Fat and Fab Chic

Oh Those Sexy Curves!

noreply@blogger.com (Maurisha Shay) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 17:34:00 +0000

Valentine's Day, the ultimate day of love is a day that brings out the love and passion in most of us. It's also a day when many women embrace and flaunt their womanly curves in delicate bits of lace or satin. Lingerie is the go to item of clothing for this special day. I am very selective about my lingerie it has to fit well, have feminine details, and also make me feel sexy and secure in my curves. I have compiled a list of online stores that carry an extensive selection of lingerie items sure to show off those sexy curves!

Curvy Lingerie Shops:

Curves at the SAG Awards: Octavia Spencer

noreply@blogger.com (Maurisha Shay) — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 01:33:00 +0000

Congrats are in order as Octavia Spencer won the award for Best Supporting Actress for her role in "The Help". She arrived at the SAG Awards wearing this figure-flattering embellished Tadashi Shoji gown. Do we love it?

Countdown to Christmas: Last Minute Gift Ideas

noreply@blogger.com (Maurisha Shay) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 18:51:00 +0000

I have to confess that I am guilty of being a last minute gift shopper! So in order to make sure gifts actually end up under the tree for my loved ones I have to be strategic about my shopping plans. I like to group my giftees into types and then target shop for those individuals. If you are like me, and have found yourself caught up in the last minute Christmas shopping frenzy I have put together a few gift ideas that might make shopping a little easier.

The Beauty Lover:

More Ulta...

The Fashion/Accessory Lover:

More Nixon...

The Home Design Lover:

More Pottery Barn...

Music & Curves : "VH1's Divas Celebrates Soul"

noreply@blogger.com (Maurisha Shay) — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 20:12:00 +0000

Photos(c) - Essence

I tuned in last night to watch "VH1's Divas Celebrates Soul" and enjoyed watching some of my favorite singers perform. My favorites of the night were Jill Scott and Ledisi, these two ladies have pipes for days, they could sing the alphabet and I would be blown away! I also enjoyed Kelly Clarkson and Sharon Jone's performance (not pictured), as these ladies voices also can't be denied.

The show did leave me wishing more of my favorite soul singers were there in attendance, but everyone looked great, especially my curvy ladies! If you missed the show check out the opening performance below from Jennifer Hudson, Mary J. Blige, and Kelly Clarkson.

The Bookends, Jennifer Hudson, Mary J. Blige & Kelly Clarkson Open VH1 Divas Celebrates Soul - Music Videos - Live Performances

Holiday Glam: My Top 5 Curvy Holiday Looks

noreply@blogger.com (Maurisha Shay) — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 17:59:00 +0000

# 1 Shimmer

I have said this many times before, I love this time of the year! The holiday season is a time to get glamorous and enjoy getting dressed up for the festive parties that are constantly happening during this time of the year. My top dress choice for instant glam is anything with sequins or shimmer. I like the idea of sparkling as bright as the prettiest ornament on the tree! My other top choices are pictured below. What is your favorite look for the holiday?

# 2 Iridescent #3 Drapey

#4 Color Block #5 Bold Color

Shop:

Monif C- "Samantha" Sequin Party Dress
Nordstrom - Adrianna Papell Iridescent Chiffon Petal Gown
Jessica London - Maxi Party Dress
Torrid - Teal And Purple Color Block Tube Dress
Eloquii - Gold Party Dress

All about the Shoes: Betsey Johnson

noreply@blogger.com (Maurisha Shay) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 19:35:00 +0000

Dear Santa,

I will take one of pair of the these shoes in both colors please! I've been a very good girl this year and I think I deserve a kick ass pair of pumps as a reward, please and thank you.

Signed,

A Fashionable Good Girl

Just in case Santa doesn't read my letter these fun Betsey Johnson pumps are currently being sold at DSW Shoe Warehouse. If you love them as much as I do you can purchase them here.

Giving Thanks!

noreply@blogger.com (Maurisha Shay) — Thu, 24 Nov 2011 20:32:00 +0000

I want to wish all of my readers a great big Happy Thanksgiving! I hope you are enjoying time with loved ones and eating way too much food ;). I am so thankful to all of you who take the time to read my little blog. I love your comments, and love sharing my love of fashion with you. I have a lot to be thankful for this year, but I would be remiss if I didn't give my thanks to you as well! For all of you who will be rushing out for the Black Friday shopping blitz good luck and happy shopping! Can't wait to hear what you scored.

Art Credit: The above picture is by an artist I discovered on Etsy named James Nelson; you can buy the above illustration here.

Celebrity Style Inspiration: Beyonce

noreply@blogger.com (Maurisha Shay) — Sun, 06 Nov 2011 21:40:00 +0000

Phote: Essence

Mom to be Beyonce was spotted out and about in NYC recently looking casual and chic. I love this entire outfit as it combines trendy pieces in a way that is understated and simple. Animal prints, the color red, and statement footwear are definitely elements that are inspiring my wardrobe and looks for this fall/winter season. I created a look for less inspired by Beyonce's look. What do you think?

Boots by Mossimo
Satchels by Aldo

Fashionable Deals: Nordstrom's Half-Yearly Sale

noreply@blogger.com (Maurisha Shay) — Sat, 05 Nov 2011 19:26:00 +0000

I love shopping, but I love a good sale even more. The Nordstrom half-yearly sale has made my entire weekend! I found so many great deals on the items I have been stalking for months. The shoe sale is full of great footwear, but I was also excited about all of the plus-size Vince Camuto items that have been reduced. There are also some great dresses that are perfect for making the rounds at the upcoming holiday parties at some great prices. I'm not sure when this sale ends but this is one you do not want to miss. Happy Shopping!

Trend Report: The Perfect Blouse

noreply@blogger.com (Maurisha Shay) — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 17:00:00 +0000

I am ALL about the blouse this season. I think it is a super chic addition to any look. I love the tie-neck styles as they have that retro vibe that adds a certain trendy element. I found some awesome styles while over on the Nordstrom website. My favorite blouse being the Vince Camuto version on the left, I think the studded cuffs totally gives this blouse an upgrade.

Frugal Fashion Tip: If you are price conscious fashionista you can also get this look by taking a simple blouse you might already have and tying a thin scarf around your neck. Old items can become a new again with a little imagination, which is a great way to re-purpose items you might already have in your closet.

Shop Nordstrom:

DKNYC Blouse with Removable Scarf

Vince Camuto Tie Neck Studded Blouse

Halloween Inspiration: Beyonce

noreply@blogger.com (Maurisha Shay) — Sat, 29 Oct 2011 14:00:00 +0000

Halloween always seems to sneak up on me, and I am always caught at the last minute scrambling to put a costume together. This years is no different! I have found some great options for curvy girls on sites like HalloweenCostumes.com and Torrid. However, part of me really hates the idea of spending money on something I can't really wear again. I'm sure that is why when it comes to buying a costume I'm slow to pull the trigger.

So this year I decided to take inspiration from one of my favorite entertainers, Beyonce. Borrowing style inspiration from the diva for this Halloween will also mean that I can score something fab for my closet that I can actually wear again. I think a sequin dress is the perfect way to channel the diva. Hopefully, with the right hair style and makeup I can pull off a plus size version of the curvy goddess. I found some great sequin dress options that will not only work for playing dress up this Halloween but also will make a great option for all the upcoming holiday shindigs. My top four sequin dress choices are pictured. Which one do you think is more Beyonce-esque? And if you are getting into the Halloween spirit what costume have you chosen to wear?

Shopping Links:

1. MICHAEL Michael Kors Sequin Wrap Dress/nordstrom.com

2. Aidan Mattox, Salon Z One-Shoulder Sequin Dress/saksfifthavenue.com

3. Aidan Mattox, Salon Z Split Sleeve Sequin Dress/saksfifthavenue.com

4. Aidan Mattox, Salon Z Long Sleeve Sequin Dress/saksfifthavenue.com

Halloween Inspired Links:

Halloween Make Up Tips - The Budget Fashionista

The Top 10 Halloween Costume Ideas of 2011: Fashion Edition! - Glamour

5 Really Last-Minute Halloween Costumes - Shecky's

Fashion Friday: Looks I ♥

noreply@blogger.com (Maurisha Shay) — Sat, 29 Oct 2011 03:25:00 +0000

Leather Jackets by A.L.C.
Platforms by Giuseppe Zanotti

Mini Skirts by 3.1 Phillip Lim
Boots by Steve Madden

Boots by Jeffrey Campbell
Earrings by Lucky Brand

*Fashion Friday is about sharing the looks that are inspiring my wardrobe. Not all items pictured come in plus sizes. However, with a little creativity any look can be modified for your curves!

Be the Next Face of the Week!

noreply@blogger.com (Maurisha Shay) — Sun, 28 Aug 2011 16:49:00 +0000

Models: (left to right) Nikeya Young, Nina Taylor, Kimmi-K Smith, Shaquanna Daniels

Face of the Week is a new segment I am committed to continuing to grow. I am interested in introducing new plus-size models, and giving recognition to women who not only own their curves but also provide a positive image of beauty. Previous faces have included the beautiful Nikeya Young and the face of this year's Full Figured Fashion Week™ (FFFWeek) Nina Taylor.

If you are a current or aspiring plus-size model who is interested in being profiled for future Face of the Week postings please leave a comment or email me at fatandfabchic@gmail.com.

Shoe Spotting: Designer Collections at Payless

noreply@blogger.com (Maurisha Shay) — Sun, 28 Aug 2011 04:42:00 +0000

Lela Rose Women's Fulton Tassel Shootie

Silvia Tcherassi Women's Violetta Platform Ankle Boot

Christian Siriano Women's Harness Ankle Boot

Payless continues to grow and expand their shoe collection with collaborations with designers such as Christian Siriano, Lela Rose, and Isabel Toledo. Above are a few of the shoes I am liking for the fall/winter season. Now that boot weather is almost back I am excited see what else Payless has in store for future designer collaborations.

Arm Candy: Nneka Saran Handbags

noreply@blogger.com (Maurisha Shay) — Sat, 06 Aug 2011 16:00:00 +0000

I am pretty much obessed with clutches! They are the perfect handbag for the girl on the go who likes to travel light. You can look chic during the day or night with one of these numbers tucked under your arm. Imagine a day without pain from carrying around a heavy shoulder bag.

One of my favorite handbag designers is Nneka Saran. As a lover of prints I am constantly awed by her creations. If you are in the DC area you can check her out on August 13th during her trunk show. You can also shop online, and purchase your very owner designer clutch here.

Shoe Spotting: Trendy Wedges

noreply@blogger.com (Maurisha Shay) — Tue, 26 Jul 2011 00:00:00 +0000

Wedges by Giuseppe Zanotti
Wedges by Enzo Angiolini

I need a bigger closet! I have been so obsessed with shoes lately. Every where that I look I see a pair that I feel like I must have. Wedges are my current favorite shoe type, and I am already salivating over the styles for fall. I am so into the pink Giuseppe's and I think they are going to be my next splurge!

Color Report: Shades of Blue

noreply@blogger.com (Maurisha Shay) — Sun, 26 Jun 2011 15:15:00 +0000

From cobalt to electric blue this season's shades of blue have definitely caught my eye. You know from reading my blog I live for color, and I especially love colors that pop. The Amanda Uprichard dress pictured above in cobalt has seriously made my day, and is going on my purchase list for my next pay day. I have been doing a lot more accessorizing lately and I love that this shade of blue works with both my gold and silver jewelry. I also believe in buying clothing that can transition from season to season, and this is a color that works for both summer and winter. I have a tendency to over indulge when I find a color I really like, so I see bags and shoes in this color making it into my closet very soon!

Shop Saks Fifth Avenue:

Amanda Uprichard, Salon Z Kelly Ruffled Silk Dress
Chloé Marcie Large Shoulder Bag
Bottega Veneta Deerskin Snap Bracelet
Alexander McQueen Suede Platform Pumps

FAF Chic Mailbox : Finding Your Fierce

noreply@blogger.com (Maurisha Shay) — Sun, 26 Jun 2011 14:30:00 +0000

I believe that great style does not have a size. Every woman deserves to look her best and feel great not only in her clothes but also in her skin. Fashion is what is on the exterior how one feels about themselves is what shines through. I received the following email from one of my readers a few months ago and I knew I had to help. However, it took some time to come up with a response that was genuine. When I received this email I was going through a difficult time in my life. I wasn't feeling good about myself, and I was struggling to find my confidence again. Over the past few months I have been on a personal journey to fall in love with myself again. My advice below comes from my own process of growth and development. I hope that it helps!

Subject: Need HELP!!!!

I am a plus size woman who used to be thin. When I was thin, I considered myself a fashionista. I loved wearing designer duds and I was immaculately groomed at all times. I ENJOYED GETTING DRESSED; it was an event for me.

Now that I'm a size 18w, I seem to have lost that drive and determination to look good every day. I am stuck in a rut. I still enjoy shopping (though I only do so online), so I have the clothes. I just don't know how to get started again. I've let myself go. Completely.

How can I get started again? Any advice? I want to be a fierce big girl like I was fierce when I was skinny. Where to begin?

Tips for Finding Your Fierce

1. Embrace your body
Sound simple, but as a woman our bodies go through multiple changes and it can be hard to accept each new change we see in the mirror. I suggest spending time in the mirror and finding those things you love about your body.

2. Find your confidence
How you feel on the inside will always show on the outside. Being fierce has always been equal to being confident in my book. A fierce woman holds her head high, walks with authority, and transmits confidence naturally. Spend time falling in love with yourself and the confidence you feel will increase ten fold.

3. Get healthy
Good health is essential. Your body depends on you to treat it well. We embrace our curves, but we should never neglect establishing a healthy lifestyle. What we eat and our level of activity all have direct impact on our hair, skin, and overall body. For shinier hair and clearer skin try upping your water intake, you will be surprised at the difference. Exercise to release toxins and watch the glow return to your skin. Exercise is also a great way to release stress. My workouts have become my me time, it's also a time when I work out all the self doubts I have about myself. I always feel stronger and ready to take on the world after I exercise. A fierce woman takes care of her outsides just as well as her insides.

4. Understand your body type and find your style
Our bodies are unique, therefore one size never fits all. Finding clothes that fit and flatter your shape should be the main objective when shopping. Style is personal and should be a reflection of who you are. I believe in dressing for me and not to keep up with the trends. For help determining your body shape checkout this website. Plus size clothing has come a long way in recent years. To find your perfect look try mixing designer pieces like those found at Saks Fifth Avenue's Salon Z , with lower cost pieces like those from Kmart's Love Your Style, Love Your Size Collection (LYS). The more fashionable options you have the more confidence you will have getting dressed. Dress for your curves instead of trying to hide them. Fashion alone does not make one fierce you also need to develop a strong personal sense of style. Cast out the rules and embrace the style that works best for you.

5.Be inspired
It helps to have images of beauty that you can relate to. Models like the late Mia Amber Davis, and the super fierce Fluvia Lacerda inspire me with their beauty and confidence. These ladies embrace their curves and I can't help but be inspired to be proud of mine. The world around us can be harsh, but you can challenge the negativity by finding positive images that inspire and uplift you.

Every woman has it in her to be fierce! We all get into ruts, but a true fashionistas always find ways to reinvent her style. A little extra jiggle, and junk in the trunk is not the end of the world. Embrace your shape, love your body and the fierceness is sure to follow!

Face of the Week: Shaquanna Daniels

noreply@blogger.com (Maurisha Shay) — Tue, 21 Jun 2011 15:00:00 +0000

Model Bio:

Shaquanna Daniels is an aspiring model currently residing in Virginia. She was born on May of 1988 and her wildest dreams have always been to live her life in the glamorous light in the fashion and beauty industry! While of course being a role model to children and young women with curves.

In Her Words:

As a child I was always overweight but I was the cool fat kid in school that everyone took well to. I thank God for that because I know people who had to go through horrible things. Being over weight was a negative thing in my family. Being around skinny people didn’t help because there was no one to relate to in the household. I grew up feeling angry, depressed, and, feeling alone and out of place around other kids and at family functions. So my mom decided to sign me up for Barbizon Modeling Agency. I can say that it did help me grow more as a young adult. Although I still had a lot of other insecurities! Even in high school I missed the biggest event that most seniors look forward to. Yes! I missed my senior prom. Somewhere along the way I lost who I wanted to become, I stopped believing in myself. My self-esteem got lower and the pounds went up higher. When I stopped believing in myself that's the moment I became a dreamer with nothing but a dream.

I let years pass me by because I kept saying I can't model until I lose the weight. I wasted so much time in my life missing out on the fashion industry mainly because I couldn’t accept ME. Until I found out that the plus community was growing and it made me curious again. I signed up for the Plus Academy of Virginia and, from that day I remembered how modeling gave me joy again. I got connected and continued networking. I felt that anything could be possible around women just like me. There is still hope and I'm ready. I believe that hard work pays off. I work hard and I sacrifice every day of my life to provide for my 2 year old son “the love of my life”. I've been called everything in the book. I missed my prom. But today my message to young girls who may have experienced what I did, is to throw those negative words that have held you back away and love yourself as if it were a clean slate!!

If you are a current or aspiring plus-size model who is interested in being profiled for future Face of the Week postings please leave a comment or email me at fatandfabchic@gmail.com.

Fat and Fab Chic in NYC

noreply@blogger.com (Maurisha Shay) — Fri, 17 Jun 2011 12:25:00 +0000

I am so over the top excited to be heading to NYC today to ogle some amazing fashions and hob knob with my curvy family at Full Figured Fashion Week™ (FFFWeek). I love everything about New York and I am looking forward to shopping my heart out, doing the tourist thing in the city, and attending the FFFWeek events. I am most excited to have a chance to meet many of the curvy friends I have made online over the years. Stay tuned for more coverage as I make my into the city. And if you are in town tweet me @mogul_chic would love to meet as many of my readers as I can!

To Be Continued......

Look for Less: Giuseppe Zanotti

noreply@blogger.com (Maurisha Shay) — Mon, 06 Jun 2011 00:33:00 +0000

You may remember my previous blog post where I was literally desperate to find the colorful Giuseppe Zanotti wedges Liya Kebede is pictured here wearing. I have yet to find these beauties but I have stumbled upon some great look for less versions at Bakers Shoes that I adore.

The version that I think comes the closest is the Mona which retails for $90; a steal compared to the designer price tag attached to traditional pair of Giuseppes.

Fashion Friday: Royal Inspiration

noreply@blogger.com (Maurisha Shay) — Fri, 29 Apr 2011 17:39:00 +0000

Taking inspiration from the royal wedding today seems to be a day to celebrate love and romance. All of the coverage surrounding the nuptials has been in my opinion overzealous, but I must admit I too have gotten swept up in all of the frenzy. Although, I would say watching them wed seemed secondary to ogling the fashion that was on display for the world to see. The wedding dress the world could not wait to see was finally revealed, and the Alexander McQueen gown designed by Sarah Burton won my heart because of it's romantic appeal.

The royal wedding will remain in our minds for decades to come, and the fashion moments are sure to inspire from now into the future. I have mentioned in previous post how my wardrobe this season is largely influenced by the spirit of romance, so the royal wedding has given me plenty of new inspiration for my closet. The two things I am most inspired by now are statement hats and the pure simplicity of a white lace dress. Who knows maybe I will start drinking tea too!
The Hat Club:

Romantic Lace:

More Lilly Pulitzer...

Evans: Tunic Love

noreply@blogger.com (Maurisha Shay) — Wed, 20 Apr 2011 17:50:00 +0000

Tunics are my new go to look for spring/summer. This season I really love all the small feminine details such as embellishments, pleating, and soft shear fabrics.I found some great tunics at Evans that I adore. I am embracing my girly side a lot more these days, and my closet is definitely inspired by pieces that have a romantic quality. What is inspiring your style these days?

Shop: Evans

New and Fresh: collection by OSP™

noreply@blogger.com (Maurisha Shay) — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 17:12:00 +0000

When this collection first debuted at the first ever plus size fashion show during New York Fashion Week, I literally drooled as piece after beautiful piece hit the runway. The collection by OSP ™ features beautiful feminine luxe pieces that I am dying to add to my closet. My favorite pieces from the runway show are pictured above.

Shop: OneStopPlus.com

Nina Taylor: The New Face of Full Figured Fashion Week™

noreply@blogger.com (Maurisha Shay) — Tue, 19 Apr 2011 16:00:00 +0000

The first time I met Nina Taylor I was blown away by her beauty, poise, and intelligence. When I learned she had thrown her hat in the running to become the newest face for Full Figured Fashion Week™ 2011, I knew she would make the best choice. Check my interview with the beauty below.

Describe how you felt the moment you learned you won the coveted spot as the face of Full Figured Fashion Week™ 2011.

That morning I was hyperventilating into my own personalized brown paper bag!! I felt relieved when I heard from Gwen DeVoe mixed with a rush of excitement. The photographer I work closely with Maria Georgieva was on one phone and my Creative Director Qevn E. Arr was on the other line and we just screamed and I thanked God and them over and over and I cried. It was a good day.

What does being the newest face mean to you?

It is a fantastic opportunity, I can inspire women on a national level. I can also do my part to help change the perception of beauty.The positive response that I've gotten back from the curvy community is overwhelming and exciting. It is a huge responsibility and a very big deal to me.

Your confidence shines through in your photos, what tips can you give plus size women who are still struggling to find that confidence?

It is very true that if you are not comfortable with yourself it will come through in your images. I think what helps for me, is that I am my number one fan. I know my worth and how powerful I am as a woman. I think every woman has a list whether it is long or short on things that they would like to change. If you don't like something, simply change it. Being beautiful isn't a size, or a number it's a mindset. Relax, Refocus and Reset your way of thinking and you'll find all the confidence you need inside you.

Plus size clothing has come a very long way, and women with curves have a lot more options when it comes to finding fashionable clothing. Who are your favorite designers, and how would you define your style?

I define my style as an "Urban Stepford Wife" I love dresses and feeling girlie. I am really feeling RicLamarClothing right now. They are a christian owned company and his designs are right up my alley. Vibrant but girlie. I also adore Monif C because she incorporates colors, I love Kiyonna, Calvin Klein, Ashley Stewart, Lane Bryant and ASOS Curve. It's great to see clothing designers realize the gold mine they have in designing plus size clothing.

What advice would you give other aspiring plus size models?

My first piece of advice is to do your research, check out what industry standards are and really get to know the business and the major players. My next piece of advice is to take care of your product, eat well, exercise regularly and make sure your facial game is tight. Another piece of advice is practice, practice practice, whether its faces in a mirror or walking up and down the drive way, practice always makes perfect. When a photographer, MUA, Casting Director, etc donates their time to you, ensure you say thank you and follow up with them, not just because you need something from them. And finally, don't get discouraged and learn how to take criticism. Then go out and do it, the worst thing someone can tell you is "No"

Every diva needs a glam squad, and Nina has a fabulous team behind her. The following people listed below are responsible for helping the beauty look her best in front of the camera.

Creative Director: Qevn E Arr
Photographer: Maria Georgieva
http://mrgimages.com/
Stylist: Apuje Kalu
Website: http://apujekalu.com/
Photographer: James Anthony
http://www.JamesAnthonyPhotos.com
Photographer: Davida Baldwin
http://www.obdphotography.com
Make Up Artists: Cici Richardson; Aicha

Nina is an amazing and inspiring woman and I can not wait to see her doing her thing as this years newest face. Full Figured Fashion Week™ 2011 will take place in New York City June 16th-18th, click here for more details.