Everyday Women: Andrea Bunod on Growing Confidence

Andrea Bunod is part of Everyday Women, and this summer, she shares her perspective as a 24-year-old Parisienne navigating life in the City of Lights. With an honest take on self-confidence, personal growth, and fashion, she opens up about her journey as a plus-size woman embracing her strength and individuality.

Embracing Everyday Confidence

I’m Andrea, a 24-year-old French nurse who moved to Paris over a year ago. I see myself as a lifelong explorer, a lover of food and art—elements that shape my world and, in turn, my confidence. Like many, I’ve faced challenges as a plus-size woman, but through experience, I’ve learned that confidence isn’t just about appearance; it’s about embracing who you are every day.

There are small yet impactful ways to strengthen confidence in daily life. Whether it’s dancing around your apartment, wearing that bold lipstick you've hesitated to try, or taking a moment to celebrate yourself, these acts contribute to building self-confidence in personality development. However, confidence is more than just a series of moments; it’s a journey, one that I’ve learned to navigate through personal experiences.

Growing Up Plus-Size and Finding Strength

As a tall, plus-size teenager in a small town in the South of France, I often felt different but didn’t know how to use that to my advantage. Shopping for clothing was a struggle—most stores didn’t carry my size, pushing me toward the women’s section far earlier than my peers. But rather than seeing this as a limitation, I found empowerment in dressing with confidence. Borrowing my mother’s clothes at 13-14, I discovered how fashion could shape my identity and help me express myself.

Clothing plays a powerful role in self-perception. I choose pieces that make me feel strong, beautiful, and comfortable in my skin. Feminine confidence in clothing isn’t just about style; it’s about wearing what makes you feel like the best version of yourself.

The Role of Supporting Others in Building Confidence

During my teenage years, I naturally took on the role of the "caretaker" in my friend group. My friends knew they could rely on me, and this trust gave me a sense of purpose. Later, as I pursued nursing, my confidence grew in a professional setting. Taking care of patients, mastering new skills, and becoming part of a healthcare team reinforced my self-belief.

Being a nurse is more than a career to me—it’s a passion I’ve had since I was 13. The ability to work in different medical fields, from hospitals to schools to psychiatric units, has further strengthened my confidence. Knowing I have skills that are valuable in so many areas reminds me of my resilience and capability.

Stepping Outside My Comfort Zone

One of the most transformative ways to grow confidence is to challenge yourself. Accomplishing things you never imagined possible builds an unshakable belief in your abilities.

A few years ago, I took a major leap and moved to Paris. Leaving behind my quiet hometown for the fast-paced French capital was daunting, but it pushed me to trust myself and embrace change. This decision turned out to be one of the best of my life.

Another defining moment came when I was invited to a Zizzi event alongside five other inspiring women. The experience of traveling to Denmark, participating in photoshoots, and celebrating the beauty of everyday women was both thrilling and nerve-wracking. However, I chose to see it as an adventure—an opportunity to step into the unknown and embrace the moment. Looking back, I realize how much this experience shaped my self-confidence, allowing me to see myself through a new lens.

Confidence is a Journey, Not a Destination

Confidence isn’t something you simply achieve; it’s something you cultivate daily. It’s built through knowing yourself, surrounding yourself with supportive people, pursuing passions that inspire you, and achieving milestones that once felt out of reach.

For me, confidence is also about fashion—choosing clothing that empowers me, reflects my personality, and makes me feel unstoppable. Whether it’s a structured blazer that makes me feel professional or a flowing dress that enhances my feminine confidence, fashion has been an essential part of my self-confidence journey.

No matter where you are in life, strengthening confidence starts with taking small, intentional steps every day. Believe in yourself, embrace your individuality, and never underestimate the power of pushing past your comfort zone.