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SELENA GOMEZ WEIGHT GAIN: THE TRUTH BEHIND

Selena Gomez, a talented singer and actress, has been in the spotlight since she was young. But recently, conversations surrounding her have focused on her weight.  This shift in focus can be hurtful and miss the bigger picture. Let’s delve into the truth behind Selena Gomez’s weight gain, understanding the impact of lupus medication and the importance of body positivity.

WHO IS SELENA GOMEZ?

Selena Gomez is a multi-talented American singer, actress, and producer. She gained initial fame as a child actress on the Disney Channel television series “Wizards of Waverly Place.” As she transitioned into adulthood, Gomez expanded her career into music, releasing several successful albums and singles. Some of her popular songs include “Come & Get It,” “Good for You,” and “Lose You to Love Me.”

Aside from her entertainment career, Gomez has been involved in various philanthropic endeavors and activism, focusing on issues such as mental health awareness, environmental conservation, and the rights of marginalized communities. She’s also ventured into producing, with projects like the Netflix series “13 Reasons Why.” Selena Gomez has a significant presence in both the entertainment industry and popular culture.

WHY DID SELENA GAIN WEIGHT?

Selena Gomez recently shared on TikTok and Twitter how her lupus medication affects her weight. She explained that when she’s on the medication, she tends to retain water weight, causing her to gain weight. Conversely, when she’s off the medication, she tends to lose weight. Despite these changes, Gomez encouraged her fans not to feel ashamed about what they’re going through, emphasizing that nobody knows the full story of someone else’s struggles.

The singer-actress expressed her belief in the importance of prioritizing health and self-care. She acknowledged that while everyone has days when they don’t feel their best, she would rather focus on being healthy than conforming to societal standards of beauty. Gomez also discussed her own body image, stating that she doesn’t fit the mold of a model and that’s okay. She thanked her supporters for understanding her and emphasized her stance against body shaming.

In 2015, Gomez revealed her lupus diagnosis and has since been vocal about combating body shaming. She shared a candid moment on TikTok last year, addressing attempts to diet and responding to criticism about her shape. Despite societal pressures and comments about her weight, Gomez confidently asserted that she is perfect just the way she is, ending her message with a reminder to embrace oneself and ignore negativity.

WHAT IS LUPUS ERYTHEMATOSUS?

Lupus erythematosus is a health condition that can lead to weight gain. It’s a chronic autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system attacks its own tissues and organs. This can cause inflammation throughout the body, leading to symptoms like fatigue, joint pain, and swelling. One common medication used to manage lupus symptoms, such as inflammation, is corticosteroids. These medications can cause fluid retention and increase appetite, which may result in weight gain. However, weight gain can also occur due to factors like reduced physical activity or changes in metabolism associated with the condition itself.

SELENA GOMEZ EARLY LIFE

Selena Gomez was born in Grand Prairie, Texas, on July 22, 1992. Her parents are Ricardo Joel Gomez and Mandy Teefey. They named her after a famous singer, Selena Quintanilla. Selena’s dad is Mexican, and her mom has Italian roots. Even though she grew up Catholic, she didn’t speak much Spanish after she started acting. Her parents split up when she was young, so she mostly lived with her mom. They didn’t have a lot of money, and sometimes they struggled to buy gas or food.

But Selena admires her mom for working hard to take care of her. She also loves her grandparents, who helped raise her. They supported her while her parents were busy studying. Selena entered beauty contests when she was a kid and learned the importance of working hard from her family. Even though her childhood had tough times, Selena is grateful for everything her family did for her. She thinks her upbringing shaped who she is today.

SELENA GOMEZ CAREER

Selena Gomez’s career is a masterclass in navigating the often-tricky world of child stardom and evolving into a successful multi-faceted entertainer. It all began at a young age on the colorful set of Barney & Friends, where she landed a recurring role between 2002 and 2004. This early exposure to the world of show business sparked a passion that led her to Disney Channel in 2007. There, she landed the lead role in the smash-hit sitcom Wizards of Waverly Place. The series ran for five successful seasons, catapulting Gomez to teen idol status and establishing her as a household name among young audiences.

However, her ambitions extended beyond acting. Recognizing her musical talent, she signed with Hollywood Records in 2008 and formed the pop-rock band Selena Gomez & the Scene. The band quickly gained traction, churning out hit singles and releasing chart-topping albums. This period solidified Gomez’s presence in the music industry, showcasing her captivating vocals and songwriting abilities.

As she matured, Gomez sought artistic independence. She transitioned to a solo career in 2013, further exploring her musical identity with a more mature sound. This artistic evolution resulted in critically acclaimed albums and international success.  Throughout her musical journey, she’s collaborated with renowned artists, experimented with different genres, and established herself as a leading force in contemporary pop music.

Beyond acting and singing, Gomez has expanded her horizons into producing.  She’s served as an executive producer on several projects, demonstrating her entrepreneurial spirit and desire to be involved in different aspects of the entertainment industry.  She’s also a successful businesswoman, having launched her own clothing line and a beauty brand, further solidifying her influence beyond the stage and screen.

SELENA GOMEZ MUSICAL STYLE

Selena Gomez’s musical style is primarily pop, with a strong focus on dance-pop and EDM influences. This has been evident throughout her career, though she’s always been open to experimentation.

Early Pop-Rock: Her early work with Selena Gomez & the Scene leaned towards electronic rock and pop rock.

Shifting to Dance-Pop: The band later transitioned to a more dance-pop sound, incorporating elements of synth-pop and electropop.

Solo Career and EDM Exploration: As a solo artist, Gomez embraced EDM-pop, even describing her debut album “Stars Dance” as “baby dubstep.” This sound drew from electronic, disco, techno, and dancehall influences.

Maturation and Minimalism: More recently, her music has adopted a more adult pop sound, with songs like “The Heart Wants What It Wants” and “Good for You” described as minimalistic and grown-up.

Her influences range from pop icons like Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, and Beyoncé to contemporary artists like Taylor Swift and Bruno Mars. These influences can be heard throughout her musical evolution.

SELENA GOMEZ AWARDS

Selena Gomez has amassed an impressive array of awards and accolades across various domains, spanning music, acting, and philanthropy. 

Notably, she holds numerous Guinness World Records, including being the most-followed person on Instagram and the first woman to reach 400 million followers on the platform. Her musical achievements include winning American Music Awards, Billboard Music Awards, iHeartRadio Music Awards, Latin American Music Awards, MTV Video Music Awards, and People’s Choice Awards, among others. She has also been nominated for Grammy and Latin Grammy Awards for her music, and received recognition for her acting with a Satellite Award win and nominations for Golden Globe Awards, Critics’ Choice Television Award, NAACP Image Awards, and Screen Actors Guild Awards.

In addition to her artistic endeavors, Gomez has been honored by prestigious publications and organizations. She was named to Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list multiple times and was recognized as Billboard’s Woman of the Year in 2017. Time magazine included her in its list of the 100 most influential people in the world, and The Latin Recording Academy honored her as one of the Leading Ladies of Entertainment. The Hollywood Reporter also listed her among the 100 most powerful women in entertainment.

Gomez’s impact extends beyond her artistic achievements. She has broken numerous world records and holds a significant presence on social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, Spotify, Facebook, and TikTok. Her filmography includes a diverse range of projects, from television shows like “The Suite Life of Zack & Cody” and “Wizards of Waverly Place” to films such as “Spring Breakers” and “Hotel Transylvania.” Additionally, Gomez has ventured into executive producing with projects like “13 Reasons Why” and “Living Undocumented.”

Overall, Selena Gomez’s career is marked by a remarkable blend of artistic talent, influence, and philanthropic efforts, making her a significant figure in the entertainment industry and beyond.

SELENA GOMEZ PERSONAL LIFE

Selena Gomez’s property portfolio reflects her journey through various residences in Los Angeles and Texas. Over the years, she has owned several lavish properties, including a $6.6 million home in Calabasas and a mansion in Fort Worth, Texas, which she purchased for $3.5 million in 2015. In 2020, Gomez transitioned to a $5 million mansion in Encino, Los Angeles, while also selling her Studio City house for $2.3 million the same year.

Regarding her religious beliefs, Gomez was raised Catholic but has expressed evolving views on spirituality. She initially embraced the concept of purity and faith, symbolized by a purity ring blessed by her father. However, she distanced herself from rigid religious labels, emphasizing her focus on faith and a personal relationship with God. Gomez’s affinity for Christian music, particularly Hillsong United and Hillsong Young & Free, underscores her spiritual journey, though she identifies more with faith than organized religion. She has attended Hillsong Church in California, emphasizing her connection to faith rather than strict adherence to religious doctrine.

Gomez has been candid about her struggles with mental health, including anxiety, depression, and bipolar disorder. She has sought therapy and treatment to manage these challenges and has taken breaks from social media to prioritize her well-being. Additionally, Gomez has faced health setbacks, such as testing positive for COVID-19 in 2022 and experiencing a psychotic episode in 2018.

In the realm of relationships, Gomez has been involved with several high-profile figures. Her past romances include singer Nick Jonas, Canadian pop star Justin Bieber, DJ Zedd, and Canadian singer-songwriter the Weeknd. In December 2023, Gomez confirmed her relationship with American record producer Benny Blanco, signaling a new chapter in her personal life.

FAQ

1. Has Selena Gomez addressed the weight gain publicly? 

Yes, she’s spoken about it on social media and in interviews, emphasizing the importance of health over appearance.

2. What kind of lupus medication causes weight gain? 

Certain medications used to treat Lupus can cause weight gain as a side effect.

3. Is Selena Gomez the only celebrity to experience weight gain due to medication? 

No, many celebrities and people living with chronic illnesses face similar challenges.

4. What has the public’s reaction been to Selena Gomez’s weight gain? 

Unfortunately, there has been body shaming and negativity.

5. How much is Selena Gomez net worth?

 $800 million.

CONCLUSION

Her journey highlights the impact of medication on the body, particularly for those living with chronic illnesses like Lupus. It’s a call for compassion and understanding, challenging the unrealistic beauty standards often perpetuated in the public eye. By focusing on her talent, resilience, and message of self-love, we can celebrate Selena Gomez for who she truly is – an inspiration and a force to be reckoned with. Let’s move beyond the superficial and embrace the importance of health, happiness, and acceptance for all.

THE 14 CHIC STRAW BAGS FOR SUMMER 

Summer is practically here, and that means it’s the perfect time to ditch your heavy purse or tote for a breezy, stylish straw bag. Straw bags are all about effortless chic, and they can elevate any outfit from casual beachwear to a breezy sundress. Whether you’re looking for a roomy tote for a day at the market or a dainty clutch for a night out, there’s a straw bag out there that’s perfect for you. Get ready to dive into the world of woven wonders with our list of the 14 chicest straw bags to carry you through all your summer adventures!

OUR TOP PICKS

TERRAIN TERRAIN LEATHER MARKET TOTE

A good straw bag should look classic and last a long time, even with regular use. Stylist Brittany Diego says we should pay attention to the stitching and straps when choosing one. She recommends picking a bag with high-quality materials for a stylish and durable design. This market tote from Terrain meets all these criteria. It’s made from eco-friendly Moroccan date palm leaves and has strong leather handles held together with sturdy white stitching. Plus, it’s easy to clean – just spot-treat small areas and let it dry in the sun. Just remember that palm leaves can lose their shape if they get wet.

LOEWE A4 RAFFIA & LEATHER TOTE BAG

A good straw bag should look classic and last a long time, even with regular use. Stylist Brittany Diego says we should pay attention to the stitching and straps when choosing one. She recommends picking a bag with high-quality materials for a stylish and durable design. This market tote from Terrain meets all these criteria. It’s made from eco-friendly Moroccan date palm leaves and has strong leather handles held together with sturdy white stitching. Plus, it’s easy to clean – just spot-treat small areas and let it dry in the sun. Just remember that palm leaves can lose their shape if they get wet.

H&M STRAW SHOPPER

If you’re searching for a budget-friendly and versatile option, look no further than H&M’s straw shopper. These come in a variety of styles, from classic totes to shopper bags with shorter handles. They’re typically made from natural or light-colored paper straw, giving them a clean and breezy feel. Some H&M straw shoppers even feature details like faux leather trim or a crocheted look for a touch of extra flair. Best of all, their spacious interiors make them ideal for carrying all your essentials on a trip to the beach, a picnic in the park, or a stroll around town.

ANINE BING ANINE BING RIO TOTE

Anine Bing’s Rio Tote is a step up in style and material compared to the H&M shopper. This bag comes in two distinct versions: a seasonal seagrass option and a more permanent regenerated leather design. The seagrass Rio Tote offers a relaxed, natural aesthetic, perfect for beach days with its open top and woven construction.  It features a bold black Anine Bing monogram for a touch of brand recognition.  The regenerated leather Rio Tote, on the other hand, is a polished and practical choice.  It boasts a fully lined interior with a magnetic snap closure for security, making it ideal for everyday use.  Both Rio Totes come with comfortable straps for easy carrying, but the leather version offers a bit more structure and durability.  

SAINT LAURENT RIVE GAUCHE RAFFIA TOTE BAG

Saint Laurent’s Rive Gauche Raffia tote bag is a product that represents Parisian luxury with a bit of summer sophistication and is considered by many to be one of the best work bags for women. Crafted from natural raffia, this bag brings a luxurious look to the classic straw bag. Unlike some raffia options, Saint Laurent’s design will likely be more structured, thanks to a potential interior lining and possibly reinforced trim details. Available in a variety of sizes, you can choose between a spacious everyday bag or a more compact one for day trips. The key detail that elevates this bag is the “Rive Gauche” text, a subtle nod to Saint Laurent’s heritage and a mark of its designer pedigree. This bag is perfect for enhancing your summer look, whether you’re strolling through the city or lounging by the pool.

CHLOE WOODY LARGE PRINTED LEATHER-TRIMMED CANVAS AND RAFFIA TOTE

Combining playful summer style with everyday practicality, the Chloé Woody Large Printed Leather-Trimmed Canvas and Raffia Tote is a perfect choice for the fashion-forward woman on the go. This bag blends textures beautifully, featuring a woven raffia body for a natural, breezy feel.  The twist comes with the addition of a printed canvas section, which could potentially showcase a seasonal motif or the brand’s signature logo.  For a touch of luxury, the Woody tote incorporates leather trims, likely accenting the handles and adding structure to the bag.  While the raffia construction offers a relaxed vibe, the leather details elevate it for everyday use.  With its spacious interior, this Chloé tote is ideal for carrying all your essentials, from your wallet and sunglasses to a book or a small water bottle.

MAR Y SOL AMARA TOTE

The Mar Y Sol bag is spacious and can hold all your stuff. It comes in raffia, brown, and black colors, and it’s perfect for any occasion, especially for going to the beach. Even though it’s big, the strong rounded handles make it comfortable to carry, even when it’s full. It doesn’t have a lining or a strong closure, but that’s okay because it has a flat bottom that helps it stand up on its own. The brand says that buying this bag helps artisans and their families in Madagascar become financially independent, keeps traditional crafts alive, and helps protect the environment. Because the bag is made of high-quality material and the brand cares about sustainability, you might want to get it in every color.

BOTTEGA VENETA SMALL ARCO BASKET

Bottega Veneta’s Small Arco Basket is a timeless option for those who appreciate understated luxury.  Woven from intrecciato leather, a signature technique for the brand, this bag offers a refined take on the traditional straw bag. The intricate weave creates a beautiful textural element, showcasing Bottega Veneta’s renowned craftsmanship. Unlike natural straw bags, the leather construction provides a more polished look and superior durability. The Small Arco Basket features a drawstring closure to secure your belongings and clean, unadorned lines that exude an air of quiet sophistication.  While it might not be the most spacious bag on this list, its compact size makes it perfect for carrying your essentials in style.  This Bottega Veneta basket is ideal for the woman who wants a timeless piece that elevates her everyday look.

ISABEL MARANT WOMEN’S BAYIA RAFFIA BUCKET BAG

Channel effortless bohemian vibes with the Isabel Marant Women’s Bayia Raffia Bucket Bag. This bag combines Isabel Marant’s signature relaxed aesthetic with a summer-ready raffia construction. The natural raffia offers a light and breezy feel, perfect for warm weather outings.  Its silhouette is a classic bucket bag, ideal for tossing in your essentials for a carefree day.  For a touch of Parisian chic, the Bayia features contrasting cognac leather trims, which could include the drawstring closure and possibly handles or accents.  These leather details add a bit of structure and elevate the bag’s overall look.  While size details may vary, the Bayia is likely on the smaller side, ideal for carrying your essentials with a touch of effortless French style.

MARNI SMALL BASKET

Embrace Marni’s signature playfulness with the Marni Small Basket. This bag is a burst of summery whimsy, crafted from either woven raffia or canvas with colorful embroidery or trimmings [depending on the design]. Unlike some straw totes that prioritize practicality, the Marni Small Basket leans into a more fashion-forward aesthetic.  The size is perfect for carrying your essentials on a night out or adding a pop of color to your daytime look.  Expect playful details that embody Marni’s eccentric spirit,  like unique color combinations, unexpected textures, or quirky embellishments.  This little basket bag is a conversation starter for those who appreciate a unique and eye-catching accessory.

AAKS TIA BLUSH BAG

AAKS bags are carefully made in Ghana, showing that weaving is not only a skill but also a way to be kind to the environment. The brand is owned by Black women and employs mostly female artisans, making sure they get fair wages. They use raffia palm trees, found in Africa’s tropical regions, to create their bags. Each bag is uniquely decorated with bright colors, making them special. These bags are of good quality and are made ethically. This bucket bag is roomy inside, with a linen lining and a drawstring to close it, so you can carry all your stuff easily.

KHAITE THE MEDIUM OLIVIA HOBO

Khaite’s The Medium Olivia Hobo offers a luxurious take on the classic hobo bag silhouette for summer. Crafted in Italy from your choice of buttery calfskin or rich suede, it exudes a sense of understated elegance.  The slouchy design drapes effortlessly over the shoulder or can be carried by hand, making it a versatile choice for various occasions.  Unlike some unstructured straw bags, the Olivia Hobo features a zip-top closure for security, keeping your belongings safe.  For a touch of summery lightness, the interior is lined in cotton grosgrain.  While Khaite offers a natural raffia version for a more casual feel, The Medium Olivia Hobo is all about timeless style and quality materials, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a sophisticated summer bag.

BODEN RAFFIA TOTE BAG

Boden’s Raffia Tote Bag is a strong contender for the title of your new summer staple. It offers a perfect balance of style and practicality.  Made from natural raffia, it embodies the classic straw bag aesthetic with a relaxed, breezy feel.  Unlike some high-end raffia options, Boden’s tote is likely to be more affordable, making it a budget-friendly choice.  But don’t be fooled by the price tag – details like cotton-canvas trims and lining add structure and elevate the bag’s overall look.  Most importantly, the spacious interior makes it ideal for carrying all your summer essentials, whether you’re hitting the beach, exploring a new city, or simply running errands on a sunny day.

CLUB MONACO CLUB MONACO RAFFIA CROSSBODY BAG

Club Monaco’s Raffia Convertible Crossbody Bag is a perfect choice for those seeking a chic and versatile summer accessory.  Woven from natural raffia, it offers a light and breezy feel, ideal for warm weather outings.  This bag goes beyond the standard tote design, featuring a compact silhouette that keeps your essentials close at hand.  The key feature is the convertible strap, allowing you to wear it as a crossbody bag for hands-free convenience or transform it into a clutch for a more polished look.  This versatility makes it perfect for everything from a casual stroll through the market to a night out with friends.  Club Monaco’s Raffia Convertible Crossbody Bag is a stylish and functional option that elevates your summer looks without sacrificing practicality.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST STRAW BAGS FOR SUMMER

Style: Think about the overall vibe you’re going for. Do you want a classic tote for everyday use, a compact clutch for evenings, or a whimsical bucket bag for beach days?

Material: Natural straw offers a relaxed feel, while raffia can be more structured. Woven leather adds a touch of luxury, and canvas options with raffia accents can be playful and budget-friendly.

Size: Consider how much you need to carry. Spacious totes are great for the beach or errands, while smaller cross-body bags are perfect for nights out or keeping essentials close.

Structure: Some straw bags are naturally floppy, while others have a more structured silhouette thanks to lining or reinforced trims. Think about how much you value shape and security.

Versatility: How many outfits will this bag complement? Opt for neutral colors and classic styles for maximum versatility.

Budget: Straw bags come in a wide range of price points. Consider how much you’re willing to spend and whether natural materials or budget-friendly alternatives are more suitable.

CONCLUSION

From beachside totes to city-chic crossbodys, there’s a perfect straw bag out there to elevate your entire summer wardrobe. So, ditch the heavy purses and embrace the breezy style and endless versatility that straw bags offer. With our list of 14 chic options as inspiration, you’re sure to find the perfect summer companion that complements your style and carries your essentials in effortless elegance. Happy summer adventures!