A couple of weeks ago I was approached last minute by NARS and PAPER Magazine to participate in a shoot that would take a new spin on the traditional beauty story surrounding NARS’ Velvet Matte foundation. Since the foundation has a diversified color palette and nude finish, NARS and PAPER wanted to center the photoshoot on body positivity and self-love. This all sounded amazing to me- I tried the foundation and genuinely supported it and loved that there were more shades for women of color like myself.

Makeup artist, Cynthia Christina applying the NARS Velvet Matte foundation. *Photo by TanairLG

I must admit though, once I was told that it would be a nude photoshoot, I panicked a bit. I mean, being shot nude is pretty intimidating! Like most people, feeling secure in my own skin is a battle- but now that there is more diversity in the media, I am able to see faces and body/skin types that I can identify with. This definitely helped as a confidence booster. I faced my fears by participating in this photoshoot and hopefully these images can inspire you to feel fabulous in your own skin too. Embrace you… all of you! You can check out the full story and see more photos here.

The amazingly talented Bon Duke was the photographer for the day

Overall, I’m so happy I could be a part of this shoot and its message of body positivity *Photos by TanairLG

Thank you to hair stylist, Stefan Kehl for my cascading curls