Scars seldom bring in a sense of delight, usually being conceived as imperfections shaped by years of becoming rigid to beauty standards. These have ingrained into people’s minds that scars, whether from motorcycle accidents or shaving mishaps, are flaws that must be kept hidden. However, the latest from Skims, an innerwear brand founded by Kim Kardashian, shows another narrative through Hollywood actress Olivia Munn.
She proudly posed in a multi-way strap black bra and high-waisted black tights to show her mastectomy scars for the powerful series of photos for Skims. It’s not the provocative image that matters most, but the shoot is an inspirational message about embracing one’s scars and wearing them with pride.
Munn made it a point to be hopeful she could get through insecurities involving her appearance. “I decided I was done being insecure about my mastectomy scars,” she said. “Every mark life has left behind on my body proves how hard I fought. I hope other women who have been self-conscious about their scars see these photos and feel all the love I’m sending.
What inspired Munn to take such powerful pictures has its roots in Japanese philosophy: kintsugi repairs broken pottery with gold, making it more beautiful and valuable. That hit home with Munn’s journey because her scars represent resilience and strength.
This spring, Munn took to Instagram to announce her diagnosis of bilateral Luminal B breast cancer, using the time to console and inspire others who were going through or had gone through their own battles. In this case, she’s been open about undergoing a double mastectomy and continuing to recover, reinforcing a desire to help others love their own scars.
Olivia Munn’s bold decision to show her mastectomy scars is strong- to say the least, it is a reminder that beauty comes from a place of vulnerability. It has inspired countless people to accept their journey.
