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