July 18, 2024
Today we launch our newest column: Survivor Stories. Our mission: to prove how lingerie empowers victims of domestic violence and abuse as they find freedom from debilitating lifestyles. These are the tales told to us by women (and sometimes men) who have suffered in silence from a plethora of controlling behaviors, both physical and emotional, perpetrated by significant family members. Recently, the opportunity for Lingerie Briefs to support this cause presented itself when I received an email from Jacob Miller, founder of Purple Boudoir.
Purple Boudoir, aptly named because purple is the national color representing the awareness of domestic abuse. This unique photography studio is dedicated to raising self-esteem. It does NOT proffer a ‘Come Hither’ mentality. Its goal is to provide a pathway to self-love for women in need. Donating his time and collaborating with Wings, the highly rated Chicago based organization dedicated to supporting victims of domestic violence and abuse, Jacob’s work has gifted multitudes of women with newfound confidence. Having a personal experience with domestic abuse, this cause is near and dear to his heart.
In our first photo showcase, we meet two sisters, Heidi and Kristie Morrison. Bonded by their journey of healing, the sisters have overcome significant childhood traumas and a lifetime of abusive relationships. One was a victim of sexual abuse, the other beaten down by verbal denigration. From them we heard about emotional abuse, marital rape, and the debasing that keeps women in these circumstances including threatening behavior, marital rape and denial. We learned that it takes an average of 7 tries to leave a relationship because of conditioning, financial control, and the isolation from support. Because they have been so debased, they do not believe that they deserve the right to feel good about themselves.
Programs such as Wings helps women escape these situations with success. Jacob’s photography supports them in rediscovering confidence and self love.. Heidi tells how she used to dress in the closet to avoid her husband’s’ eyes. She has since replaced her wedding photo with boudoir photography. Both ladies are over 40 as, in fact, are many of Jacob’s clients. They have come the distance. Recognizing their self-worth through wearing exquisite lingerie, they have expressed to us how beautiful they feel. Their mantra: ‘I deserve it!’
Models: Heidi and Kristie Morrison
Heidi’s Leather & Lace Lingerie Boutique is now open in the Chicago metro area with the mission of helping other women reconnect with their femininity and confidence through lingerie.
