A new community aimed at helping women build confidence, make connections and support one another has been launched.
AWWA (Accepting Who We Are), the body confidence community co-founded by model, podcaster and body confidence activist Rachel Peru and business, life and body confidence coach Tina Boden, officially launched its new Big Knickers Network with an event at independent lingerie boutique The Fitting Room in Ilkley.
Around 30 women attended the launch evening on October 15, which organisers said was filled with laughter, honest conversations and new friendships.
The Big Knickers Network has been created as a space where women can come together to share experiences, learn from one another and find support in a welcoming environment.
The launch event for the new Big Knickers Network held at independent lingerie boutique The Fitting Room in Ilkley (Image: submitted)
Rachel and Tina used the event to outline their plans for the network and the wider work of AWWA, while also introducing AWWA ambassadors Julie Kelly and Sara Barnes.
Julie, 58, recently returned to Yorkshire and is embracing a new chapter as both a model and emerging artist, using her experiences to encourage other women to step outside their comfort zones.
The launch event for the new Big Knickers Network held at independent lingerie boutique The Fitting Room in Ilkley (Image: submitted)
Sara, 64, spoke about her passion for year-round cold-water swimming and the strength and resilience she has developed through the activity.
She also reflected on life-changing health challenges she faced in 2025, which she said strengthened her determination to live life to the fullest.
Guests also heard from Debbie Healey, who has been sharing her bra-fitting expertise at The Fitting Room for more than 20 years.
Her talk covered bra fitting, breast care and the importance of recognising that one size does not fit all.
The launch event for the new Big Knickers Network held at independent lingerie boutique The Fitting Room in Ilkley (Image: submitted)
To mark the occasion, every attendee received a pair of gold soft-stretch knickers, gifted by lingerie brand Chantelle Paris.
The launch came shortly after Rachel and Tina appeared on BBC Radio 2's Jeremy Vine programme on October 12, where they discussed body confidence and the work of AWWA.
The launch event for the new Big Knickers Network held at independent lingerie boutique The Fitting Room in Ilkley (Image: submitted)
Rachel Peru said: “Tina and I are so excited to launch the Big Knickers Network and bring women together.
"There was so much laughter, new connections were made, and everyone went home ready to put on their big knickers and face new challenges, knowing we've got their backs.
“And after Debbie's talk, I'm sure I'm not the only one who'll be clearing out her lingerie drawer!”
The launch event for the new Big Knickers Network held at independent lingerie boutique The Fitting Room in Ilkley (Image: submitted)
Tina Boden added: “Independent lingerie stores are where real fitting expertise lives.
"By bringing the Big Knickers Network into boutiques like The Fitting Room, we're connecting women with the people who can genuinely help them feel good in their bodies, and supporting local businesses at the same time.”
More Big Knickers Network events are planned in the coming months.