The Fat Necklace Phenomenon
While gearing up for the Fat Flesh mob last Friday, I had wanted tp wear something special, to make a statement and feel good in the process. There was no doubt in my mind that my “Fat” necklace would be included. When I mentioned this to some friends, three different gals said that they would also be donning their “Fat” necklaces. When I arrived, Marilyn Wann had one on as well. And once there and chatting with all of the wonderful people I met that day, so many asked where I got my “Fat” necklace. I had no idea such a simple thing would be so sought after.
The “Fat” necklace is a statement piece. It is something truly special and to be worn with great pride. Providing, of course, you have the sanity points to deal with the unique reactions you may get while wearing it in public. I’ve gotten everything from people avoiding eye contact with me to laughter with a side of “That’s awesome!” with it. But I especially loved wearing it to the Flesh Mob on INDD. I held my head high and wore my “Fat” necklace as a sign of my comittment and gratitude to be part of the fat acceptance movement, to fight for the equal treatment of all bodies. However, one good friend wore hers to a party where people incessantly discussed and offered her dieting bullshit. Ugh! Some will just never get it, I guess.
Of course it all began (for me anyway) when Natalie (of definatalie.com fame) designed and offered her (and in my eyes the original) “Fat” necklace. I still think it is the prettiest design, but alas, I am far too broke for such a purchase. Nicole bought one from Natalie and I know everyone was asking about it! And you know you’ve not only designed something asthetically lovely but also radically of-the-moment when someone gets your design tattooed on their flesh! I have no links or pics, but I’ve seen at least two gals with her design on them.
So, then I posted a pic/GIF the other day with my “Fat” necklace and a few commenters were interested in where I got mine and/or how they could get one for themselves at a lower price. I want to tread lightly on the subject because I am a firm believer in supporting independant artists and protecting their work. I ask that you do consider buying your necklace from Natalie, but if you absolutely cannot swing it, then I shall offer the few options I could find on Etsy (by independant designers, handmade, many local to the U.S.). Unfortunately the gal who made my necklace has closed-up shop. But the lettering is like that from the movie “Fame” from the 80’s (bitchin’ movie).
Here is what I could find on Etsy, but I have not personally purchased from them before:
Sugar & Vice  offers a few different options both in font as well as a banner style I loved.
Wacodis has one listing with seemingly limitless options (and amazing price, but only in clear letters).
Everlasting Doodle offers customization of most of their designs. So many!
I also found out that Tap Plastics offers pretty much the same thing minus the chain and such. I have not used them before but have heard nothing but great things about them in general. Nothing specific in regards to this option for a necklace, but due to their reputation I have no doubt that they will work with you!
Thank you to Natalie who brought the concept of the “Fat” necklace into our world and being an amazing artist, blogger, activist and person. You inspire us all! <3
 If you do get or have a “Fat” necklace, do send a pic of you wearing it my way (include links, too!) so I might compile a lovely post in the future to show our “Fat” necklace glory to the world!
Email it here:Â notblueatall@notblueatall.com
Thanks,
<3
S
Here’s me wearing my definatalie Fat necklace: http://www.flickr.com/photos/mimbles/5190953027/
Thank you! You look lovely in that dress, I must say! Gorgeous colors!
yes! i LOVE my fat necklace! i don’t have any pics other than a closeup shot of it, but I will remedy that post haste and send it to you.
also, I really appreciate you taking the time to address the importance of supporting independent artists. thumbs up.
Oh yay! Yes, I would love a picture of you wearing your “Fat” necklace!
Well, thank you! Supporting small, local, independent businesses is important to me on many levels. Has been, even before I had my own! <3
I have the Natalie Fat necklace, and wear it almost every day. Most people who notice it do seem to find it kind of awesome… and then there are the people who just plain don’t seem to notice. Like at that party where everybody in the place insisted on talking about their diets at me. Humph.
The funniest reaction was a new acquaintance who asked me what it said. When I told her proudly ‘Fat,’ she actually gasped and started to stammer that I wasn’t really ‘fat’, at least I think that’s what she was going for. I assured her that not only am I very definitely fat (Deathfatz, in fact), but a Fat Acceptance activist, and she heaved the biggest sigh of relief I think I’ve ever seen.
I adore my Scarlet Fat, but I may have to look at a couple of the other options, just in case I’m wearing something it doesn’t really go well with.
I know, I’m considering buying different colors and font styles. Love them all! <3
I am one of these people who LOVE LOVE Natalie’s necklace, but my student budget does not love the cost of getting it into my hands, sadly 🙂 I also love how you handled the independent artist issue-I’m going to be able to relate to this issue more and more over the next few years – and I can’t wait! Classy as always, S!
Aw, thanks, babe! You rock!