Mischa Barton on Cosmopolitan UK cover

Isn’t this awesome? Mischa Barton is featured in the May 2009 issue of Cosmopolitan UK where she talks about loving your body shape.

Some of the photos inside the magazine are pretty racy – though covered up, Mischa doesn’t appear to be wearing much. Even on the cover, the only thing covering her breasts is her long, flowing hair. There is a cool photo inside of her in a cool sleeveless top with a black halo over her head. Next to it are the words: “Saint or sinner – Mischa can’t win with her critics – she’s either too thin or too fat.” True, so true.

But even though the magazine photos are great, it’s what Mischa says that is more important – because she tackles body image and the cruelty she has faced as she’s labeled everything from too fat to too thin and everything in between.

When asked how she feels when she reads some of the horrible things that are written about her, Mischa responds:

“Sometimes it makes me upset because I don’t understand why people would be so critical,” Mischa tells Cosmopolitan UK. “Surely there are more important issues than if someone has cellulite. And I don’t understand the point of people looking for bad things. Why bother? I know it’s human nature to want to pick on other people, but I find it a little shallow.”

When asked about the “cellulite” photos, Mischa says a paparazzi photo can make anyone look too fat or too thin. And all that matters is what YOU feel about your body, not what anyone else things.

While she admits to having the normal issues about her body throughout the years, she’s happy with her body and wouldn’t change it.

She also says women are more critical of other women than men are as far as weight is concerned, noting most men don’t notice if there’s a slight weight gain. And, Mischa says beauty is more than looks – it’s how you carry and present yourself.

“You could be the most beautiful girl in the world but if you are a terrible, bitchy person, it’s not worth looking good,” Mischa told Cosmopolitan UK.

When asked what female she admires for her body/facial features, Mischa says Liv Tyler.

“The only way to be happy and be a more enjoyable person to be around is to embrace what you have,” Mischa tells Cosmpolitan UK.”

Her secret to happiness?

Playing up her strong points and not listening to negativity. She also says while people think celebs have perfect lives, it’s not true. What counts is whether the people in your life (family and friends) think you are a nice person.

Mischa also was featured in the Spring 2009 issue of Genlux, a magazine devoted to luxury and beauty for Southern California women. It’s a cool magazine shoot where Mischa is photographed not only in front of the camera, but behind the camera in some really nice, artsy shots.

Image: splashnewsonline.com