A young woman from Kent has opened up about her experiences with body shaming on dating apps, highlighting how some men prioritise their opinions on women’s appearances over meaningful connections. Libby Rose Martin, 22, began using dating applications in 2025 in hopes of finding romance, but instead found herself subjected to a barrage of negative comments regarding her size.
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In an interview with Kennedy News and Media, Martin described how she would often receive unsolicited advice about her body from men who matched with her. “I’ve had several guys slide into my DMs offering to be my personal trainer or telling me I would never find a boyfriend because of how I look,” she reflected. Such messages have taken their toll, contributing to an environment of online bullying that many women face.
A particularly egregious encounter spurred Martin to respond assertively to a man who matched with her purely to insult her. He sent a message that read, “You sure can take in calories,” claiming he was a “hero” attempting to “motivate” her. In a bold move, Martin rebutted his remarks by stating, “Just because I’m plus size doesn’t mean I’m unhappy in my body.” She also implored him to consider how he would feel if someone spoke to a female family member in a similar manner.
Despite the man continuing to hurl insults her way, Martin expressed pride in standing up for herself. “I was not interested in him romantically; I wanted to seize the opportunity to educate him,” she said. “His comments were a shameful reflection of his narrow-mindedness.” She emphasised that such attitudes could explain why he remains single, despite actively using a dating platform.
Reflecting on her own experiences, Martin shared that the dating world can feel particularly challenging for plus-sized individuals. “We are often regarded as a marginalised community,” she noted. She recounted being fetishised by men who were only interested in a casual relationship but were ashamed to be seen with her in public. “When I go out with my slimmer friends, the attention they receive from men is markedly different from mine,” she added.
Martin hopes that by sharing her story, she can empower other women facing similar experiences. “Online bullying reflects more about the individual delivering it than those receiving it,” she affirmed. She acknowledged that while many might choose to ignore or block such negativity, taking the time to educate those who perpetuate it can also be beneficial.
Furthermore, she stressed that people’s happiness should not be tied to societal standards of beauty or a specific number on a scale. “There are far more important memories in life than worrying about fitting into a particular dress,” she said, encouraging women to embrace their worth beyond physical appearance.
Martin’s courageous stance and call for authenticity has resonated with many. Her experience serves as a reminder that confronting stigma can help pave the way for greater understanding and acceptance, fostering a more inclusive environment in social spaces, both online and offline.