From Shame to Song: How Bailey Rushlow Found Her Voice and Her Confidence

(Editorial originally published on July 26 2023)

An inspiring story of self-discovery and body acceptance.

Bailey Rushlow smoking in loungewear with no makeup, natural and unfiltered.
Photo courtesy of Bailey Rushlow — Going Bare. No makeup. Unfiltered beauty

Meet Bailey Rushlow, a 27-year-old Nashville singer-songwriter with a rich heritage of Scottish, Greek, French, and Cherokee roots. Bailey’s journey hasn’t just been about music—It’s been about overcoming years of self-doubt, embracing her true self, and inspiring those around her to do the same.

Early Struggles with Body Image

At just 14, Bailey felt the pressure of societal beauty standards. Struggling to fit into her swimsuit for swim-team practice, she began questioning her body—its curves, softness, and stretch marks. Compounded by religious conditioning, Bailey believed that full self-acceptance was abnormal.

Her story reflects a deeply personal journey many women share before finding their confidence—a journey of vulnerability before finding strength.

Bailey Rushlow shows off stretch marks on her thighs, embracing body confidence and self-acceptance
Photo courtesy of Bailey Rushlow — Going Bare.

The Path to Self-Appreciation

A decade of growth taught Bailey to celebrate her body, her curly hair, and her menstrual cycle. She learned that rejecting unrealistic beauty ideals was the key to living freely.

Close-up of Bailey Rushlow with blue eyes and blonde curly hair, highlighting her natural beauty and radiant skin
Photo courtesy of Bailey Rushlow — Going Bare. No makeup. Unfiltered beauty

For her, music became more than a career—it became a form of empowerment.

Her song "(Simply) The Best" symbolizes her journey. Singing it is Bailey’s personal affirmation—her declaration of becoming the best version of herself. Her art carries a message of hope and self-love.

Bailey’s Message to Others

Bailey encourages women to:

  1. Embrace Your Unique Perspective — Validation starts from within.
  2. Prioritize Your Happiness — Authentic living brings true fulfillment.
  3. Embrace Your Cosmic Blueprint — Reject societal pressures and celebrate your individuality.
Bailey Rushlow sitting in shorts, capturing her toned legs, confident posture, and captivating gaze
Photo courtesy of Bailey Rushlow — Going Bare. No makeup. Unfiltered beauty

Looking Ahead: Creativity and Community

Bailey dreams of a life filled with connection and creative expression:

  • A cozy cottage with a lush garden
  • Continuing her music career
  • Hosting her podcast, The Cosmic Nomad
  • Raising children who embody self-love and acceptance
Bailey Rushlow lying on a bed in white underwear, exuding sensuality and confidence in a soft, natural light setting
Photo courtesy of Bailey Rushlow — Going Bare. No makeup. Unfiltered beauty

Discovering OBARE and Her Authentic Self

In 2019, Bailey found OBARE (formerly SundayMorningView), a platform celebrating real, unfiltered beauty. Inspired by its mission, Bailey embraced her body without filters or makeup, stepping into authenticity both on and off the stage.

Her journey is a testament to the power of self-love, self-expression, and healing. Bailey’s story is a reminder that our voices matter, our experiences matter, and our authenticity matters.

Bailey reflects:
“Who we were as children is who we still are—but often deeply buried under layers of conditioning, trauma, responsibilities, and so much more. Healing starts with connecting to your younger self.”

Bailey Rushlow’s journey is more than a personal transformation—it’s an anthem for anyone seeking confidence, body acceptance, and the courage to go bare.

(Here is a video that is inspirational. Bailey Rushlow reflects on healing and self-discovery: “Who we were as children is who we still are—but often deeply buried under layers of conditioning, trauma, responsibilities, and so much more.” Through this journey, she encourages taking time to connect with your younger self. This practice brings deep healing and creates a lasting impact on our lives. Text by Bailey Rushlow, adapted from her words on Instagram (@baileynrushlow).)

Find Bailey on Instagram: @baileynrushlow.