{:FAF:} CHIC

FAF Chic TV: Tyra's Fiercly Real Teen Model Search

fatandfabchic@gmail.com (Fabby) — Tue, 02 Mar 2010 15:09:00 +0000

I have been hearing a lot about Tyra's first ever teen plus sized model competition, and I was excited to see an opportunity for curvy teens to showcase their beauty. I have always been a fan of Tyra because in my opinion she has always made it her mission to emphasize that there is not one standard of beauty. I found this great link on er website highlighting famous plus size models that I found very inspiring.

Today Tyra will be highlighting the finalist of the competition, and tomorrow the winner will be announced. What I like about this competition is that it's not your ordinary we will just crown you and acknowledge you as the winner. The winner of this competition will win the following amazing prizes:

One year modeling contract with top modeling agency Wilhelmina Models.
A fashion spread on Tyra's MagaLine (shot by Tyra)
Cover photo with Tyra on Tyra's Magaline
A spread in Seventeen magazine

Curvy viewers also have the opportunity to win an amazing prize. Torrid , the leading retailer in the curvy teen fashion market will be featured on “The Tyra Show” this coming Wednesday, March 3^rd on the CW (4pm/3pm-check your local listings)! Make sure to watch to learn about your chance to win your own Torrid shopping spree at http://www.tyrashow.com/. A total of 25 winners will receive $50 gift cards to Torrid—don’t miss out!

Carmakoma- 2010 Spring/Summer Collection

fatandfabchic@gmail.com (Fabby) — Wed, 27 Jan 2010 14:07:00 +0000

Even though the weather outside is a constant painful reminder that we are still very much so in the winter season, fashion is already full steam ahead in preparation for spring. There is nothing like the beginning of a new fashion season. Everything is so new and fresh. I love the start of the spring season because not only is the promise of warmer weather in the air, but fashion also gets a lot more colorful and fun during this time.

I checked out one of my favorite retailers Carmakoma today, and fell in love with their 2010 Spring/Summer lookbook. The theme is so perfect, and I love that they maintain the edginess in their designs but still keep the feminine flair. I picked out a few of the shots from their lookbook, but it is definitely something you have to see yourself to truly love. You can check out the full lookbook here. I also posted their behind the scenes video of the photo shoot (Carmakoma.com - Videoes).

In the Nude

fatandfabchic@gmail.com (Fabby) — Tue, 26 Jan 2010 16:37:00 +0000

Photo(c)- B & Lu Lana Dress

This past weekend while spending quality time with my couch, I was watching an old episode of Sex and the City that gave me the inspiration for this post. In this episode Carrie was going on her first date with Big, and she was wearing a dress which she called "the naked dress". This dress was a flesh tone nude and almost resembled a slip. The dress was risqué to say the least, but at the same time it had a feminine flair to it. I instantly wanted something just like it. With Valentine's Day approaching I thought it would be fun to update my wardrobe with something flirty and sexy. After some searching I found a dress that I think would be perfect for the occasion on B & Lu's website. I also played around on ShopStyle and found a few other new items that I really liked, check them out below. What do you think; would you dare to go nude?

Retail Therapy

fatandfabchic@gmail.com (Fabby) — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 19:34:00 +0000

I apologize for my lack of posting lately. My life has been in a complete whirlwind since the holidays. I am hoping to get back to a regular posting schedule soon. There have been so many amazing things going on in the world of plus-sizes, and I can't wait to get back to blogging about them.

It is a beautiful, sunny day here in DC and that has given me a much needed boost of energy. I haven't had any inspiration to shop since Christmas, but I am finally coming out of my rut. I stopped over at Marie Denee for my first dose of retail therapy, and I was so happy to see she is having her end of the season clearance sale. There are two dresses I have had my eye on that I feel compelled to buy now. Some times a little retail therapy is what gets a girl through her day! What's on your shopping wish list today?

My Christmas Wish List

fatandfabchic@gmail.com (Fabby) — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 21:16:00 +0000

With Christmas a week a way I am still doing a lot of shopping, shopping, shopping to get everyone on my list the perfect gift. I have been so focused on shopping for other people that I haven't done to much for myself. So today I decided to do some e-shopping and make my official Christmas list. I'm hoping Santa brings me at least one of the items on my list ;)!

Arm Candy: Sparkly Treats by Judith Leiber

fatandfabchic@gmail.com (Fabby) — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 18:17:00 +0000

Photo(c)- Avelle
I am completely obsessed with clutches this season, and with all of the holiday parties beginning I am ecstatic that I can put them to good use. I am a big fan of Judith Leiber, her designs just make me smile they are so deliciously girly. You might recognize the above pictured cupcake purse from the movie Sex and the City. I found some other great clutch options while over on the Gilt Groupe website. If you aren't already a member I highly recommend joining; you can do so by clicking here. Gilt offers daily sales on some of your favorite designer items. Right now there is an amazing sale on the website on Judith Leiber designs. My top favorites are pictured below.

Photos (c)- Gilt Groupe

FAF Chic: Luxe Appeal

fatandfabchic@gmail.com (Fabby) — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 17:27:00 +0000

Every now and then I like to pretend that money is not an issue, so I browse through designer collections and ooh and aah at all the highly fashionable items. Sure designer looks can be duplicated for a lesser price, but sometimes the original gets it right in a way that a knock off just can't. I still find it fun to check out the original design. For example I fell in love with so many designer shoes while over on the Zappos Couture and Bluefly websites. I am definitely adding a pair of these shoes to my Christmas wishlist. A girl can dream can't she, besides Santa knows I have been very good this year and I deserve something extra fab!

FAF Chic Shopping Guide: Boots and Booties

fatandfabchic@gmail.com (Fabby) — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 15:53:00 +0000

One of the essential elements of any fashionistas fall/winter wardrobe is a few good pair of boots. This season over the knee boots are the biggest must have. This style is a difficult one to achieve if like me you have wider legs and calves. So what is a fatshionista to do?

Mission: Find stylish boots that fit and flatter wider a calf.

Result: Mission Accomplished

Shop: Zappos for these great wide calf options.

Shop Silhouettes for great boot options.

Shop Evans for a variety of stylish boot options in several different widths.

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Belts the Ultimate Accessory

fatandfabchic@gmail.com (Fabby) — Sun, 06 Dec 2009 04:36:00 +0000

Using belts fashionably by fatanfabchic featuring Fendi shoes

So I was pretty bored today and decided to have some fun playing around on Polyvore. I was inspired by the idea of using belts as an accessory piece to add some interest to an outfit. What do you think about the results?

Winter Chic: Snow Day Inspiration

fatandfabchic@gmail.com (Fabby) — Sun, 06 Dec 2009 01:09:00 +0000

The snow falling outside my window has been absolutely mesmerizing today. The first snowfall of the season is always a joyous occasion for me. For some reason it always makes me even more excited for Christmas. The weather gave me the inspiration for this post today. I found some winter weather essentials to help you stay chic through the cold days.

Gray Day Inspiration

fatandfabchic@gmail.com (Fabby) — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 17:36:00 +0000

It's a cloudy Friday, and all I can think about is getting off work so that I can start enjoying my weekend. To pass the time at work I have been e-browsing some of my favorite retailer's websites. I came across Aldo, and saw that they are having a fantastic clearance sale. I loaded my shopping cart up and noticed one basic theme everything I picked is gray. I guess I am feeling pretty inspired by this cold cloudy day. Aldo is offering free shipping on all orders over $100, so I think I will do some more shopping. Let's see what else I can add to my cart......!

FAF Style Guide: Mixing and Matching

fatandfabchic@gmail.com (Fabby) — Fri, 04 Dec 2009 17:16:00 +0000

Hands down purple is my favorite color; as I'm sure you can tell by the blog colors lol. As of late I have been experimenting with ways to mix and match colors and patterns. Now that the weather is colder I am also doing a lot more layering. I use purple as my base color and then I usually find other color options that compliment. I have been experiment with mixing leather, sequins, or feathers with more straight-laced pieces to create the perfect fashion contrast. Adding different accessories and shoes goes a long way towards achieving great contrast as well. I played around and came up with a few looks to illustrate the concept of mixing and matching.

Look #1 - One Dress Three Looks

One Dress Three Ways by fatanfabchic featuring Monsoon bags

Items in this set:
Sparkling Dazzle Layered Cotton Dress, Plus Size Clothing, Club Wear,..., $43
NICHOLAS KIRKWOOD - SUEDE AND LIZARD OPEN TOE ANKLE BOOTS, 913 EUR
ERNESTO ESPOSITO - STRIPED SUEDE SLINGBACK PUMPS, 468 EUR
H&M Shop Online
Monsoon Accessorize - Bugle Bead Bow Satin Clutch, 8 GBP

Continue Reading.......

Look #2 - Leather and Lace

Leather and Lace by fatanfabchic featuring Forever21

Items in this set:
Lace Shoulder Pad Top, 40 GBP
Floral Lace Sleeve Bodysuit, $16
Fab Lace Yoke Top, $12
Shrunken leather skirt, 350 GBP
Suede Panelled Skinny Trousers, 100 GBP

Look #3- Color Splash -Using shoes to add additional interest to an outfit

Mix and Match by fatanfabchic featuring Temperley London dresses

Items in this set:
Temperley London Bellini studded cotton dress, $1,225
Haute Hippie Ombré sequined silk-chiffon dress, $695
Anna Sui Silk wrap dress, $455
Suede and Stingray Platform, 1,140 GBP
VERSACE DSF975S BLUE VERNI 1845902, 599 GBP

Craveworthy Items: Carmakoma

fatandfabchic@gmail.com (Fabby) — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 16:43:00 +0000

Have you ever visited a store, or flipped through catalog and literally pretty much drooled over everything you saw? This was the feeling I experienced while on the Carmakoma website. I mentioned Carmakoma in a previous store spotlight post, and I was happy to see their newest selection of items is just as hot. If you love black they definitely have you covered with great options, they carry up to a size US 22. Below are pics of my favorite looks from their Fall/Winter look book. How gorgeous are their models!?

Continue reading.......

Check out their Fall 2009 look book here and their Party Winter 2009 look book here.

Glam Face

fatandfabchic@gmail.com (Fabby) — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 21:28:00 +0000

Holiday parties are starting to get underswing, so I thought it would be a good idea to do a beauty post. One of the things that I love about getting dressed up, is having the opportunity to go super glam with my makeup. An evenening face is always fun because you can play up the colors or go smokier with the eyes. I personally love a smokey eye and a nude lip. But I have seen some amazing makeup artist who have created fabulous looks with the ever so seductive red lip. This season to go along with my new refreshed creative attitude I am planning to do a lot more experimenting with my going out face. Anyone know a good makeup artist?

FAF Style Guide: Boot(s) of the Week

fatandfabchic@gmail.com (Fabby) — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 20:52:00 +0000

I decided to post several boot options for the boot of the week of post; mostly because I haven't posted any boots in quite some time. While shopping over on the Bakers website, I came across tons of fly boots and booties that gave me the inspiration to do this post. Some of my favorite choices are pictured above. If you are looking for trendy footwear to add to your wardrobe, I highly recommend checking out Bakers.

Store Spotlight: Ashley Stewart

fatandfabchic@gmail.com (Fabby) — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 15:32:00 +0000

My girlfriend called me all excited yesterday about a dress that she saw on the Ashley Stewart website. I haven't ventured into a Ashley Stewart store in a while so I really wasn't sure what to expect. The dress pictured above combines the two hottest elements of the season black leather(in this case faux) and studs. I am not sure what the actual dress looks like in person, but my friend seemed to love the way the dress fit her. If dressed up properly this dress could be a scene stealer for sure.

I did a little more searching around on their website and found a few more items that I positively feel like I must own.

Ashley Stewart appears to be bringing sexy back for the curvy divas. I checked out their Holiday Look Book and instantly felt ready to get glam and go party. My favorite looks in the collection are pictured below.

Check out the Ashley Stewart Holiday Look Book here.

Monif C Shopping Event: Washington, DC

fatandfabchic@gmail.com (Fabby) — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 15:18:00 +0000

I was so excited to read about this event on the Monif C website. I missed her the last time she came to DC, but I plan to definitely be in attendance for this event. If you are interested in meeting up for some fab shopping and girl time please send me an email at fatandfabchic@gmail.com or tweet me over on Twitter.

Deals and Steals: Black Friday Specials

fatandfabchic@gmail.com (Fabby) — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 13:16:00 +0000

I look forward to the Thanksgiving holiday for more than just the food and the gathering of friends and loved ones. Every year at this time the build up to the biggest shopping day of the year is one of the most exhilarating feelings, especially for someone like me a confirmed shopaholic. So in order to be prepared for all the Black Friday fun one must do their research first. You have to have a game plan that not only involves getting up extra early, but also making sure to be in the right place at the right time to catch the best deal. The first place I always start my research is on the BlackFriday.info website. This site is the official place to search this years ads from a large variety of retailers. The other great aspect of this site is that you can find extensive coupon options to maximize your shopping dollars.

Because I love all of my readers I have been searching the web for deals and steals just for my curvy fashionistas. I found some great upcoming sales which are sure to make your pocketbook a lot lighter, but your closet a lot fuller.

Check out Torrid for their GET IT OR REGRET IT! sale

Make it in the store or to Torrid.com before noon on Friday and receive $25 off every $75 you spend!

Other hot deals include:
· 50% OFF SWEATERS!
· 50% OFF BOOTS AND BOOTIES!
· 25% OFF OUTERWEAR!
· $10 OFF DESIGNER DENIM!

Lane Bryant is offering 40% off in store and online

Shop Evans for 20% off of everything ends midnight on Monday

Shop Marie Denee

This is just a glimpse of some of the fab deals to be found. Retailers such as Old Navy, Macys, Target and many more are also offering great sales. Have fun and happy shopping!

Haute Shoe Lust- Christian Louboutin

fatandfabchic@gmail.com (Fabby) — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 19:14:00 +0000

What can I say about Christian? He is the man with the magic touch. He is a magical craftsman who mesmorizes me with his creations. I know I am not the only one currently in this love affair. Just mentioning his name will make most women swoon in delight. Mr. Louboutin I adore you. Your shoes are the things fashion is made of.

FAF CHIC is now on Facebook

fatandfabchic@gmail.com (Fabby) — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 18:22:00 +0000

{:FAF:} Chic on Facebook

Fab divas, you can now connect with me on Facebook. The FAF Chic fan page is dedicated to bringing you the latest fashion scoop. You can participate in discussions, as well as find sale and shopping event information. So please check me out, I can't wait to connect with you!

FAF Chic: Fab Web Bites

fatandfabchic@gmail.com (Fabby) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 01:30:00 +0000

There have been some amazing things on around the web and in the media highlighting and embracing the beauty of plus size women. I have been so busy with my job these past few weeks that I have been remiss in my blogging duties. I hope you will allow me to play catch up.

Let's start with the fabulous Sarah Conley of StyleITOnline. She has started an amazing project via her newest column On the Plus Side, in which she and photographer Kimberley Williamson have begun taking full body outfit photos in the streets of Soho. The premise behind this is to showcase that it is okay to celebrate your body in it's totality, even if you are not size 0. My wait until you lose the weight to feel good about yourself. I love what she is doing with these posts. Plus Miss Sarah has fab fashion sense. If you haven't already please be sure to check her out.

Michelle, Union Square (photo by Talia Frolkis).
Photo(c)- The Manfattan Project

Piggybacking on that same idea I also stumbled upon another new blog of note; The Manfattan Project. What I love about this blog is that it focuses on capturing real everyday women in the streets of NYC. These women are full-figured and fashionable, and it's wonderful to see a blog that focuses on this. All to often the street style posts leave out curvy women, which is always upsetting to see. There are so many fatshionistas that I myself gain style inspiration from on a daily basis, and it is wonderful to see a blog that is dedicated to highlighting the fashion sense of these real, beautiful, voluptuous, everyday women.

Photo Credit: Greg Kessler

Finally, lets talk about about Ashley Falcon; plus size fashion stylist and newest columnist over at Marie Claire magazine. Her column Big Girl in a Skinny World has become one of my must reads. I love how her stories are relate-able without being the contrived woe is me tale of being a fat girl in a skinny world. She offers great fashion advice for us curvy girls who desire fashionable options, and her own personal style is enviable. Marie Claire has gained a reader in me thanks to Ashley Falcon. You can check out her latest article on office to evening fashion here.

Skirting the Issue

fatandfabchic@gmail.com (Fabby) — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 19:44:00 +0000

As you know I am a girl who adores wearing dresses,this is mostly because I find it hard to find pants that fit me in a way that I find flattering. So other than jeans my closet is filled with way more dresses than pants. Recently, I have started to expand my wardrobe by adding skirts to the mix. This addition has added some much needed versatility to my wardrobe, and I am having a lot of fun mixing and matching my pieces. Now that the weather is a lot cooler for some I know wearing a dress or skirt seems like a chilly prospect. I suggest layering and of course a great pair of tights can make this style a lot warmer to pull off. The best thing about a skirt is that there is always a style that is sure to flatter any shape.

Recessionista Chic- JMS Launches New Plus Size Collection at Walmart

fatandfabchic@gmail.com (Fabby) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 17:48:00 +0000

I was really excited to hear about the launch of a new plus size collection by JMS or Just My Size as some you may know them as. Over the years the JMS line has grown by leaps and bounds. I have always been a fan of their hosiery items but in recent years I have grown to like some of their clothing, especially for casual wear. The greatest aspect of this new line is that all of the pieces are priced below $22. One of my favorite looks in the new collection is pictured above. You can also check out the below video from their New York fashion show. I won't pretend to like everything, but there are some solid pieces that for the price could be very good additions to the wardrobe. What are your thoughts?

Press Release

JMS/Just My Size Launches New Women’s
Plus-Size Clothing Collection with New York Fashion Show

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. (OCT. 16, 2009) – JMS/Just My Size brand launched a new clothing collection at a fashion show in New York. The collection, available at Walmart stores nationwide, focuses on trend-right styles at a value. Amazingly, all items are priced below $22.

The new JMS collection includes colorful fun-to-wear essentials and related separates that mix and match for any wearing occasion. Included in the winter and holiday collections, in store now, are dress pants, jeans, sweaters, skirts, leggings, ruffled blouses and long sweater vests. Many of the holiday pieces have glimmers of shimmer in the form of satin trim and beading.

“The rule is there are no rules,” said Janet Freedman, JMS creative director and plus-size shopper. “One of my favorite outfits from the winter collection is a long sweater cardigan paired with leggings and a sheer blouse. Just add a tall boot and a great belt (yes, I said a great belt). Just My Size is about looking good, feeling good and celebrating your curves.”

The launch of the collection comes at a time when fashion publications are exploring the topic of plus-size models and the lack of fashionable plus-size clothes for the models to wear. Reactions have renewed debate about body image and beautiful women who are larger than sample size 4.

“Because so many of our styles work together, the JMS consumer has the ability to create multiple looks/outfits with just a few easy pieces,” explained Freedman. “In addition, our value prices mean that, instead of buying just a few key pieces, she can now buy an entire wardrobe. We want her to be able to look good and feel good, just like her peers.

“Previously, JMS offered wardrobe staples, like our great jeans. Now we are going everywhere her lifestyle takes her--running errands, lunch with friends, going to the office or going out after work.”

As a dedicated plus-size brand, the JMS clothing line is designed to include many consumer-specific fit solutions. “We constantly talk to our consumer, and more importantly, we listen to her,” said Freedman. “So we include slimming seams, strategically placed pockets, freedom of movement, appropriate weight materials--these and other fit solutions are incorporated into stylish clothing. We design these clothes to flatter and celebrate her curves.”

JMS, known primarily for its hosiery, intimate apparel and limited, well-fitting outerwear line, has long been known for offering silhouettes that both fit and flatter the plus-size woman. Now the line adds style to its well-fitting ensembles.

JMS apparel is available at Walmart stores nationwide, and JMS intimate apparel and hosiery are available at leading retailers nationwide. JMS sportswear and innerwear are also available online at www.justmysize.com and at www.walmart.com.

Deal of the Day: Torrid Rush Hour Sale

fatandfabchic@gmail.com (Fabby) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:47:00 +0000

Shop: Torrid

If you are like me and have been a bit preoccupied and haven't yet started to build your winter wardrobe, here is some incentive to start shopping. For three hours only Torrid is having a $19.99 sale (online only) on their booties. This price is fabulous especially for all of us budget fashionistas. I have a wider foot but I always find a good fit with Torrid's shoe selection. My feet will be both comfortable and in style thanks to this sale!

FAF Chic Look of the Moment: Equestrian Style

fatandfabchic@gmail.com (Fabby) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 00:48:00 +0000

Shop: Lane Bryant

This fall one of the trends that has caught my eye is the influence of equestrian style on fashion. Years ago I remember wearing the stirrup pants with high boots and I love that this nod to the equestrian look is returning again. The greatest thing about fashion is it's ability to make re-emerging style trends feel new and innovative.

I was very excited to see that Lane Bryant's new ICON collection took note of this trend and has made it accessible to curvy women. Kudos to them for being in step with what is currently in fashion. I say this of course because while the plus size market has come a long way, it is still a struggle to find a variety of retailers that are keeping with today's style trends and making them relevant to plus size consumers. But I digress...lol. What do you think of this style trend? Is it something you would wear for fall?