Fashion Stylist Stacy London Coming to Westfield Brandon

By: Farrah Estrella and TaNashea Mcleod

Fashion Stylist Stacy London host of TLC’s “What Not To Wear” and creative director of “Westfield Style”, is making a personal appearance at the Westfield Brandon Mall on Saturday March 31^st, 2012.

The first 250 shoppers who spend more than $100 on women’s apparel and accessories at Westfield Brandon retailers will have the opportunity to meet and be photographed with London.

Receipts must be dated March 17-31 and can be redeemed, first come, first serve at the Westfield Style Tour area near Lucky Brand Jeans and Sephora on March 31 starting at 10 a.m.

The Westfield Style Tour program is a national program empowering women of every age, budget, and body type with confidence and self-esteem to build a fashionable wardrobe.

Event Details:

Stacy London Meet and Greet

Date: Saturday March 31^st, 2012

Time: 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. 

Westfield Brandon 459 Brandon Town Center
Brandon FL 33511
Ph.: (813) 661-5100

For more information on the Westfield Style Tour at Westfield Brandon, please visit www.westfield.com/brandon/style-tour/tour/.

Colorful Thomas Pink Men's Soxs

By: Farrah Estrella

Photo Credit: http://www.thomaspink.com/

Thomas Pink soxs are very colorful and trendy. They are made for the modern and confident men. Corporate America has embraced this trend and nowadays you can see an impeccably dressed man wearing colorful soxs.

Thomas Pink was an 18th century London tailor who designed the iconic hunting coat worn by Masters of Foxhounds, whippers-in, huntsmen and other hunt staff. The coat was made of scarlet cloth but was always referred to as PINK, in honor of its originator.

Meticulous attention to detail, exclusive fabric and exquisite craftsmanship were the hallmarks of a PINK coat. Today Thomas Pink carries on the name and tradition of Mr. Pink, crafting shirts which enshrine the British heritage of the iconic PINK coat.

                                                                                                                                                                                

Photo Credit: http://www.thomaspink.com/

Visit Thomas Pink website for more information. http://www.thomaspink.com/

Slices of Style: Toni Hardman

by Toya Styles

There are plenty of people behind the scenes at photo shoots that are never seen, Toni Hardman, Master Make-up Artist out of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is one of those magic makers. Starting with crayons when she was young Toni says “color is a passion for me” and the love of it led her into make-up.

  

  

This Philly native was just featured in Essence magazine showcasing her exceptional talent. I asked her how it went and she said that she was genuinely surprised and excited that they contacted her. Looking at the behind the scene pictures you can see the transformation of the model under Toni’s skill. A connection brought her to Essences’ attention. She is amazed at how that happened and stresses the importance of connections in the services industry.

When asked about herself, she is very humble and down to earth stating that she “rarely gets an opportunity to talk about herself” she is usually a sounding board for her clients, but soon she will be the center of attention. Toni has been picked up to teach models make-up classes at Tru Model Agency in Philadelphia, Pa.

We joke about what makes a good Philly cheesesteak sub, which is the Ambrose bread, and pet peeves we have, it was like talking with a friend that you haven’t seen in a long time.

Getting back on track we talk skin; Toni is also a skincare expert. “One of the things that woman don’t take into consideration is healthy skin” she states, “When you have a beautiful foundation make-up accentuates it”. Some make-up artists are not concerned with the health of the skin that they work on, but that is not the case with Toni. She affirms, “Women underestimate the importance of exfoliation”.
Some tips she had for healthier skin were to take fish oil or cocoa oil supplements, wash your face twice a day and exfoliate twice a month. It will take time to see the results of good skincare but stick with it and you will see the benefits. To reach Toni for appointments email her at tigertonimac@yahoo.com. Be on the lookout for what Ms. Toni will do next I guarantee greatness!

Photo Credits: Toni Hardman

For more information on visit:

http://www.modelmayhem.com/1019056

https://www.facebook.com/ahardmanmua#!/

http://twitter.com/#!/makeupartist1

Be.Epic.

Toya Styles

CURVY PICK OF THE DAY…. RING ACCENT SURPLICE DRESS BY LANE BRYANT

This dress has a metal ring accent and flattering faux wrap shape, the surplice front neck-line makes the most of your curves! It has a pull-on style with an elastic waist and cap sleeves. Perfect for office, evening or weekend, simply add accessories and you've got a winning style that turns heads.



Photo Credit: http://sonsi.lanebryant.com/

Fashion For Justice: Wear a Hoodie for Trayvon Martin Rally

by Farrah Estrella & TaNashea McLeod

Photo Credit: Janaria Hallingquest  http://www.hallingquestphotography.com/

Tampa's radio station Wild 94.1 is having a rally this Saturday March 24, 2012 at 10:30 am at Al Lopez Park in Tampa in support of the Justice for Trayvon Martin case, the young teenage boy that was allegedly racial profiled for wearing a hoodie.
Who knew that a Hoodie was going to be something that could get someone killed?
As fashion Writers and Bloggers we do care about social issues. This one hit close to home not only because it is in our home state of Florida but also because we are Black and Hispanic. Ta’Nashea is a mother of three boys and hoodies are a staple in their wardrobe, as with most people young and old alike. The hooded sweater dates back as far as the 1930’s. It became popular in the 1970’s with the Hip Hop culture, but is internationally known and worn by every walk of life. During the 1990’s high profile fashion designers used hoodies as major components in their collections and still do so today. Most people can’t even fathom the idea that the clothing they put on will play a role in them being racial profiled and unlawfully killed. Yes! Fashion is way to make a statement without using words, but Young Trayvon’s voice could be heard calling for help loud and clear on the 911 recording. Let’s pull together as a people and help get justice for Trayvon.

Al Lopez Park

LOCATION:
4810 N. Himes Ave.
Tampa, FL 33614

CURVY PICK OF THE DAY…. GENIUS FIT™ DARK RINSE FLARE JEAN

Genius Fit™ dark rinse flare jean with LYCRA® dualFX™ denim stays true to your shape and never stretches out. Modern flare silhouette adds trendy appeal with whiskering, contrast stitching and classic 5-pocket design. Button & zip fly closure and belt loops.

Photo Credit: http://sonsi.lanebryant.com/

CURVY TRENDS

by TaNashea McLeod

WHAT'S YOUR FAVORITE TREND THIS SEASON?

PEPLUM

Photo Credit: http://us.asos.com/

COLOR BLOCK

Photo Credit: http://shop.nordstrom.com/ (Adrianna Papell)

BOLD JEWELRY

Photo Credit: http://www.sooochicaccessories.com/

ANIMAL PRINTS

Photo Credit: http://www.forever21.com/

WEDGES

Photo Credit: http://www.bestgirlsboutique.com/

  PATTERN SUNDRESSES

Photo Credit: http://www.ashleystewart.com/

BELTS

Photo Credit: http://www.lafayette148ny.com/

BRIGHT AND VIBRANT COLORS

Photo Credit: http://www.dots.com/

CLUTCHES

Photo Credit: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Xong-Hang-Photography/

http://www.esprotege.com/

CURVY PICK OF THE DAY….THE "BELIZE" MESH INSET PLUS SIZE SWIMSUIT FROM MONIF C.

This swimsuit is from Monif C. Resort 2012 collection and is inspired by vintage lingerie and is a must have this season. Strategically placed mesh insets give the swimsuit a slimming and sexy feel. The V-neck top has sewn in soft cups and halter neck ties so you can adjust as needed. Mesh tummy tuck lining throughout the swimsuit helps to suck in your tummy.

Photo Credit:  http://www.monifc.com/

SK WiLBUR

by TaNashea McLeod

Photo Credit: http://www.skwilbur.com/

Sorta Kinda Enterprises is a New York based fashion company that was founded in 1998 by Wilbur Pack, Jr.

Designer Wilbur Pack, Jr. showed an appreciation for stylish, beautiful women at a very early age. At 29 years old he finally broke free from the shackles of self-doubt and began to follow his dream. SK Wilbur is how he honors his life's calling.

SK Wilbur’s Mission is to create a collection that lives up to the company's credo of being BOLD, CLASSIC, & MODERN while providing women who are young in spirit with stylish, inventive options for day to evening dressing.

SK Wilbur has been featured in many prestigious magazines and received press in the NY Post, Women’s Wear Daily, and Jet, just to name a few.  Designer Wilbur Pack, Jr. gained great exposure as a recent contestant on the reality show 24 Hour Catwalk on the major network Lifetime Television.

Video Credit: http://www.youtube.com/user/TheStylishmaven

One thing is for sure SK Wilbur is “A new dominion where size does not matter and everything curvy is LUXURIOUS and FABULOUS! Shapeless, dowdy dresses are a thing of the past. At SK WiLBUR they celebrate your curves and appreciate your bodies. It's a new day for the full-figured woman.”

For more information visit: http://www.skwilbur.com/

CURVY PICK OF THE DAY….THE FIONA CONVERTIBLE TOP FROM JILL ALEXANDER DESIGNS

The Fiona Convertible Top is from Jill Alexander Designs Spring 2012 collection. This Kimono Sleeved Convertible Top is so versatile you will be sure to incorporate it into many seasons for years to come. Wear it alone as dress or cover-up while vacationing, put it with the Antonia skirt for a day of shopping and dinner, or add slacks and accessories for the office giving you a comfortable professional look with a splash of color power.

Photo Credit: http://www.jillalexanderdesigns.com/

BEAUTY IS IN THE EYE OF THE BEHOLDER

By TaNashea McLeod

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Well that’s what they say anyway. My question is what is your eye telling you about beauty?
Last year I entered a contest where the contestants had to explain why they loved being full-figured. Although I didn’t win the contest, I did have what Oprah would call an "Aha!!! Moment."
As I soaked in a hot bath long after my husband and three little boys were sleeping, not only did I notice that many of the contestants stories were similar to mine, you know “I used to hate myself now I love myself” that song and dance.
I also began to recall all the times from my past when I had gone on crash diets, taken laxatives, worked out until I almost passed out, and yes even threw up my food.
Don’t act like I’m the only one who has been beyond desperate to fit into the next to impossible requirements that just might and I mean might, put this dark skinned, kinky hair, plus sized girl on the A list of pretty.
Then for the first time in a long time I became frustrated with myself. I wondered why it had taken me so many years to see that while being healthy, making a good first impression and of course being fashionable are all very important.
Knowing who you are and ultimately realizing that it is you who is The Beholder and therefore you who determine what constitutes Beauty.
I know what you’re thinking “Duh!!!” Well all that is easier said than believed.
This letter isn’t a free past to let yourself go and become a slob, but it is a reminder to put one’s self on the A list of pretty.
I can’t really remember the exact day I stopped allowing myself to be governed by the cookie cutter dress code for beauty, but I can remember the freedom that comes with no longer being a slave to someone else’s ideals. For me Beauty is having the courage to try even if it means I may fail. So again I ask you. What is your eye telling you about beauty?

Photo Credits: Just Right Photography &  http://estrellafashionreport.blogspot.com/

CURVY PICK OF THE DAY….THE CLAIRE DRESS FROM QUEEN GRACE

The Claire Dress is from Queen Grace Signature Spring Collection. Growl. Could there be a more powerful, sexy feline style animal pattern as the leopard print? QQ has selected the boldest, more flattering fabric, cut the sleeves with a ragline shoulder to compliment your beautiful arms, tri-sleeve, chocolate brown satin high waist panels and perfectly stretchy, body hugging style to accentuate your every move. Knee length hem, open v-neckline.

Photo Credit: http://queengrace.com/

CHECK OUT VOL UP 2 MAGAZINES VERY FIRST ISSUE!

by Ta'Nashea McLeod

VOL UP 2 is an "online quarterly magazine showcasing diverse beauty with an emphasis on curvy women, and exploring the generosity of Mind, Body and Spirit.”

One only needs to see the cover of this innovative and ground breaking magazine to be inspired to embrace your own curves.  

Photo Credit: http://volup2.com/

Vol up 2 was created by supermodel Velvet d’Amour, the first supersize-plus model to infiltrate the elite world of Parisian couture, by walking the runways of both John Galliano and Jean Paul Gaultier and modeling for top fashion magazines, including French Vogue, Egoiste, WAD, Standard, and many others. Recently, Velvet was named a “Curvy Icon” by Italian Vogue.

Photo Credit: http://volup2.com/

Vol Up 2 "encourages readers to revel in their every “imperfection” and celebrate their bodies in their glorious entirety. Born out of Ms. d’Amour’s work to expand society’s limited notion of beauty by building awareness about women of every size and shape, the magazine is a visual celebration of full-figured beauty, combined with a self-affirming message of inspiration."

To subscribe and read the issue visit:

http://volup2.com/

CURVY PICK OF THE DAY….FLORAL CHIFFON COLD-SHOULDER TOP FROM TORRID

Strike a pose in this on-trend floral, cold-shoulder, kimono silhouette with front cinch detail top from Torrid.  

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Photo Credit: http://www.torrid.com/torrid/NewArrivals.jsp

MY SHOE RANT!!!!!

by Ta'Nashea McLeod

Photo Credit: http://buy-discount-shoes.com/ 

I am a military spouse and have been for the past 15 years. Needless to say we move quite a bit, about every 2 to 4 years. That being said we recently moved from overseas back to the United States of America. When the locals arrived to pack up our home in Japan, the middle aged man tasked with packing my closet gasped with disgust as I opened the door to reveal what was inside. When I went down stairs to check on my children I heard him call out for his co-workers to come see the number of shoes I had. I didn’t really think much about it because after my entire closet isn’t exactly Zen, Feng shui, or anything close to minimalistic for that matter. Which after being in Japan for 8 years I learned was the cultural way of life for most?

Fast forward about two months. We received the phone call that our ship had arrived. Literally! The boat with our things had finally docked. Do you know what this means? No more eating and sleeping on the floor. No more paper plates, no more living out of a suit case of heavenly rotated out fits, and more importantly for my husband football on the big screen, for my kids the mother load of toys and for me shoes glorious shoes! Now I could resume my weekly dress-up sessions. 

Photo Credit: http://www.hallingquestphotography.com/

As the caravan of huge moving trucks pulled up to the house I could hardly compose myself. My husband was in a meeting at work so they tasked me with checking of the numbers as they carried in packages. This was not my idea of fun. Every time one of the guys would call out a box labeled shoes I wanted to run with my pink box cutter to the master suite and start opening boxes. Finally my husband arrived. I don’t even think that I gave him a chance to take off his uniform before I handed him the paperwork putting him in charge of checking off furniture. 

After a while the movers began to make jokes about how many boxes, bins, and packages of shoes I had. At first it was sort of funny. One guy said that “85 % of our shipment was shoes” another one said he had “moved people that lived in mansions and not seen so many shoes.” The more they joked the more my husband began to investigate my now deemed “shoe problem” for a second I began to feel bad and even think that I might really have a shoe problem.

Then reality set in. “I don’t have a shoe problem!!!” 

Let’s face it whether they are the latest $1500 Christian Louboutin or a $2 thrift store find, shoes are the ultimate pick me up. They lift our calves, butts, and our spirits!!!! 

CURVY PICK OF THE DAY....DRAPE DRESS FROM ASOS CURVE

Step out in Style for Spring in this canary yellow dress with black floral contrast crochet neck line, semi sheer sleeves, fitted waist, and draped tulip skirt by ASOS CURVE

Photo Credit: http://www.asos.com/Women/

Back by Popular Demand IGIGI

Award winning plus size clothing line IGIGI by designer Yuliya Raquel has recently brought back a number of high demand pieces from their previous collections. These pieces have been recut, remade, and are now available for purchase.

Yuliya Raquel has expressed, “When designing, I always imagine how a woman will feel in the garment; I try to determine if the clothes will make her more excited about where she is going. Will she feel more feminine? Sensual? And seductive?” She continues, “Many customers write to say my clothes make them feel virtually invincible, like a goddess. That’s what makes it all worthwhile to me.”

IGIGI was awarded “Best Plus Fashion Retailer of the Year” in 2010 as well as “Best Plus Size Designer Readers' Choice Awards” in 2011. IGIGI is known for its great fit, latest styles, high quality, and optimized development and production all within the USA.

For more information visit

http://www.igigi.com/