.
“If you hear anything enough then you start to believe it,” said Kardashian. For her, the filters, lighting, and edits are equivalent to putting on makeup or getting a manicure. “My body, my image, and how I choose to look and what I want to share is my choice. It’s not for anyone to decide or judge what is acceptable or not anymore.”
To fans or followers who have fallen into society’s “impossible standards”, Kardashian sent out a message of support and love: “For those else who feel the constant pressure of not ever feeling perfect enough, I want you to know I see you and I understand. We are all unique and perfect in our own way.”
“Just do you and make sure your heart is happy,” she concluded.
