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Tuesday, September 25, 2012

Three Awesome Diva's


Since I started my blog, I have been asked many questions. The question that I have been asked the most is, “How do I become a model?” Well, since I did not have the answer, I reached out to three inspirational models. As I learned more and more about them, I became encouraged and motivated to step up my game. I am privileged to have met these Diva’s and now I can introduce them to you.

Jessel Ramos

Picture by Jay Matthew's Photography


I was born in West Chester Pennsylvania moved to Puerto Rico when I was 3 years old. I recently moved back to the United States about 4 years ago. As a child, I was always into performing arts. I started dancing when I was in elementary school and I started singing by the time I was in high school. I went to two different schools. I went to a regular high school during the week and on the weekends; I would go to Performing Art School. I also study industrial sewing, which I loved so much. I had the chance to make my own prom dress (I still remember it like it was yesterday)

I always loved fashion; Vogue was my bible. Every month I had to have it. I would watch fashion TV all day when I was in Puerto Rico. I knew they wanted a very specific body type for models; I thought to myself I would never have a chance. One day I went to Lane Bryant, I saw that they were looking for aspiring models for a show in Las Vegas. I decided to audition. When I auditioned for the show I realize that there was a whole world of plus size models trying to make a difference; and I knew I wanted to be a part of that.

For a fashion photo shoots or runway shows, I always want to make sure I have my model bag ready to go. I make sure I have proper makeup, especially foundation, because not all makeup artists have all skin tones. It is important that to have the right undergarment mainly black and nude shapers and a strapless bra. I carry a variety of shoes just incase they do not have my size. The most important colors are black and nude shoes. As a model, you always want to make sure you have at least one set of black or white tank tops, dark skinny jeans, and/or leggings. I always bring my accessories just in case is needed.

I have worked in the pass with extraordinary designers. I like that each one of them are very different from each other. Some of them are very classy, sophisticated artists while others are sexy and revealing. Love it! Some of my favorites are BluDahlia Designs, Tru Diva, Rue 114, IGIGI by Yuliya Raquel and Monif C.
At the Curvy Closet Fashion Show case there was some many beautiful and talented designers. I wish I had the chance to walk for each one of them. Atleast I had the chance to walk for, Sean Anthony Designs By: Lori Ruffin, Eddy & Bri By: Eddwina Gregg, Tru Diva By: Veronica Lipscomb and last but not least Rue 114 by the incredible Serwan Asante.

I would advise anyone interested in modeling to be very persistent. The plus size fashion industry is getting notice worldwide. We have broken the standards of what a models image should be.

For 2013, I would hope to see plus size trends to be more on the edge; a bit less conservative. I would want to make the point that we can be professional, sophisticated, and sexy.

I would like to express the reason why I love to be a plus size model… I would love to inspire all the young girls these days and give them a positive message. To enjoy and be successful in the fashion world or performing arts industry you do not always have to be a specific size, height or have a certain look. As long as you have the talent, confident and you are persistent, you will simply succeed in every aspect of life.


Vanessa Mays Hinds

Photography by Julissa Diaz


My name is Vanessa Mays Hinds. I was born in Newark, NJ and have lived there for most of my life. I am a wife, mother, preschool teacher, and plus size model. I love teaching! I have been teaching for about 13 years. When I am not running behind my 3 and 4 year olds, I enjoy reading, shopping, cooking, spending time with my family and of course, modeling.

I decided to get into plus size modeling about six months ago. It always had been a secret dream of mine to be a model, but I always had doubts. Maybe I was too big to model, not tall enough, not pretty enough....the confidence just wasn't there. My dream was put on the back burner for a long time. Then, one day, my husband proposed and I decided that I wanted to be 50lbs. lighter for my big day. Through diet and exercise I made it happen! I'd lost 60lbs in ten months! Boy, was I proud and Wow, did I feel good about myself. For the first time in my adult life I felt beautiful inside AND out. I liked what I saw when I looked in the mirror. Needless to say, that was the extra boost of confidence I needed to finally decide I can do this....I can try to be a plus size model.

Well, I ended up being featured in plusmodel411.com as a part of their "Introducing" section. I was really excited about that which led me to attend the casting call in NYC for the famous Qristyl Frazier's Fashion Show. Imagine my complete SHOCK when I was one of a handful of women chosen for the show out of 100+ beautiful and more experienced women! My first casting call...Ever! Wow! I was completely humbled and honored to be apart of that show. I learned so much and got to work with some of the top stylists, models, MUA's and hairstylists in the industry. An amazing and unforgettable experience to say the least.


Six months later I had several shows and shoots under my belt. What a dream come true. I still get nervous before every casting, fashion show or photo shoot but I LOVE this industry.  The experiences and people I have met have been amazing. In order to prepare for each event I try to conserve my energy for the runway or camera. SO, I am kind of quiet behind the scenes. When it gets close to showtime I like to turn on some Pandora and listen to some Beyonce or Rihanna just get me excited and ready to "Werk!"

I have had the pleasure of working with many designers and I seriously LOVE all of them! Some stand out designers for me are: Elocin, Rue 114, Tru Diva, Eddy & Bri, Majesty's Closet and Empress Lingerie. Their designs are nothing short of amazing and above all make me feel SEXY!
R. Jones photography- plus night out NYC- I was runner up in the Skorch magazine/ Infinite Form model search 

At my last show, Curvy Closets in Philly, I had the distinct honor of walking for Elocin, Rue 114, and Tru Diva. This was one of my favorite shows to be a part of. Dominique Revere-Lincoln and Colleen Stovall- the creators and producers- really outdid themselves. I am so happy they chose me to be a part of this special event!

For any woman looking to be a plus size model I suggest they do their research.  Everything that looks good isn't always good for you. Make sure you are reaching out to reputable designers and agencies. It is important to have a tough skin in this industry because you may get a lot of "no's" before you get that one "yes." Above all, never lose sight of who you are, what you want, and your dreams....the SKY is the limit and with God on your side anything is possible! Be confident and know that you are beautiful inside and out :)

The trends I see being big for 2013 are peplum silhouettes-very flattering for us curvy girls! Sprinkles of animal print throughout your wardrobe will be hot too along with colored denim, bold patterns, wrap dresses, and-of course-color blocking! My personal fav!

For more information about Vanessa, you can find her on Facebook, facebook.com/plusmodelvanessamays Twitter @vnessada1nonlii. For inquiries: email her at vanessamays220@gmail.com


Samantha Lebbie
Photography by Jay Matthews

My Name is Samantha Lebbie… I was born and Raised in Washington DC where I currently reside. I was raised as the Only Child with my Mom, Late Brenda D. Donovan. I’ve always been a fashion guru…. When I was younger my friends and I would make our own clothes just to be different I was the only one in my group wearing heels. They would say, I bet Sam is dressed up. Nine time out of ten they were right! So you know I love shopping.

Growing up as the only child I had the freedom to explore different avenues such as singing, dancing, acting, designing with no boundaries to find what I enjoyed most. I participated in numerous Fashion Shows and Plays through-out High School and College as well as in my surrounding communities while doing so I realized that I "Loved Fashion" and every entity of it. I love Reading. Politics. Dancing. Laughing Motivating and Inspiring. Oh yeah and did I say Shopping. LOL 

I’ve always been a curvy girl since Junior High School. Although I had thoughts of being smaller I’ve always loved me for the moment…. With that being said I shopped for clothes that still made me look trendy and fly as my smaller counterparts. I would have to say I really started getting into Fashion in high school…never wanting to wear the same thing twice and always wanting to be different I honestly owned every fashion Magazine so I could stay ahead of the fashion game. LOL 

Every Model should have a MODEL BAG…. The Producers of the show usually sends out an email prior to the production with items that are necessary for the show.  Be sure to always pack what you need and what you may think you need along with the basic essentials. A Good Nights Rest ( ENERGY is definitely needed on show day) I eat light and drink little water Clean/ Moisturize my Face  Wash My Hair and I’m all prepared for a Show. 

I’ve worked with so many awesome Designers but just to name a few; Curvysta , Qristyl Frazier Designs, Jill Alexander, YK Theary, and Tru Diva Designs Eynai Couture…..There are many more designers I’ve had the pleasure of working with and I can honestly say they are all extremely talented Designers 
Jay Matthews Photography

I would have to say please ladies do your research there are so many helpful Blogs and Magazines for the Plus Industry. RESEARCH!!!! That’s how your in the know of who is who, where to be, and what’s required to be a model in the plus industry. 

Taking a wild guess, but I would say Mixed Patterns, Sheer, Lace, Vibrant Colors will be the trends for 2013.

My Mission is to inspire others to do more, be more and become more! Plus Positive/ Team Curvy

Check Out her Website: www.SamanthaLebbie.com
Follow her on Twitter, Facebook, & Instagram @SamanthaDModel

Wednesday, September 19, 2012

Model/Singer Angie Interview


A Diva of poise, grace, and sassiness defines the stunning Model/Singer Angie. Angie’s snappy wit and take no prisoner’s attitude makes her a force to be reckoned with. I am grateful to have had the chance to interview her.


Pin-up by Vision 1 studios 

Smart Curves: Tell me a little about yourself. Where are you from? Your background? Your interests?
Angie: I am from a small rural town near Pottsville, PA. Background... do you mean ethnicity? I am Czech, Dutch, Welsh, German, and English. I LOVE singing... it is my first love and passion as well as modeling now. I love to travel, cook, and spend time with friends. One of my favorite places is a beach! (Palm trees a plus)
Beach shot by Dscan Photography 

Smart Curves: How did you become interested in Plus Size Fashion? Where did you get your start?
Angie: I have always been plus size but really got into being a "girly-girl" in college. I started in Philly about 8 years ago with a small what I thought was an agency... lesson learned they were not but I met some great people I still work with  today :)

Smart Curves: As a model, how do you prepare for a fashion shoot or show?
Angie: A true model should always have her model bag standards. So after that I just speak with whomever I am working with on any look, in particular they are going for in regards to make-up, hair etc. so I can be fully prepared. With photographers, I like to have a theme and outfits set before going to shoot, that way it's quick and painless and can be fun for myself and photographer.

Smart Curves: Can you tell me some of your favorite designers that you have worked with?
Angie: I love Sean Anthony Designs; her clothes always fit like a glove and can be worn for every day and after hours. I love timeless, classic pieces. I really enjoyed Rue 114, great energy and style to her clothing line. I adore Anthony Eastwick's designs although we haven't worked together yet... it's in the works and B.G.U. loved her line too at Curvy Closets. Elocin has been creating some magnificent pieces for me the last few shows as well :) I am also a fan of Empress Lingerie, Queen Grace and many more.

Jay Matthews Photography


Smart Curves: Overall, from the show, can you tell me your favorite pieces that came down the runway?
Angie: Oh boy, I really loved so many pieces. I loved the pumpkin colored dress I wore for Rue 114 and really liked Empress Lingerie's swim line debut, and I am fan of swimsuits for all. I liked a lot of Tru Diva's dresses and Eddy and Bri had a lot of ready wear, which I loved, along with B.G.U. I was eyeing her rack all night ;) I love all of Sean Anthony's and really liked the black piece I wore for Elocin and the black lace number Quita wore. I was literally backstage all night going I need this in my life and this in my life. Ha-ha. 

Smart Curves: What one piece of advice would you give to someone wanting to start a career as a plus size model?
Angie: hmmm just one lol? ALWAYS remain humble this industry is big but very small at the same time. 

Smart Curves: What trends do you see being big for 2013?
Angie: More and more vibrant colors and form fitting and fabulous clothes and I love where swimwear is going as well. 

Smart Curves: Is there anything else you would like for my readers to know please feel free to add.
Angie: I will be hosting a runway/model class on October 14th from 1-3 at 954 Dance Studio 8th and Girard in Philly. It's $50.00 for the class and payable via PayPal at gruver19@gmail.com. 

Love, love, love Angie’s runway/model class. I will without doubt be there on October 14; heels on and ready to walk. ;) To learn more about the class and Angie you can find her on Facebook at Angie Singer-Model. Tell her Smart Curves set ya!

Sunday, September 16, 2012

Jeannie Ferguson Model/Designer



Confident, stylish, and chic are the words that come to mind when I think about Model/Designer Jeannie Ferguson.  This Curvy Bombshell of a Diva knows how to command attention. I first saw Jeannie at the Curvy Closets Plus Size Fashion Show, where I was introduced to her clothing line Big Girls United (BGU).  I was intrigued by the pieces that came down the runway.  They were bold, sexy, and chic like their designer.  I have included some pictures of my favorite pieces.

Jeannie Ferguson Backstage at Curvy Closets



Smart Curves: Tell me a little about yourself. Where are you from? Your background? Your interests?
Jeannie: I was born and raised in Bed-Stuy Brooklyn; I attended Berkeley College for Fashion Marketing & Management in NY. This is where I developed my love for fashion. My interests are now going in the direction of Beauty. I enjoy playing with makeup.


Smart Curves: What does fashion mean to you?
Jeannie: To me, Fashion means making and taking what you see as hot & trendy and making it your own. As a designer, I believe you should not only think outside of the box but always be outside of the box. There are no mistakes in Fashion.

Smart Curves: How did you become interested in Plus Size Fashion?
Jeannie: My interest in Plus fashion is the obvious as I am a plus size woman myself. However, the love developed when I kept having my garments specially made because I felt there was nothing special or unique for plus size women.

Smart Curves: Where did you get your start?
Jeannie: I started when my sister Tasha decided to part ways with her business partners.

Smart Curves: How would you define your style?
Jeannie: My style is SEXY & CHIC! I love to show off my curves.


Model Ashley Edwards in BGU
Model Samantha Lebbie In BGU
Model Jules in BGU



 









Smart Curves: Where do you get your design inspiration?
Jeannie: My design inspiration actually comes from me. I like to design sexy dresses for myself and roll them out to all the sexy, confident women that enjoy letting the world know that dangerous curves lie ahead.

Smart Curves: As a model and designer, how do you prepare for a fashion shoot or show?
Jeannie: When I have a show/shoot as a Model I pack all the necessitates like shoes, body foundation, make-up etc 2 days before the actual shoot or show. However, once I know I have been booked, I began practicing my posing and body movements as well as my runway walk. As a designer, I pick the models 1 month in advance and try to have at least 2 fitting before the show just to make sure the garments fit.


Smart Curves: What one piece of advice would you give to someone wanting to start a career as a model or designer?
Jeannie: As an inspiring model or a person that wants to be a model, I think they should research the type of modeling they want to get into and research. You have to invest in your craft and not expect information and or jobs to be given to you. 


Smart Curves: What trends do you see being big for 2013?
Jeannie: I'm seeing a lot of prints, The Peplum on everything from a dress to pants. Bold color Purples, some Neon accents on Grays. Lots of Leather. Although I think in the plus world, the ladies will create they're own trend for everyone to follow.

Jeannie's confidence has a certain type of Swag and I love it. You can check out Ms. Jeannie Ferguson and her company BGU on Facebook, Twitter and on the web at http://biggirlsunited.com/ .  Don’t forget to tell her Smart Curves sent ya! ;)

* All pictures provide by Jay Matthews Photography. Check him out on Facebook at Jay Matthews Photography ;)

ShortCurvyFierce Interview



Colleen Stovall does it all. She is a blogger, model, and show producer. I followed her blog before I met her and even then I knew she was something special.  She is an enterprising, a trendsetter and let's not forget this woman is FIERCE! I am so grateful that she took the time out of her world to share it with us.




Smart Curves: Tell me a little about yourself. Where are you from? Your background? Your interests?

Colleen: I'm a wife, a mother, a banker, a plus size model, a blogger, and my most recent addition is co-producer of Curvy Closets. I was born in Atlanta. I call Philly home. I've lived in the city since I was four years old. My background is actually in business. I studied business administration at Drexel University. Some of my interests are fashion, photography, and traveling.


Smart Curves: How did you become interested in Plus Size Fashion? Where did you get your start?

Colleen: My interest in fashion has always been there. My grandma was such a fabulous woman with a great sense of style. Watching her look exquisite for her nights out on the town with my grandfather always inspired me. However, it wasn't until a few years ago that I sought to become a part of the industry. My husband heard about a casting for a plus size runway show in Philly and encouraged me to go. I went and was picked. At rehearsals, I met Curvy Closets Co-Producer Domonique Revere-Lincoln and my other closest fashion friends. As they say, the rest is history! I've been doing runway shows and print modeling ever since.
I love Colleen in this dress from Elocin!

 
 Smart Curves: How did Curvy Closets come about? What went into producing and modeling in the show?

Colleen: Curvy Closets came out of frustration with the lack of quality plus positive events in the Philadelphia area. Domonique and I have done tons of shows locally and felt there was still a void that needed to be filled. Usually the nice events may only have one or two plus size designers. Or the events dedicated to plus size lacked the ambiance and professionalism we longed for. There are amazing events like Full Figured Fashion Week in NYC. However, we know not everyone can make it to New York. We hope that our one day event gives curvy fashionistas in Philly a taste of what is available and inspires them to search for more. 65% of the women in Philadelphia are a size 14 or larger so we feel like we deserve an event that celebrates our curves on the local scene.
Producing the show was a great experience. It was truly a labor of love. It was our first time but Domonique and I didn't want it to look that way. So we spent time and money, countless hours on the phone, tons of emails, etc to make sure it went well. We both tapped into the connections and resources we have in the plus size fashion industry to help make the show a success. I'm happy to say it was as close to perfect as it could have been.
Modeling was the easy part. I was blessed to walk for Elocin and sean anthony Designs who I've worked with many times. I also had the pleasure of walking for Big Girls United. Runway is my first love. It's what I enjoy most, but I can say I think it is the first time I was that nervous! I was actually shaking on the runway. Hopefully, it didn't show. I usually have my fierce face on the runway, but I couldn't help but smile because so many people I admire, love, and respect were present. It was an amazing feeling!

Colleen looking Fierce at Curvy Closets
Smart Curves: Tell us about the award that was presented to Ms. Gwen DeVoe and how it came about?

Colleen: In most cases, someone has blazed a trail before us that makes our journey a little easier; creating this show was no exception. There are many people in the industry that paved the way for us to be able to create an event like this. While some take this for granted, Domonique and I wanted to make sure that we recognized that. Gwen DeVoe has done so much for the plus size modeling industry. She has pushed for size acceptance and has shown that plus size women deserve to be on the runway. Her work has made corporations take full figured women seriously and support events that cater to that demographic. Full Figured Fashion Week is an experience every curvy girl should have for themselves. I attended this year and left feeling empowered and inspired. But through it all she remains humble and down to earth. When I had the chance to chat for an interview for my blog I was so nervous, but she was so nice and really easy to talk to. I told her about our upcoming show and she was so supportive. Once she confirmed that she would be able to make it to the show Domonique and I both knew we wanted to highlight her in a special way. I only hope that being the first Curvy Closets Cornerstone Award Recipient shows her how much we appreciate all that she has done and continues to do.

Smart Curves: Are there any future plans to have another show next year?

Colleen: If you had asked me that before the show I don't know what I would have said, hahaha. We have already received such great feedback about the event from sponsors, industry professionals, bloggers, models, designers, and vendors. But the best comments have come from our guests! I love it when I hear that someone is inspired to accept their body as it is today. That is what events like this are all about. We should all love the skin we are in!
We are already beginning to plan another show. It will be late September of 2013. So please stay tuned to our website, Facebook, and Twitter; details will be shared there as they become available. We are looking for sponsors and those interested can email us at curvyclosets@gmail.com for more information.

Smart Curves: What trends do you see being big for 2013?

Colleen: For 2013, I'll save my predictions until after I review all the pics from Mercedes Benz Fashion Week. ;) For plus size ladies this fall, dark reds and purple hues are hot for fall. Lace is huge so expect a lot of dresses made with lace or garments with lace accents. Peplum tops and dresses are here to stay. You will see a lot of leather skirts this fall as well.

Smart Curves: If there is anything else, you would like my readers to know please feel free to add.

Colleen: I want to thank you for sharing our event with your readers.

If they are looking for more about me, they can check out my blog, http://shortcurvyfierce.com and like my Facebook page http://www.facebook.com/shortcurvyfierce. I am also on Twitter at @CurvyFierce and Instagram @ShortCurvyFierce. If they want to stay tuned for more news about CurvyClosets. Check out our website www.curvyclosets.com. To view pics of the show visit our Facebook page, http://www.facebook.com/curvyclosets. We are also on Twitter @CurvyClosets.

Let's show Colleen how much we appreciate her passion and dedication to the Plus Size Community by supporting her blog and her venture, Curvy Closets.  Thank you Colleen for taking the time out of your hectic schedule to do the interview.  She is an inspiration to me and I hope she is an inspiration to you. (With a wink and a smile)

Tuesday, September 11, 2012

Special Feature: Nicole Nolan - Elocin Boutique

The first time I met Nicole Nolan was when I walked in to her boutique.  I can honestly say she is an amazing person.  She has encouraged me and promoted me from day one.  This curvy diva has style, grace, passion and drive.  I am excited to share this interview with y'all. I hope you see the fascinating and foxy person that is Nicole Nolan.





Hi I am Nicole K. Nolan CEO/Founder of Elocin Fashions LLC. Head Designer and Personal Stylist to the Curvy Community. 

Smart Curves: What does fashion mean to you? 
Nicole: Fashion means freedom. Freedom to express my innermost self and the energy that encompasses my character or sometimes my disposition for that moment. It is an extension of the essence of my creative being, my canvass, my Mona Lisa. 

Smart Curves: How did you become interested in Plus Size Fashion? Where did you get your start?
Nicole: I use to be a smoker. I'd smoke about a half a pack of cigarettes a day. And I have sons that were growing up. And i didn't want them to "Do as i do" so I quit. After I quit, I gained nearly 80lbs. I had nothing to wear that expressed who i was as an individual. At the time all i could purchase was clothes intended for my mother and my grandmother. So in 2002, I sat down did the research on the outsize market and created a business plan and named it "It's Just Me!" Well it's just me didn't began until 2008 after finding myself unemployed and my previous business venture, out of business. That's when I created ELOCIN -(NICOLE)  Plus Size Fashions LLC.

Smart Curves: How would you define your style?

Nicole: When people ask me to define my style this song plays in my head " I'm a little bit country, And I'm a little bit rock 'n roll, I'm a little bit of Memphis and Nashville,With a little bit of Motown in my soul"... That's my style- adventurous, sassy, silly, edgy, fun, sophisticated, youthful, with a lot of love. A melting pot. An expression of me with the client in mind.

Smart Curves: Where do you get your design inspiration?

Nicole: And that inspiration comes from the GOD within. GOD is my inspiration. HE named me victorious.


Smart Curves: Describe your collection that you showed at the Curvy Closets Plus Size Showcase. 
Nicole: First I have to send accolades to the lovely Colleen Stovall and Domonique Revere- Lincoln for putting together an amazing event. The Collection displayed at Curvy Closets Fashion Plus Size Showcase was called "Frazzled". I was overwhelmed with the new store opening, son's off to college, new atmosphere, different dressmakers, illness, and so finding myself in an unfamiliar territory., "Frazzled!". Too much on my plate was blocking my vision from the true source of my inspiration. But ELOCIN did not give up and we came threw with some nice pieces.

Model: Vanessa Hinds



Model: Colleen Stoval


Smart Curves: How do you prepare for a fashion shoot or show?

Nicole: Danielle, I'm going to tell you like I tell everyone  I don’t prepare. The only preparation I do is show up! I just prepare the garments and the professionals, the photographer, makeup people, etc, work their talents and I am extremely humbled and grateful for their gifts


Smart Curves: What one piece of advice would you give to someone wanting to start a career in fashion? 
Nicole: Anyone who wants to start a career in fashion make sure you was born to do it. Don't start because you are infatuated and because you think its glamorous because behind the scenes, its not. This is a very intense field and it requires a immeasurable amount of  creativity and confidence in one's self. But make sure that if you do decide to travel the  fashion road, you eat, breathe,learn, live, love it. 

Smart Curves: What trends do I see being big for 2013?
Nicole: ELOCIN ;-)
You can meet this dazzling woman for yourself at Elocin Boutique - 230 East State Street Trenton New Jersey.  This week she is having a pre-opening sale at the new location on all previous season merchandise. You can also check her out at www.elocinfashions.com and on Facebook at Elocin Plus Size.Don't forget to tell her Smart Curves sent ya!! ;)  
All pictures were provided by Nicole Nolan

Saturday, September 8, 2012

Curvy Closets Plus Size Showcase: Part 2



September 1, 2012, Curvy Closets Plus Size Fashion Showcase was a day to remember. As I mentioned in Part 1, the majestic producers, Domonique Revere-Lincoln and Colleen Stovall not only selected great designers and models but also a variety of vendors. Not only did these vendors come from Philadelphia, but from New Jersey, New York, Delaware and Maryland. What impressed me the most was that some of the proceeds, from the show and goods from some of the vendors, were donated to benefit Fairy Godmothers of Pennsylvania. Fairy Godmothers is a great organization that helps provide prom dresses and accessories to Philadelphia area high school girls who’s finances would prevent them from attending the prom. This great organization is doing some magnificent things. Check them out at www.mypromdress.org and let us spread the word about Fairy Godmothers.

Unable to speak with all of the vendors at Curvy Closets, however, the ones I was able to connect with were very informative and offered some amazing products and services. These products and services ranged from clothing and accessories to sweet treats and stunning photography. I love vendors not only because they come to make money but they support the event making it a win-win-win situation for the promoters, vendors and patrons. Therefore, I applaud the vendors and here are some of my favorites that I met at the show. 

Love! Love! Love! Love! Love! Love! Love Sweet Treats! 
  • Cheat With Mee by Helena C. "An Addictive Dessert ExperienceShe offers everyday treats, catering and vending for all events. Check her out at www.cheatwithmee.com You can contact her at cheatwithmee@gmail.com or on Facebook and Instagram  (Excellent Cookies, but try them for yourself)
  •  Sweet Tooth Pastries “Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth” by Rodney Abrams You can contact him at SweetTpastries@gmail.com and on Facebook at SweetTpastries. (Love the cupcakes) 
   


 What's a Girl to Do Without Jewelry?
  •  HoneyB.Jewlery by Melissa Baptiste She is a very creative jewelry designer.  Check her out at www.honeybjewelry.com. Contact Melissa at honeybjewelry@gmail.com and on Facebook at Honey B. Jewelry. (I love the Smooches Pin & Bubblegum Pink Swarovski Studs)

Elegant and Sexy Photography.

  • Glamorous Divas By Lisa Fleet Photography A platform to allow women of all shapes and sizes to express themselves intimately. Check Lisa out at www.glamorousdivas.com and on Facebook and Twitter. (Werk It!!)

A Boutique With Curves.

  • Sense of Style Boutique, LLC by Kat Quarterman Is a fashion forward mobile clothing store for the curvy girl - size 10 and up. (Official Launch of Sense of Style Boutique Fashion Trunk Show Friday October 12, 2012 @ American Legion Post 327 in Cherry Hill NJ) Contact Kat at info@senseofstyleboutique.com on Facebook Curvy Girl SOS and Twitter @CurvyGirlSOS



 This curvy diva was able to satisfy her sweet tooth and look sexy at the same time. I had such an incredible time at Curvy Closets Plus Size Showcase and enjoyed the many vendors. Please do not forget to check these vendors out on there Website/Facebook/Twitter/Instagram. Tell them Smart Curves sent ya! ;) 



Look for Part 3 to hit soon.





Tuesday, September 4, 2012

Curvy Closets Plus Size Fashion Showcase Part 1

I am still energized from the Curvy Closets Plus Size Fashion Showcase that I still have goosebumps.  There were so many highlights, great designers, beautiful models and awesome vendors that I have to break this up into several posts.  My brain is still on overdrive because there is so much I want to let you all know.  I have been writing for FOUR days and I still haven't gotten everything out.  I'm going to stop babbling and go for it.

Domonique Revere-Lincoln and Colleen Stovall  produced a great show.  You can see the time and effort put in to plan, organize and execute a night of fashion, fun and excitement.  This was evident in the overwhelmingly beautiful host Nina Taylor (http://www.plusmodelnina.com/).  She did a phenomenal job with keeping the crowd entertained, introducing the designers and keeping the show going.  If you ever have the chance to attend an event where she is the host or a speaker, you will not be disappointed.  Along with Nina, our dashing producers lined up the musical styling of Rajdulari Barnes (http://about.me/rajdulari). A very talented beauty who serenaded us with her sultry voice.  I want you to judge for yourself; go to http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/honeywine/id473118427?ign-mpt=uo%3D4 and download one of her songs or even the entire album.  You will be glad you did.

Lets turn the corner and talk about the designers that presented their collections at the show.  When I say jaw dropping, mind-blowing and stunning you still can not grasp what I saw come down the runway. These designers put their best foot forward and showcased their talents like nothing I have never seen before.  I was in such awe I forgot to take pictures.  I am in the process of collecting pictures so you can see for yourself.  I just want to thank the following designers for an breathtaking show that inspired me to break my mold and go for it all.


Part II is coming very soon.  I will introduce you to some of the vendors at the show and some of the people who attended the show.  Some amazing people with services we can all use.   Look out!! I am far from done.