A Colchester mum says embracing a glamourous lifestyle and taking on a "traditional" homemaker role has boosted her confidence and mental health.
Camilla Do Rosario, 30, dresses up and sets the table beautifully before her husband comes home each evening.
Camilla, a mother of two, wasn't always focused on her appearance.
After struggling to conceive for two years and slipping into a depressive state, she stopped doing her make up, wearing nice clothes, and gained weight.
At her heaviest, Camilla weighed 25 stone, but her husband, Timas Do Rosario, 30, loved her unconditionally throughout her struggles.
Reflecting on that difficult time, Camilla said: "I was angry and disappointed with my body. I couldn't take care of myself. I rarely brushed my hair and felt lost in my depressive state."
However, everything slowly changed after welcoming her daughters, Bella, four, and Rosie, two.
Camilla gradually "found herself" again and began experimenting with make up and stylish clothes, rediscovering her love for fashion.
Now, Camilla ensures she is dressed up, with her make up done and the house clean before Timas, who works as a chef, returns from work.
"The person I am is glamorous, flamboyant, and colourful," she said.
"People say I'm a Stepford wife, but I love that.
"I'm a homemaker, wife, and I really enjoy it. I am happier now that I’m not in my holey pyjamas."
Camilla's transformation has had a profound effect on her mental wellbeing.
She says her decision to dress up and keep a beautifully decorated home isn't about impressing her husband, but rather about feeling good for herself.
"It's not vanity; it's so much more to do with my mental well-being," she said.
"I love the idea of my husband walking in and smelling dinner, with beautiful flowers on the table and candles lit. It just makes me feel good."
While some might view her routine as old-fashioned, Camilla enjoys the traditional vibe in her home.
Although she shares housework and cooking duties equally with Timas—who takes over when she’s working—she delights in preparing a welcoming environment for her family.
"I like putting on an apron and popping in a pie. I'd love to be a trad wife," she added.
Camilla has faced criticism online, with some people suggesting she's "doing too much."
However, she remains confident in her choices, explaining that her new lifestyle has strengthened her relationship with Timas and improved her overall happiness.
"Since I’ve invested in myself, our relationship is so wonderful. We’re so happy," she said.
"I put on a pretty dress, do the housework and cooking, and I feel good because of it."
Camilla hopes to inspire other women to take pride in themselves, whether that means dressing up or simply finding what makes them feel confident.
"It’s not because my husband needs it—he couldn’t care less," she said.
"But I want to inspire others to always take pride in themselves if it makes them happier."
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