New SKORCH DOLL!! Meet Jessica

What is a SKORCH Doll? SKORCH Dolls are featured readers that are the definition of SKORCH – confidence, fierce, sexy and comfortable in her body. Even though we can no feature every reader in the magazine, we can feature our readers in features we call SKORCH DOLLS. Anyone can apply, and we do not select based on look – we randomly select SKORCH dolls – so you have a chance!

Thank you for reading SKORCH Magazine!

Q. Tell our SKORCH readers your name, where your from & what you do, School/Major or Career/Field?

A. Hey SKORCH readers, I’m Jessica O’Brien! I’m originally from Millis, Massachusetts, a suburb outside of Boston. I moved last year to Myrtle Beach, SC with my husband Martin.  I work in an elementary school in a special need’s preschool classroom as a “one on one” aide.  I also am working on developing my portfolio as a hair stylist/make-up artist for film, television and photo shoots to keep my weekends exciting! I worked on my first feature length film this year, and was hooked!

Q. Tell us your favorite (makeup line, perfume, shoe designer, other) ?

A. I love my Clinique Happy perfume and have been wearing it for years now. Also, with all the fun of developing my make-up kit for photo shoots, I have been able to play with different brands of make-up. My Bare Escentuals and Smashbox products are two new faves! And, I hate to admit it, but I really am not a “shoe gal”. I usually go simple and comfortable. I hope this doesn’t disqualify me from the “girly mafia”! LOL

Q. What designer would you like to see develop a TRUE + apparel line?

A. I remember growing up that I was always disappointed that I couldn’t fit into clothes at The Gap or Banana Republic.  I also have to go with another SKORCH Doll (Mardi) and say Isaac Mizrahi.  I was one of those gals who was upset back in 2003 to find out his Target line didn’t carry into plus sizes.

Q. In your photo where did you purchase your outfit?

A.  My style has evolved many times with gaining and losing so much weight. This is the first time in many years that I am starting to be more daring and trendy.  When I weighed 350lb and felt horrible about my body, it didn’t lend itself to want to dress to stand out. My black v-neck tee is from Target. Vest is by Simply Flawless from a store called Cohoes. It’s like a local Marshall’s-type store originating from upstate NY. The jeans are Lane Bryant Right Fit Bootcut

Q. What does a SKORCH Doll do for fun?

A. Since I work with preschool children, I am sort of a weekend warrior when it comes to dressing up and doing my hair/make-up! It’s always been fun. I LOVE Zumba, and try to take salsa lessons once in a while.  Now that I live at the beach, I try to not take it for granted, and go when I can with my husband to lounge or go for a walk! I also am rediscovering my love of acting. I’m working on a short comedy film next month as an actress, as well as doing the hair and make-up!!

Q. Why did you want to be a SKORCH Doll?

A. Since losing 100lb over the past few years, I am finally feeling like a woman again. Becoming a SKORCH Doll helps me to reaffirm all the hard work I have accomplished, as well as to celebrate that I am beautiful at this size, and every size I have been and might be in the future!