Big Girl Runway

Bridesmaid Dresses for Every Body!

Erin Dunphy — Mon, 29 Oct 2012 04:09:51 +0000

Recently, while watching My Fair Wedding by David Tutera, I saw these amazing dresses that are made to fit everyone by an awesome company called Two Birds! Yes… I said everyone, which means us curvy girls too! How many of you have either been in or seen bridesmaid dresses that gave you the chills, well you can kiss those days goodbye. These dresses are truly a dress you can have forever and wear again and again. I was helping with a wedding this past weekend and the beautiful bridesmaids in the wedding were wearing none other than Two Birds bridesmaid dresses. I love how life works! I recognized them and asked if I could sneak a shot of the lovely ladies in them! Now, I can speak from personal experience, these dresses are not only gorgeous, but they do fit all sizes and they look amazing on. I am happy to report that the ladies wearing them said they were super happy with them and that they were even comfortable! Bonus!!

There are so many ways to wear these dresses. The options seem endless. On the Two Birds website, it says: “One dress, over 15 ways to wrap, wear it again and again”. These dresses can be as simple or fabulous as you want. You can accent them with a broach or you can wear them plain. They can be strapless, halter and so much more! The dresses are timeless, flowy, elegant and fantastic! In one word I would describe Two Birds dresses and designs as stunning.

Ariane Goldman created Two Birds and the lovely dresses. She too was frustrated on spending too much money on bridesmaid dresses that she never wore again, so she left the corporate world and decided to start her own business… hence these gorgeous creations came to life. The idea behind Two Birds is, as stated on their website: “Two Birds was founded on the premise that being a bridesmaid doesn’t have to mean forgoing style, and that a bridesmaid can not only be happy for the bride on her special day, but happy that she looks so fabulous!!”

There are four different styles to choose from: the Classic, which comes in about 20 different colors and has over 15 ways to wear it. the Rosette comes in six different colors and has the option of four different lengths. the Two-Toned, much like the Classic, has 20 colors to choose from for top and bottom and over 15 styles to wear it. Lastly, the Chiffon has 2 lengths to choose from and six different colors it comes in. These dresses can be maternity friendly and also have the option of a “Bandeau” for more support. A Bandeau is perfect for more coverage or for a woman with a larger bust. Two Birds even offers wraps, jewelry, flower girls dresses, groomsmen ties and more!

They now have two shops, one located in New York and the other in Toronto. I now know you can get them in L.A. for a fact, because I saw them with my own two eyes.

Image from a recent wedding I attended…the ladies are wearing Two Birds!

For those of you interested in purchasing for yourself, others or for your wedding or even if you just want to check out this fabulous bridesmaid company, please visit their website at www.twobirdsbridesmaid.com.

Always,

Erin

Trick or Treat

Erin Dunphy — Sat, 20 Oct 2012 05:36:25 +0000

Can you believe it’s that time of year again? That special time in October when all the monsters, characters and comedians come out to play! Yup, you guessed it… It’s Halloween costume hunting season. Time to start your search for the best Halloween costume and of course, we all want options. That is why Big Girl Runway did some research for you, making this Halloween shopping experience easier for curvy women…men too! Whether you want to go with ghoulish or goblins, superheroes or princesses, we’ve got you covered.

Torrid, Lane Bryant and Spirit Halloween offer a great selection of costumes. Spirit Halloween offers a large selection of costumes including: Dark Alice, Pirate, Geisha, Poodle Skirt Set, Nun and much, much more. The pricing for men and women’s costumes ranges from about $20 and up. Spirit offers reasonable pricing and lots of options to choose from with sizes up to 3XL.

Spirit Halloween Costumes

Lane Bryant offers a nice selection of costumes ranging from Cat Walk Kitty to Round ‘Em Up or Clowning Around Clown and many more. The pricing for these costumes starts at about $30 and goes up the about $80. Lane Bryant has several costumes to choose from that will be sure to capture whatever character you are trying to accomplish.

Lane Bryant Costumes

The overall best costumes for the curvy woman award goes to…. (Drum roll, please!) Torrid!! If you are looking for the best fit and a younger feel, Torrid is your store. Lane Bryant has a lot to offer, the only critique that I have heard is that the fit has been described by fellow Big Girl Runway writer, Ashley, as being “matronly”. As I was searching the Torrid site, I just couldn’t get over how adorable and awesome of the costumes are. Great selection, great fit and the costumes are fun!! The size chart goes from a Large to a 5X.

Torrid Costumes

This Halloween, whether you want to haunt or charm, Big Girl Runway has you covered! So go out there or jump online and grab your costumes fast before they are all gone!

Happy Haunting!

Always,

Erin Dunphy

Jennifer Livingston Fires Back!

Jessica — Wed, 10 Oct 2012 17:46:42 +0000

I’m sure you are all aware of News Anchor, Jennifer Livingston’s amazing and powerful response to her “fat mail” (see video link below). You have probably seen her video about her opportunity to set the record straight, saying: “I am much more than a number on a scale”. I, for one, am impressed with her ability to stand up to a bully and not only call him out, but with how Livingston turned a negative situation into a positive and inspiring one. She could have hidden from this, but she didn’t.

As Jennifer Livingston said, being in the public eye or putting yourself out there brings this on. The fact that someone can think it is OK to judge another so harshly and treat him or her as if they are not human or without feelings has always blown my mind. No one is perfect. We all have flaws. That’s what makes us beautifully unique. I know from my own experience in news that it can be a very critical microscope that we walk under. Sometimes you have that feeling of not being able to win because you either look too young, too thin, too curvy, too fat, too old and so on. The opinions of others can leave you feeling defeated. I have seen the affects the business can have on people of all walks of life and from all different backgrounds, so this story struck a chord with me. This is not to say that all news is bad. No. News is still something I hold dear to my heart, but it does open the gateway to unwanted and cruel feedback. Those who want to be on air can be subjected to harsh criticism that can be delivered in a way that makes you feel less that worthy.

Jennifer Livingston on WKBT

News Anchor Jennifer Livingston, not only showed courage in confronting the situation head on, but she also brought to light the issues we all face with bullying. The fact that others think it is ok to go out of their way to hurt you and/or make you feel bad about yourself or your appearance. When did we, as a whole, as a society start thinking it was acceptable to tear people down? What do we get out of it? Does it make the man who did this feel better about himself? I love, love, love that Livingston took a stand. Someone needs to, to make a difference, to change the way we think. We live in a world of all different people, from all different backgrounds, with all different stories and of all shapes and sizes. No two are alike… even twins. We all have our own unique personality, beginnings and eventual ends.

To me, this statement is power. “The truth is, I am overweight,” she said. “But to the person who wrote me that letter, do you think I don’t know that? That your cruel words are pointing out something that I don’t see? You don’t know me… so you know nothing about me but what you see on the outside and I am much more than a number on a scale.” To me, the fact that she was able to deliver this address in such a dignified and graceful manner was remarkable. Another moving and powerful statement from her address to this bully was: “Do not let your self-worth be defined by bullies. Learn from my experience that the cruel words of one are nothing compared to the shouts of many.”

We all need reminders of what to fight for and THIS is something to stand for. We all need to remember to love ourselves and embrace where we are in the moment, whether we want to lose or gain weight, change our hair style or color, reinvent ourselves that is our choice as an individual. While writing this, the thought that keeps echoing in my mind is… Love is Love. Our love of ourselves, our sexual orientation, the color of our skin, where we come from… embrace it, it’s what made you who you are today and THAT is amazing.

Hats off to you Jennifer Livingston to a job well done. Thank you for being the voice to those who don’t have one.

What are your thoughts, Big Girl Runway readers?

Always,

Erin Dunphy

JENNIFER LIVINGSTON WKBT

Win this iPhone Case!

Jessica — Sat, 06 Oct 2012 00:29:19 +0000

Need a sparkly new case for your 4/4S iPhone? Follow the directions below to be entered into the raffle to win this lavish case from Case-Mate.

One winner will be chosen at random and notified via email.

Good Luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

HAUTE Curves

Ashley Kessler — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 21:18:28 +0000

I am proud to announce that Elite Curves International will be holding the first HAUTE Curves, LA Fashion Week on October 13th of this year! This groundbreaking plus size fashion show will be held during LA Fashion Week. Curvy divas can experience an entire event dedicated to independent designers that cater to your size (12 and up.) What a positive experience it will be to see models showcasing the hottest trends that actually look like me and you, instead of striving for a form of beauty that seems so out of reach.

Celebrate curves while giving to a deserving cause. ECI has partnered with Michelle’s Place, an LA based charity which helps women with breast cancer receive emotional and educational support and facilitates breast healthcare services. A curvy diva always remembers to give back to the community, plus a little good karma never hurts.

The show will be hosted by Chenese Lewis, the first diva to be crowned Miss Plus Size America and host of PlusSize Model Radio. Lewis is also the creator of the 2010 Love Your Body Campaign where she created quite the splash by posing in her birthday suit with America’s Next Top Model, Whitney Thompson. My heart swells with pride to see a fellow curvy woman feel so comfortable in her own skin.

Kim Yarbrough of NBC’s The Voice, will also be making an appearance at HAUTE Curves. Yarbrough’s confidence allowed her to strut her stuff into a finalist spot on the hit show as she represented the plus size community with style. Yarbrough will be making her debut with ECI, but she is no stranger to the runway. She has torn up a runway or two and has also rocked TV shows like Dexter, Bones, and recently Nick at Nite’s newest Teen/Family Drama Hollywood Heights.

Elite Curves International is an organization that is near and dear to my heart. Angela Rene’ also known as “The Purple Diva,” CEO of PurpleDivaDesigns.com and Jasmine Epperson, CEO of Kris Eliza Boutique have teamed up to bring us a plus size positive organization, ECI. Rene’ and Epperson noticed a lack of models that really represented the curvy woman so they took matters into their own hands to create ECI. I love that these two plus sized designers have created ECI to promote self esteem and a positive image for women with curves.
Don’t miss a second of the fashion fun! Be sure to scoop up your tickets HERE. Doors open at 6:00 pm PST for red carpet arrivals and reception. The show will begin promptly at 7:30 p.m. PST. Get your VIP on with a $45 ticket that includes a fab swag bag, drink tickets and access to the HAUTE Curves After Party or grab some General Admission for $25. Make sure you experience the fun and report back to me, fashionistas.

In Peace and Curves,
Ashley

NEON – Summer’s Hottest Trends

Ashley Kessler — Fri, 03 Aug 2012 20:23:34 +0000

You’ll shimmer and shine as you jet set to tropical paradise or strut your stuff at the local swimming hole if you include some neon in your wardrobe. Adding a piece of neon to your threads is an easy way to show off one of this summer’s hottest fashion trend.
Spice up your outfit by replacing one dull colored piece with a pop of neon. You can rock brightly colored pumps with a black dress or add a loud handbag to a normally soft outfit. I like to add brightly colored skinny jeans with a black top and black flats or I opt for a color block highlighting a neon tone.
One Stop Plus is a great online site to find an array of neon pieces and accessories. OneStopPlus.com is an online fashion mall for sizes 12W-44W that offers the hottest trends in curvy styles at affordable prices. OSP offers designers like Kiyonna, IGIGI, Sydney’s Closet and Torrid.
Editorial Director of OneStopPlus.com, Nancy LeWinter says “I like to encourage curvy girls to rock bold colors – this season’s favorites include coral, hot pink and yellow.” Take LeWinter’s fashion advice and branch out from your normal dull duds and embrace some haute hues this season.
LeWinter encourages those shy curvy fashionistas to dip their toes into the shallow end. “A neon top, skirt or handbag combined with a more neutral or subtle item is a great combination and will make your summer ensemble pop!” says LeWinter.

OneStopPlus.com

Diva’s just remember that your whole look doesn’t have to ooze neon. If your garment screams neon try pairing it with some neutral accessories and light make up. By softening the accessories, you allow the brightly colored piece to bask in the glory of the spotlight and let the true star of the show shine – YOU!
Here are my favorite neon pieces from OSP. Be sure to hop online and find your very own unique neon look to glimmer and glow in this summer! What are your favorite ways to rock neon?

OneStopPlus.com

In Peace and Curves,
Ashley

Reah Norman reviews FFF Week 2012!

Reah Norman — Sat, 07 Jul 2012 17:58:27 +0000

Full-Figured Fashion Week 2012 has come and gone in what seems like a blink, leaving me with such an exhilarating high that it’s taken a few weeks to come down!

FFF Week is one of the only times of year that the plus size industry and community come together under one roof to celebrate our common bond- plus size fashion. It was amazing to see my friends and colleagues that I work with on a regular basis, and also to come face to face with brand representatives, designers, bloggers, and industry professionals that I only get to converse with virtually through social media.

This year I had the opportunity to attend NYC FFF Week to represent Sorella Swim and attend all of the events on their behalf, as well as style their portion of the runway showcase.

Aside from three amazing fashion shows, the 4-day event was jam-packed with a press event, industry mixer, blogger conferences, a sunset cruise, shopping event, and panel discussions.

Here is a recap of all the event highlights!

DAY 1

The week was kicked off with an invitation only Press Event, where press from all around the world came together to meet and interview the designers and industry professionals who participating in the fashion showcases. I was on hand with Dorothy Combs model, Emily Nolan, to represent Sorella Swim and chat with all the press about the line.

The Sorella Swim Press Table

Emily Nolan, Sorella Swim's Signature Model for the event (Photo by Lesley Pedraza)

With FFF Week Founder, Gwen DeVoe and Emily Nolan (Photo by Lesley Pedraza)

With Madeline Figueroa-Jones, Editor of PLUS Model Magazine and Plus Designer Ashley Nell Tipton (Photo by Lesley Pedraza)

Dorothy Combs Model, Emily Nolan (Photo by Lesley Pedraza)

Emily chatting with the press (Photo by Lesley Pedraza)

After the press event, I had a few moments to head back to the hotel and get freshened up and decked out in my all white ensemble for the “Curves at Sea” All-White Sunset Cruise. We boarded the yacht just before sunset, which made for a beautiful evening of sailing around the harbor. There was a dinner buffet, drinks, dancing, and a Big & Tall Male Fashion Showcase. There was also a raffle with lots of goodies, and Sorella Swim gave away a gift certificate to one lucky winner!

Our beautiful sunset view! (Photo by Lesley Pedraza)

California models Mariesther Venegas, Robin Cricket and Jenn Purviance

Dancing the night away! (Photo by Lesley Pedraza)

Big & Tall Mall Model Showcase (Photo by Lesley Pedraza)

Lots of great giveaways! TroJah Morgan won the Sorella Swim Gift Certificate! (Photo by Lesley Pedraza)

The PLUS Model Magazine team - Tulin Reid, Marie Denee, Madeline Figueroa-Jones and I (Photo by Lesley Pedraza)

DAY 2

Thursday was another jam-packed day of festivities, starting bright and early with the “My Curves, My Style” Personal Style Workshop, which focused on everything curvy style, and was moderated by FFF Week Stylist Coordinator, Steffany Allen. Featured panelists included Leslie Medlik, Kendra Porter, Sherri Collins, and Marcy Guevara.

Steffany Allen and Kendra Porter talking plus size style (Photo by Lesley Pedraza)

The next panel of the day was the highly anticipated, Blogging 101 Workshop: “Building Your Brand Through Social Media”. This was an amazingly attended and well-received workshop focusing on using social media tools to build your brand. Marie Denee, The Curvy Fashionista, moderated, and panelists included blogger Alissa from Stylist Curves, PLUS Model Mag Editor, Madeline Figueroa Jones, and Designer, Marina Zelner of Queen Grace.

Moderator, Marie Denee with Gwen DeVoe and the panelists (Photo by Lesley Pedraza)

During the workshops, there was also a “Curves in the City” Official FFF Week Shopping Event, where attendees could shop for plus size clothing, fabulous accessories, shoes, and even bras from over 25 different brands and companies! The ballroom was overflowing with goodies from Sonsi, Lane Bryant, Evans, Jill Alexander Designs, MYNT 1792, Queen Grace Collection, Real Divas Are Large, and B Jewel, Inc. just to name a few!

The Evans UK Team (Photo by Lesley Pedraza)

The Savannah Red Collection (Photo by Lesley Pedraza)

Tons of amazing accessories!! (Photo by Lesley Pedraza)

Team Mynt 1792 showing their new Fall 2012 collection (Photo by Lesley Pedraza)

Aussie Model Samantha Morris showing off her shopping treasures! (Photo by Lesley Pedraza)

Jill Alexander with her collections (Photo by Lesley Pedraza)

Sydney and Apri from Real Divas Are Large Accessories (Photo by Lesley Pedraza)

My favorite - Statement Rings! (Photo by Lesley Pedraza)

Thursday evening was the kick-off of the FFF Week fashion shows with a celebration of luxury plus size fashion, with an in-store fashion show at Bloomingdales. The summer collections of designers such as Michael Kors, Ralph Lauren, Elie Tahari, Jones New York and Eileen Fisher were featured on the FFF Week models with commentary by Gwen DeVoe. After the show we mingled, sipped on cocktails, listened to the DJ spin, and shopped all the amazing high-end fashions!

Me at the Bloomingdales Fashion Event

Katherine Roll (Photo by Lesley Pedraza)

Jakaliene Rivera wearing MICHAEL by Michael Kors (Photo by Lesley Pedraza)

Laura Johnson (Photo by Lesley Pedraza)

Emily Nolan (Photo by Lesley Pedraza)

Photo by Lesley Pedraza

Hairstylist Alicia Fajardo and FFF Week Lead Stylist Steffany Allen (Photo by Lesley Pedraza)

Photo by Lesley Pedraza

The night was just getting started, so I hopped in a cab and headed over to the District 36 Nightclub for the “Curves, Connections & Cocktails” Small Business Networking Event, sponsored by Catherines. This event was a great opportunity for attendees to get to know the small businesses that were there in support of FFF Week while enjoying cocktails and live music!

The models of Dorothy Combs Agency (Photo by Lesley Pedraza)

Plus model Clementine shares her confidence! (Photo by Lesley Pedraza)

With supermodels Katya Zharkova and Fluvia Lacerda (Photo by Lesley Pedraza)

Plus models Griselangel and Mariesther (Photo by Lesley Pedraza)

DAY 3

I hit the ground running, first thing in the morning, attending two back-to-back events, starting with the Just My Size Breakfast. Just My Size hosted an early morning mixer to meet plus size bloggers and stylists face to face and showcase fashions from their brand new collections, all while sipping our coffee and munching on a yummy continental breakfast.

Good morning smiles with Tulin Reid, Marie Denee & Rosie Mercado

Bloggers Sarah Balanco, Danimezza, Caitlin Bradley and Gorgeous in Grey (Photo courtesy of The Curvy Fashionista)

Sarah Conley of StyleIt Online with Gwen DeVoe (Photo courtesy of The Curvy Fashionista)

Checking out the new Just My Size Collection

Next up- the Sonsi “Bea-U-tiful” Pop-Up Party, which included mini makeovers by “FFF Week Makeup Artist of the Year”, Tara Taylor and her team, manicures, photos with Lucas Pictures, great music, yummy food, lots of giveaways from several of Sonsi’s featured brand partners, and of course- swag bags! Thank you Sonsi for such a great afternoon!

Photo by Lucas Pictures

Me with Jill & Emily from Sonis

With Monique of Curves and Chaos

After my mini makeover with FFF Week "Makeup Artist of the Year" Tara Taylor

To time to rest! Next up… It’s fashion show time!

Friday night was a brand new event for FFF Week, the Independent Designers Showcase, which designer line up included:

17 Sundays

Ashley Nell Tipton

Queen Grace Collection

Jill Alexander

Chinoo Designs

Curvato

SK Wilbur

Jibri

Masaari

Rachel Pally

Savannah Red

Youtheary Khmer

And of course, the Sorella Swim collection!

I arrived early to the venue to prep backstage along with the other designers, doing last minute fittings with the models and making sure everything was in order for the show.

Sorella Swim model line up

The excitement in the house was contagious, and being backstage was exhilarating, my heart was pounding, and adrenaline was pumping during the whole show!

Photo courtesy of Monique Frausto of Curves and Chaos

Gwen DeVoe welcomes the crowd! (Photo by Lucas Pictures)

Ashley Nell Tipton Designs (Photo by Lucas Pictures)

17 Sundays (Photo by Lucas Pictures)

Curvato (Photo by Lucas Pictures)

The Sorella Swim collection closed the show, and it looked absolutely amazing on the runway and the crowd was cheering as soon as the first model, Vicky Poole, hit the runway in the Surplice Bikini Top and Shirred Panel Bottom!

I even got to walk the runway for the Sorella Swim finale!

DAY 4

The Saturday night FFF Week “Retailers/Boutiques Runway Showcase & Industry Awards Ceremony” was nothing short of spectacular! Beautiful plus size fashions from our favorite plus size designers and retailers, and recognition to individuals in the plus industry who are making their mark and blazing trails. As a stylist, this is what it’s all about for me- seeing what each designer is offering as part of their new collections gets my creative gears turning to brainstorm editorial concepts, styling inspiration, and future pulls for my plus size clients.

The Saturday night designer line up included:

Ashley Stewart

Evans

Eyani Couture

Sonsi

Lane Bryant

Evie Foster

Mynt 1792

Pretty Pear Bride

Industry Award Winners included:

“Makeup Artist of the Year”- Tara Taylor

“Plus Agency of the Year”- Dorothy Combs Models

“Plus Boutique of the Year”- Curvaceous Boutique

“Plus Designer of the Year”- Jasmine Edler of Jibri

“Plus Fashion Blog of the Year”- The Curvy Fashionista, Marie Denee

“Plus Fashion Photographer of the Year”- Stanley Debas

“Plus Fashion Stylist of the Year”- Spry Lee Scott

“Plus Lifestyle Magazine of the Year”- POSE Magazine

“Plus Model of the Year”- Ashley Graham

“Plus Retailer of the Year”- Ashley Stewart

On the red carpet wearing Igigi, provided by Sonsi, with the 2012 Face of FFF Week, Venessa De La Rosa (Photo by Lesley Pedraza)

Before the show with supermodel Ashley Graham, who received the FFF Week award for "Model of the Year"

Madeline Figueroa-Jones and I wearing Igigi provided by Sonsi

Sonsi

Robin Cricket for Lane Bryant

Liris for Lane Bryant Cacique

Evie Foster

Eyani Couture

This is such an exciting time in plus fashion, with so much momentum behind designers and brands. I was very impressed with the fashion I saw on the runway from both independent designers and existing fashion houses and I can honestly say I think that this year’s FFF Week was the best yet! I left NYC completely excited, inspired, and empowered to share it all with the world!

Reah Norman

“Curves at Sea” FFF Week’s All White Cruise

Ashley Kessler — Mon, 11 Jun 2012 16:06:35 +0000

Curves at Sea, an All White Sunset Cruise will set sail on Wednesday, June 13th at 8:00 pm off the coast of New York in honor of Full Figured Fashion week. Don’t come a knocking if the curves are a rocking while the divaliscious plus sized attendees take in the Big and Tall Male Fashion Showcase.

A white party is the perfect place to let your fashion flag fly. Limiting yourself to one color does not mean that you have to limit your style. I have picked out some of my favorite white hot looks for this summer. With my help you can make any party sizzle.

My first look is a casual alternative look that can easily be played up by adding a bold colored pair of pumps and some blingy earrings. I have paired an Isobel Crochet Off the Shoulder Top by Lane Bryant ($31-$46) paired with Curvy Fit Cropped Skinny Leg Jeans by Eloquii ($70).

My next look showcases a classic look in fashion: the sheath dress. Eloquii One Shoulder Sheath Dress ($99) paired with a dainty belt is a modern play on an old classic. Pair this dress with taupe heels, a sleek pony tail and you large sunglasses and you’ll be the talk of the party.

My third look really kicks it up a notch on the fabulous scale! This strapless shimmer chiffon crisscross bodice dress from Sydney’s Closet ($368) is the ultimate eye catcher. Pin your hair up in soft curls as you show off your neckline in this flowing frock. You can make this cruise appropriate by pairing it with some fierce sandals or wedges.

My next look is perfect for a diva who likes to look stylish without sacrificing comfort. This vintage inspired lace dress by SWAK ($99) is a throw back to the days where having curves was tops! Channel your inner Marilyn Monroe or Betty Page by pairing this dress with white flats and a stunning flower in your hair.

My last look is red carpet ready for the hottest white party of the year. Keep your fans begging for more in this Priscilla Dress by IGIGI ($195). This dress would pop with white pumps and a sparkling clutch.

When going to a special event remember to showcase your style regardless of the dress code. If you are a girlie girl, pick a lacy dress to show off your feminine flair. If you fancy yourself a sophisticated cat, jazz up a classic iconic fashion piece. If Carrie Bradshaw ruffles your feathers try a bold new look or emulate your favorite runway piece. All in all, stay true to who you are. It will make you feel confident – and confidence is your sexist accessory!

In Peace and Curves,

Ashley

Gearing Up with Reah Norman for FFF Week!

Reah Norman — Sat, 09 Jun 2012 01:51:01 +0000

At this time next week, the “who’s who” of the plus fashion industry will be coming together in Manhattan for the 4^th annual NYC Full-Figured Fashion Week, which is the most anticipated plus fashion event of the year!

Retailers, designers, models, bloggers, publications, stylists, photographers, makeup artists, editors, industry icons, and fashionistas will be traveling from across the country and coming together to celebrate one common bond – our passion for plus size fashion!

This 4-day fashion celebration is jam-packed full of daily events, including an “All White Sunset Cruise”, panel discussions & workshops, pop-up parties, the “Curves in the City” shopping day, blogger conferences, networking mixers, press events, and of course…fashion shows!!!

So, with all these fabulous events to attend, there is one major question to address… What to wear, what to wear???

NYC is America’s fashion capitol, and being their among the countries most fashion forward and sophisticated always inspires me to take my fashion up a notch, and polish my look by putting that extra bit of effort into my outfits effortlessly. Not to mention that it’s summer time in the city, which means, quite simply- heat and humidity.

Ok, seriously- NO pressure, right? Here are five indubitable items that will make outfit planning and packing for NYC much easier, and will definitely be in my suitcase for FFF Week:

The Perfect Cocktail Dress

Mixers, fashion shows, and after-parties, oh my! A cocktail dress is perfect for all these events, keeping you chic, sophisticated and flaunting your curves!

The Renata Dress in Jade by Igigi

White Jeans

Yes, I said it- white jeans! Don’t be scared- embrace it, no matter what your size. Wearing white jeans is all about the perfect fit and the proper undergarments. Pack your white jeans as an alternative to a dress for the white party, or to pair with a pop of color on top for attending the shopping day or the workshops.

Michael by Michael Kors White Skinny Jeans, Available at Nordstrom

A Colorful Print

There is no better way to embrace summer fashion than with a fresh, colorful print, which instantly adds interest to an ensemble. Wearing prints are an effortless way to stay on trend each season without a huge commitment. Added bonus- prints can also help camouflage problem areas!

The Evangaline Tunic by Sealed With A Kiss Designs

A Comfy Flat

Let’s be honest, wearing those fabulous heels event after event, plus pounding blocks of NYC pavement, hopping in and out of cabs, and grabbing the train can be super hard on the feet, especially for those of us who are not quite used to such an intense amount of walking or heel wearing. A comfortably fashionable flat is perfect to pack for down time or to bring along with you in case your feet start to scream out loud. Just one more reason I love oversized handbags- extra room to tote your shoes!

Bronze Pasha Cap Toe Ballet Flat from The Avenue

Statement Necklace

Even the most basic outfit can instantly be brought to life with the perfect finishing touches. A fantastic statement necklace will instantly make your ensemble your own and showcase your personal style.

Bauble Bar Turquoise Bib Necklace

When planning your FFF Week wardrobe, make sure to take a chance, try something new, and as I always say… “think outside the fashion box”.

Happy packing! See you all in the city!

The TODAY Show features Gabbi Gregg

Erin Dunphy — Wed, 06 Jun 2012 03:09:39 +0000

Hello all you curvy fashionistas out there!

Summer is almost here and how appropriate that plus-size blogger, Gabi Gregg was on TODAY to talk about the photos she posted on her blog of herself in a bikini and the response she received from loyal supporters! The photos spread like wildfire and got a huge response. Gregg calls the gallery of 31 full figured girls in swimwear her “fatkini” gallery! She wanted to create a space for other curvy women, like herself, to share them with the public and the world. While this is her second time posting photos of herself, this time she wanted to take it to a bigger level. Gregg wanted to prove to people that you don’t have to be a size zero to rock a bikini and your curves. She says she has a “really supportive family and supportive network of friends” and that is how her confidence flourished. Gregg says she loves her body and feels “we should reject the fashion rules about what we are and what we are not allowed to wear.” I love when she talks about what she wanted to accomplish with the gallery… she says it’s not just about her. “You could see rolls and see the “flaws” and that’s why I wanted to kind of bring it together and say, no, it’s not just me wearing a bikini.”

To see more of the interview with Gabi Gregg on the TODAY show, just click HERE.

Gabi Gregg from GabiFresh.com

So what are you waiting for ladies? Grab you confidence and your swimsuit…maybe even Sorella Swimwear (wink,wink) and head to the beach!!

Gabi Gregg from GabiFresh.com

Always,

Erin