We asked readers on Instagram to share photos of times they felt beautiful, and they delivered! Here are eight moments that made us smile…

“When I’m walking a trail, outfitted in my cargo pants (that zip off at the knees!) and waterproof shell, I feel vibrant, alive and capable, which makes me feel like a million bucks.” — Tenley (above, wearing this hat)

“My son was seven months old in this nursing self portrait. Motherhood came to me at 43, following breast cancer. I didn’t know that breastfeeding would be so healing, would matter so much to me. We used formula, as well, as I could nurse from only one side, and through it all, I felt my beauty and power.” — Erin

“As an introvert who’s insecure about her place in the world, I knew I’d have to face my fears at my wedding as the center of attention. But I found enough confidence to come out of my shell and realize that I, too, deserved celebrating. I hope all brides feel as happy as I did that day.” — Anceeta

“The law firm where my friends and I (right) worked was one of the first to get fully on board with our city’s Pride Parade. We brought 50+ colleagues, their families, a huge rainbow float and the most amazing energy. Our home city has deeply conservative roots, so this day felt like a tangible moment of overcoming adversity. We went on to represent 2SLGBTQIA+ clients on a pro-bono basis to fight against attempts to limit queer and trans rights in our province.” — Emily

“For the orchid show at the New York Botanical Garden, I put on a dress that I had never worn before because an ex felt intimidated by me when I showed it to him. I paired it with my favorite heels, then hit the town with my amazing sister and friends.” — Ingrid

“This is me (left) with the all-women clergy team at my previous church. Growing up in a patriarchal church context, I find this image of women serving at the altar so beautiful. I hope I can open the door even wider to those who have been marginalized by the church.” — Leah

“While chaperoning my daughter’s kindergarten class field trip to a farm, I felt like a Grace Farris cartoon because of how my heart burst with joy that I get to be her mom.” — Allyson

“I read that mutual staring between humans and dogs releases oxytocin. Our dog, Frosty, shows me such intense (one blue/one brown eyed) adoration — this photo is him gazing at me while I’m puttering around our Brooklyn apartment. It’s impossible to not feel utterly beautiful when he’s looking at me.” — Liz

When have you felt beautiful? We’d love to hear…

P.S. Readers share what they wear to work, where they live, and what they like about their looks.