GABIFRESH

GABIFRESH X SWIMSUITS FOR ALL -- AVAILABLE NOW!

2013-05-15T07:24:00.000-07:00

Yay!!! The day has finally arrived--my swimwear collection is live online and available for purchase at swimsuitsforall.com! Please read this before you buy, because I want to say a bit more about the support and fit of the suits and answer a few questions I've been getting. The suits are available to ship internationally. They are sold in sets only, not separates. There is no underwire in the tops, only soft cups--they are comparable to any other soft cup bikini, support wise. These aren't control top bottoms. (They're similar to the fatkini I wore last year, if you bought one of those!). That said, if you are looking for a bit more control, the jewel print and galaxy suits provide more than the neon suits. The neon bikinis are convertible, the product photos on the site are showing all the different ways to wear the same bottoms. I would suggest sizing down at least one size in the neon suits, especially if you don't have a bust larger than a D/DD cup; during the shoot I wore a 14 in the neon bottoms. The galaxy and jewel print run true to your normal jeans/dress size (I fit an 18)! I hope this helps with any confusion! I will try to be close to twitter all day today to answer any more questions you have. EDITED TO ADD: THE GALAXY PRINT BIKINI HAS SOLD OUT! Thanks to everyone for your support and sorry to those of you who didn't get a chance to purchase.

Thank you all so much for entering the swimsuitsforall swag bag contest! Congrats to the winner, JAMIE TURNER!!!! You will be contacted shortly.

Now on to the fun stuff, official pictures of the collection! Because this line has a super young and fun feel, we wanted that to be reflected in our shoot. When I saw the movie Spring Breakers, I was immediately reminded of the suits I'd designed, and we definitely used that as a point of inspiration. And then things took a more literal turn... I hope you guys love the shoot and the suits as much as I do! Thank you so much for your support throughout this process. Can't wait to see all of you gorgeous girls rocking your bikinis at the beach this Summer. You can find and buy the full collection here.

GABIFRESH X SWIMSUITSFORALL GIVEAWAY

2013-05-10T07:46:00.001-07:00

Thank you guys so much for all the amazing feedback on my swimsuitsforall capsule collection. You've seen the galaxy print bikini, the neon bikinis, and the coverup (if not, see them here)...and now you get to see the final suit: the jewel print one piece! I adore this one, it has a low-cut back and mesh panels along the sides. In the behind-the-scenes shot below, it's worn below by Nadia Aboulhosn and she looks amazing. Even better news? We're giving away your favorite piece from the collection!

Photo by Lydia Hudgens

Included in your $500 swag bag is:

Your choice of GabiFresh x swimsuitsforall Swimsuit (available in sizes 10-24)
Marc by Marc Jacobs Neon Backpack
Flash Lens Folding Ray-BanWayfarers
Deborah Lippman Glitter Nail Polish
Shashi Bracelet
Dylan's Candy Bar 80s Time Capsule (filled with all your favorite 80s candy!)

To enter: follow me on Facebook and leave a comment here including where you can be reached (email, etc)! Extra entries by reblogging the post on Tumblr, and/or tweeting the following sentence, link included: I just entered the @GabiFresh x swimsuitsforall giveaway! http://bit.ly/16mcdnE
Leave a comment for each time you enter (if you tweet or reblog on tumblr, leave a link to those entries in your comment). This contest is over fast, so enter quickly. It ends Tuesday at Midnight--I will announce the winner on Wednesday, the day the line launches!

Striped

2013-05-07T07:30:00.001-07:00

Most of you guys know I have a real weakness for striped body con dresses, and this one from Fashion to Figure is no exception. I'm also really loving pairing orange and green this season, so their quilted clutch was a great addition. (Apparently I love orange from FTF--remember the makeover I did using their orangey coral dress?)

Since it's finally starting to warm up in Chicago, last weekend was a perfect time to break out the brights. Who says fat girls can't wear horizontal stripes?

This post is sponsored by Fashion to Figure. All opinions are my own :)
Dress-c/o Fashion to Figure/Clutch-Fashion to Figure/Necklace-Stella & Dot/Shoes-Zara (similar)

We created a boutique with my favorite Fashion to Figure picks here, make sure you guys check it out--they have some super cute stuff right now!

GabiFresh x swimsuitsforall Galaxy Bikini

2013-04-30T10:45:00.000-07:00

The first official shot from my capsule collection for swimsuitsforall is here, and it's of my favorite suit! The galaxy print bikini is definitely the stand-out piece, and I couldn't be happier with the final result. To go from a terrible sketch of what I wanted (and drew on the back of a hotel's notepad--seen here) to what you see below was such a cool experience. I'm obsessed with the details, like the purple mesh cutouts and the adjustable straps above the cup.
For more behind-the-scenes shots of the full neon bikinis and the galaxy print coverup, check out my interview with Refinery29. (My favorite part about the neon bikinis is that they are totally convertible--you can wear them halter style or strapless, and the bottoms can be worn super high waisted or folded down to your comfort level). After that, there's only one last suit that you haven't seen yet--and it's a one piece! I hope you guys love the mini collection as much as I do, more official photos will be released before the collection launches on May 15th.

GabiFresh x swimsuitsforall

2013-04-25T09:16:00.003-07:00

AHHH!!! I'm so excited that I can finally share this: I've designed a 5 piece capsule collection for swimsuitsforall (one of the largest swim retailers that carries plus sizes)! We had our photo shoot yesterday and it was so much fun. Nadia Aboulhosn and Maxey Greene looked stunning, and seeing everything I've worked on for the past few months come into fruition was a totally crazy/surreal moment for me. You guys know I'm super passionate about plus size women wearing great swimsuits unapologetically, and after all of the excitement surrounding last year's Fatkini, I thought designing a few of my own would be a wonderful way to continue the movement. The suits will be available online on May 15th, and photos will be released next week. In the mean time, here are some behind-the-scenes shots from yesterday!

Photos by Lydia Hudgens!

I can't wait for you guys to see the full collection! Make sure you keep an eye on my blog for something super special :)

Bloomingdale's Event!

2013-04-16T12:08:00.001-07:00

After watching many higher end plus size brands and retailers close their doors (or move solely online), I'm so glad to see a store like Bloomindale's investing more in their plus department. Contributing monthly to InStyle has opened my eyes to all the amazing options from designers, and I'm honored to be able to share some of my favorites with you guys this weekend!

I'll be hosting a shopping event at the Bloomingdale's in Chicago (900 N. Michigan Ave) this Saturday, April 20th, from 1-4 pm on the 4th Floor. I'll be sharing my styling tips and favorite pieces from amazing brands like Eileen Fisher, Vince Camuto, Michael Kors, and Calvin Klein. There will be 25% off all regular priced items in the Women's section--not to mention yummy refreshments. I hope to see you guys there!

Below I'm wearing some of my favorite pieces from their current in-store merch: Calvin Klein coral jacket (here), green Vince Camuto blouse (here), and Not Your Daughter's Jeans (here). For those of you who can't make it, they have a great online selection too!

Post sponsored by Bloomingdale's

At the event, you can earn 10,000 points on a single purchase of $350.00 or more in Shop for Women. That's a $50 Reward Card to spend on all our merchandise - no exclusions!**
*Valid on almost all regular-price, in-store purchases. Offer Valid April 18 - 21, 2013. Offer excludes Not Your Daughter's Jeans. See a sales associate for complete details.
**Power points in Shop for Women valid April 18-21, 2013 only. Points are awarded after discount is applied. Your Points Account balance must equal 5000 points to receive a Reward Card. Power Points will be added to your Points Account Balance 30 days after you make a qualifying purchase, unless your merchandise has not shipped, in which case your Power Points will be added when your merchandise ships. Qualifying purchase must take place at one register and be on one receipt. Points are not accumulated on sales tax or purchases made with a Bloomingdale's Gift or Reward Card. See terms and conditions at bloomingdales.com/loyallist for complete details

spring swing

2013-04-01T10:37:00.001-07:00

PSA: ASOS has posted the amazing denim shorts with lace on their site here!

As most of you know, I really couldn't care less what store or section my clothing comes from...and I don't care about sizes either. Once you let go of the stigma surrounding clothing, it really makes life so much easier! I can shop at Salvation Army, Saks Fifth Avenue, Marc Jacobs, or Dress Barn--it's all the same to me. When looking good is my end goal, I don't care what I have to do to get there. That's why I think it's so funny that women are always so surprised that I openly wear maternity clothes! I find it's a great way to fit into straight size stuff, because (obviously) there's a little more room in the midsection. When you're plus size and you want to be well-dressed, you often have to get creative, and that means thinking outside the box. Anyway, I'll be the first to say when I'm wearing a maternity dress, and I have no shame about it. I fell in love with this one from ASOS Maternity and I prayed that it fit! I will say the arms are a bit tight, so if your arms are bigger, it may not work for you (unless you want to chop off the sleeves, which is what I'd do if I couldn't fit them). I wore this for the blogger dinner with Ashley Graham in Toronto (she's starting her own lingerie line!) and then again on Easter.
Photos by Lydia Hudgens Dress-ASOS Maternity/Lipstick Earrings-ASOS (sold out) /Sunglasses-ASOS (sold out)/Shoes-Forever21

SHOP THE LOOK!

unzipped

2013-03-27T02:39:00.000-07:00

I recently spotted these amazing printed pants on Dorothy Perkins, and they have a matching jacket! I love a printed suit, but after trying it on, I decided that wearing both pieces together was a little much--even for me. Instead, I paired the pants with a sheer black button down from F21 (love the studded shoulders and collar) and an amazing cream leather jacket from Addition Elle that I got when I was in Toronto for their store opening a few weeks ago. According to the Canadian ladies, Addition Elle has been moving in a more fashion forward direction, and I believe it; I had a hard time picking out just one item to bring home. The perforated sleeves and zip details on this jacket are phenomenal--I like to wear the zippers a bit open to create a peplum effect. The bad news? I wore this outfit on my flight from New York to Chicago, fell asleep with red bright lipstick on...and woke up with it smeared all over my new favorite piece. UGH. I suck at wearing white.
Photos by Lydia Hudgens

Jacket-c/o Addition Elle/Top-Forever21/Pants-Dorothy Perkins/Heels-Michael Kors/Necklace-Karla's Closet for Roman Luxe/Sunglasses-ASOS

Addition Elle is offering 25% off now through June 22nd, use the coupon code SHOWSTOPPER at checkout! Note: US customs may apply import duties to any order over $200. In order to simplify the ordering process for US customers, the store limits order values to $200.

SHOP THE LOOK!

ASOS Curve Summer Preview

2013-03-24T16:46:00.000-07:00

ASOS was kind enough to fly me to New York on Friday for their Curve Summer Preview! I had so much fun catching up with my favorite ladies and seeing some gorgeous clothes--obviously I'm counting down the days until they're on the site. GIVE ME EVERYTHING. Grisel tried on this amazing coat! Already on the ASOS site here. Wearing: ASOS Top (on sale here)--I sized up because I wanted a slouchy fit /ASOS Jeans (here)/Forever21 Jacket/Michael Kors Heels/Bauble Bar Necklace

Love Affair

2013-03-19T11:34:00.000-07:00

I know, I'm the worst! I've been insanely busy with work deadlines and travel...not to mention weather has been crappy and I've been lounging in leggings on my days off. Ironically, I've been shopping non-stop--mostly at ASOS because their stuff has been amazing lately. I'll have a delivery on its way and then they'll add something great and I have to get it; it's an endless cycle and I have a problem. (What's a girl to do when it's the only brand that consistently has fashion forward plus size pieces?) Let's just say you'll be seeing a lot of ASOS on this blog in the coming months...starting with these, via instagram:
Dress from ASOS Maternity, available here. Vest is an old purchase from Saks, I forget the designer. ASOS graphic print dress, available here. Size down, it runs large! Forever21 jacket, no longer available. At the Addition Elle store opening in Toronto with Marie and Franceta! Wearing an ASOS coat, no longer available, and F21 button down available here.
ASOS asked me to do an edit for their Curve Facebook Page. See my picks below--photos are clickable. I already own most of these! (No, I'm not being paid to say any of this. I just really fucking love that store).

roll out

2013-02-28T00:28:00.001-08:00

Last weekend, I went to brunch with one of my favorite fellow bloggers, Meagan from Latter Style. We had such a great time, and she introduced me to a few stores in Bucktown before snapping these outfit pics. I overslept that morning, and literally couldn't even find my brush (hence my hair below). I ended up throwing my Prabal Gurung for Target sweater (which is more like a long sleeved shirt--it's super thin) over a Forever21 Chambray button down. I wanted to go for a more sporty look, so I paired them with a body con skirt and my Marc sneaker wedges.
Sweater-Prabal Gurung for Target/Chambray Shirt-Forever21/Skirt-La Mafe/Necklace-c/o Bauble Bar/Clutch-H&M Shop the Look!

Hips & Curves V-Day Photo Shoot

2013-02-14T07:13:00.000-08:00

When Hips & Curves approached me to collaborate on a blog post, I was immediately excited--they make some of the most gorgeous lingerie for plus size women…then I remembered that would mean I'd be half naked on the internet, something I've always felt a bit weird about. It seems that whenever I'm not completely covered up, some people take that as an open invitation to comment on my body, when in reality it's a personal statement about self love & empowerment (see: fatkini craziness of last summer). I realize this is the world we live in now--where the bodies of celebrities, bloggers, and even complete strangers are seen as public property. Celebrity culture has trickled down into our day to day lives, and policing others' looks has become normalized. It's something I actively try to avoid doing, but I know better than to think it won't happen to me. Nevertheless, I knew Valentine's Day was fast approaching, and thought this could be a great opportunity to play dress up, have some fun, and hopefully inspire people in the process.

I knew I'd have to shoot with a great photographer and someone I'd feel comfortable with, which is why I chose the super talented Nikki Gomez, an amazing woman with the most positive spirit. She and makeup artist Michela Wariebi made a great team, and we had an absolute blast shooting in New York's Grand Hyatt Hotel.

I cannot do sexy. I can feel sexy, but I've always been more of the girl-next-door smiley type. Any time I try to "look sexy" with my eyes or whatever, it comes off in photos as super forced and uncomfortable, so I purposely wanted to make this fun and be myself. So many lingerie shoots are seen through the male gaze; I wanted to switch things up by celebrating femininity and sexuality even when we're alone. Thigh high stockings, lacey bras, and strappy chemises are absolutely fabulous when you're in a relationship, but they can be equally fun when you're single. Every woman I know has danced around the house in her undies, singing in the mirror and admiring her body, and I think these casual, low-pressure moments can also be when we feel our best. That's what I wanted this shoot to embody.

Above: Cropped Ribbed Tank, Strappy Stretch Lace Bra*, High Waisted Panty, Backseam Stockings
Above: Shaper Skirt
Above: Powermesh Chemise*, Contrast Stockings, (Snakeskin Kimono is from SimplyBe)

This post was sponsored by Hips and Curves. All opinions are my own.

*As a 38H, the strappy bra & bra portion of the chemise were too small, but I was able to wear them for the shoot. I would say they'd fit up to DD comfortably. I totally love both pieces, but wanted to let my fellow DDD+ girls know.

I hope you all have a fabulous Valentine's Day!

Like GabiFresh and Nikki G Photography on Facebook for bonus pictures coming later this week.

winter break

2013-02-10T11:01:00.001-08:00

I've been in New York the past few days--partly for Fashion Week, but mostly because I had an important meeting (I'm so excited to share a huge announcement with you guys soon). Hopefully I'll make it to at least a few shows this week, I have some rad outfits planned. In the mean time, I thought it'd be a good time for an instagram recap!

Taken right before going on MTV's "Ten on Top" Fashion Special

Summer Outfit, top & skirt from H&M//What I wore for my HuffPo feature, top & jacket from F21, leggings custom by Wendi Caires

Spent Christmas in Miami!//Played non-stop with my sister's new kitten

The most delicious duck leg and waffles (and drinks!) at Sugar Cane

My sister and adorable new nephew!//Old photos of my gorgeous mother

Best blogger brunch in Chicago with yummy egg-topped pizza

Boyfriend and I at his most recent event//Sneak peek from a fun shoot yesterday! Will be posted here this week.

YOLO

2013-01-27T17:02:00.000-08:00

Continuing to achieve my dreams of being a wintery ice queen goddess by wearing all silver and black with dark lips and bitchface. Need I say more?

Shirt-F21/Jacket-F21/Pants-Talbots/Shoes-Louboutin/Lips-OCC Black Dahlia

Frozen

2013-01-22T08:21:00.000-08:00

It's absolutely FREEZING in Chicago and I had no business wearing the below outfit to dinner (even with the winter coat I had to wear over this). My boyfriend snapped one photo before we were dying and had to run to the car.

Leather Jacket-ASOS (here)/Tee-Forever21/Skirt-c/o Lane Bryant (here)/Jewelry-c/o Gorjana Griffin (necklace here, earrings here) /Shoes-Louboutin

Between the Chicago weather and being busy decorating my new apartment, I really haven't been going out much, which explains my lack of recent outfit posts. Usually I'm inside cuddled under the covers in my PJs... I don't know, I've always felt weird about bloggers who get dressed for the sole purpose of taking outfit pictures. Though I'm guilty of having done it a few times, I don't want to make it a regular thing...but then my blog doesn't get updated for awhile. I don't think you guys want to see me in sweat pants in a messy house, you know?

I'm wearing 'Flamenco' lipstick from Radiant Cosmetics, a company dedicated to raising awareness about Human Trafficking. They donate 20% of each sale to anti-trafficking organizations. Read more at their site.

winter midriff

2013-01-03T07:16:00.000-08:00

ModCloth was nice enough to let me choose something from their store, and I fell in love with this amazing skirt. Ever since it arrived on my doorstep, I've been playing dress up and prancing around my apartment. Since it's high waisted, I knew I wanted to pair it with a croptop, and I'm all about cropped turtlenecks this season (I blame Rihanna). I haven't seen them in plus sizes just yet, so I wore a regular one and pinned it up.

Top-F21/Skirt-ModCloth/Shoes-Primark/Purse-F21/Necklace-Fashion To Figure

SHOP THE LOOK

Top Ten Outfits of 2012

2013-01-01T11:18:00.002-08:00

Happy New Year!!! I hope you guys had an awesome New Year's Eve! I actually ended up wearing an outfit I've posted here before (this one), so I don't have anything new to show you just yet, but I've been thinking about everything I've learned and experienced in 2012 and had some fun scrolling through old posts and seeing my style evolve. Here are my ten favorite outfits of the year:

TEN NINE EIGHT SEVEN SIX FIVE FOUR THREE TWO and my favorite outfit of 2012:

Wishing all of you a happy, healthy and stylish 2013!

Heavy [into] Metal[lic]

2012-12-19T08:32:00.000-08:00

To say that I'm into metallic this winter would be a huge understatement. I picked up this pleated skirt and this cozy yet chic sweater on my London trip; the skirt's from Primark and the sweater is from Dorothy Perkins (on sale here). The silver shoulder and elbow patches won me over, plus nothing welcomes the winter chill like a white knit.

Sweater-Dorothy Perkins/Skirt-Primark/Shoes-TopShop

SHOP THE LOOK

Graphic

2012-12-16T18:04:00.000-08:00

I was wondering when plus size retailers would finally catch up to the rest of the fashion world and start making graphic print suits. I'd been craving one for what seemed like forever, so when I came across this F21 blazer I ordered it immediately. A few days later, a matching skirt popped up on the site and I about died. (The blazer is available here, and the skirt is available here). Totally channeling my inner Solange Knowles.

Blazer, Skirt, Shirt-Forever 21/Shoes-Dolce Vita/Necklace-H&M (similar)/Purse-Rebecca Minkoff
I'm so devastated by what happened in Newtown, Connecticut. Sending prayers and warm thoughts everyone affected (aren't we all?). Please consider donating--you can see the different ways to help here.

Holiday Gift Guide!

2012-12-11T09:03:00.001-08:00

I've just moved into a new place and am going through kind of a rough spot, so my current daily outfits tend to consist of t-shirts and leggings, on a good day. As much as I love sharing my outfits online, it can get a little repetitive, and the pressure to always look "good" is a very real thing. Fashion blogger burnout, I suppose. In the mean time, I would like to keep the blog alive by realizing every post doesn't have to be an outfit post (though we can all agree those are reader favorites).

If you're anything like me, you have yet to do your Holiday shopping. Luckily, I've been browsing websites for inspiration and have put together a little list of great and affordable gift ideas (if you're related to me and reading this--look away)!

1)ASOS Wayfarer Sunglasses

2)ASOS Spike Stretch Bracelet

3)Sephora Cream Lip Stain 01 Always Red

4)Set the Tune Headphones
5)ASOS Slot Through Envelope Clutch

6)Blog Inc

7) Gorjana Paperclip Ring I love mine!!! As seen on my instagram.

8) Slimflight Flash Drive

9)Whiskey Stones

10)Notefolio

11) Microsoft Surface*

*I was lucky enough to attend a Surface event recently, and they gave one to each attendee! As an iPad lover, I'll be the first to admit that the Surface is great if you're looking to actually do work from your tablet. It has a touch keyboard (and comes with Microsoft Office) so it's perfect for bloggers, college students and girls on the go.

Seven eBay Faves!

2012-11-27T09:41:00.000-08:00

Since this is a personal style blog, I'm totally aware that I tend to mention the same brands over and over--we all know the ones I'm talking about. It's true that I have a love affair with three or four places, and that's where I buy the majority of my wardrobe. But in addition to those, whenever people ask me where to shop as a plus size woman, I always include an additional two: thrift stores and eBay. Yes, eBay.

Once upon a time, eBay was a place known for scoring collectibles and the occasional hard-to-find band t-shirt, but the truth is its fashion offerings are pretty stellar. Years ago, Christina of Musings of a Fatshionista introduced me to the wonders of eBay fashion, and I haven't looked back since. From amazing new lingerie to vintage dresses to discounted well-known brands, I go to eBay whenever there's a specific piece I need to have and haven't found in any mainstream stores. One of my favorite outfits that Jay Miranda has ever worn includes the amazing Ralph Lauren silk pants she found on eBay.

I've put together a few great plus size options that are available right now, simply by searching for plus size [insert anything here]. Sometimes I'll include a fabric or style in my search, like "plus size leather" or "plus size sheer." It's super easy, it's just a matter of digging a little. Do you have any eBay searching secrets? Let me know in the comments!
1) ASOS Curve Knit Swing Dress

2) Collezione Women's Plus Faux Leather Jacket

3) Black Color Block Dress

4) High Waist Moto Leggings

5) IMAN Global Chic Allover Sequins Blazer

6)Faux Leather Pleated Mini Skirt

7) Necessary Objects Sleeveless Casual Dress

This post is part of eBay Finders, a new partnership that presents collections of items curated by a carefully selected group of style setters. Find more inspiration at eBay Fashion. #eBayFinders

Airport Chic

2012-11-21T23:37:00.001-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving! This has absolutely been one of the best years of my adult life, and I'm spending today reflecting on all of the great things that are happening lately. I'll admit that the recent non-stop travel has been kind of rough, but I'm making myself stop and remember that it's a blessing. I'm living the life I used to dream about, and though being away from home isn't easy, I know it's necessary sometimes. The opportunities that are presenting themselves each month never stop amazing me. It's 1 am in New York, and I'm flying home in a few hours. I was in town to shoot a segment on MTV's "Ten On Top" fashion special (it airs Dec 9)! Since I feel like I've spent more time in airports lately than anywhere else, I've pretty much perfected my go-to travel look:Comfort is most important! Things I need include a slouchy tee, leggings, flats, a sweater or jacket, and a pashmina. And sunglasses, always! I'm usually too tired to put on any makeup so sunglasses + bright lips are a must. Everything pictured is from F21.

A huge thank you to ALL OF YOU for your continued support and love. Some of you guys have been following me since 2008, and I can't tell you how much it means. Wishing everyone a very happy Turkey Day!

Totally InStyle

2012-11-15T06:13:00.001-08:00

I feel like I've been holding this in forever, and now I can finally share the news: I'm a new contributor to InStyle Magazine! I have a monthly page with tips and style ideas for plus size women, and I couldn't be more honored. Four years ago, I was desperately interviewing at fashion magazines for internship positions, and no one would hire me. I gave up on that, and blogging became its own (amazing) career that has led to more opportunities than I could have ever imagined...and now I've come full circle. More than anything, I'm really happy that another mainstream women's magazine is including a page on plus size fashion--I can only hope the rest follow suit. My debut is in the December issue, which hits stands tomorrow! Make sure you pick up a copy!

La Mafe by Fluvia Lacerda

2012-11-13T16:11:00.000-08:00

I've been lucky enough to call model Fluvia Lacerda a friend for three years now. She's always expressed her desire to start her own fashion line in her native country of Brazil, as the plus size options there are seriously limited. When she contacted me a few weeks ago to let me know that it was finally happening, and then invited me to come to her launch party in Sao Paulo, I couldn't have been more excited!

The event was last night and I'm not exaggerating when I say it was probably the nicest one I've ever been to. The venue was absolutely amazing--we were surrounded by lush trees, ponds, and flowers, the perfect location to show off Fluvia's collection, which is filled with sheer, flowy fabrics and bright tropical prints. She teamed up with an already established brand, La Mafe, to create the collection De Onde eu Vim (Where I Come From). It was inspired by Fluvia's hometown and features prints of animals, insects and fruit. You can see the campaign images here.

I wore a sheer button down by La Mafe and a skirt from Fluvia's collection (the only black piece she made--of course it's what I chose)! Pulled things together with a F21 jacket that I basically never take off (available here) and amazing pair of Zara heels (sold out, similar here). Ignore the end-of-the-night messy bun! I was so busy capturing Fluvia on video that I didn't get any decent outfit shots of my own.

Jacket-Forever21/Top-La Mafe/Skirt-La Mafe x Fluvia Lacerda/Shoes-Zara/Jewelry-F21, H&M

Fluvia's energy is completely contagious, and at least five of us were crying by the end of the night because of how touched we were. I'm so, so proud of this woman and all that she's accomplished, and I'm even more proud I get to call her my friend. I'm so glad I thought to capture the day on camera. Watch the video below to get a feel for just how amazing everything was! (Best if you view in high quality).

This 'n' That

2012-11-10T22:07:00.001-08:00

I know I haven't done an outfit post in a while, things have gotten a little crazy over here. I actually just landed in São Paulo, Brazil! I'll try to get one up soon, but in the mean time I thought I'd share a couple instagram shots with you. I'm obsessed with this recently purchased spiked-shoulder ASOS coat, and I'm so sad it's already sold out! Keep an eye on the site, sometimes they bring best-sellers back. (It should be noted, though, that they have other amazing outerwear options like this, this, and this).

After a NYC shoot a few days ago//Right before my 10 hour flight!

I have so much exciting news coming up! I can't share just yet, but I get to finally spill at least some of it next week. Speaking of which: did you see the amazing NY Times article about plus size bloggers as role models? They were the first publication that ever quoted me (way back in 2009); now we have a full-page in the Style section! Read the full piece here.

Just to clarify--that's not me in the photo. It's Garner Style next to Nicolette Mason, and they both look fab! (I only say this because a few people have already mistaken her for me. Unfortunately I wasn't able to shoot with NYT because of my scheduling conflicts).