#ThirdLoveStories: Kelsey Kinsel

As a company that’s by women, for women, we’re constantly seeking new ways to spotlight stellar females who inspire us. This series is an opportunity to celebrate the ThirdLove community and share their incredible stories.

Meet Kelsey Kinsel, a singer/songwriter, curve model, and mental health advocate. She’s doing everything she can to make her dreams a reality and spread a positive message. Keep reading to find out what inspired her to create her first album, how she stays centered, and what’s next for her.

Tell us about your personal journey. What inspired you to do what you’re doing now?

Two of my peers died by suicide when I was 15 and it deeply impacted me. This was 10 years ago, and hardly anyone was talking about mental health. As I grieved my friends, I researched and decided to launch a campaign to raise awareness and to discuss suicide prevention. I had people take photos with our posters that had inspirational sayings, and the message started to spread. Music, fashion, and the arts have always deeply impacted me, so I partnered with music artists and released a compilation album full of inspiring music – from pop, to country, to alternative – the project was a statement of hope and community! One of the artists on that project told me about the music community in Nashville, so I enrolled in college in Nashville and dove deeper into my own musical inspiration and songwriting. As I share my journey, I remain true to sharing the importance of hope and creativity.

When do you feel most confident in your skin?

I feel most confident in my skin when I’m doing what I love – and when I’m laughing. When I’m in tune with my purpose, passions, and creative pursuits, I feel like the most beautiful woman in the world.

Did you have any insecurities growing up? If so, what were they and how did you overcome them?

I’ve always been a curvy girl! I’ve definitely received criticism, harsh words, and unwelcome opinions throughout the years – but it truly doesn’t shake me anymore. I love myself, who I am, and my body. I understand that I am not everyone’s cup of tea – but no one is everyone’s cup of tea. I rock what I’ve got and I own it.

Who/what has shaped you to be the person you are today?

Art – in so many different forms! I’ve always been deeply connected to music and fashion. I would look through editorial fashion spreads growing up and be so inspired by the creative direction. I also started writing songs when I was a teenager. I didn’t really ever meant to start, music would just come to me and I’d feel compelled to record it in my voice memos and move on with my day. As I’ve gotten older, I’ve learned how to channel my creativity and my passions into a career.

What are your proudest accomplishments?

I’m most proud of myself for pursuing what I’m passionate about – despite how hard it can be to stray from a “normal” career path. I’ve been lucky enough to share my story with MTV, Glamour, and other outlets that have helped me connect with people from all around the world – and that is really fulfilling to me. I’m also really proud of my experiences at New York Fashion Week – I grew up dreaming of those runway shows and it has been really fun to watch them in person.

What impact do you want to leave on the world?

I want to encourage people to be themselves and hold onto hope. There is so much in life that we can’t control, but we owe it to ourselves to find what inspires us – and hold onto it with everything we’ve got. I want to help highlight the importance of the arts and let people know that their creative ideas matter.

What’s next for you?

Continuing to live the dream! I’m working on music, writing my first book, and trying to find the little moments of hope and joy in my daily life!

How do you stay balanced?

I struggle with anxiety and OCD, so balance isn’t always an option. What I tell myself, though, is to just do my best. All I can do, is all I can do. By staying active, eating mindfully, and allowing space for creativity in my daily life, I find that I am able to stay centered and motivated.

What’s your favorite ThirdLove bra?

24/7 Lace Contour Plunge Bra

Tell us your ThirdLove Story.

I first learned of ThirdLove by finding a catalog at my friend’s house. I started looking through and immediately wanted to try these bras. I’ve been obsessed ever since, because of ThirdLove’s commitment to celebrating all women!