Padma Lakshmi Embraces Her Body at 53, Debuts Inclusive Lingerie Line

Padma Lakshmi is celebrating her body confidence at 53, featuring in a lingerie line collaboration with Bare Necessities. The model and TV host shares her journey of embracing her flaws, advocating for body positivity, and empowering women through inclusive design.

Padma Lakshmi, the renowned actress, model, and TV host, is defying societal expectations and redefining beauty standards with her unwavering body confidence. At 53, Lakshmi is at her most confident, celebrating her body and inspiring others to do the same.

Growing up in a conservative South Indian family, Lakshmi initially grappled with body insecurities. However, as she matured, she underwent a transformative journey, shedding the fear of judgment and embracing her true self.

"I don't care what anybody thinks," Lakshmi asserts. "I don't care what my mother thinks, unless she's very supportive."

Years after posing for Helmut Newton's iconic lingerie shoot, Lakshmi has become an ardent advocate for body positivity. She refuses to edit out her scars, inoculation marks, and stretch marks from photographs, believing they are a testament to her life experiences.

"I have them, so I wouldn't change that," she says. "I think that's really important to tell girls and young women."

Lakshmi's mission to empower women extends to her recent lingerie line collaboration with Bare Necessities. The "Padma x Bare Necessities" collection features 19 pieces designed to cater to all body types, from swimwear and cover-ups to lacy bras and underwear.

"I wanted to have a lower-cut bra that separated the boobs so that it would still look lovely when I wore something low cut," explains Lakshmi. "Often you're in a bind as a larger woman... It just closes you off."

Lakshmi's experience as a model guided her design process, prioritizing comfort and avoiding pieces that induce discomfort. She believes lingerie should reflect a woman's inner confidence, making them feel good about themselves.

"If you feel good in it, you'll move in a more inviting, attractive way."

The "Padma x Bare Necessities" collection is more than just a fashion line; it's an embodiment of Lakshmi's commitment to celebrating diversity and female empowerment. The pieces are designed to accentuate the beauty of all women, regardless of their size or shape.

"When I look at lingerie and decide what to put on in the morning, if I like what I look like, then anyone else who I may encounter disrobed would like it! It's never about what you wear, it's about how you feel," she says.

Padma Lakshmi's journey serves as an inspiration to women everywhere, reminding them that beauty is not defined by societal norms. By embracing her body and advocating for inclusivity, Lakshmi is redefining what it means to be confident and empowered.