Jade Small
Jade Small
November 22, 2024 ·  3 min read

I ditched my ‘Karen cut’ and got 11 tattoos and 7 piercings — I’m unrecognizable post-divorce

After a life-changing divorce, Marissa Pool embraced a dramatic transformation, leaving behind her old look and adopting a bold, new style. At 29, Pool found herself shedding the image of a ‘good wife and mom’ to pursue her own identity, finally feeling comfortable in her skin. Here’s how her journey unfolded.

A Life of Expectations

Marissa’s transformation didn’t happen overnight. Looking back, she reflects on the role she played for years. “I got wrapped up in the expectations of being a wife and mother,” she shared. At 17, she met her ex-husband and quickly became immersed in a life centered around what others thought she should be. In doing so, she neglected her own desires, including her appearance and personal style, which she had long ignored.

Rediscovering Her True Self

After her divorce in January 2022, Pool took a step back and reassessed her life. She realized that it was time to prioritize herself. “When you get older, your values and beliefs change,” she said. Pool began to experiment with different looks, inspired by alternative music culture and the bold fashion and makeup styles she had always admired. For the first time, she felt the freedom to dress how she’d always wanted but had been too afraid to try.

A New Style Emerges

Gone was the “Karen cut” she had worn for years. In its place, Pool now sports long, dark hair, giving her a fresh, edgy look. She swapped out frumpy, conservative clothing for grungy and figure-flattering outfits, embracing a more daring wardrobe. “I feel like a completely different person,” Pool revealed. Along with her new look, she ventured into body art, now proudly sporting 11 tattoos and 7 piercings. Among her tattoos is the logo of her favorite band, Bring Me the Horizon, which she proudly displays on her chest.

A Megan Fox Look-Alike?

Many people have remarked that Pool now bears a striking resemblance to Megan Fox, but she remains humble. “I’m not sure I see it myself, but it’s very flattering,” she said, expressing admiration for Fox while being modest about the comparison. While she may not agree with the comparison, the compliments have boosted her confidence, and Pool feels more comfortable in her own skin than ever before.

Embracing Change, Inside and Out

Although the change was not immediate, Pool found that the more she embraced her new look, the more it impacted her mindset. “I decided if I can feel good about the outside, I can feel good on the inside, too,” she explained. No longer hiding behind the façade of what others expected, she began to show up as her authentic self.

Confidence Through Self-Care

Every morning, Pool takes the time to style her hair and do her makeup. For her, it’s not just about looking good—it’s about feeling good and being confident. Pool encourages other moms to take the time for self-care as well. “When you feel good about yourself, only then can you be the best version of yourself,” she said.

A New Woman, A New Life

Now, as a mother of two, Pool feels like a new woman. The transformation has gone far beyond physical changes—she has reclaimed her sense of self and confidence. “I feel like me,” she said, emphasizing that she no longer hides behind societal expectations. Embracing her individuality has not only helped her feel confident but also allowed her to be a better version of herself for her children and those around her.

The Power of Authenticity

Marissa’s journey shows that it’s never too late to embrace change, especially when it comes to finding and expressing who you truly are. Through embracing her love for alternative style, body art, and self-care, Pool now feels more confident, happier, and in tune with her true self. Her story serves as a reminder that transformation is not just about external appearances but about embracing authenticity and confidence from the inside out.

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