This Tuesday, dozens of girls across campus and America, including myself, tuned in to the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show. With all the ooh-ing and ahh-ing at the spectacle of designs, there was also some envy and self-depreciation indicated through girls’ Facebook posts and tweets about wanting to diet and wishing to be just a few inches taller to be just like the VS models.

I was not one of those girls bashing themselves that night. But I used to be.

My down-spiral started in middle school (aka The Dark Period) with what seemed to be an innocent joke regarding the guy I had a crush on at the time. A girl who was in my group of friends (she was more of an acquaintance) joked that he was “going out with a blonde with big boobs” – neither of those I am/have. From that point on, I was convinced I was ugly and needed to fit a certain standard. In high school, the comments continued, and my self-esteem got even worse.

“You really need a tan.”

“You should straighten your hair.”

I often cried and wished for things such as implants or diet pills. I hated my pale skin and used bronzer all the time. I even started putting blonde highlights in my hair. I became concerned about my looks almost all the time so people would hopefully think I was pretty.

While at The University of Alabama, I did my best to fit in with the latest trends so I could be the “perfect sorority girl.” However, I still felt I was not as pretty as some of my female peers as I watched some of them receive more male attention than me.

This year, I finally had a turning point. I realized my looks are what make me “me.” I am appreciative of my Irish-Italian heritage, to which I attribute my pale skin with brown hair and brown eyes. From that, I learned to love more and more things about myself.

Also, I got a boost of confidence when I modeled for a fashion show earlier in the year called “Runway for Relief.” Not only did I feel sexy and comfortable in my own skin, but I felt good because I was helping Rebuild Tuscaloosa — a cause I care deeply about. I now love to model as a hobby.

But the main thing that helped me gain my self-esteem back was becoming more involved with my church’s campus ministry. By going to mass, participating in church activities and making friends, I learned I was made in God’s image and shouldn’t care about what anyone else thinks of me, which made me feel a sense of satisfaction.

And while I still do love all things fashion and beauty, I don’t go overboard with it to a superficial extent.

So to everyone (particularly the ladies) reading this, please reread what I just wrote and start learning to be sexy in your own skin. And “sexy” does not necessarily mean strut around in lingerie all the time. It just means to believe in yourself and the way you look. You’ll be surprised and amazed how far confidence can take you.

I’m telling you, try it.

Rachel Wilson is a senior majoring in telecommunication and film.