And who better to talk about this than the costume designer herself, Francesca Roth? We sat down with the film’s costume designer to get the inside scoop on how she worked her magic to bring the film’s characters to life—wardrobe first, of course!

Dressing for Confidence—With a Side of Magic

Francesca Roth didn’t just dress the characters of Empire Waist—she empowered them. Roth shares how the costumes were more than just clothes; they were transformative tools that helped the cast embody their roles, and sometimes, even reshape how they felt about their own bodies. “I think it becomes a space that helps turn a personal discomfort into confidence,” she says. That’s the magic of costume design.

Whether it’s a pair of jeans that work perfectly for Marcy (played by Daisy Washington), who uses a wheelchair, or the iconic final dress worn by Lenore (played by Mia Kaplan), Roth ensures that each look represents both the character’s personality and their growth throughout the film.

And the challenges? Roth didn’t shy away from those either. “The challenge is that most clothes today are made for such a narrow range of idealized body types,” she notes. Sound familiar, fashion lovers? Empire Waist faced these hurdles head-on, showing the reality of finding clothes that actually fit and flatter in an industry still playing catch-up with inclusivity.

A Cast as Diverse as the Wardrobe

We’ve got to talk about that gorgeous and diverse cast. With so many different body types, Roth had her work cut out for her. But, like the pro she is, she took it all in stride. She revealed that a lot of the magic came from understanding how each actor moved through the world and how they expressed themselves through style. “I lean into their style and personality as strengths to make their character more dynamic,” she says.

The end result? A range of wardrobe pieces that felt true to the characters—and, most importantly, that felt authentic to the actors wearing them.

Take Kayla, for example, who gets her Clueless-inspired debut outfit. Roth shares how the over-the-top plaid skirt and faux-fur coat were pieced together from not one, but two skirts sewn together to accommodate sizing. Roth’s flexibility and ingenuity highlight the real struggle of finding on-trend, plus size clothes that fit properly. But the finished product? Pure gold!

Designing for the Plus Size Body—It’s All About the Fit

One of Roth’s key opportunities in Empire Waist was dressing plus size bodies in a way that was both defining and narratively impactful. “Often there’s a discrepancy between the sizes we think we should wear and what size we actually need,” she shares. Oh, Francesca, we feel that struggle!

Roth took the time to get to know each actor, asking about their measurements, their favorite brands, and how they personally feel about their bodies. This meticulous attention to detail ensured that every costume not only fit but flattered.

The Iconic Looks: From “Clueless” Homage to the Showstopper Dress

When it came to dressing plus size characters, Roth made sure that each outfit felt intentional and empowering. The solution to ill-fitting garments? Alterations, alterations, alterations! And let’s just say, Kayla’s two-skirt combo was far from the only example of Roth getting creative with a needle and thread.

Okay, we couldn’t talk to Roth without fangirling over some of the film’s most iconic looks. Her personal favorite? Kayla’s Clueless-inspired ensemble that was both dramatic and so true to her character’s arc. “It’s Kayla’s ‘Clueless’ moment,” Roth gushes, citing Mona May, the legendary designer behind the original Clueless costumes. Finding a colorful faux-fur coat during a pandemic wasn’t easy, but Roth pulled it off.

And then, there’s the pièce de résistance: Lenore’s final dress. This custom-made beauty is the epitome of character development, representing Lenore’s journey toward self-love. Designed with a metallic pastel fabric, it was created in just five days, but the impact? Chef’s kiss.

As Roth puts it, “The dress is meant to represent Lenore’s growth toward loving herself and accepting her body.” And if you ask us, that’s exactly what it does.

Indie Designers, Are You Listening?

Plus size indie designers, take note! Roth is on the lookout for you. While the costume department often turns to big-box retailers for ease and quick returns, she encourages indie designers to slide into her inbox. “Never underestimate the power of the cold email,” she says, offering a cheeky wink to up-and-coming designers.

Roth keeps a list of designers and brands she loves and would be happy to reach out when the right project comes along. So, if you’ve got a unique, size-inclusive line, what are you waiting for? Closed mouths don’t get fed… right?

Empire Waist isn’t just a film about fashion, body positivity, or high school drama—it’s about all of these things and more. And Francesca Roth’s costume design brought this story to life in a way that only a true visual storyteller could. Through her dedication to making every character’s wardrobe feel authentic and empowering, Roth ensured that Empire Waist isn’t just a movie. It’s a movement.

For our fellow Curvy Fashionistas out there looking to express yourselves, take a page out of Roth’s playbook: be unapologetic, get creative, and, as Roth would say, if you love it—don’t hesitate!

What do you think of Francesca Roth’s work in Empire Waist? Are you excited to see the film’s stylish take on body positivity? Let us know in the comments!

This article, Empire Waist Costume Designer, Francesca Roth Shares How She Brought Her Magic to the Film first appeared on The Curvy Fashionista and is written by Team TCF.

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Centuries later, in 2024, full-figured women are now showing the world there isn’t a weight limit to twirling on your toes. Through brilliant routines and roaring audiences, these amazing ladies do it effortlessly — one bow and a standing ovation at a time.

Plus Size Ballerinas Do Exist & Here They Are

Colleen Conklin

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Colleen Conklin, LPC-MHSP | Nashville (@colleenmwerner)

Colleen Conklin (formerly Werner) is a professional dancer and licensed mental health therapist in Nashville, Tennessee. According to a 2017 interview with NEDA (National Eating Disorders Association), the self-love advocate began dancing at the tender age of 3. Per Dance Magazine, by the time Conklin hit early-to-mid adolescence, she developed body-image issues and forced herself to diet, which led to a full-blown eating disorder diagnosis at 16. 

“Dance can be a great tool for moving through anxiety and depression, but it can also be harmful because it isn’t a space that represents different kinds of bodies,” she told the outlet in 2021. In 2017, Conklin created a hashtag called #BopoBallerina (Body Positive Ballerina) on Instagram, amassing thousands of followers as the online initiative spread like wildfire. She has since cultivated a safe space for those ashamed of not fitting into society’s “conventional” beauty standards.

Lizzy Howell

 

 

 

 

 

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Dance influencer Lizzy Howell gained worldwide popularity after going viral in 2017. The sudden internet fame came through a video of Howell virtually displaying her ballerina skills. The then 15-year-old explained to PEOPLE magazine that she’d been dancing since age 5 and the art had always brought her an intense feeling of joy.

Having been diagnosed with pseudotumor cerebri (a rare brain condition that causes increased pressure in the skull) in her freshman year of high school, Howell’s story is a true testament to never giving up on yourself. Since then, she’s obtained over 600,000 followers on Instagram, 200,000 subscribers on YouTube, and a massive following of 1.8 million on TikTok.

Júlia Del Bianco

 

 

 

 

 

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Brazilian dancer/model Júlia Del Bianco is an illustrious ballerina with 30+ years of experience in the art. She began growing her expertise at age 3 and ultimately graduated from the University of Campinas in São Paulo, Brazil with a degree in dance.

Per an interview with Bright Side, she gushed about how she felt she was born to do dance. “I’ve always danced and wanted to dance,” she told the media site. “I don’t remember consciously choosing ballet or even thinking about becoming a dancer because, for me, it was sort of the obvious thing to do.”

Now an instructor, Bianco is dancing by her own rules, and we love every minute of it.

Janaina Binhardi

 

 

 

 

 

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Janaina Binhardi is a skilled dancer and rising influencer based in Brazil. Through her content, the plus size artist documents her weekly warm-ups as a ballerina and how she so beautifully dominates the studio floor — every step of the way.

Binhardi started ballet at 6 years old but stopped shortly after. According to her social media, at 11, she took jazz and belly dancing classes until she turned 13. After spending three years doing jazz music (from 21 to 24), she decided to finally take ballet seriously at 27. Since then, she hasn’t let up on fulfilling her lifelong dream.

Freje Randall

 

 

 

 

 

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Texas ballerina Freje Randall rose to prominence in 2020 after having the grand opportunity to perform with Lizzo at that year’s GRAMMY ceremony. Per an interview with Houston Life, she cited that Lizzo’s team loved her so much that they asked if she could fly to California and the rest was history.

Randall (who, at the time, was a student of Joffrey Ballet School in New York) began ballet at a young age, but started training professionally at Fort Bend Academy of Dance and Ballet Forte. “I’ve always felt isolated in classes. Simply because my skin is so much darker than everybody else’s, and my body is completely different,” she said on The Kelly Clarkson Show. “I have curves, and ballet is a very stereotypical form of dance. I knew when I didn’t get into certain companies that I auditioned for, it was because of that.”

Now referring to herself as “Thee Stallion BALLER-ina,” the Delta Sigma Theta member has garnered nearly 100,000 followers on Instagram and over 150,000 on TikTok.

Which of these plus size ballerinas did you know? Share below!

This article, #BodyPositiveMovement: 5 Plus Size Ballerinas Who’ve Danced Their Way to the Top first appeared on The Curvy Fashionista and is written by Ashley Blackwell.

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Not only is she a talented actress, but Natasha Rothwell is also a fearless advocate for authenticity and representation in media. In a recent cover article with Hello Beautiful, she candidly shares her thoughts on success, self-acceptance, and the importance of storytelling.

In her interview with Hello Beautiful, Rothwell discussed various aspects of her life and career. When asked about what drives her passion for acting, she replied, I would always do little plays,” she says. “But I also grew up with a super strict family, so the characters I played let me be and do and say those things that I wasn’t allowed to do at home.” This sentiment resonates with many of her fans who appreciate her ability to bring complex, relatable characters to life.

Another insightful question posed to Rothwell was about her journey in the entertainment industry. She responded, “..for a long time, I was this needless wonder and who really didn’t express myself authentically for fear of rejection ….  I valued other people’s opinions, preferences, and comfort and needs over mine.  So yeah, I was not always this open. I consider authenticity a practice. And some days, I’m really good at it, and some days I’m not, but I am committed to doing the work.” Her journey serves as an inspiration, particularly to aspiring actors and writers who may feel discouraged by the challenges within the industry.

Transitioning to her role in “How to Die Alone,” Rothwell elaborated on the show’s premise. “It’s a dark comedy about love, loss, and the messiness of life,” she explained. “It was very deliberate choice to allow the character to experience the full spectrum of emotion,” says Rothwell.  “And not just be funny and flat or a caricature. I wanted to write a fully fleshed-out, real, 10-toes-down character. And when I put pen to paper, I was honestly writing my dream role.”

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Rothwell also touched on the portrayal of mental health in “How to Die Alone.” “I take my mental health very seriously. I have social anxiety. And I’m a little neurospicy. And so even as an adult, learning about myself and understanding myself as an adult with ADHD was a huge revelation. And that knowledge is not only power, but it allowed me to give myself grace in how I show up in the world and not apologize for it.”,” she remarked. This approach has garnered praise from fans who find comfort in seeing their struggles depicted on screen.

The discussion shifted to plus size representation in Hollywood, a topic Rothwell is very passionate about. “There was a time in my life that I had really bad cramping in my [shoulders] because I would fold myself on subway. Because I didn’t want to take up space. I felt like I was an inconvenience.  The consequence of not allowing yourself to take up space is physical. It’s actual physical pain.” Her dedication to making the industry more inclusive is evident, and it’s something many in the audience share. She admits it took time to audition fuller versions of herself over the years and feel like, “No, this is my body. It takes up space. I’m not going to apologize for it.”

When asked how she feels about the success of “How to Die Alone“, Rothwell reflected deeply. “It just feels surreal,” she says of the show’s warm reception from audiences and critics alike. “You make something. You do it for yourself. You hope people like it, and the response has been just overwhelmingly positive and it’s just… “. With her humor and dedication to authenticity, Rothwell continues to inspire not just through her screen presence, but through her words and actions off-screen as well.

As Natasha Rothwell continues to carve her own path in Hollywood, her contributions are vital in shaping the future of diverse storytelling. With her roles that combine comedy and drama, she leaves audiences feeling both entertained and understood. The journey ahead for Rothwell seems bright and filled with endless opportunities, and fans are excited to see where her talents will take her next.

In conclusion, Natasha Rothwell’s interview with Hello Beautiful reveals her unwavering commitment to authenticity and representation in the entertainment industry. Whether through her work on “How to Die Alone” or her efforts to elevate diverse voices in storytelling, Rothwell is a true trailblazer. To read more about her insights, be sure to check out the entire article in Hello Beautiful.

Have you checked Natasha Rothwell out in Hulu‘s latest series “How to Die Alone” ? Let us know in the comments!

This article, Natasha Rothwell’s Hello Beautiful Oct. 2024 Cover Story: Breaking Boundaries with Humor & Heart! first appeared on The Curvy Fashionista and is written by Kara "Juicy" Johnson.

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The recently released (TODAY!) film Empire Waist is a refreshing, heartfelt story that highlights the complexities of self-esteem, body image, and empowerment. Directed by Claire Ayoub, the movie follows a group of high school girls navigating the pressures of societal beauty standards while forming a bond over shared experiences through fashion and self-acceptance. With its rich characters, strong performances, and timely themes, Empire Waist is not only a story about fashion, but also one about embracing self-worth.

At the heart of Empire Waist are its diverse characters, each of whom brings a unique perspective to the conversation about body image. The film centers around two main characters: Lenore, played by Mia Kaplan, a budding designer who feels the weight of others’ expectations; and Kayla, played by Jemima Yevu,who uses humor as a defense mechanism against the insecurities she faces.

In addition to the characters Lenore and Kayla, we are introduced to her bold and dynamic crew: Diamond, played by Kassandra Tellez, Marcy, played by Daisy Washington, and Tina, played by Holly McDowell. Together, they form a friend group of young teens whose experiences echo the real-world struggles of many teens (and adults)!

This movie is not only for teens… the messages are also for the adults- the parents, family members, and teachers who impact our lives as well! Ms. Hall, played by Jolene Purdy, is the peppy and loving and encouraging teacher we all should have in our lives and Lenore’s parents, played by Rainn Wilson and Missy Pyle, give us a real dynamic of how our parents can positively encourage or negatively impact our dreams and desires.

Lenore becomes the emotional core of the movie as she learns to assert herself not only as a designer but also as a person who deserves to be valued regardless of her size. This character arc speaks volumes about the importance of self-love, making Empire Waist an essential film for anyone who has ever felt marginalized by conventional beauty standards.

Having had the chance to attend the LA Screening and have TCF moderate the Q&A panel discussion, this move brought us to tears. The layers and levels of messaging was impactful. Listening to the audience cheer, laugh, and sniff throughout the movie was incredibly affirming.

Kara, (@iamjuicyJohnson) our NYC Contributor, attended the NY screening and had this to add: “Empire Waist is a heartwarming and empowering film that beautifully resonates with anyone who’s ever felt marginalized by societal standards. It spoke directly to the teenage girl within me, championing the idea that women in larger bodies deserve success, love, and happiness.

“The dynamic duo, Lenore and Kayla, serve as inspiring role models, encouraging viewers to embrace their true selves and take up space unapologetically. Artfully crafted and emotionally engaging, Empire Waist is a celebration of body positivity and resilience that will surely leave a lasting impact!”

Now, we will not give the whole movie away, since TODAY is the nationwide release of the movie in select theaters! Want to watch it, make sure you check out the locations to see which theater is playing it closest to you! Especially with a few fun fun and exciting cameos towards the end, that just makes it all perfectly come together!

No theater close? No worries!! After the movie makes its rounds in theaters, Empire Waist will be headed to the streamers! But that is not all!!

Gillette Venus and the Confidence Curriculum

In tandem with the film’s release, Gillette Venus has partnered with the movie to launch the Confidence Curriculum, a new initiative aimed at fostering body positivity and self-confidence among young women. The curriculum was developed to align with the themes of Empire Waist, offering resources and tools that empower teens to challenge unrealistic beauty standards and embrace their individuality.

The Confidence Curriculum, supported by Gillette Venus, encourages young people to take control of their self-image by promoting inclusivity and diversity.  

Learn all about Empire Waist and get your tickets at EmpireWaistFilm.com!

Empire Waist is a Film with a Message

Empire Waist is more than just a coming-of-age story—it’s a call to action. Through its engaging characters, inspired fashion designs, and powerful partnership with Gillette Venus, the film shines a spotlight on issues of body confidence, self-acceptance, and the need for greater representation in media and fashion.

As young women continue to navigate a world rife with unrealistic expectations, Empire Waist provides a narrative of empowerment that’s as stylish as it is heartfelt. Empire Waist is a triumph in championing self-love and confidence.

Will you head out to watch the movie? Have you already watched it? Let us know your thoughts about this film! Over the next few weeks, we will have more conversations around the movie, the characters, and the fashions that were involved in the making of this film!

This article, Empire Waist: A Bold New Film Celebrating Fashion, Empowerment, and Confidence first appeared on The Curvy Fashionista and is written by Marie Denee.

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4 African Plus Size Models to Know!

1. Oyindasola Onwuchekwa, ESQ

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Oyindasola is a multifaceted professional who wears many hats. As a barrister-at-law, she brings a strong sense of advocacy to everything she does. But her talents don’t stop there—she’s also a gifted writer, content creator, and plus-size model, using her diverse skill set to make a meaningful impact in various fields.

With a following of over 59,000, Oyindasola has built a community around her mission of promoting body positivity and encouraging women to embrace their unique beauty. She challenges beauty standards through her platform, showing that fashion knows no size limits. Her personality and authentic voice resonate with many, inspiring others to feel confident in their own skin.

Beyond her online presence, Oyindasola co-hosts the Terms and Conditions podcast, where she continues to share her insights and engage with a broader audience.

2. Ruth Vader

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Ruth is a true jack of all trades. In addition to her work as a model, she dedicates her time to mentoring aspiring models, helping them navigate the industry and shape their careers. Ruth’s love for fashion is evident in everything she does, from her personal style to her entrepreneurial ventures. Despite having a micro following of over 5,000.

3. April Ifunanya Ebere

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April is a multifaceted talent, excelling as a model, fashion designer, and entrepreneur. Her exclusive designs, made in Nigeria, showcase her commitment to keeping it local and empowering women through fashion. Additionally, she runs a skincare line focused on enhancing natural beauty and promoting self-care. Through her work, April is dedicated to helping women feel beautiful from the inside out, inspiring confidence and self-love across all her ventures.

4. King Haddassah

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King Haddassah is the ultimate girls’ girl, dedicated to uplifting and empowering women. Beyond her modeling work, she has founded her own modeling agency exclusively for plus size women. Imagine America’s Next Top Model tailored specifically for our curvy queens. Haddassah’s agency, JPModels, focuses on representing mid-size to curvy talent, creating a space where beauty standards are redefined, and every woman is celebrated.

These four African plus size models are just like you and me, with the only difference being that they live across the water. They’ve taken their love for body positivity and modeling to the next level, transforming their passion into successful businesses that highlight their talents and create a domino effect for empowerment. Through their journey, they’ve opened doors for other women, offering them the chance to look and feel their best while also chasing their own dreams and passions.

Their contribution serves as a reminder that no matter where you are in the world, your passion can be a powerful tool for change, inspiring others to embrace their beauty and pursue their aspirations without limits.

This article, Empowering Beauty: Celebrating the Influence of African Plus Size Models first appeared on The Curvy Fashionista and is written by Dayana Preval.

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You may have been introduced to her through the 2012 Broadway production “Ghost” when she portrayed the Tony-nominated psychic Oda Mae Brown. Perhaps it was her 2019 breakout role in the Eddie Murphy-led film “Dolemite Is My Name” as Lady Reed or 2020’s “The United States vs. Billie Holiday” as Roslyn. Maybe it was even Hulu’s comedy series “Only Murders in the Building” as Donna Williams or last year’s blockbuster “The Holdovers” as grieving cafeteria manager Mary Lamb.

As a plus size woman of color, Randolph’s road to success hasn’t been the easiest. Despite the barriers, she continues to boldly beat the odds in an industry that often tries to quiet big, marginalized individuals. The 38-year-old star brought us all to our feet with a standing ovation after winning “Best Supporting Actress” for “The Holdovers” effort at the 2024 Oscars.

“For so long, I’ve always wanted to be different. And, now, I realize… I just need to be myself,” the Philadelphia native gushed in her tearful acceptance speech. “I thank you for seeing me. Ron Van Lieu, I thank you! When I was the only Black girl in that class, when you saw me, and you told me I was enough! And when I told you, ‘I don’t see myself,’ you said, ‘That’s fine. We’re going to forge our own path. You’re going to lay a trail for yourself.'”

These are the top things we adore about “The Lost City” phenomenon.

5 Reasons We Love Da’Vine Joy Randolph & Always Will

Sis is well-educated and degreed!

Randolph spent most of her younger years preparing for the center stage. From attending the Interlochen Center Arts Camp to studying classical vocal performance and opera (later musical theatre) at Temple University, she knew she was destined for worldwide acclaim. Following her time at Temple, Randolph went to the Yale School of Drama and graduated with her master’s degree in 2011. Additionally, she even studied Shakespeare at the University of Oxford.

She never misses in the style department.

Randolph has yet to back down from an opportunity to show up and show out YET. Her fashion sense is immaculate, and every look is on point! If you didn’t know, she has an exclusive glam team of around nine people who are responsible for her award-winning ensembles.

In an interview with Variety, she told the outlet that she likes to have fun with her style, and clothing is a way of self-expression for her as well. Randolph shared, “You know why I love clothes so much? Because it’s connected to one’s personality and sense of self. You don’t have to be as obsessive about it as I am, but I think it’s a good practice of self-love, too.”

Her personal life is pretty private.

What she doesn’t show, you won’t know! And that’s certainly an admirable trait about Randolph! Whereas we live in an age where social media is the new diary, the Pennsylvanian hasn’t offered much about Da’Vine behind the scenes. As far as we know, she’s serious about her craft, likes to step on a few necks with her fashion choices, and is good at winning awards. That’s it… for now.

When it comes to boos or babies, it appears that Randolph is in her single season, but we could be wrong. The Hollywood beauty isn’t that active on the internet either, which is understandable because she stays BOOKED and BUSY!

Da’Vine Joy Randolph is a multi-talented woman.

As we know, Randolph is a performer of all trades. Before she’d gotten bitten by the acting bug, singing was her first love. When on stage accepting her Academy Award, Randolph confessed that her mother had given her the push she needed to see beyond that.

“God is so good. You know, I didn’t think I was supposed to be doing this as a career. I started off as a singer,” she recounted to the audience. “My mother said to me, ‘Go across that street, to that theater department. There’s something for you there.’ And I thank my mother for doing that!”

Aside from tearing down the Broadway stage, Randolph lent her powerhouse voice to “The Mr. Peabody & Sherman Show’s” official soundtrack in 2015. Clearly, she’s true to this — not new to this!

Despite her many accolades, she remains humble.

Randolph has won an Academy Award, AAFCA Award, Astra Film Award, Black Reel Award(s), British Academy Film Award, and Golden Globe Award, among others. But… although her work has earned her some important accomplishments, the passionate creative prides herself on keeping her humility.

“There’s a trophy in my house now, but I’m not different. You can’t come from Philadelphia and be changed; they won’t let you. This will be who I am. The roles will get better; the money will improve, the lines will get better,” she explained to Variety after her Oscar win. “I hope to make a legacy and leave an imprint with this career. I hope my work will matter and it will be something that people of all shapes, sizes, colors, creeds, and genders can connect to. But me, and the soul of me, won’t change.”

What are some reasons why you love Da’Vine Joy Randolph? Tell us below!

This article, 5 Reasons Why We Love Da’Vine Joy Randolph — Hollywood’s Newest Plus Size ‘It Girl’ first appeared on The Curvy Fashionista and is written by Ashley Blackwell.

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Because who doesn’t love good plus size romance novels?

If you haven’t noticed, the literary market has tremendously shifted since the early 2000s. With the rise of urban fiction, throughout the years, the types of characters displayed in the mainstream arena have taken on a new look and influenced the entire industry.

Traditionally, many publishers knew that the one thing besides sex that truly sold was socially attractive individuals, which is what most of the female models on the book covers (across all genres) reflected. They were thin, with a certain Sex in the City or Girlfriends-themed aesthetic. Not that there was anything wrong with that or that it devalued any of the amazing plot lines that came out during that era, but it did make women of a voluptuous stature feel as if their stories weren’t worth being told.

However, as time progressed and the writer pool diversified and expanded, we saw protagonists go from your everyday girl next door to “Full-Figured Frances” who wasn’t afraid to flaunt her shapely physique on the front of someone’s next bestseller.

These are 5 reads we know our fluffy babes will enjoy.

Plus Size Romance Novels That Belong on Your Book Shelf

“Obsessed with a Plus Size Barbie” by Jatoria C.

Cole Hart Signature author Jatoria C.’s “Obsessed with a Plus Size Barbie” follows the life of Barbie McKey, whose mother’s dying wish for her was to return to her hometown, New Orleans, Louisiana, for a year. Fulfilling the request, Barbie journeys back to her roots and coincidentally meets a man named Amant LeBlanc. Per the synopsis, Amant is a “professor by day and a key figure in the city’s underground by night.”

Seemingly set in his own ways and used to playing by his own rules, Barbie captivates the Alpha male’s attention in a way that no other woman ever has. As tensions arise and their opposite worlds collide, Barbie and Amant must determine if they’ll stand the test of time.

“Obsessed with a Plus Size Barbie” is a three-part series.

“I Like You Like That” by Kayla Grosse

In Kayla Grosse’s hit novel “I Like You Like That,” we see Birdie Wilder and Liam Miller, two childhood best friends who haven’t spoken in a decade. Birdie is now an A-list celebrity who finds herself the target of a creepy stalker.

When her label hires a personal bodyguard for her, she has no idea that it’s Liam, who broke her heart when they were sixteen. Although emotions are still high from their nasty departure, Birdie and Liam try to make the best out of the uncomfortable situation. Unable to run from each other any longer, the pair must overcome the hurt from their past teenage feud.

But… upon reconnecting, things get a little more heated than ever imagined—only this time, in a good way.

“Champagne Kisses: A Curvy Romance” by Katherine E. Webb

Adam Park and Maya Davis are the stars of writer Katherine E. Webb’s “Champagne Kisses: A Curvy Romance.” Adam is a project manager for a Fortune 500 company, a family-oriented man, and a hot bachelor. On the other hand, Maya is a thriving entrepreneur who loves cooking and spending time with her best friends.

When searching for custom champagne flutes for a wedding, the best man stumbles across It’s Personal, Maya’s business where she specializes in handmade gifts. As she and Adam engage virtually and finally meet in person, sparks fly but obstacles occur. From additional shot shooters to past traumas, Adam and Maya have a rocky road ahead of them, but the decision to travel it together is solely up to them.

“Sorry. Not Sorry” by Emily James

“Sorry. Not Sorry” was the introductory novel of author Emily James’ ‘Blingwood Billionaires’ series. The plot focuses on Drew and Skyla. Drew is a single father to a beautiful baby girl, afraid of commitment. On the contrary, Skyla is a plus-size virgin who yearns for nothing more than to feel loved… literally.

Upon the duo getting involved, Skyla realizes that she’s catching more feelings than Drew is ready to give. Although chained to his ego, Drew can’t deny that there’s something about Skyla that he doesn’t want to let go of.

The only question is if Skyla will score at making casual fling a real thing.

“Curvy Girl Summer” by Danielle Allen

Danielle Allen’s USA Today bestseller “Curvy Girl Summer” is still on fire! An (almost) 30-year-old Aaliyah James is tired of one-night stands and meaningless hookups.

Bothered by her family’s harsh comments on her ticking biological clock and larger size, Aaliyah sets out to prove them wrong when they imply that those two things will make it harder for her to find love.

While on a mission to meet Mr. Right, she soon realizes he might be nearer than she initially believed.

So, which book will YOU be picking up and reading next?!

This article, 5 Plus Size Romance Novels That’ll Give You All the Feels & Make You Want to Fall in Love first appeared on The Curvy Fashionista and is written by Ashley Blackwell.

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As you may have noticed, a good majority of mainstream competitors are thin-waisted. From on-air commercials to magazine spreads, ripped abs and defined calves have always been at the forefront of the industry’s marketing campaigns. But what about those plus size Olympians who are making history? Why are we not seeing more of these athletes being celebrated?

The truth is… you can be healthy at every size. Flexibility and mobility aren’t always dependent upon how much one weighs. In this article, we’re shedding light on female plus size Olympians you may (or may not) have known about. These medal holders have pushed the envelope and flipped the narrative for athletes on the higher end of the scale… time and time again.

With the Paris 2024 Olympics upon us, which kicked off on July 26 and will end on August 11, it’s necessary to recognize illustrious people of size who’ve made a difference.

Plus Size Olympians We Need You to Know

Michelle Carter

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Michelle Carter • Olympic Gold Medalist & Speaker (@shotdiva)

This is the real “Shot Diva,” for sure! The incomparable Michelle Carter is the daughter of former Olympic athlete and NFL player Michael Carter. She is a three-time plus size Olympian, World Championship gold medallist, and speaker. Carter’s throwing career began during her junior year of high school in 1997. In 2001, while rocking her USA jersey, she won silver at the World Youth Championships.

From there, after making her first Olympic team in 2008, she would go on to break many records and accumulate numerous accolades. In 2016, the now-38-year-old won gold at the 2016 World Indoor Championships in Portland. However, according to her website, she was crowned at the 2016 Summer Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro and became the first American woman to win gold in the shot put competition.

Sarah Robles

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Sarah Robles Oly (@roblympian)

Once deemed the “top-ranked weightlifter” in America, Sarah Robles is an accomplished, three-time national champion who, in 2016, became the first U.S. athlete to medal in Olympic weightlifting since 2000. In 2020, she won her second bronze at that year’s Summer Olympics in Tokyo, Japan.

After winning a silver medal in 2010, her gold medals came in 2022, when she competed in the Pan American Weightlifting Championships in Bogotá, Columbia. Last year, she struck another silver at the 2023 Pan American Weightlifting Championships in Bariloche, Argentina.

“The thing that makes me feel really good, that confirms what I’m doing this for, is the messages I get from young girls, saying ‘I want to be like you when I grow up,” she previously told Tokyo 2020 in an interview.

Emily Campbell

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Olympic silver medallist Emily Campbell has earned the title of “the most successful British weightlifter of modern times,” per her Wikipedia page. In 2018, she won a bronze medal at the Commonwealth Games and another during the European Championships in 2019. Two years later, the record-breaker became a European champion. She became the first British female weightlifter to win an Olympic medal in the 2020 Summer Olympics.

After obtaining the silver achievement, her next bronze came at the World Championships in Uzbekistan. The 2022 European Weightlifting Championships granted Campbell her gold medal and again in 2023, as did the 2024 Championships in Bulgaria this past February. Aside from those highlights, the 30-year-old has a host of other successes in the sport. She recently geared up to participate in the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Raven Saunders

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Raven Hulk Saunders (@giveme1shot__)

A mentee of Michelle Carter, Raven “Hulk” Sanders began throwing shot put and discus in their freshman year of high school. The South Carolina native was named the Gatorade National Girls Track and Field Athlete of the Year in 2014.

Saunders made their international debut at the World Junior Championships in Athletics that same year in Eugene, Oregon, winning a silver medal. Additionally, the 28-year-old LGBTQIA+ advocate raked in a silver at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. They’re also at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Deanna Price

 

 

 

 

 

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Hammer throw icon Deanna Price claimed her first international silver medal at the 2015 NACAC Championships. Her Olympic debut came in 2016 at the 2016 Tokyo Olympics. In 2019, she won a gold medal at the World Championships in Doha, Qatar, which made her the first U.S. woman to medal in any female throws event at the prestigious competition. Four years later, in 2023, she retrieved a bronze. Price entered the Paris 2024 Olympics this summer, marking her third Olympic Games.

Which of these plus size Olympians had you known about already? Let us know in the comments below!

This article, #BigAthletesCanDoItToo: These Are 5 Plus Size Olympians We Don’t Talk About Enough first appeared on The Curvy Fashionista and is written by Ashley Blackwell.

Never miss the latest in plus size fashion news, trends, and conversations! Sign up for Curvy Fashionista Newsletter!

The Florida native made history when she became the first-ever plus size winner of Tyra Banks’ classic reality competition, America’s Next Top Model, in 2008. Thompson (aka Forrester) won cycle 10 of the hit CW series and had one of the most memorable runs on the show.

Known for her “pageant-like” modeling style, Thompson beat Anya Kop in the finale. The prize package included a $100,000 contract with CoverGirl cosmetics, a feature story in Seventeen magazine, and a deal with Elite Model Management. On average, over four million viewers were reportedly tuning in every episode.

Thompson’s victory reached national news, as the then-20-year-old took the fashion industry by storm. However, it appears that Thompson’s lifestyle is now vastly different from her runway days.

Let’s get into what she’s been up to over the years.

Thompson’s Life After America’s Next Top Model

Following the success of “America’s Next Top Model,” Thompson was named one of MSNBC’s “Most Influential Women of the Year” in 2008. In 2009, she launched her candle and jewelry line, SUPERMODEL. Thompson also became a spokesperson for the National Eating Disorders Association in 2010. She is credited as the character Faith in a few episodes of “Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Motion Comic.”

Additionally, she garnered quite a buzz when posing nude for the National Organizations for Women’s 5th Annual Love Your Body Day promotional campaign that same year, alongside the event’s creator, Chenese Lewis.

According to research, Thompson spent a great deal of the late 2000s and early 2010s doing philanthropy work, building her brand outside of “America’s Next Top Model,” and motivational speaking at college campuses.

In a 2011 interview published by HuffPost, when discussing the state of her cutthroat profession and if it were “good for people” overall, the Forever 21 model said, “Modeling is a terrible job. It’s not so much for me anymore because I got stubborn with it and I’ve kind of made my own decisions.”

“I am a ‘bad’ model if you will. [laughs] I went back to being brunette and I live where I want to live,” she told HuffPost. “And I work with who I want to work with and that’s kind of what I do because I got tired of being told what to do which is not what models are supposed to do.”

Where Is Whitney Thompson Now?

In 2020, Thompson appeared on Bravo’s “Below Deck Sailing Yacht,” and longtime fans were overjoyed to see the beauty back on their TV screens. Aside from her on-camera resurgence, life for the fashionista has pivoted.

Thompson owns Pink Pelican Ice Cream in Panama City Beach, Florida, where they are praised for selling the “finest ice cream and fudge.” She’s also a mother and has been married since 2014 (Ian Forrester). The now-36-year-old’s dress-shopping experience was featured in Season 1 of TLC’s “Say Yes to the Dress.”

Thompson is a vegan and world traveler.

 

 

 

 

 

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Who was your favorite “America’s Next Top Model” winner? Let us know in the comments below!

This article, Where Is Whitney Thompson Now? The First Plus Size Winner of ‘America’s Next Top Model’ first appeared on The Curvy Fashionista and is written by Ashley Blackwell.

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As our use of media continues to rise, representation is more important than ever. Being able to turn on a show or a movie and see someone you can relate to is not only ideal, but vital. Bodies come in different shapes and sizes, and the media we consume should portray them. As the body-positive movement continues to grow, more and more TV shows and movies show multiple body types. Here are five body-positive animated characters that have defied beauty standards!

1. Fiona – “Shrek”

When “Shrek” hit theaters in 2001, it was an instant hit. Aside from the hilarious talking donkey and fairy-tale characters, the movie’s most tremendous success was its message. As you know, Fiona fought her destiny as an ogre throughout the film. However, she later fell in love with Shrek, which caused her to remain an ogre permanently. She learned to love Shrek for who he is and love herself as a curvy, green woman.

2. The Fairy Godmother – “Cinderella”

Cinderella’s fairy godmother more than likely reminds you of a grandmother figure you have in your life. She was just a sweet old lady trying to help Cinderella. However, when Cinderella was released in 1950, the fairy godmother character was the first of its kind. According to Bustle, she was the first grandmother-like figure that was not a villain or made to look ghastly. Additionally, she had curves and represented many body types.

3. Maui – “Moana”

A more recent character in the Disney universe, Maui, presents many characteristics that are considered taboo in our society. Firstly, he is not the typical strong man. While he has great strength, his body is not made to be super muscled. Additionally, Maui is shirtless, showing off his many Samoan tattoos. The showing of tattoos is not only a first, but it also displays the Samoan culture, making Maui one of the most body-positive animated characters.

Body positivity is not just important for real life characters. Since most cartoons are aimed at children, it is imperative that body-positive animated characters are included in the media.

This article, 3 Body-Positive Animated Characters That Have Defied Beauty Standards first appeared on The Curvy Fashionista and is written by Kerbi Lynn.

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