Despite the fact that we should all know better, a shocking number of people think that it's acceptable to comment on women's bodies -- curvy, skinny, short and tall alike. However, women who fall outside of the thin "ideal" face a specific type of weight discrimination. The comments often directed at these women make it glaringly clear that fat stigma is (sadly) still alive and well.
The term "plus-size" itself is a point of contention for many women. Obviously no one should be singled out for their body size, or treated differently because of their weight. But the fact remains that strangers, friends, family members and colleagues often feel empowered to comment on a woman's size -- especially when that size is not petite.
In a January 2012 piece for xoJane, Lesley Kinzel wrote about being criticized for her weight in public places such as the grocery store, the gym and a parking lot:
The frequency with which fat-shaming happens means many fat people go about their lives for years feeling constantly on guard, always prepared for someone to make a comment, to call them out. It doesn’t have to come from strangers, either; often our families and friends are just as likely to throw out careless fat-shaming comments, and not always with malicious intent.
We asked our readers to share the size-related comments they hate receiving most. Here are 23 things you should never say to a woman who isn't rail-thin:
- "You have such a pretty face."
What would you add to this list? Comment below or join the conversation on Twitter @HuffPostWomen.
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