The Inspirational Woman Project believes that every woman is inspirational. It’s our mission to tell their stories.
Kate Retherford is the author of All Things Kate, a personal blog, focused on style, health & fitness, travel, and fashion history. All Things Kate was established in 2012 when Kate began a plus size style blog to encourage women of all sizes to be comfortable in their own skin. In 2014, Kate’s life forever changed when she started a health and fitness journey. To date, she has lost 70 lbs. Kate is now passionate about fitness, participating in barre and yoga, an active cyclist, and Zumba instructor. No matter her size, she has always believed that having style has nothing to do with your size and everything to do with your attitude. She is passionate about empowering women and believes that every woman should have a voice.
What is your favorite thing about being a woman?
{Retherford} The combination of vulnerability and innate strength is my favorite aspect of being a woman. The ability of a woman to feel vulnerable - to have a strong emotional connection to others, to love fiercely, and to give of herself so much – is beautiful. The innate strength that each woman possesses, which, unfortunately, is often overlooked, allows a woman to overcome, be resilient, and stand strong. Being both soft and powerful is a graceful combination.
What is your super power?
{Retherford} The first thing that comes to mind is shopping. Can that be a superpower?! But in all seriousness, I think storytelling is one of my super powers. I’ve had the unique opportunity to listen to a number of men and women share their personal stories with me. I love hearing their tales and experiences and then retelling them to a larger audience so that those stories can continue to be amplified and shared with a community who wants to celebrate them.
What is the worst female stereotype you’ve heard?
{Retherford} Shortly after I started my blog, I received an email from an Anonymous reader telling me that I was too fat to write a fashion blog. I responded publicly on my blog to the Anonymous commenter to stand up for all women who’ve ever had a snide remark made about their figure. As someone who’s always struggled with her weight, and who was just getting comfortable putting herself out there in the blogosophere, I was offended that someone could be so mean. A lot of fashion bloggers ARE more petite, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t room for those of us that fall outside that. Why can’t us curvy gals be just as fashionable and stylish?
What’s one thing you want to share with the women who will read this?
{Retherford} Unfortunately as women, we tend to get a bad rap for how we treat other women. Instead, let’s continue to build each other up instead of tearing each other down. We all have our own unique stories and experiences that have made us who we are today. Those stories should be celebrated and be used to inspire others.
What is your mantra?
{Retherford} Appropriate sass. When I was in college I had a supervisor describe me as having “appropriate sass.” I knew when to speak up and be bossy and that it’s okay to “be” those things. Even though I’m an outspoken and opinionated woman, I still have to remind myself that it’s okay to speak up and represent my opinion, or the opinion of those who don’t have a voice. Speaking up can be a scary thing, but it’s not right to let the critics silence me and others.
What is your favorite woman-centric quote/speech?
{Retherford}
Here’s to strong women.
May we know them.
May we be them.
May we raise them.
- Anonymous