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Kavita Verryth Says, “I really believe that understanding your body shape is an amazing step to accepting yourself in a positive light. Once you understand your body and what it takes to make it feel amazing it’s possible to take steps to gain control of your self-esteem.”

Posted in Australia, Beauty, Hair, & Make-up, Body Image, Confidence, Family & Friends, Fashion, Fitness & Health, Inspiration, Models, Plus-Size Modeling, Self-Esteem, Shopping, Sports, Trade Tips, Travel, Unique Beauty, Work with tags Australia, Australia's Next Top Model, Beauty, BGM, Body Image, body shape, Carla Zampatti, Confidence, Darrianne Donnelley, David Jones, Designers, Diane von Furstenberg, Dutch, Exercise, Family, Fashion, Fitness, Friends, Health, Inspiration, Jerry Maguire, Kate Hislop, Kavita Verryth, Lisa Ho, Lucas PawPaw Ointment, MAC Fluidline, Make-Up, Malaysian, Media, Melbourne, Moda, Models, player agent, Plus-Size Modeling, Self-Esteem, sports, Sports Marketing, Sydney, Target, Thurley, Travel, Under?Armour, Unique Beauty, Witchery, Work on March 31, 2011 by Liz

Kavita Verryth was born in Perth, Western Australia and moved to Melbourne when she was 16 years old. Her father is Dutch and her mother is Malaysian. She has a younger brother, Mark, who is a professional tennis player–they travel together whenever possible and are very thankful for Skype. Kavita is a massive fan of playing and watching sport. Any and every sport.

She lived and studied in Utrecht, The Netherlands for a year, which she says was a great opportunity to meet her Dutch family, explore Europe, and learn how to cook! Kavita 100% has the travel-bug and can’t sit still for too long. She would love to work overseas once she’s finished her degrees. She hopes to become a Player Agent (think Jerry Maguire) in the future.

Please tell us how you began your career as a model.

When in Sydney for a university internship, I came across auditions for Australia’s Next Top Model. My mum encouraged me to go along, so off I went – with no experience or ability to walk in a pair of heels! The judges were really excited and positive and I made it through a couple of audition rounds. I was inspired to do a little more research into plus-sized modeling agencies. I came across BGM Models, sent in some natural photos and heard back from Darrianne Donnelley almost immediately. They were really excited (as was I) and the rest is now history….

What does being a ‘plus’ model mean to you?

I don’t consider myself to be a ‘plus’ model even though it is the current popular term for being a natural woman. I believe I have been given the opportunity to educate not only those around me, but the wider community in Australia that ‘plus’ models are regular models who live a healthy and well-balanced life.

Your first shoot was for the launch for Moda at Target. Please tell us about preparing for the shoot, how you were feeling, and the overall experience!

The shoot for Moda at Target came about very soon after I signed with BGM. I really wasn’t expecting to book such a large job so quickly, but I was obviously very excited. Preparing for the shoot certainly included plenty of primping and priming and my nerves certainly kicked in but the crews working at the studios were fantastic, gave me plenty of direction and positive feedback. BGM Models also sent Kate Hislop, a fellow model to give me guidance and tips, which definitely came in handy!

Have you ever struggled with low self-esteem or body image issues?

I never had particular problems with low self-esteem – well no more than any other teenage girl does when growing up. I was very athletic so my body shape was definitely a benefit for the sports I competed in. I had managed to turn any body image issues into a benefit for other aspects of my life. I think there will always be things, which can be improved upon, but I find that regular exercise, a balanced diet, and plenty of water keeps me feeling fresh and confident.

What advice do you have to girls and women who are currently struggling?

I really believe that understanding your body shape is an amazing step to accepting yourself in a positive light. Once you understand your body and what it takes to make it feel amazing it’s possible to take steps to gain control of your self-esteem.

What are some of your favorite beauty products or must-haves?

I’ve just become addicted to Organic hair products. I’ve been using Matrix Biolage and my hair has absolutely loves it! I am also completely obsessed with Lucas PawPaw Ointment, which is an Australian tradition – all my girlfriends carry a tube or two in their handbags. Its fantastic for dry lips, cuts, burns, and as a last minute moisturizer. I also can’t go past MAC Fluidline, which is a gel eyeliner that defines my eyes for day and night and can be used as a shade for a smoky-eyes look.

Where do you like to shop for clothes?

I love shopping at David Jones department stores. They carry all my favorite local and international labels including Carla Zampatti, Witchery, Diane von Furstenberg, Lisa Ho, and Thurley. I’m also a massive UnderArmour fan for workout gear and clothes to lounge around the house in and am in love with Dinosaur Designs jewelry. Their pieces are handmade and they have the most beautiful range of colors – it always takes too long to decide on a piece when I’m there!

What is your go-to outfit?

I am happiest in pair of jeans with a crisp t-shirt and finished with a blazer. Ballet flats for the day work best and a cute pair of heels and statement piece of jewelry at night.

What are you currently reading?

Textbooks, unfortunately. I’m in fifth year at Deakin University studying a Bachelor or Laws and a Bachelor of Commerce (Sports Management) so most of my free time is spent catching up on missed readings and classes. Oops!

Do you have a favorite workout routine?

I have a weekly exercise routine where I participate in-group workout sessions at my local park. I love exercising outdoors and the workouts alternate between being Cardio based or a Toning session. I think a mix of both forms of exercise is really important in keeping my body balanced and healthy. We’re really luck in Australia that the weather is conducive to exercising outside – the fresh air does wonders for lifting my mood.

In 10 years, where would you love to see yourself?

As I have only just started modeling, I’d really love to keep it up for the next few years. I would like to do editorial shoots for Australian fashion magazines and eventually would like travel and model out of New York, Germany or Italy. It’s also important for me to finish my University degree, as I believe education keeps my options open and allows me more freedom in the future to pursue a modeling career.

For those of us who haven’t been to Australia, what do you love about your country?

There is absolutely no country like Australia. We are so isolated from the rest of the world and our land is so vast that there is the opportunity to live any kind of life you dream of. We have open spaces, gorgeous beaches, and an amazing countryside for those that are after serenity, but for those who prefer a fast paced lifestyle, our cities certainly provide this. Melbourne is without a doubt my favorite – the culture, atmosphere, and hype, which surrounds it, really keeps me busy and interested.

What is a fun fact about you?

There are a few quirks to me…..

I have to fold every piece of plastic or paper into neat squares or triangles before I throw them in the trash. I need to have the clothes in my wardrobe and my collection of nail polish arranged by colours from lightest to darkest. I roll my clothes before placing them in my suitcase when traveling. When I eat skittles I have to separate the colours and count how many there are of each, making sure when I eat them that the number of each colour remains equal.

Do you have any quick make-up tips to share with us?

At the moment, I am really into eyebrows. When I’m in a hurry I will always make sure I lightly pencil them. I find it brightens my face and keeps me looking fresh all day long.

What are you most proud of?

I’m really proud of having the guts and want to participate in the plus size modelling industry. It takes a lot of self-confidence and I’m so happy that I have the personality and will to want to do this and to show other young girls that being a ‘plus’ model doesn’t mean you are unhealthy or not appreciated. There is a strong group of ladies doing this and as time goes by, the support provided to this industry can only flourish.

Who is your role model or hero? Why?

My mum has been the single strongest influence in my life. She is strong-willed, determined to succeed, and has always put her family first. She’s pushed me when I needed it and supported me in everything that I’ve wanted to do with minimal questions. Having support from her and my family is the most important thing to me when making a decision.

Who do you have on speed dial?

My parents just moved from Melbourne to the Gold Coast in QLD so I’ve had my mum on speed dial ever since. She knows what I’m doing most of the time and with my family being so spread apart (my one brother lives in Florida), speaking to family on the phone or via skype is a regular occurrence.

What is your most treasured possession?

I’m ashamed to say it’s my blackberry at the moment. Being so busy all the time means that my life sits in that piece of technology. It’s my event reminder, assignment tracker and link to my family, friends, and boyfriend. I would require a serious life overhaul if I didn’t have it.

What music is on at home?

I’m easy when it comes to music. When I’m with the girls getting ready for a night out, it’s just some light house music, in the gym it’s a lot more upbeat, and in the evening I like jazz with a French or Spanish influence.

Guilty pleasure?

Igloo Zoo. It’s an Australian frozen yoghurt store. I love Pomegranate yoghurt with crumble, mixed berry puree, and lychees. YUMM!

What is your go-to statement accessory?

A gorgeous necklace my girlfriend picked up whilst we were travelling through the US. I borrowed it from her one evening and it hasn’t found its way back yet. Oops! It’s a large, two-tiered cream necklace. I love wearing it with all the black I have to make the outfit pop!

What are you excited about?

I’ve just begun my 6th and final year of university which is a huge relief! I’m really excited about the adventure that will unfold at the end of my degree as I currently have no idea of the path I’d like to take. Keeping my options open is important and that means balancing plus modeling with a potential career in the Sports Marketing industry. Whether I do this here in Melbourne, up in Sydney or look overseas to Europe and the US is an intensely exciting prospect for me.

Who is your style icon and why?

I can’t say I follow a particular person. I love browsing through fashion magazines and trying to implement particular aspects of trends. I’m definitely not someone who sticks to a particular style although generally I have relatively simple, classic taste and enjoying sticking to at least one black item.

Celebrity crush?

I love sportsmen. Nadal, Lopez, Torres, Jensen Button…the list could go on and on.

What is one of your most favorite childhood memories?

My brother and I played tennis tournaments as kids (my brother, Mark, is now a professional tennis player) and we entered an Under 12s mixed doubles competition for the first time. I remember fighting with him all the way through the tournament but eventually we took the trophies and all our arguments were forgotten. We definitely weren’t too kind to each other on the tennis court back then but now I’ve learnt my lesson and avoid even stepping onto court with him as losing to him would be the only option these days

*Thank you, Kavita!

International Model Bree Warren Says, “Everyone has those moments of self-doubt and times you wish you could wave a magic wand but at the end of the day, you need to have faith in yourself.”

Posted in Australia, Beauty, Hair, & Make-up, Body Image, Confidence, Designers, Fashion, Fitness & Health, Inspiration, Media, Models, Plus-Size Modeling, Shopping, Travel, Unique Beauty, Wilhelmina with tags Adele, Australia, Band of Horses, beaches, Beauty, Bettina Liano, BGM, Body Image, Borough Markets, Bree Warren, Brigitte Models, Confidence, curves, Dallys Models, Exercise, Family, Fashion, fashiongonerogue.com, Friends, Health, Hughes Models, Inspiration, jeans, london, Magazines, Make-Up, Marc Jacobs, Nadine Coyle, New York, Passion Pit, plus model, Plus modeling, Portobella road, Richard De Chazal, Self-Esteem, style.com, surfing, Sydney, Trade Tips, Unique Beauty, Wilhelmina on March 24, 2011 by Liz

Bree Warren grew up in Brisbane, Australia. She is a newcomer on the international modeling scene after spending three years studying Bachelor of Business and Bachelor of Journalism before taking up modeling full-time in late 2010. Bree is currently signed with Wilhelmina NYC, Brigitte Models Germany, Hughes Models London, Dallys Models Brisbane, and BGM in Sydney. She comes from a really sporty family and has grown up playing loads of different sports. After high school at age 18, she traveled the world on a gap year visiting twenty different countries and has even spent time surfing in Canary Islands, Hawaii, and Bali. Bree wants to encourage young women to have confidence in themselves.

Please tell us how you started your career as a model. Was modeling something that you always wanted to pursue and why?

I was approached when I was shopping in Brisbane and a few days later, I signed with Dallys. At the time, I was at a university and working part-time for a TV station, so it started off as a side project. In July 2010, I decided I wanted to try modeling full-time so I booked a flight to NYC and signed with Wilhelmina. It has all gone on from there.

Obviously I knew about modeling, and I have always loved fashion but I wouldn’t say it’s something that I had always wanted to do. I was given a couple of agency cards when I was a teenager but I was really busy with school and sports so I never did anything about it.

What does the term ‘plus’ model mean to you? Do you think of term “Plus” as offensive?

Modeling (like any industry) has different roles and requirements, ‘plus’ is just one of those. The term doesn’t faze me at all. Models can be plus, straight, editorial, runway, commercial, or catalogue and it’s all part of the job. There’s a really big range in shapes and sizes even for plus models so if anything it keeps the fashion industry interesting. I don’t really think it should be thought of as one vs. the other. Curves or no curves – there is definitely room for both!

What do you enjoy most about modeling?

Every time you work, it’s totally different. I like the travel, variety, and fast pace of it all.

In terms of your career, where would you love to see yourself in 5 years? Who would you LOVE to work with and why?

I would love to say I’m someone who has everything planned out and organized…but I’m so not. I don’t like to get too far ahead of myself so I’m just taking the opportunities and doing the best I can. Hopefully, I will be working with some big names and travelling to beautiful places.

Do you have any funny modeling stories you would like to share with us?

I once wore a dress made out of chocolate by couture designer Richard De Chazal. It was quite funny because it was a hot day and the bodice kept melting in the sun during the press conference.

Is there one person you have met in this industry that has had a positive impact on your life in a big way?

I don’t think there is any one person but the industry has so many creative and engaging people who have a lot to offer. I almost take something different away from each person I meet.

Do you have a favorite workout routine?

Ha ha. I wouldn’t call it a ‘favourite’ but I try to fit in the gym whenever I can. Unfortunately, most of the fun outdoor workouts don’t go so well with the London winter.

What has been the piece of advice you have ever been given?

Be confident with who you are, work with what you have, and most of all be a nice person.

Have you ever suffered from body image or self-esteem issues? If so, what advice would you give to young girls and women who are currently struggling?

Everyone has those moments of self-doubt and times you wish you could wave a magic wand but at the end of the day, you need to have faith in yourself. Sometimes life can be a little suffocating so work out what your strengths are and use them. Don’t waste time with the rest.

What kinds of pressures do you see the girls in your life facing these days? What can we, as mentors, do to better address these issues?

This is hard because the pressures really vary from girl to girl. I think the key is to stay positive and levelheaded about everything in your life. Negativity only attracts more negativity.

Who taught you about real beauty?

My mum. She is so bubbly and always looks amazing despite having one of the most basic beauty regimes I have ever seen. You don’t need all the extras to be beautiful.

What do you wish you would have known at the age of 13?

Don’t wish your life away. Enjoy the age you’re at! Oh and look after your teeth.

Were you ever made fun of or teased as a child?

Of course, there is always the odd joke at your expense but nothing major no. To be honest, I managed to steer pretty clear of all that. I have always been taught to rise above it and treat people how you would like to be treated.

What is a fun fact about you?

I’ve been mistaken for Nadine Coyle (from Girls Aloud) in London but it doesn’t last long because my accent totally gives it away.

What do you love about living in London?

It is so much fun! There is always so much to do. Sometimes I actually get a bit worried because I don’t want to miss out on anything.

On a day off, how would your perfect day be spent in London?

Brunch at Borough Markets, shopping at Portobello road, and a night out with all my friends anywhere with a good view.

Lipstick or Lip gloss?

‘Melon Mania’ Luminous Lip Veils by Napoleon Perdis

My beauty essentials are…

Benefit Posie Cheek tint, Dior Show Mascara, and Tigi Rockaholic Dry Shampoo.

What is your go-to outfit?

Flowy top, skinny jeans, colourful scarf, and blazer or leather jacket.

What are your favorite pair of jeans?

Bettina Liano

Where do you love to shop for clothes?

New York and London are amazing but sometimes I find the best items in very odd places so my eyes are always peeled. Actually, I’m pretty sure I could find something to buy anywhere. It’s a little bit of a problem!

How would you describe your style?

It goes from one extreme to the other. I don’t think your wardrobe should have rules. I am just as happy at charity shops and flea markets as I am in Marc Jacobs. I am generally pretty casual but I dress it up with chunky jewelry or heels.

What are your favorite sites to visit online?

It’s geeky but I visit the news websites all the time. I like to know what’s going on and it keeps me sane. Style wise I would say Fashiongonerogue.com and Style.com are my favourites. Aside from that, I am on You Tube way too much.

What are you listening to right now?

Passion Pit, Band of Horses, and I have been playing Rolling in the deep by Adele a ridiculous amount of times lately.

What does being healthy mean to you?

Finding the balance between eating well, exercise, and a fun social life.

What makes you uniquely beautiful? What do you love about yourself and why?

I am a pretty happy, easy-going person, and nothing really stresses me out.

In my purse you would find…

A really big mess. I keep bits and pieces of everything. It works well for me but other people might think it’s a bit of a disaster.

What is one of your favorite childhood memories?

Definitely family holidays. My dad has this thing about going to different beaches wherever we are in the world. I have probably been to every single beach on the East Coast of Australia at least once.

What are you excited about right now?

Working in Sydney for a couple of weeks, a holiday in Byron Bay with a big bunch of friends, and finding a new apartment in London!

*Thank you, Bree.

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Our Interview with Russian Model Katya Zharkova

Posted in Beauty, Hair, & Make-up, Body Image, Confidence, Designers, Family & Friends, Fashion, Fitness & Health, Inspiration, Media, Models, New York, Plus-Size Modeling, Self-Esteem, Shopping, Trade Tips, Travel, Unique Beauty, Wilhelmina, Work, Your Story with tags acting, America, autobiography, Beauty, Body Image, Confidence, dream, Elena Miro, English, Exercise, Family, Fashion, Fitness, Friends, Health, Inspiration, jeans, Katya Zharkova, Marilyn Monroe, Models, New York City, Nordstroms, photographer, Plus-Size Modeling, Russia, Russian Models, Self-Esteem, Silver Jeans, skydiving, Travel, United States, Wilhelmina, Work, Your Story on March 17, 2011 by Liz

Katya Zharkova is a plus model from Russia. She was born in a small city called Smolensk, and she grew up in Moscow. Katya started modeling at age fourteen, and still models today at almost thirty years old. She graduated from Moscow University of Art and Culture as a TV producer. She created shows on Russian TV. Her friends advised her to go to a casting call for a TV show in Moscow and she got a second job as a TV presenter. She hosted a show where she helped women love themselves. Before coming to the United States, Katya worked with Russian and European designers. She decided to come to Los Angeles, and signed a contract with Wilhelmina agency and moved to New York. She has worked with Forever 21, Silver Jeans, Pure Energy, Cabi, Avenue, Macys, MC Patterns, Ulla Poken, and Fashion To Figure. Now, she is working on an autobiography – it’s a story about a plus-size model traveling all over the world.

Please tell us how you started your career as a model?

My mom is a photographer. I wasn’t the prettiest newborn, and my grandmother always use to say that I would turn from an ugly duckling into a swan. My mom use to take pictures of me every day thinking that it would help me become prettier. When I was nine, somebody told my mom you have a very cute boy, she decided I should be acting. So, I got the role of a girl who wasn’t very attractive, and every day she sat down in front of the mirror trying to persuade herself she was the most beautiful and charming person in the world. At the end of the movie, she really blossoms into this beautiful thing. That taught me to do the same thing in real life. Later in life, my friend took me to a modeling agency, and the first thing they told me was that they would accept me only if I lost weight and they gave me six months. I tried but didn’t succeed, and in 1997, they opened a plus-size department in her agency. Since then, some of the designers in my town started sewing a plus-size line especially for me. That made me realize I could be on the covers of major magazines and every boy at school who was teasing me about being fat was wrong! At one of the runway shows, I was seen by the editors of Moscow Fashion Magazine and moved to Moscow to work for them and study at the University.

Did you always dream of modeling and why?

My dream started in childhood when I believed in myself and thought I was beautiful, but boys were saying I was fat. I was never skinny, and I liked the fact that I was healthy. I wish there were more people like me on the covers of major magazines–healthy and confident! I want young girls to eat properly without starving themselves just because being skinny is in fashion. I want all the runway models to be size 8-16 and not 0-6. I want plus-size modeling to be popular in fashion all over the world along with the skinny models.

What do you think people would find most surprising about modeling?

There are no real rules in modeling; you never know what will happen tomorrow. You can be very talented with a great portfolio and a great body, but there are millions of beautiful and talented people. You have to be very lucky to get the job. It’s the way things happen. Modeling is a very tough job and you have to be at the right time at the right place.

Did modeling come naturally to you?

I think I blossomed thanks to my beautiful photos that say a lot! I want people to realize that you can be beautiful no matter what size you are. It’s very important to love yourself the way you are!

What did you study while attending Moscow State University?

At the University of Art and Culture, I studied acting, filmmaking, and producing. I use to work and study at the same time, but my mom was always strict with me regarding my education. If I wouldn’t get a degree, she wouldn’t let me go to the United States, so it’s thanks to my mom that I successfully graduated with a degree in Organization of Student Festivals, and wrote a thesis called “Education of young people through TV media”. As I was an experienced model by that time, I was able to work as a host of one of the shows and viewers were happy to see a healthy and beautiful woman. I think the fact that I was plus size made me unique and it also helped me believe that one day I will be on the cover of major fashion magazine.

When you made the decision to move to NYC, what would you say was the biggest culture shock? Did you know how to speak English?

I moved to NY in a rush. I was already living in Los Angeles and working at Wilhelmina. I was enjoying a slow and relaxing way of life–swimming in the ocean and studying English. On the 29th of September, I got an email form Ameerah (she works at Wilhelmina in NYC), and she told me she really liked me and would love to represent me, but that I would have to move to NYC in order to work with her. We discussed it with my LA agent Tricia, and she told me I should definitely go. I already worked with the big labels like Forever 21, Pure Energy, Silver Jeans, and Cabi, so moving to NYC seemed quite logical and it was kind of the next step in my career. So, I rented a car and drove all the way to New York, thinking I must be crazy but that I was reaching my dream. I had a funny incident on the way to New York. I ran out of gas in Philadelphia, so I left the car and had to walk two miles to the nearest gas station. Right after I walked out of the car, I saw a police officer looking at me with a smile and asking me what has happened and if he could help; that was like a scene from a movie. That was a real shocker! He drove me all the way to the gas station and then back leaving with the words, “Welcome to Philadelphia!” All I said was, “I Love you America!”

What do you miss most about your homeland, Russia?

My entire family lives in Russia, and I really miss them. I miss my mom, my niece, my brothers, and my husband. I have a huge family but thanks to Skype, I can see everybody I miss every single day.

What do you love most about living in NYC?

I love the weather in New York; it changes quite fast. Everybody is extremely friendly, and you can say hi to hundreds of people and everybody will react positive.

What would you say is the best advice you have been given, in terms of your career as a model?

Never postpone anything for tomorrow! Love yourself the way you are and people will start loving you. Never give up and all you dreams will come true.

What has been your most memorable modeling experience and why?

So far, the most memorable experience for me was the first shoot abroad–the shoot for the Elena Miro’s magazine. It was shot in Egypt. We were shooting the Spring/Summer collection, and I couldn’t speak English at all. It was a week in a sunny Egypt and my first modeling experience outside of Russia–I was crying from happiness. I realized that my dream came true, and I’m on the cover!

Do you feel plus modeling is helping redefine beauty?

I do believe that plus-size modeling has redefined all the usual beauty standards. It’s very important to live in harmony, be yourself, and do what you love the most. You have to be confident and that’s the only reason I’m here in America right now. I don’t want my kids to ever experience what I went through. Every time I go shopping in Moscow, it’s impossible for me to find anything in my size, especially if it’s something trendy and fashionable. Size 8 is usually the biggest size they carry. My husband and I, once tried to purchase jeans in my size and the shop assistant offered me a men’s model. Of course, we laughed and didn’t take it seriously, but can you imagine how many young girls went through the same issue, thinking, “I’m so big that there are no jeans for me”. And that kills your confidence, society and media creates insecurity for people who are bigger than size 8. That’s how young girls become depressed. I’m strong, but even I had issues trying to find myself and it wasn’t easy.

Have you ever suffered from body image issues? If so, what advice would you give to young girls and women who are currently struggling?

We worry about the way we look because we are trying to find love. We want to be liked. Unfortunately, the reflection in the mirror won’t help you find happiness. If you have a strong personality, and if you can laugh and enjoy yourself, people will accept you the way you are. Also, you might think that skinny and beautiful women are happy, that’s not always true. I know so many examples that contradict that. I know so many beautiful Russian celebrities who are miserable in their life! When I ask my husband how he fell in love with me, being so big and not perfect, he doesn’t even understand what I’m talking about. I’m the most perfect person in the whole world for him and the only thing that he remembers when he first met me was my laugh. I truly love to smile. So my advice is the more you laugh the better.

What do you wish you would have known in high school?

My dream from my childhood finally came true, and I see all the boys from school grow up. I see what kind of girls they like now and they realize I’m not fat at all anymore. I would love to have known that in school. Though, I did believe that being slightly bigger than others would help me in life.

Where you ever teased or bullied?

I was teased at school; they used to call me a train and I never understood that. Can I be that huge?

Where would you like to see yourself in 10 years?

Would love to be at the Oscars with one in my hands

What is your dream job as a model?

The cover of US Vogue–impossible sometimes can be possible.

On a day off, what would your perfect day consist of?

If I was able to meet up with my friends and enjoy the weekend in a great mood – that means it was a perfect day! Also, I love dancing – it’s always fun!

What is a fun fact about you?

I’m far from perfect when it comes to speaking English and because of that, many of the things that I say generate much laughter among my friends, many times unintentional. But I’m very sincere and emotional, so everybody understands me.

Is there something you have always wanted to learn or try, but haven’t yet?

I want to learn skydiving; one day I’ll do it!

We love your Silver Jeans shots! Please tell us about your experience modeling for Silver Jeans?

I really loved their concept. It’s basically friends on vacation. It was just like my weekends in real life. Talented people around you–jokes, guitar, dancing, and lots of fun. I grew up with my older brother and he always used to invite friends to our parent’s country house; that was a lot of fun. That’s what I experienced again at the Silver jeans shoot. That was a reminder that my dreams were meant to come true, and I was there despite the fact that I’m size 10-12. I was with three beautiful American boys, three skinny models, and me Katya Zharkova, a plus-size model. What else do you need to become happy? Pair of comfortable jeans and real friends close to you.

Do you have a favorite pair of jeans?

My favorite pair of jeans are waiting for me in LA. I was in such a rush when I was moving to New York that I forgot them at my friend’s place. They are light blue in color and they are vintage in look now. They are completely ripped at the knees; that means they went through a lot and you have to respect that. Hopefully, I will be able to get them back soon.

Where so you love to shop for clothes?

I like really unique things and my taste is very eclectic. Clothes reflect your mood and also remind you of the favorite moments of your past. That’s why I kept a lot of pieces that remind me of certain things in my life. When I shop, I usually look for something special. Something that my girlfriend would never pick–something that will show my unique style and reflect my personality. Shopping in the US is amazing because there is a great variety of things in my size and that lets you experiment and find the new you. And, that makes it so interesting.

Who is your style icon?

I would say Marilyn Monroe is a style icon because of her Hollywood glamour and a breezy sensuality.

What is your go-to outfit?

Black leather jacket, a pair of dark blue jeans, and of course, a pair of high heels. Russian girls love high heels.

What are your must-haves in your make-up bag?

I always have waterproof mascara. You never know what can happen, so you always want your eyelashes to be at their best! Powder, blush, and, the most important thing–pink lipstick.

Where is your favorite place to snowboard?

I think the mountains of Vancouver are the best place to go snowboarding!

What do you love about yourself and why?

I like the fact that I can enjoy life. I can wake up in the morning and say, “Life I love you”. I can walk around the city, enjoying every moment of it

How do you stay healthy and fit?

Every morning, I eat oatmeal; I also do yoga twice a week–that’s my secret to beauty.

What are you excited about right now?

I’m really excited about going to Seattle, and working for Nordstrom’s. I’ve seen Seattle in so many movies; I would love to see it in real life. And, I’m always looking forward to work!

*Thank you, Katya!

1 Comment »

Australian Model Bonnie McBeath Says, “To have a positive attitude and not be bogged down in negative self-talk and negative people, really helps you feel great.”

Posted in Australia, Beauty, Hair, & Make-up, Body Image, Confidence, Fitness & Health, Inspiration, Plus-Size Modeling, Self-Esteem, Shopping, Unique Beauty with tags Australia, Beauty, Bella Model Management, Body Image, Bonnie McBeath, Chelsea Bonner, Confidence, Exercise, Fitness, Health, Inspiration, Make-Up, Melbourne, Models, Self-Esteem, Shopping, Trade Tips, Unique Beauty on March 1, 2011 by Liz

Bonnie started modeling with Bella Models in Sydney, Australia over five years ago. Because she is based in Melbourne, she has been fortunate enough to continue the most rewarding part-time job (modeling) while continuing to work full-time at a non-modeling job.

This is what Bonnie had to say:

“To be a part of the incredible revolution of a whole industry has been so empowering. Seeing Chelsea Bonner bring new girls in to the agency and watch the pages of magazines get fuller and fuller of Bella girls has been such a thrill.”

Please tell us how you started your career as a model.

I began with a load of encouragement from a friend who assisted for a very active photographer in Melbourne. She suggested I get some test shots. I had no idea what test shots were and felt a little nervous at the thought of spending that amount of money (really, such a small amount in hindsight…) on photos. Unbeknown to me, this particular photographer had worked with Chelsea and her models before and asked to submit my shots to Bella. I was very green and to think that Chelsea has the foresight and eye to see talent that will be well received by the market is quite amazing.

Do you feel that ‘plus’ modeling is helping to redefine beauty?

I really don’t think that it has redefined beauty, but I think it had redefined editors and casting directors’ ideas of who will sell magazines and clothes. I think the biggest revolution has been the change in the perception that ‘plus-sized’ models are frumpy and mumsy ladies wearing ill-fitting garments made from polyester! I also don’t feel like we are vigilantes out there banging on about ‘representing all the plus-sized women’, but I think we are simply showing different sizes and shapes and diversity in the market.

When others ask you to define the term ‘plus’ model, what do you tell them?

It is always a little awkward. I know a lot of girls resent the term ‘plus’… I think of it as being just an average size.

Out of all of the places your career has taken you, what has been the most memorable and why?

Very early in my contract with Bella, I was invited to be part of a calendar, which featured twelve girls in the most gorgeous, and glamorous underwear I had ever seen. All funds raised from the sale of the calendar were used to help raise awareness for a foundation, which promoted healthy body image and alike. I remember at the time, just being so thrilled to be asked to be part and flown somewhere by the agency. It was so memorable in the early days.

Have you ever suffered from body image or self-esteem issues? If so, what advice would you give to young girls and women who are currently struggling?

I think every young girl has battled with body images concerns and low self-esteem at some stage. Women are so hard on one another and from a very early age, we are products of our upbringing. Schools are obsessed with getting kids out in the playground and exercising and scrutinizing lunch boxes to make sure there are enough healthy, unprocessed components. Exercise really does do great things for your well being and self-esteem. Whether it is a competitive team sport or simply going for a bike ride, the endorphins that are released are far more potent and valuable to your own sense of well being that any lecture about body image. Tall or short, lean or bumpy, anybody that gets plenty of fresh air and exercise feels and therefore looks amazing.

Who taught you about real beauty?

Definitely my Mum. She is really healthy and happy and loves life. To have a positive attitude and not be bogged down in negative self-talk and negative people, really helps you feel great.

What do you wish you would have known at the age of 13?

It will all be fine!

Growing up in a small country town and with that comes plenty of small country minds. I remember being offered some chocolate by a friend’s dad. He held the block in front of me and then whipped it away saying ‘you don’t really need any, do you?’ while proceeding to offer it to all the other kids.

Going to my High School reunion and hearing whispers saying ‘Did you hear Bonnie is a model now? Wow, things have really worked out well for her, haven’t they!”

What is a fun fact about you?

I was a State Representative Kayaker… It got to the point where I needed either to study my final year at school with proper dedication or have a good go at the sport… I ended up taking the academic road.

Lipstick or Lip gloss?

Definitely Lip gloss. I am a little lazy sometimes and I don’t have to be so fastidious about maintaining it. Clinique’s Air Kiss has kept me going through the years. I have about four on the go at any one time.

What beauty invention has made the greatest impact on your life?

Oooh, so many. I love nail polish; I wear it CONSTANTLY on my toes. I also love self-tan. It is an instant pick me up… It makes me feel like a million dollars. I will often get a spray tan for no reason at all. I have found a lady who can do all sorts of tricky shading to give tone and definition like you wouldn’t believe. GREAT for swimwear confidence.

My beauty essentials are…

Sunscreen. Every day, summer or winter, hot or cold, cloudy or sunny. I have very fair skin and just hate the feel of the harsh Australian sun cooking my face!

What is your go-to outfit?

Jeans, jeans, jeans! I have dark jeans, light jeans and shorts, and skinny leg jeans. I especially love Charlie Browns Princess Charlotte jeans, though I hear they are not being made any more… They will eventually be so threadbare that they will rip from my legs one day.

Where do you love to shop for clothes?

I tend to shop around a little. Though I am guaranteed to always manage to find something at Witchery. It’s an oldie but a goodie.

How would you describe your style?

Casual and feminine. Lots of flat shoes, sandals, and soft fabrics.

What does being healthy mean to you?

Getting adequate rest. A great night’s sleep will prepare your resolve. You can deal with anything better with enough rest. Feeling weary and cranky, lessens your ability to think and act rationally. Plenty of fresh air and eating properly too. A glass of wine and good belly laugh is great for health and well-being as well!

Do you have a favorite workout routine?

At the moment, I am running a lot. I tend not to get too bogged down in anything too scheduled. I like to run so I can look at people’s gardens and admire the hard work. I keep myself going by saying ‘not long now, soon you will be at the beautiful hedge/rose garden/lavender border’. I like seeing who is out and about in the early morning when I run too.

In my purse, you would find…

Credits cards, receipts for work, make up, phone, and note pad (I used to write on my hand all the time and someone bought me a beautiful note pad with a ‘B’ on the font, use it all the time).

Favorite book?

Maggie Alderson’s, About a Boy. It is one of the very few books that I have re read (a LOT of times)

What are your favorite sites to visit online?

eBay. I love it. I have sold lots of things and bought lots of things. I just love getting rid of the surplus and seeing it go to a good home and purchasing new things with the profit.

On a day off, what would your perfect day consist of?

Read, exercise, cook, coffee, and an afternoon nap. I just love the indulgence of a sneaky afternoon nap.

Is there something you have always wanted to try or learn, but haven’t yet?

I would love to be able to sing. I think it is such a fabulous skill/talent. I sing in car a lot but I am brave enough to admit that it is much nicer to keep for my own tuned ears rather than anyone else.

What makes you uniquely beautiful?

I think a big and genuine smile. I laugh a lot. I laugh when I am happy (obviously) but also laugh in awkward situations. It is a nervous response, but people are so much more responsive to happy, smiling people. I always try to remember people’s name. I love it when people remember mine and it makes people feel great when you greet them by name. Being considerate, caring, and thoughtful makes me uniquely beautiful. It is so much more than superficial looks that make any one beautiful.

*Thank you, Bonnie!

1 Comment »

Fashion To Figure to Hold Grand Opening of New Cross Country Shopping Center Store in Yonkers, NY on Saturday, March 5th.

Posted in Body Image, Confidence, Designers, Fashion, New York, News, Plus-Size Modeling, Shopping with tags Audrey Smaltz, Body Image, Confidence, education, Events, Fashion, Fashion to Figure, Man and Wife, Media, Michael Kaplan, MTV, music, New York, Patricia McDow, plus size clothing, Shando Says, Shopping, Style, The Ground Crew, VH1 Save The Music Foundation on February 19, 2011 by Liz

On Saturday March 5^th, 2011 from 12:00 to 4:00 PM, Fashion To Figure (FTF) will hold a ribbon cutting ceremony to celebrate the opening of its newest store at the Cross County Shopping Center in Yonkers, New York. FTF is pleased to be joined by special guests Shanda Freeman, co-host of MTV’s hit show Man and Wife and of her own show Shanda Says; City Council Woman Patricia McDow; and Audrey Smaltz, fashion icon and founder of the fashion show production company, The Ground Crew. Also in attendance will be various industry figures including full-fashion models and bloggers.

“FTF is thrilled to be joined by special guests and members of the community to help cut the ribbon of our newest location in the Cross County Shopping Center” said FTF Co-Founder and CEO Michael Kaplan. FTF will once again team up with VH1 Save The Music Foundation and donate 10% of all sales from the day to the foundation, whose mission is to “ensure that every child has access to a complete education that includes the benefits of music instruction,” and has provided access to instrumental music education in dozens of schools across New York. Kaplan went on to say: “FTF is committed to the local communities in which our stores operate, and to fulfilling the FTF mission of making people’s lives better by providing them with the ultimate full-fashion shopping experience. We are pleased to begin serving and supporting the Yonkers community.”

Guests are invited to shop, enjoy complimentary light refreshments and enter a raffle give-away to win FTF gift cards every half hour. There will also be an opportunity to make direct donations to the VH1 Save The Music Foundation at the event.

Details: Saturday March 5^th, 2011 from 12:00 to 4:00pm

Fashion To Figure

5160 Xavier Drive

Yonkers, NY 10704

Kings Plaza Shopping Center store in Brooklyn, NY

About Fashion To Figure (FTF):

FTF provides a trendy full-fashion shopping experience exclusively focused on ladies sizes 12-26. FTF is style by anyone’s definition – a place where you will find the latest fashions at the very best prices. New fashion arrives in stores every day and personal service is provided by FTF Fashion Stylists. FTF is dedicated to making people’s lives better through providing the ultimate full-fashion shopping experience and was founded by the great-grandsons of Lena H. Bryant, the revolutionary businesswoman and visionary dressmaker who invented full-fashion more than 110 years ago. Go to www.fashiontofigure.com for more information.

About The VH1 Save the Music Foundation:

The VH1 Save The Music Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to restoring instrumental music education programs in America’s public schools, and raising awareness about the importance of music as part of each child’s complete education. To date, VH1 Save The Music has provided more than $47 million in new musical instruments to 1,700 public schools in more than 100 cities around the country, impacting the lives of over 1.6 million children. With the support of people across the country and the 2010-2011 Ambassador Class including: OneRepublic, Chrisette Michele, Nick Lachey, Mandy Moore, Kelly Clarkson, Jason Mraz, Fall Out Boy, Colbie Caillat, it is The Foundation’s renewed commitment to donate one hundred million dollars worth of new musical instruments to ensure that even a greater number of students receive a comprehensive music education in the coming decade. Get involved and learn more at www.vh1savethemusic.com.

5 Comments »

The Women Behind Madison Plus

Posted in Designers, Fashion, Fitness & Health, Ford +, Hobbies, Lane Bryant, Media, Models, Music, Plus-Size Modeling, Self-Esteem, Shopping, Work with tags Aimee Cheshire, All Ashley, Ashley Graham, Beauty, Designers, Erica Young, Fashion, Ford +, Health, Inspiration, Kari Hansbarger, MadisonPlus.com, New York City, Plus models, Plus Size Clothes, Plus-Size Modeling, Self-Esteem, Trade Tips, Unique Beauty, Work on February 9, 2011 by Plus-Size Models Unite

Aimee Cheshire

MadisonPlus.com is the premiere fashion website for the modern plus size woman. Created by Aimee Cheshire and Erica Young, fashion professionals, who were frustrated with the lack of excitement and choice in the plus market. In 2008, Aimee and Erica, who are based in New York City, started brainstorming what is now MadisonPlus.com.

Kari Hansbarger, Aimee Cheshire, and Erica Young photographed by Myung Choi

How did you and your business partner Erica meet and come together to form Madison Plus?

Erica and I were both students at LIM College in NYC. We would chat in class and that’s when I told her about my internship at Roaman’s, a plus-size catalog, and how much I enjoyed working there. I gave her a brief introduction to the world of plus and all the amazing untapped opportunities. She signed up for an internship soon after. Before we knew it, we were sitting next to each other in the office and working on the same sportswear team. We did not expect to be put on the same team together, and our working relationship grew from there. Very quickly, we were both promoted to managerial positions at a new brand within the company, but we started to grow tired of fighting the system in regards to the lack of cool and exciting plus clothing options. So, we decided to build it ourselves.

Where did the name Madison Plus come from?

Coming up with a name for a business can be a fun challenge. We had baby name books that we found ourselves browsing through to find the “name” for us to run with. We had temporary names that we would sit with for a period of time and practice saying it, to see if we would get sick of it. One day when Erica and I were doing research at the SIBL library on Madison Avenue, we had a light bulb moment and the Madison Plus name was born.

What is the most frequently asked questions you receive from your viewers?

Many women want to be plus models, and that is definitely the number one question that we receive. Unfortunately, not everyone can be a plus model. What I really interpret from the “plus model” question is that they actually want to be in some way involved with the development of the plus-size industry. There are so many ways to bring your view and your expertise to the plus industry and there is so much room to grow.

What has been one of the most unforgettable moments Madison Plus has experienced, one that you will never forget?

We have worked so hard to develop a brand that we can confidently stand behind and feel that fully represents what the plus industry was craving. There are two amazing moments that mean a lot to me and to MP. The first being when we teamed up with Ford+ Models to launch the “All Ashley” issue that broke just before the ‘boobgate’ controversy with Lane Bryant’s commercial, which featured the talented Ashley and allowed everyone to get to know her. Before we knew it, we saw “MadisonPlus.com” up on Entertainment Tonight. To see that type of recognition made all the work worthwhile and helped fuel the fire to continue with what we are doing, which was relaunching Madison Plus.

Before the holidays and after a year of building the brand Erica, Kari (our creative director), and I re-launched the new Madison Plus. We wanted to create a shopping website that was curated by us. We wanted to expand beyond our blog, bring the best of plus clothing to you wrapped up like your favorite fashion magazine. A day after we relaunched, I went to Mexico. I thoroughly enjoyed my time spent on the beach, but what I enjoyed most was knowing that the new MP was live.

Plus-Size Models Unite is ultimately about inspiring others to love their own unique self. What do you love about yourself and why?

Perseverance! My whole life I knew that I would be involved in the plus industry, that there was no reason for it to lack the same attention that the straight size industry gets. Growing up plus size and having to experience the common situations that plus girls find themselves. Every summer for many years, I would go to weight loss camp in California and I remember sitting on the steps of the stage with the owner asking her if I could come back when I was older and put on a plus-size fashion show. I had this bug hit me at a young age and it stayed with me though all my experiences of growing up. It was my way of making the struggles worth it. This feeling of perseverance that I always had to push through, knowing that it may be pretty crappy now, but when I make it, it will be worth it. What an amazing reward it has been.

Your site covers everything from fashion to beauty tips to celebrity news–you name it! Please tell us what your favorite beauty products or must-haves are?

I have never been a huge product girl until recently. The flood gates were open when I discovered dry shampoo. Whenever I would read about people washing their hair every other day, I could never grasp how they could do that, well dry shampoo is the answer. I use Rene Futerer Naturia Dray Shampoo, when I use it my hair immediately becomes voluminous and holds whatever styling I need it to. The days I do wash my hair I add some Sam Brocato Beach Spray, and it gives me that texture I crave. I keep an easy routine of Cetaphil to wash my face, Nars moisturizer, and Nars skin brightening serum, which I am addicted to, it just brings my skin to life. Also, I cannot leave my apartment without a spritz of Bond no9 perfume called Nuit De Noho, it’s just part of my personality now. I may freshen it up a little for spring by layering on some Highline another fave from Bond.

I love when the girls stop by and talk about their favorite outfits!! What are your go-to outfits?

We do too! It’s amazing how much inspiration you can find from the lovely ladies that stop by our office. Each season, I tend to switch up my trendy pieces but I do have some go-to pieces that are season-less. Right now, it is my bondage skirt from Topshop, black ponte sheath dress, and last but not least, my Paige denim skinny jeans.

What is your definition of beauty?

I like pure, non-fussy beauty. I want the real nose, the real boobs, and real bum, which allows for the real you to shine through.

What are you listening to right now?

Music is my escape, and I love being surrounded by amazing bands and live shows in Brooklyn. I try to see a show at least once a month. The bands that have been getting the most play on my ipod have been The Constellations, Gogol Bordello, The Black Keys, and Sharon Jones & The Dap Kings.

Favorite books?

My lovely husband just bought me a Kindle and I have been reading nonstop since I opened it. When you own your own business, sometimes the only way you can relax and unplug is by keeping it occupied with books. If you were shopping my bookshelf I would insist on these books; The Girls, Rush Home Road, Chesapeake, Dominion, The Glass Castle, Cutting For Stone, and A Thousand Splendid Suns.

Favorite places to shop online?

It is a very rare thing to see me actually shop in person. I have been shopping online since the beginning, originally it was due to my size. I was a size 20 and then when you layer on a 35″ inseam, and size 11 shoe your selection becomes limited. So quickly, I was trained to go online for my shopping. Right now, I am shopping The Outnet, Net-A-Porter, JCrew, and Anthropologie. When I go shopping in the city, I love to hit up Topshop and DVF.

What is a fun fact about you?

I am obsessed with card and board games. I am in the process of learning bridge with my husband and some friends. I figure by the time I’m in an old age home, I will be an expert. When my husband and I started dating we would play games for money, and I bought some kitschy piggy banks from Vegas, and whoever had the most amount of money in the end of the year won. I never won, my husband always took home the pot and the winnings were definitely not big enough for a trip back to Vegas.

Favorite restaurant?

I am truly spoiled with amazing restaurants living in NYC and being surrounded by so many delicious restaurants which have lead to a discerning palette. I love it when you go for a meal and you leave with an experience. The best dining experience is at the Kabob Café in Queens. It seats no more than 12 people and the kitchen is right next to you while you eat. The amazing owner/chef Ali keeps you entertained for hours! When my evening out demands a little more “fancy” you can find me at Junoon, Marlow & Sons and Dresslers. To compliment, I enjoy pairing my meal with a nice cocktaiI or bottle of wine.

What are you excited about right now?

I am so excited for the year ahead, 2010 was so good to me and the MP team. So many personal and professional goals were accomplished. It really gives me so much momentum into this new year. Stay tuned…we have more exciting developments at Madison Plus.

Best,

Aimee Cheshire
Co-Founder & Co-Owner
www.MadisonPlus.com
Your Style Discovered
facebook.com/MadisonPlus
twitter.com/MadisonPlus

Video Link

http://www.vimeo.com/19135791

*Thank you, Aimee!

3 Comments »

Plus Model Radio Host Chenese Lewis Says, “I think women of all shapes and sizes are beautiful and should all be celebrated without limitations.”

Posted in Articles, Books, & Magazines, Body Image, Celebrity, Confidence, Entertainment, Fashion, Fitness & Health, Media, Plus-Size Modeling, Radio, Self-Esteem, Shopping, Trade Tips, Unique Beauty with tags America's Next Top Model, Applebottom jeans, Beauty, Binge Eating Disorder, Body Image, Celebrity, Chenese Lewis, Confidence, Dillards, Dr. Robyn Silverman, Emme, Fashion, Figure Magazine, Hollywood NOW, integrity, Lane Bryant, Love Your Body Day, Media, Miss Plus America, nude, Oprah, Plus Model Magazine, Plus Model Radio, Plus models, Plus-Size Modeling, Self-Esteem, Shopping, Torrid, Trade Tips, Unique Beauty, Whitney Thompson, Work, Your Story on February 6, 2011 by Liz

Chenese Lewis is a positive body image and self-esteem advocate. She is the current President of the Hollywood Chapter of the National Organization for Women, the Ambassador of the Binge Eating Disorder Association (BEDA), sits on the Celebrity Board of the non-profit organization Fed Up, Inc., and made history by being the first woman crowned Miss Plus America in 2003. Her unique story and prestigious career have been featured by countless media outlets such as Dr. Phil, The Insider, E! News, EXTRA, The National Examiner, iVillage, Figure Magazine and USA Today. Lewis is the creator and host of Hollywood NOW’s “Love Your Body Day,” an annual event where women of all sizes come together to celebrate a day of self-acceptance, to promote positive body image and to show that you don’t have to be a size 0 to be beautiful. Her 2010 Love Your Body Campaign, where she posed nude with America’s Next Top Model, Whitney Thompson, garnered international media attention and magnified her role as a leading positive body image advocate. Chenese attributes her success by not conforming to society’s ideals of beauty but rather showing by example that you can be beautiful and confident regardless of your size. Chenese Lewis is the epitome of the plus-size woman.

Please tell us when and how you got your start in the modeling world.

The first time I learned that plus models exist was in the summer of 2000 when a convention came to my town looking specifically for plus-size models. I went to the open call and was chosen to go to their convention, I thought I was on my way to the top! But it turns out nothing much came out of the convention, besides lots of money gone down the drain. After I came home, I decided to research more online, through which I discovered the plus community. Through my research, I found that I didn’t have the stats to be a agency repped model at the top agencies. I was very disappointed and confused as to why I was the right size to shop in plus-size clothing stores but not the right size to model for them. However, I didn’t let it discourage me, and although I still have limited opportunities available to me as a plus size model, I’ve found my niche in the community in other ways and try to get in front of the camera whenever I can!

Do you feel plus modeling is helping to redefine beauty?

I think it has helped to redefine beauty to a degree. I think plus models have helped by showing curvier, healthier physiques in main stream media, which is great. But in all honestly, a lot of industry plus models should be on the straight board, and some women who would be fabulous plus-size models don’t get a chance. I understand that models don’t represent the average woman, however that in itself perpetrates unrealistic ideas of beauty in some ways. The fact that a plus size model and a plus size woman is not necessarily the same thing, limits the amount of redefining the industry truly has. I think women of all shapes and sizes are beautiful and should all be celebrated without limitations.

We would love to hear about “Love Your Body Day”!

The National Organization of Women created Love Your Body Day in 1998. When I joined the Hollywood chapter they weren’t doing anything to celebrate the day, since I was already doing things to promote positive body images and it’s my passion, I was appointed Love Your Body chairperson of the local chapter and was able to completely create and execute what I envisioned a Love Your Body Day celebration to be. 2010 marked the 5^th year I produced the event and every year it gets bigger and better! Hollywood NOW Love Your Body Day is a free community event for women of all shapes and sizes that promotes positive body image. The day consists of entertainment, free goodies, vendors, and a fashion show. Hollywood NOW Love Your Body Day has grown into a weekend of events that includes a launch party and body image panel discussion as well.

Hollywood NOW’s Love Your Body Day is not only about promoting healthy body image, but also promoting diversity, ending racism, stopping violence against women, and marriage equality. When you meet others who are struggling with these issues, what advice do you give to them? Where do you tell them to go to find inspiration and support?

Love Your Body Day is basically about body image. However, that day is only one small part of what the organizations focuses on and fights for. As you mentioned, the organization, in addition to promoting healthy body image, also promotes a host of other issues that are important to women. Besides inspiring women to be better the organization focuses on action by working to change laws and fighting injustice.

The photographs of yourself and Whitney Thompson are gorgeous. Not only showing both of your individual beauty, but also the beauty of women supporting women…friendship. I think the feelings behind the photographs and what you both stand for is truly beautiful. Please tell us about the photo shoot with Whitney.

Whitney is a champion for positive body image and passionate about it like myself, so I thought she would be a perfect fit to host this year’s Love Your Body Day festivities. Every year I have a photo shoot with the celebrity host, but none have gotten close to the attention of this year’s photo shoot. Whitney is a top model so I let her create the concept for the photo shoot and she suggested nude, although I had reservations about doing it, I was all for it because I knew it would get a lots of attention, but I had no idea how much! The nude Love Your Body campaign we did together literally created an international media buzz; it was on every major blog and entertainment website in the world. We even got to do an interview for E! News and all the attention helped make this year an overwhelming success. It was really great working with her and I think she’s an awesome model.

As the host of Plus Model Radio, have you ever been star struck by one of your guests on your show? If you could interview anyone in the world, who would it be? Why?

Yes, I have been star stuck before. The one interview that comes to mind is Emme! You would have never known listening to the interview because I know how not to let my nerves show and move forward with whatever I’m doing. Besides the radio is a breeze compared to being on camera or publicly speaking at an event. If I could interview anyone in the world, it would be Oprah! I love her and she is such an inspiration to me. She is plus size, so she would totally qualify to be a guest on the show.

Have you ever struggled with self-esteem or body image issues in the past? If so, how did you reach the point of accepting and loving yourself? What advice would you give to young girls and women who are currently struggling?

No, I’ve never had that problem. I am very fortunate that I was never criticized or belittled for my weight growing up. As a result, I never thought there was anything wrong with me because of my size. I had a very happy childhood and in high school was very social and popular. A lot of people ask me this questions and I think the question we should start asking women is when did you learn to hate yourself and your body, because I don’t think a child comes into the world with those insecurities, it’s a result of your environment and influences. I would tell someone struggling with low self-esteem and body image issues to stop being your own worst critic, you are beautiful just the way you are, and if anyone in your life is telling you otherwise, get rid of the negativity.

Have you read any good books that help promote positive self-esteem and healthy body image that you would recommend for girls, pre-teens, teens, or women?

Yes, I would recommend “Good Girls Don’t Get Fat” by Dr. Robyn Silverman

What do you wish you would have known at age 13?

I wish I would have known that I wanted to pursue a career in entertainment, so I could have gotten started earlier and be further along in my career! However, I believe everything happens for a reason and I wouldn’t change a thing about the path that has led me to where I am today!

What kinds of pressures do you see the girls in your life facing these days? What can we as mentors do to better address these issues?

I don’t have kids, or sisters, or nieces so I don’t really have lots of young girls in my personal life. However, I think young girls these days have tons of pressures on them that goes beyond body image. With the internet age they have everything at their finger tips, good and bad, so they know everything and see everything weather it is appropriate or not. I’m a firm believer that it all starts at home and we as mentors have to set a positive example by not only what we say, but more importantly our actions. For instance, you can’t tell a girl that she is beautiful regardless of her size but then you are constantly obsessing about your weight and criticizing yourself, which has a greater impact on her.

How do you define beauty?

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. We all have our own individual standards of beauty, which is influenced by our families and cultural backgrounds. For me personally, I rely heavily on inner beauty. I’ve notice the higher regard I hold the person, the more attractive they are to me and just the opposite if their personality or behavior is less than desirable. Although I’m human and there are certain physical attributes that I prefer, especially with the opposite sex, at the end of the day I need the inside to match the outside.

What is your secret to happiness?

By living a purpose driven life and not sweating the small stuff! I am extremely blessed and living my dreams, instead of focusing on the negative I focus more on the positive and try to keep an optimistic outlook on life.

Where do you like to shop for clothes?

Literally any where that carries my size. I will shop anywhere from K-mart and Target to Nordstorms and Saks, and everywhere in between. But my three go to stores are Macys, Torrid, and Lane Bryant, and when I’m in the South I go to Dillards. When I have the time I like to go dig through Marshall’s, TJ Maxx, and Ross as well!

Favorite jeans?

I love Applebottom jeans! Not only do they fit me very well, they are hip and stylish.

What are some of your favorite beauty products or must-haves?

I love MAC cosmetics, for my hair Organic Root Stimulator Olive Oil Smooth -n- Hold Pudding, I use Nair on my legs. I always have French Manicure on my nails and toes.

Lipstick or Lip gloss?

Lip gloss, I threw away all of my lipsticks a couple years ago. I like my lips super juicy! I love MAC lipgloss in C-Thru, Oh Baby, Red Russian, and Pink Poodle. I also like over the counter lip glosses like Milani Buzz Worthy Lip Gloss and L’oreal Colour Juice Sheer Lip Gloss.

What beauty invention has made the greatest impact on your life?

That’s a tough one! I would have to say hair weave/extensions…LOL

What is your signature scent?

White Diamonds by Elizabeth Taylor, I’ve worn several other fragrances, but that’s what my mom wears and I just started doing the same.

On a day off, what would your perfect day be like?

Either a pamper day where I get my hair, nail, toes, and eyebrows done or a day full of shopping! Hanging out on the beach is fun too!

What achievement are you most proud of?

I’m most proud of having the guts to pose naked in front of the world!

Who is your role model or hero? Why?

My ultimate role models are my parents because they are who I look to for characteristics and qualities to emulate in my life. However, for career and business Oprah Winfrey!

What is the best advice you have ever been given?

The best advice I’ve been given is to never compromise my morals and values, and to live my life with integrity.

What do you love about yourself and why?

I literally love everything about myself. From the top of my head to the bottom of my feet, I think I’m absolutely awesome! I’m created in God’s image, no reason not to like myself!

What are you excited about right now?

I’m excited about the New Year and all the potential it holds!

Visit Chenese online at:

www.cheneselewis.com

www.plusmodelradio.com

*Thank you, Chenese!

7 Comments »

International Model Laura Wells Says, “Emotional health is such a major part of being healthy. Learning to be happy with yourself and surroundings goes a long way towards leading a positive and stress free life.”

Posted in Australia, Beauty, Hair, & Make-up, Body Image, Confidence, Family & Friends, Fashion, Fitness & Health, Food, Hobbies, Inspiration, Media, Models, My Story, Parenting, Plus-Size Modeling, Self-Esteem, Shopping, Trade Tips, Travel, Unique Beauty, Wilhelmina, Work with tags angles, Australia, average woman, Beauty, BGM Models, Body Image, body shape, boots, Confidence, confident, Cosmopolitan, Courtney Wells, Crystal Renn, current issues, curves, curvy body, Darrianne Donnelly, diversity, editorial, Embody Denim, emotional health, environmental science, Exercise, Family, Fashion, Fitness, Food, Health, Heaven and Earth, Laura Wells, leggines, love, Magazines, Make-Up, Models, moisturizer, New York, Plus-Size Modeling, Self-Esteem, shapes, sisters, Sydney, Topshop, Trade Tips, Unique Beauty, university, Wilhelmina, Work, Zara on February 2, 2011 by Liz

Laura Wells is a plus-size model from Sydney, Australia. She has earned degrees in both Science and Law. She is signed with BGM Models in Australia and Wilhelmina in New York. Her sister, Courtney, is also a model. Laura is currently living in NYC and modeling internationally. She has shared the catwalk with Crystal Renn and many other beautiful women!

We would love to hear how the both of you got into modeling.

Courtney, who is a straight-size model, went to NYC to go see agents about five years ago. I went with her and got asked by a few scouts if I was a plus-size model. At that stage of my life, I didn’t even know such a model existed and I really had no interest in modeling at all. That was my sisters department and I was busy at a university and traveling at the time. When I got back to Australia, I got in contact with BGM Models had an interview. My agent, Darrianne Donnelly, signed me. My first job came two weeks later and since then, I haven’t looked back.

What advice do you have for aspiring models?

I think one of the most important aspects of modeling is finding an agent that understands what you want from the industry and an agent that you can have a great relationship with. Go with your gut instinct as well. If you feel uncomfortable during a shoot, you should speak up and if you feel like you need more direction, you should always ask for it, as it is a great way to learn more about your body and your best shapes and angles. Be true to yourself. Love yourself and your body, and show how proud you are of yourself through your work. A good model exudes confidence in herself and should be able to convey that to her audience whether it be in print or in person.

Have you ever suffered from self-esteem or body image issues? If so, what advice do you have to girls and women who are currently struggling?

When I first starting modeling and during high school, I was never really confident with my curves. I also thought of myself as a lot bigger than everyone else, especially my friends. I never really understood that curves were a blessing! Since modeling, I have become a lot more aware of my body shape and finally take pride in the fact that I have a curvy body. I dress to show off my curves and am now no longer afraid to do so. With the increasing awareness of plus sizes and curves in the media, I really think that a positive message is being spread and that anyone that is struggling with body image should take this on board. You have to learn to love yourself and what you have been given in order to lead a healthy life. There are many clothing brands out there now catering towards the plus industry, if you are not sure of how to dress to show off your best features, I think it is a great idea to talk to a stylist and find out what works best for you.

The Cosmopolitan editorial featuring the both you and your sister Courtney is beautiful. What was it like working together?

It was fantastic. It was the first time we have ever worked together and we had a blast! The shoot really showcased just how different our body shapes are and the team did a great job with the styling.

What effect do you hope this editorial, featuring a straight-size model and a plus-size model, will have on the fashion industry?

The shoot definitely shows a diversity of beauty between sizes and it would be great if this beauty were reflected more within the industry. Hopefully, this shoot can propel the industry into realizing that diversity is important and that the plus size industry is here to stay and should be included in editorial work more often. The plus size industry and models instill a great amount of reassurance and a sense of connection with the average woman and have the same ability to sell as the straight size industry.

Do you feel it is important to represent women of different sizes? Why?

Yes, it is definitely important to represent women of not only different sizes, but different ethnicities as well. By representing everyone, it gives people a sense of acceptance and self-assurance. Fashion is for everyone. Clothing is a part of everyday life and it should therefore include every type of person!

What is your go-to outfit?

I usually go for something that hugs my curves, otherwise I can tend to look like a brick. A figure hugging dress, leggings, and boots are at the front of the wardrobe right now as it is winter in Sydney. I also love a good pair of fitted jeans. I love my jeans from Embody Denim. They fit perfectly and look awesome.

Where do you love to shop?

Since I have been in Europe for most of the year, I have been shopping in Topshop and Zara. We don’t have these shops in Australia and I absolutely love the range they have. The credit card has been hurting but I have bought some great pieces!

Favorite beauty products and must-haves?

Traveling definitely takes its toll on your skin, so I always have a good moisturizer with me. I think I must look like a freak on the plane sometimes because I am constantly re-applying moisturizer to my face every hour. It’s like obsessive-compulsive behavior, but I know if I don’t do it, my skin will break out, and that’s not always the best when you jump straight off a 36-hour flight into a shoot!

I have a big supply of cleanser and a strong eye makeup remover on me at all times. Sometimes eye makeup remover can be a life saver, especially when you finish a shoot with crazy makeup and have to get onto public transport (yes, we models often take public transport, none of this private drivers, haha) A little bit of remover can be the difference between you getting a whole lot of strange looks on the subway!

I also carry a concealer/ highlighter pen with me. They are great for covering those unwanted blemishes and adding a bit of sparkle under the eye!

What is the best advice you have ever been given?

Every piece of advice I get from both my mum and dad has usually been spot on. Even though there has been times and different ages in my life when I didn’t listen, at all, or though that it was completely ridiculous, their advice has always been right in the end!

What do you love about yourself? Why?

I love the fact that I am able to adapt to any situation I am thrust into. Modeling in different countries means dealing with language barriers and situations that are completely different than the norm. I have always been able to make the best of any situation and stay positive during the tough times. Being mindful and making an effort to speak in the native language, no matter whether it is a simple ‘hello’ or a full conversation, goes a long way to showing the client and the shoot team that you are an open-minded person and willing to make an effort.

My way of adapting to new countries and situations includes doing a little research before I get there, not only so I know a little about the country and people but so that I know I will be safe and know exactly where I am going and how I am getting there. Being one-step ahead and always prepared with enough money, a map, and a phone is a good strategy to keeping yourself safe and fitting in with your new surroundings.

What does being healthy mean to you?

I believe that being healthy is a mixture of physical and emotional health. Having a balanced diet and exercise routine is a must have. Its fine to treat yourself but over-indulging can get the best of you on most occasions. I try to mix up my diet and exercise so that I don’t get bored or stuck in the same routine. When I go to the gym, I usually do the classes they offer, as I need some form of motivation and the class and the teacher provide that.

Emotional health is such a major part of being healthy. Learning to be happy with yourself and surroundings goes a long way towards leading a positive and stress free life.

What are you reading right now?

It may sound nerdy but I am reading a book called ‘Heaven and Earth, the missing science of Global Warming’. I have a science degree and a law degree and try to keep up to date on current issues in the environmental science field. I am actually really loving this book right now. I tend to read more non-fiction than fiction novels.

What are you excited about right now?

I am excited about my move to NYC. I have been signed with Wilhelmina in NY. I can’t wait to hopefully start working for some great American brands.

*Thank you, Laura!

2 Comments »

Model Danielle Redman Says, “Beauty is in your character. It’s about your knowledge, your humor, how you deal with daily situations, and how you carry yourself.”

Posted in Art, Beauty, Hair, & Make-up, Body Image, Confidence, Designers, Entertainment, Family & Friends, Fashion, Fitness & Health, Food, Ford +, Hobbies, Inspiration, Media, Models, New York, Photographers, Plus-Size Modeling, Recipes & Food, Self-Esteem, Shopping, Sports, Travel, TV, Unique Beauty, Work with tags beautiful, Beauty, Body Image, Books, character, cheetahs, Confidence, Danielle Redman, Designers, diversity, Exercise, Family, farm, Fashion, Fitness, Food, Ford Models, Friends, Funny Experiences, Health, Horses, humor, Inspiration, Iowa, lips, Make-Up, Media, Models, music, New York, Oreos, oxfords, Plus-Size Modeling, poetry, Running, salads, Self-Esteem, Shopping, smoothies, South Africa, Travel, Unique Beauty, Work, yoga on January 30, 2011 by Liz

Danielle Redman is a plus model with FORD Models. She is from a small farm in Iowa. Danielle has an older sister, two older brothers, two half sisters, and two half brothers. She grew up riding horses and playing with any kind of animal that she could find from a snake or lizard in the garden to cows in the pasture.

How did you start your career as a model?

When I was fourteen and shopping in a mall, I was scouted by Mother Model Management who asked me if I ever thought about modeling. They put on a modeling contest and I got runner-up.

What advice would you give to aspiring models?

Be confident and believe in who you are whoever you are. It’s about being yourself.

What do you love about your job?

I love that I’m doing what I always dreamed of, which is travel the world meeting new and interesting people while it’s getting documented.

In terms of your career, what has been the best advice you have ever been given?

A photographer at a job once told me to be myself because no one else can be that.

Out of all of the places your modeling career has taken you, where has been the most memorable?

My favorite place is South Africa. We had a shoot at a cheetah ranch and we were able to go in and pet the baby cheetahs.

Have you ever struggled from self-esteem or body image issues? If so, what advice would you give to young girls and women who are currently struggling?

I’ve had and am still working on self-esteem issues. Do what makes you feel good and happy. Really get to know yourself. Surround yourself with people who love and adore you but who will also tell you the truth. Good friends are irreplaceable. Also, if you eat a box of Oreos, like I do sometimes, don’t feel bad about it. I’m not saying do it all the time, just don’t tell yourself that you won’t have something, life is too short for limitations; just keep it balanced.

What do you love about yourself?

My big ass and my big lips.

How do you define beauty?

Beauty is in your character. It’s about your knowledge, your humor, how you deal with daily situations, and how you carry yourself.

What is a fun fact about you?

I was raised on a small farm and grew up riding horses.

How do you stay fit and healthy?

I run and do yoga on occasion. I have two dogs that I walk on a regular basis. As a child, I was always active and constantly on the move so I think the muscle memory helps, but what it really comes down to is the food. I love fresh smoothies and salads. I’m a big fan of anything fresh and raw. The more the better.

What would we find in your make-up bag?

Cococare lip balm, YSL mascara, and Cargo concealer right next to my own personal hand cream concoction.

Do you have any quick make-up tips to share with us?

Keep it simple and show your skin. I think all skin is beautiful so don’t cover it up. If you do a lip, go light on the eye and vice versa.

Who is your role model or hero? Why?

My mama. She raised four kids on her own.

Style Icon?

I love older classy gentleman’s style. Really simple clean lines.

What is your go-to outfit?

Mens oversized button down, skinny jeans, and oxfords with my arm full of bracelets.

Where do you love to shop for clothes?

I like to mix it up between thrift shops and small shops wherever they may be.

What are your favorite sites to visit online?

Besides Plus-Size Models Unite, I love tumblr blogs. There are a few good ones: my blog~ http://www.horsewithwings.tumblr.com . Also, http://www.thesweetdreamer.tumblr.com and http://www.hummingbirdlovegorilla.tumblr.com.

What are some of your favorite books?

Just Kids and all of Chelsea Handler’s books.

Who do you have on speed dial?
My mama.

What is your signature scent?

I love Bvgaria Jasmin Noir. It’s a clean musky scent.

On a day off, what would your perfect day consist of?

Riding horses in the forest.

What music is on at home?

Florence And The Machine is on repeat at the moment, along with one of my good friends Theophilus London. Also big fan of Mark Ronson, Kanye West, Edward Sharpe, The Magnetic Zeros, and Phoenix.

What do you enjoy most about living in NYC?

It’s amazing how you really can do anything in NYC. There’s so much talent and history here. Live music, poetry, someone’s painting, someone’s crunching numbers…in every cube of space there is someone.

What do you miss most about home?

I miss the fresh air and all the green open spaces. I love seeing my family and my two little nephews. Also, I left my horse Oscar at my mom’s farm, so I always love going home and seeing him and going for a ride.

Where would you like to see yourself in ten years?

I would love to see myself on the big screen. That’s what I’m striving for.

What is one of your most favorite childhood memories?

Riding my horse around the farm with my older brother. We would make our own trail rides and be gone all day.

What are you excited about right now?

It’s exciting seeing the industry changing–adding more diversity in the girls between race, size, and age. It’s amazing seeing all types of women. We are all beautiful.

*Thank you, Danielle!

2 Comments »

Three Plus Models Join New Parenting Web Site! Are You a Momma? We Would Love You to Join Our New Community!

Posted in Confidence, Family & Friends, Food, Inspiration, Models, Parenting, Recipes & Food, Self-Esteem, Shopping with tags Andrea Dodd, Angela Jones, Articles, Beauty, Body Image, Cassandra Mack, cheyney barrieau, Confidence, Eating Disorders, Family, Hair, Inspiration, Janell Kaufman, Kate Tunnell, life iluli photography, liz nord, Models, Molly Pitts, Mom's, Parenting, plus size models, Secrets of moms who dare to tell all, Self-Esteem, Stay-at-Home Moms, The Art Institue of Seattle, The Gates Foundation, Tracie Stern, Trade Tips, Unique Beauty, Wilhelmina, Working Moms on January 18, 2011 by Liz

Hi, everyone!

Elizabeth just started another website called Secrets of Moms Who Dare to Tell All (www.secretsofmoms.com).

Plus Models Angela Jones, Kate Tunnell, and Cheyney Barrieau are contributing as well as several other fabulous women! It’s going to be a great and a wonderful place for mothers to go to share their stories and advice and will discuss both light and serious issues!

This website is for all you parents out there who want to hear the real ins and outs of being a mom. We will discuss the moments, days, feelings, and experiences that most moms don’t usually share with anyone but their closest friends. Almost every mom I’ve met has said that no one ever told her what it’s really like to be a parent. You hear about how wonderful, fun, and lovey everything is (and that’s true), but people don’t tell you about the craziness, unpredictability, and all-encompassing reality of what it’s like to raise kids. I wish I would’ve known the truth sooner, so that I never would’ve felt like a failure for not being perfect. Thankfully, I don’t feel that way anymore–what is perfect, anyway!?! I am perfectly unperfected and so are you. Let’s help all the mom’s out there feel good about themselves and their children, by being real.

This is a place for EVERYONE to have honest, direct dialogue without judgment. Secrets will be told and almost anything goes. We will cover every topic imaginable–the good, the bad, and the funny. Let yourself be heard! Dads are welcome too. Please share your stories, send us comments and pictures, and tell the truth. As long as you are speaking your truth, you are welcome here. Please be kind to each other, interact, and ask questions.

Liz Nord is the creator of www.secretsofmoms.com. She is a wife and mother of two daughters ages six and nine. She loves family, running, reading, seeking knowledge, baking, laughing, innovating, traveling, in-depth conversations, sunshine, and outdoor adventures. She earned a B.A. in Communications, and completed graduate editing courses at the University of Washington. Liz has published articles in a number of magazines, newspapers, and on numerous websites. She has been a guest on the Leeza Gibbons talk show, Hollywood Confidential, and serves on the Editing Certificate Advisory Board at the University of Washington. She is also the co-creator of Plus-Size Models Unite. Liz is passionate about promoting positive self-esteem, healthy body image, and confidence. She believes in cultivating who you are truly meant to be and embracing your unique self.

We are an eclectic, intelligent, fun group of women, who are all here to share our parenting experiences.

Cheyney Barrieau is a mother of two beautiful children – Lulu, 18 months, and Max, 3 months. She is born and raised in New York City and now resides in West Hartford, CT with her college sweetheart hubby, Gib. Cheyney was a straight-sized model with Wilhelmina Models and moved to WCurve after having two children back to back. As well as being a full-time mom, she finds the time to continue her modeling career, showing young girls it’s perfectly fine to show off those curves!

Andrea Dodd is a fully domestic homeschooling mom of a newly blended family; two girls of her own, ages 10 and 7; and inherited son, 8. When Andrea is not teaching, you’ll find her coaching and playing volleyball, baking, reading with a glass of red, or behind the lens, growing her budding photography career, Life iluli Fotography, which has been featured on Plus Size Models Unite.

Andrea went to a Seattle Junior College, and then off to Arizona State University, studying Nutrition. She’s passionate about family (including those sisters by choice), health, positive living, and relishing those glimpses of momentary bliss mothering bestows.

Angela Jones is a wife, mother of two children, a model, and an eating disorder survivor. She is also the co-creator of the website Plus-Size Models Unite, a contributor to Healthy is the New Skinny, and a speaker for the Perfectly UnPerfected (P.U.P.) Project. Angela enjoys spending time with her family and friends. In her free time, she loves to take walks, run, dance, bake, or spend time at home. She is passionate about promoting healthy living, confidence, and self-love to girls and women around the world.

Janell Kaufman is a graduate of Western Washington University with a degree in English Literature and Communications. She is a stay at home mom of a ten-year old girl and a, recently adopted, seven-year old boy. She over volunteers at her children’s school, is highly emotional (read: cries all the time), and often puts her foot in her mouth. Janell has been an avid journal keeper for over 25 years and is currently working on a fiction novel, when she can find the time.

Cassandra Mack, MSW is a trained social worker, national girls’ empowerment expert and the founder of Strategies for Empowered Living Inc., a New York based human development company dedicated to helping people succeed and grow. She has written over ten highly successful books including: “Cool, Confident and Strong: 52 Power Moves for Girls,” “The Busy Woman’s Little Book of Motivation,” and “Say It, See It, Believe It: The Affirmation Activity Journal for Girls and Their Mothers.” For more information about this contributing writer go to: www.strategiesforempoweredliving.com.

Molly Pitts grew up in a small town outside of Seattle. She attended Western Washington University looking to graduate with a degree in communications, but transferred to The Art Institute of Seattle to follow her love of filmmaking and video production. After graduating, she worked in the industry for a few years ending at The Gates Foundation where she was a video editor. Molly is now back in that same small town being a mom and laughing as much as she can at the craziness we call parenting. She has three girls’ ages five, three and 8 months. Her oldest and youngest are biological and the three-year old was adopted from Ethiopia. She joined their family when she was just six months old.

Kate Tunnell is a new mom to a nine-week old son and a nine-year old stepson. She is a plus-size model who is originally from New Jersey—yes, the Jersey Shore. Kate worked in NYC, and then moved to Texas after meeting her husband on a model search tour. She loves making a home for her family and enjoys all the adventures of having a new baby. Kate loves telling young girls and women that it’s okay to have curves, embrace your body, and don’t think you have to be thin to be beautiful!

Come visit us at www.secretsofmoms.com! Thank you.

2 Comments »

Plus-Size Models Unite

Archive for the Shopping Category

Kavita Verryth Says, “I really believe that understanding your body shape is an amazing step to accepting yourself in a positive light. Once you understand your body and what it takes to make it feel amazing it’s possible to take steps to gain control of your self-esteem.”

International Model Bree Warren Says, “Everyone has those moments of self-doubt and times you wish you could wave a magic wand but at the end of the day, you need to have faith in yourself.”

Our Interview with Russian Model Katya Zharkova

Australian Model Bonnie McBeath Says, “To have a positive attitude and not be bogged down in negative self-talk and negative people, really helps you feel great.”

Fashion To Figure to Hold Grand Opening of New Cross Country Shopping Center Store in Yonkers, NY on Saturday, March 5th.

The Women Behind Madison Plus

Plus Model Radio Host Chenese Lewis Says, “I think women of all shapes and sizes are beautiful and should all be celebrated without limitations.”

International Model Laura Wells Says, “Emotional health is such a major part of being healthy. Learning to be happy with yourself and surroundings goes a long way towards leading a positive and stress free life.”

Model Danielle Redman Says, “Beauty is in your character. It’s about your knowledge, your humor, how you deal with daily situations, and how you carry yourself.”

Three Plus Models Join New Parenting Web Site! Are You a Momma? We Would Love You to Join Our New Community!

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