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“The Pulse of the Plus-Size Community” Panel Discussion at Full Figured Fashion Week™

Jun18

Yesterday was the panel discussion for Full Figured Fashion Week™ and the topic was ”The Pulse of the Plus-Size Community”. We discussed everything from the use of the words “plus-size and fat” to why our clothing has to have it’s own section in stores. The panel was hosted by comedianne Erica Watson and the panel speakers were Jennine Biggins, Kathryn Finney, Madeline Figueroa-Jones, Leslie Medlik and Jill Hutchinson. There were attendees from as far as London and Paris in the room. Erica Watson gave us comic relief during some very serious Q & A sessions. I obtained insight as to how plus-size women are marketed in the industry to why some companies don’t use over a size 14/16 model in their ads. If you can, make sure to attend this event next year. You will gain valuable info from industry professionals.

http://fffweek.com

OOTD: “Rocker Chic at FFFW”

Jun17

Tonight for the “Full Figured and Fabulous™” Modeling Competition at Full Figured Fashion Week™, I went for the “Rocker Chic” look. I admit my inspiration was completely from Rihanna, once again. I saw her with these “earlace” earrings on last year and I finally tracked down a reasonable pair for myself. An earlace is a pair of earrings that is made like a necklace. They connect from ear to ear. I hadn’t shopped on Ebay in years until I ran across these last month on the site and I ordered them (Earlace, $8). 

The dress is a “Herve Leger” inspired piece from Ashley Stewart. The Herve brand will run you over $1,000 and this one from Ashley Stewart is only $50. I usually don’t go this clingy but I said what the hell, I’m in NYC, go all out. To complete the look I added the “it” shoe of the moment, the Sam Edelman “Lorissa” studded pump ($200 from Nordstrom). I already had these in suede once before and these are the leather version. No joke but they sell out so quickly that you have to buy them right when you see them available in your size. Rounding the look out is the spiked bracelet that I just got yesterday from my fave jewelry store in NYC. So after the event I went to Times Square to get my photo op on. Afterall, where else to flaunt but in the “City of Lights”, NYC that is!!!

The “White on White Sunset Cruise” at Full Figured Fashion Week™ 2011 – New York City

Jun17

Last night had to be one of the most memorable moments in my plus-size fashion career. Not only because I got to see the “Statue of Liberty” up close and personal, but because I was so proud to see so many curvy ladies represent in a very uniting way. It was the official kick-off event for Full Figured Fashion Week™ 2011. We arrived at the Skyport Marina to a line of nothing but curvy beauties dressed in all white. I was a little concerned about the white on white theme at first because I don’t have “any” white in my wardrobe. But now I know that event producer, Gwen DeVoe, is a genius. She already knew that the vision of plus-size ladies in white would be a beauty. She couldn’t have been more right. It was truly a tearjerker to have almost all of the top plus-industry people in one setting. On board were reps from Lane Bryant, Ashley Stewart, Sonsi, Just My Size, professional plus-size models, bloggers to curvy magazine editors. 

Now number one, I’m not a party/club person. But it’s so funny, Gwen DeVoe can get me in a party setting anytime, lol. No seriously, the only parties I have been to probably over the past few years were with her and her events. I had so much fun. There was 3 floors of networking and fun on the yacht. The music was on point and the DJ did her thang. We had old school hip hop, house music to the latest hits being played. All attendees were treated to a full buffet that was fulfilling and quite tasty. I almost lost my mind when we rode past the “Statue of Liberty’”. I wasn’t expecting that. That really made me appreciate being here in the City. The scenic view from the Hudson river looking back at the city was breath taking. I had a ahh haa moment last night.

http://fffweek.com

The Lane Bryant Blogger’s Conference During Full Figured Fashion Week™ 2011

Jun17

I arrived in NYC early yesterday morning just in time to attend the 2nd Annual Blogger’s Conference presented by Lane Bryant. Lane Bryant is one of the corporate sponsors for Full Figured Fashion Week™. It was a five hour discussion on new products, blogger’s intake on the plus fashion world and a preview of their new Fall 2011 line. I got to finally meet face to face some of the lovely bloggers that I follow and admire. All of the head designers and officials of Lane Bryant, such as Jay Dunn and David Albow,  were present to speak with us personally about the company and brand. We previewed the new jeans that are coming out by Lane Bryant called the “T3″. That means, “Tighter Tummy Technology”. A few bloggers also served as models and showcased the jeans for us. Very nice too by the way. No gapping or bulging with these jeans. We got to preview some new lingeries pieces as well. Lane Bryant is even making a limited edition Swalvoski crystal bra for it’s Cacique collection. We got to see the debut of the new commercial for Cacique too. Wow, Victoria’s Secret better watch out!

http://www.lanebryant.com/

 

OOTD: Ashley Stewart and Evans for FFFW

Jun17

I know it’s been forever since I did a OOTD post but I started a new day career and have been busy training with that. But since “Full Figured Fashion Week” was already pre-planned for me many, many months ago, I took a mini vacation. Anyway, the 1st outfit I wore during FFFW was this one from Ashley Stewart and Evans. I ordered the jacket so long ago that I can’t even remember the official name of it or the exact price. I think I got it around the Fall of last year when it was on sale. It is from UK retailer Evans. Since the Aztek print is popular right now I wanted to mix it with a bright color to break the monochromatic  feel of the jacket. So I pulled out this Ashley Stewart dress from last year. I’ve worn it before but wanted to give it a twist this time around. I always start packing for my trips at least a month in advance, so this outfit has been hanging up on my closet door, complete with accessories and all, for a while. Have you ever based a whole outfit around a pair of shoes? Well, that’s kinda what I did for this look. If you remember, I blogged on a pair of replica Nicolas Kirkwood booties back in April, (http://bellastyles.com/2011/04/10/ootd-antthony-design-originals-and-nicholas-kirkwood-vs-j-c-dossier/), well I wore these to complete this ensemble. I think I did right because if you follow me on Twitter then you already know that a few ladies were trying to shoe jack me at the event where I wore this outfit, lol. Anyway, here’s the complete look:

Dress: $40 Ashley Stewart (2010)

Jacket: $40? (On Sale) Evans (2010)  http://www.evans.co.uk

Shoes: $35 Shoe City

Purse: $7? (On Clearance) Nine West from Macy’s  (2008)

Jewelry: It’s Fashion

FFFWeek™ Fashion Front Spotlight: “Ming Wang Knits”

Jun10

Literally a few moments ago, I was introduced to the plus-size designer label, Ming Wang. I had overlooked an email from them and happened to receive a call from a company representative. It was so funny when we both realized that we were apart of the FFFWeek™ festivities. Ming Wang is one of the sponsors this year and will be previewing their collection on Thursday, June 16th during FFFWeek™. 

Founded in 2000, Ming Wang is known for seamlessly integrating effortless dressing and chic style. Ming Wang is an upscale knitwear fashion designer, famous for her classic chic and versatility. Every item of apparel is for the on-the-go woman . Recognized for its knit separates and bold graphic styling, Ming Wang collections consistently incorporate the latest color trends with timeless neutrals that are ideal for wardrobe building.

Made from Amica yarn, Ming Wang knits are the perfect wrinkle-free, machine washable, color-guarded, and easy to travel with garments. Ming Wang offers timeless pieces year after year while staying current with trends.  Consistently keeping in mind real women and their sizes, Ming Wang offers sizes in her luxury knit collection from XS – XXL – perfect for FFFWeek™. Cut to fit and flatter a variety of real women’s figures, Ming Wang also offers Slender Size bottoms with built-in shapewear, the mature woman’s answer to Spanx. 

I plan to personally review a piece from the collection soon so I will re-post another blog once done with that review. In the meantime, preview some of the collection:


 

Ming Wang is sold exclusively at Nordstrom, Dillard’s and on their own website at:  http://www.mingwangknits.com

For more info on FFFWeek™, please visit that site at: http://fffweek.com

 

 

 

Need a Last Minute Outfit for FFFWeek™ ? City Chic is Having a Sale!!!

Jun10

Next week is Full Figured Fashion Week™ (FFFWeek) in New York City and many curvy fashionistas are still running around at the last minute looking for attire. This event is going to be 4 days full of nothing but plus-size fashion, fun and mingling. Well I just found out that Full Figured Fashion Week™ (FFFWeek) sponsor, City Chic, is currently having a dynamite sale. Get your gown for the finale, an all white outfit for the cruise or a dress for a panel event now before the stock is gone. From my previous City Chic shopping experience, their shipping is speedy so order now while you still have a few days to receive shipment!!!

 

One Shoulder Halle Dress  $19.99

Rachel Maxi  $19.99

Broderie Dress  $19.99

 

 

Shop online at: http://www.citychiconline.com

 

For more info on FFFWeek™, please visit the site: http://fffweek.com

FFFWeek™ Fashion Front Spotlight: Designer’s La’Tresa Harper and Danyelle Freeland of “La’ Dan’s Closet”

Jun5

I’ve featured the designer’s La’Tresa Harper and Danyelle Freeland  of  LaDan’s Closet on my blog before, but today they are my featured spotlight for FFFWeek™. La’Dan’s Closet designs will be featured during the finale show at FFFWeek™. Danyelle Freeland, maternal granddaughter of a self- taught designer and seamstress & paternal granddaughter of a fashion “DIVA”, realized early on that shopping for the clothes she desired was very difficult. She would piece together items but was really never satisfied with what was in her closet. Latresa Harper struggled with the same dilemma. Growing up with nothing for kids or teens her size to wear, and admiring the trendy styles that her peers were wearing, she decided that it was up to her to make a change. She wanted to create what she felt was glamorous for the plus sized women. After over 20 years of friendship, nature took it’s course .

Designers Latresa and Danyelle have a keen sense of what’s ”HOT” and what’s “NOT”. They set out to create a line that’s fashion forward, trendy, and of high quality. Incorporating LA’Tresa and DANyelle in 2009, “La’Dan’s Closet” was born. La’Dan’s Closet will debut their new collection on June 18, 2011 during  ”Full Figured Fashion Week™” (http://fffweek.com)

 I first was introduced to the plus-size coat  line “La Dan’s Closet” a year or so ago over on Myspace. I was instantly intrigued by their very stylish capes and coats for the curvy woman. Well I recently found out that the La Dan’s Closet line is now available for sale on Monif C’s website. So I’ve pulled together some of my favorites for this year and wanted to share them with you:

“Cape” Coat by La Dan’s Closet   $300  Sizes 1X-3X   www.monifc.com

“Eye Spy” Coat by La Dan’s Closet – Camel   $330  Sizes 1X -2X   www.monifc.com

Long Vintage Cape  $375   Sizes 1X-3X http://la-danscloset.com

More info at http://la-danscloset.com

For Tickets to the Fashion Show featuring La’Dan’s Closet, visit: http://fffweek.com

UPDATE: The Full Figured Fashion Week™ Finale Showcase and Awards Ceremony at The Marriott Marquis (in Times Square)

Jun2

This year’s Full Figured Fashion Week™ Finale Showcase and Awards Ceremony will be held on Saturday, June 18th in New York City. Full Figured Fashion Week™ is an annual event dedicated to honoring and acknowledging all things plus-size related. Event producer, Gwen DeVoe, has over ten years experience in fashion show productions. Join us as we wrap up a week-long celebration of curvy fashion, entertainment and empowerment with our Finale Runway and Awards Ceremony, hosted by MTV celebrity, Ms. Shanda Freeman.

During the course of a four-day span there will be fashion shows, panel discussions, modeling competitions and a grand fashion show event solely for the woman with curves.

Today I’d like to focus on the semi-formal finale showcase. This is the final segment of the week’s events and it is an all out spectacular showcase that you don’t wanna miss. I have had the personal honor to attend this show every year since it started back in 2009.

Top plus-size designers and retailers present their new collections during this showcase. Come witness the electrifying runway presentations of 13 independent designers, boutiques and retailers, all worn by a bevy of beautiful curvy models from across the globe. We will also honor 13 individuals and businesses who have been chosen to receive a 2011 Full Figured Fashion Week Industry Award for their achievements in the plus size fashion industry. Names such as Monif C, Susan Moses, Osun, Qristyl Frazier, Ashley Stewart, Jewel Shannon and Igigi have all had their clothing grace this runway on some of the industry’s top plus-size models. Curvy celebs such as model Emme, Comedian Kim Coles, Singer Kelly Price and this year MTV’s own, Shanda Freeman have all served as host for this event.

The finale showcase is also combined with an awards ceremony congratulating the year’s top recipients of outstanding work in the plus-size community. This years award recipients are:

Plus Boutique of the Year  -  Re/Dress NYC

Plus Designer of the Year  -  Monif C. Plus Sizes

Plus Fit Model of the Year  -  Terri Murray

Plus Fashion Photographer of the Year  -  Lucas Pictures

Plus Fashion Magazine of the Year  -  PLUS Model Magazine

Plus Commercial Print Model of the Year  -  Fluvia Lacerda

Plus Lifestyle Magazine of the Year  -  Daily Venus Diva

Plus Retailer of the Year  -  Lane Bryant

Plus Runway Model of the Year  -  Mia Amber Davis

Plus Icon of the Year  -  Catherine Schuller

Plus Agency of the Year  -  MSA Models (MSA Plus)

Plus Pageant of the Year  -  J.T. Productions – Full Figured USA Pageant

Plus Fashion Stylist of the Year  -  Susan Moses

Plus Fashion Blog of the Year  -  Big Girl in A Skinny World

The Full Figured Fashion Week™ Finale Showcase and Awards Ceremony:

6:00 PM V.I.P. Red Carpet Arrivals and Cocktail Reception (Invitation Only)
7:00 PM Doors Open
7:30 PM Show Begins

10:00 PM – After Party

Attire: Semi-Formal

Admission: $40.00 in advance (includes Afterparty)

NEW EVENT VENUE 

The Marriott Marquis
1535 Broadway (corner of 45th Street, Times Square area)
WESTSIDE BALLROOM (5th Floor)
New York, NY 10036

Immediately after the runway show, it’s time to party! Mix and mingle with other guests, front row VIPs, runway models, award recipients, sponsors and the production team of FFFWeek. When the lights go down and the dance beats begin, a new celebration begins. Come party with us….after all, YOU deserve it!

For more info and for tickets to the event, please visit the website: http://fffweek.com

FFFWeek™ Fashion Front Spotlight: “Plus Agency of the Year, MSA Models”

May24

Today’s Full Figured Fashion Week™ spotlight goes to MSA Models agency. They are being presented with the “plus agency of the year” award this year during Full Figured Fashion Week™. Susan Levine is the President and Chief Executive of MSA MODELS, formerly known as Model Service Agency. MSA Models is a full service model management company. Located in the heart of the Garment Center, MSA represents models for Fit, Commercial Print, Showroom and Lifestyle to help designers successfully launch lines for Straight and Plus Size Fashion.

Susan took ownership of MSA in 1998 and has grown its MSA Plus (formerly Goddess) division exponentially. Prior to MSA, Susan was responsible for the accessories business of Koret Handbags, managing design and sales. Susan was born in Budapest, Hungary and immigrated to the United States as a teen. 

Susan plans to continue to strengthen and expand MSA’s Plus division. She is honored to be acknowledged by Full Figured Fashion Week™ as Plus Agency of the Year. Susan accepts the award on behalf of MSA, Anthony Higgins who heads the Plus Division at MSA, and all the beautiful MSA Plus Models – each one of you is a living Goddess. MSA Models represents 50+ years of models in Print, Showroom, Commercial, Runway and Fit.

Well known plus-size models that are represented by MSA models are Tricia Campbell, Shannon Heitt, Kate Eckman and even Mia Amber was a model for them up until her untimely demise. These models have graced the covers of magazines and blogs such as Daily Venus Diva, Plus Model Magazine and Madison Plus. Who knows, you may be the next new face of the agency. MSA Models has an Open Call every Tuesday at 10:00 a.m.

Visit them at www.msamodels.com

MSA Models

570 7th Ave Suite 1000
New York, NY 10018

p. 212.944.8896
f.  212.944.8899

info@msamodels.com

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For more info or to attend Full Figured Fashion Week™, purchase tickets here: http://fffweek.com