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“Country lyrics really drew me into the genre. I loved that you could make and sing a song about pretty much anything in life. I know the art of storytelling through song isn’t genre-specific and can be found in so many styles of music, but I discovered my own storytelling voice through country music,” Spencer explained.

“Country music has been like an internal vehicle, helping me discover a lot about myself as a writer and musician. To me, that’s what makes country music my home,” she added.

For Brittney, being a plus size Black woman in the country music industry adds another layer to the challenge. It’s no secret that the music business can be superficial, and country music is no exception. But instead of conforming to industry pressures, Brittney has embraced who she is—both on and off the stage. She’s not just breaking barriers with her voice; she’s also doing it with her style.

The “Bigger Than The Song” singer is becoming a standout in the country music scene. Since stepping onto the scene in 2013, Brittney’s powerful voice and undeniable talent have steadily gained her recognition, most recently with superstar Beyoncé. Spencer recently sat down with us to dish on all things fashion, music, and taking up space in the industry.

’70s Urban Cowgirl Chic with Brittney Spencer

Fashion is another area where Brittney shines. She’s got a style that’s as bold as her voice—think different denims, suede, textures, rhinestones, and a whole lot of confidence.

“I love texture-denim, suede, velvet, leather and corduroy. I love 70s fashion. I love looking at photos of artists in the 70s and seeing many of them dress similarly across genres,” Spencer passionately stated. “Dolly, Chaka, Fleetwood Mac, Sly and the Family Stone wore bell bottoms, bellbottom jumpsuits, flared jeans and shirts, textures, and lots of sewn-in feathers.”

However, Spencer understands how hard it is to achieve “really good plus size fashion.” The “Sober & Skinny” singer pointed out that retailers still drop the ball regarding quality clothing for bigger bodies, even if they offer plus sizes.

“If I want high fashion, I have to search a lot deeper to find things in my size or just get something custom-made. Honestly, it’s demotivating,” she said.

She has vowed to continue to call out fashion retailers for the lack of plus size fashion because everyone deserves to feel good and have cute clothing. Often, Spencer would love to rock a comfortable pair of sweatpants, but she admitted that she loves fashion too much. Luckily, Spencer has found some go-to plus size brands she loves, like Good American, Karen Millen, Levi’s, Dolce Vita (for her wide calf boots), Anthropologie, and more.

Owning The Spotlight & Making Music

When it comes to her music, Spencer is as real as it gets. Her sound is soulful and authentic, and the singer plans on staying true to herself.

“I try to be real about myself, what I want, and what I hope to achieve. I often think about the people I’m making music for and let that guide me,” Spencer said.

Spencer put those feelings into her debut album, “My Stupid Life,” which reflects her personal journey filled with highs, lows, and everything in between.

“This album taught me to be more honest about how I feel and the experiences I’ve had. As it relates to body image, I Iooked the way I wanted to – I used full-body photos on the cover and in lots of the promo shots. I don’t really have an agenda, just more like a goal to be, feel, and look as dope as I want to,” Spencer shared.

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And it was her authenticity that got her noticed by Beyoncé. Her life changed overnight when the “Alien Superstar” singer tapped Spencer’s shoulder for her country album, “Cowboy Carter.” The collaboration was a dream come true and a testament to Spencer’s hard work.

Spencer revealed this year’s album release, working with Beyoncé, and performing at Stagecoach- were all “a dream come true.”

Brittney Spencer is owning her moment, both in music and fashion. She’s a reminder that country music is for everyone—and that the spotlight shines brightest on those who are true to themselves.

This article, Brittney Spencer On Owning Her Style, Music, And The Spotlight first appeared on The Curvy Fashionista and is written by Jazzy.

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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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Look 1: Pretty in Pink

For the debut of her baby bump, Sidibe rocked a playful pink number. The textured swing dress featured long sleeves and was the perfect accessory for her baby bump. The vibrant pink color matched her bubbly personality and brought a pop of color to the event. She paired the dress with black boots and her husband by her side.

Look 2: The Golden Goddess

In 2019, Sidibe attended Tyler Perry Studios’ grand opening gala in an all-gold ensemble. This wrap dress hugged her curves perfectly and shimmered with every move. The V-neckline added just the right amount of drama, while the intricate beading provided extra glamour. She completed the look with minimal jewelry and a confident smile, proving she was a golden goddess. Her bold choice of gold made her stand out, reminding us all that fashion is about making statements.

Look 3: Casual Chic

Even in her downtime, Gabourey knows how to stay stylish. Plus, there’s nothing like a mirror selfie. She posted a photo of herself in a Black pleated skirt and cropped Black sweatshirt with the words “QUEEN” on the front. She finished the look with red sneakers and tights, perfectly balancing comfort and style. This outfit is a reminder that you can look fabulous without sacrificing comfort.

Look 4: Fairy Princess

Sidibe was a fairy princess for her surprise baby shower. According to her post, her close friends surprised her and her hubby with the event, and she looked stunning. The actress wore a blush pink off-the-shoulder baby doll dress with pearls all over it and sheer puffy sleeves. Sidibe wore a matching floral headband with her husband, pearl earrings, and a chain necklace.

Look 5: Bold in Blue

Sidibe wowed in a bold blue dress at the 2018 Essence Black Women In Hollywood Oscars Luncheon. The electric blue hue complemented her skin tone beautifully, and the off-the-shoulder flared dress was adorned with a beautiful print pattern. She paired it with Black strappy heels and dramatic statement earrings, making sure all eyes were on her.

Gabourey Sidibe’s best looks are as dynamic and vibrant as she is. She can make a fashion statement on the red carpet or running errands. Her confidence and bold choices inspire plus size fashionistas to embrace their unique style everywhere. Gabourey proves that fashion is for everyone, regardless of size. So next time you’re looking for style inspiration, take a page from Gabby’s book and dare to be bold, confident, and unapologetically you.

This article, Get Into It! 5 Of Gabourey Sidibe’s Best Looks! first appeared on The Curvy Fashionista and is written by Jazzy.

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Fashion is for everyone, or at least that is why we want to believe…. But it s also why sites like The Curvy Fashionista exist, to ensure that it can happen. And with this sentiment, that means celebrating all kinds of beautiful bodies! But let’s be honest, the fashion world hasn’t always reflected that reality. That’s why we’re spotlighting five incredible plus size models who are redefining the industry with their style, confidence, and infectious positivity.

Get ready to follow these inspiring women and see how representation, visibility, and diversity are not just trends – they’re essential for a more vibrant and inclusive fashion landscape. Seeing yourself reflected in the media you consume is powerful. It can boost your confidence, inspire you to experiment with your style, and challenge narrow beauty standards. These models are breaking down barriers and proving that fashion is truly limitless! So, get ready to be wowed, empowered, and maybe even discover your next personal style icon.

Let’s dive in!

5 Plus Size Models to Follow on Instagram

1. Paloma Elsesser (@palomija)

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Hailing from Los Angeles, California, Paloma won Model of the Year at the 2023 Fashion Awards. “Modeling changed my narrative and gave me a sense of purpose in challenging norms around our bodies that I too had been indoctrinated into,” Paloma shared in an essay for The Cut. “My body became a vessel for connection. A vessel for thought.”

2. Precious Lee (@preciousleexoxo)

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Representing Atlanta, Georgia, Precious grew up connected to nature and says that being spiritually connected is important to her. “Meditation and working with your breath is the best way you can connect with your body,” she wrote for Vogue. “It gives a sense of awareness. Taking that time to take in air…your body thanks you on a cellular level, a spiritual level. When you implement it, it’s transformative.”

3. Alva Claire (@alvaclaire)

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London’s own Alva is a Jamaican-British model whose first catwalk was for 2019 Savage x Fenty. “I want to see women like us given freedom, a real sense of expression of the individual, and not to be put in a box of the way this industry and society thinks we should be,” she shared in an interview with Dazed.

4. Ava Hariri-Kia (@lava_ava)

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A New Yorker, Ava recalls being a trusting kid, until at 13 years old, a photographer told her to lose 30 pounds. “Growing up, I was always bigger than the other girls,” she wrote for Bazaar. “It was just who I was, and I accepted that—until the rest of the world told me I shouldn’t. But when I realized I could carve out my own space in fashion and use my personal style as a weapon, as a means to celebrate both my body and personality, my entire world expanded.”

5. Leslie Sidora (@lessancee)

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Born in chic Paris, Leslie got her start by taking photos in New York with a friend. A Los Angeles agency discovered and signed her shortly afterward. “Do not be scared to speak up for yourself,” she shared in an interview with Flaunt. “If something is wrong, you have to talk about it. If it’s behaviors that will make you feel uncomfortable on set, if the makeup doesn’t look right, if the hair doesn’t look right, I think it’s really important to speak up on it.” 

As you look for examples of yourself in the world, hopefully you’re seeing more and more representation of diverse body types. Having these curvy, plus size models to follow on Instagram may help to remind you that every body is a beautiful body. Keeping more realistic shapes on your feed may help you normalize the body you see reflected in your mirror.

This article, Body Positive Inspiration: 5 Plus Size Models to Follow on Instagram first appeared on The Curvy Fashionista and is written by Wanda Duncan.

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In collaboration with her stylist, Jennifer Austin, Brooks’ has presented her ability to be a style icon. She quickly became an inspiration for women to embrace their curves and love how their body looks at every stage. Here are five of Danielle Brooks’ best looks!

Danielle Brooks’ Best Looks from the Red Carpet that We Love

1. 96th Annual Oscars

Attending the Academy Awards in 2024, Brooks stunned in a Black corseted dress that featured silver pinstripes and a train. The Docle $& Gabbana dress perfectly hugged her curves and allowed a little cleavage and leg for sex appeal. According to People, the actress also sported sparkly nails embossed with the number 26. She revealed that the number represents the number of Black women nominated for Best Supporting Actress before her.

2. 2024 Vanity Fair Oscar Party

The mother of one quite literally shocked everyone when she stepped out in the classy, sparkly number at the 2024 Vanity Fair Oscar Party. Red Carpet Fashion Awards reported that the dress was made by Yousef Aljasmi. She added a silver clutch to match the dress and simple jewelry to set the look off, making this one of Brooks’ best looks!

3. “The Color Purple” Photocall

Even when she is wearing something simple, she is still killing it! Brooks attended the London photo call for “The Color Purple” in an orange sweater-knit dress, which looks gorgeous on her skin. The stunning dress was made by A.W.A.K.E Mode and was paired with minimal jewelry to let the dress speak for itself.

4. 35th Annual Producers Guild Awards

Brooks’ style is inspiring for many reasons, but mainly because she always presents something different from the last thing she wore. While she has a silhouette that works for her body type, she is still versatile. Case in point, the Broadway star attended the Producers Guild Awards in a sheer blue number made by Prabal Gurung. To add flair, she paired it with a fur shawl that showed the spectrum of blue hues.

5. Academy Of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences 14th Annual Governors Awards

Because of her role in “The Color Purple,” we saw Brooks stun in royal color several times. Coincidentally, purple is an excellent color for the actress, perfectly highlighting her undertones. The sparkly, sheer, deep purple number, designed by Naeem Khan, was styled with silver jewelry, making it a must-have on the list of Brooks’ best looks. 

Brooks has quickly become an inspiration to women everywhere. She exudes grace, style, and positivity — so be sure to add these looks to your mood board! What is YOUR favorite look from Danielle Brooks?

This article, Danielle Brooks’ Best Looks on the Red Carpet first appeared on The Curvy Fashionista and is written by Kerbi Lynn.

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“I’m a New Yorker and I wanted it to feel like real New York.” –

Keia Bounds 

It’s something about seeing fashion on a plus size body that thrills me the most whenever I’m watching a particular movie or television series. Having seen the trailer for Netflix’s “Survival of the Thickest,” I was immediately intrigued with how well the series’ lead, Michelle Buteau, was styled throughout the 30 second clip.

New York’s own, Keia Bounds (and her styling/design team), delivered stylishly with each episode of the series, bringing an edgy, city-inspired theme. One that captured the essence of the energy, culture, creativity and individuality, and sex appeal often seen walking the runway sidewalks of the different boroughs of New York. 

When given the task off interviewing Bounds, I jumped on the opportunity IMMEDIATELY! Having watched the series and being a wardrobe stylist myself, excitement ran through my “Single Black Female Addicted to Retail” veins seeing different brands like Eloquii, Brandon Blackwood, Selkie (I’m such a fan of The Puff Dress in the cover), and plus athleisure wear like Adidas, I couldn’t wait to ask Bounds those questions that style enthusiasts would ask.

In attempts to calm my nerves and relax the urge to go into a full anxiety filled episode, I put on my pink lipstick, entered the Zoom chat room, and had a one-on-one girlfriend chat with the lead stylist of “Survival of the Thickest.” TCF supporters, fans, and audience members, I present to you, Keia Bounds. 

Get to Know Keia Bounds, the Costume Designer for Survival of the Thickest!

Entering the chat with such warmness and a chill-relaxed vibe, Bounds (alongside her publicist), (with passion in her eyes) gave me the inspiration to dive deep into asking questions not only pertaining to the film, but her career as a fashion-designer-turned-wardrobe-stylist.

We wondered, as a Costume Designer, what was her inspiration for each episode with each character. Being able to put her genius into play, in order to make sure that the fashion was so amazing and so New York, and so forward? We had to know; what was the inspiration behind that?

Keia shares “So I guess the inspiration behind it was that I am a New Yorker, and I wanted it to feel like real New York, as well as to get what they wanted me to get off of the page (the script).” 

Hearing, “the real New York,” brought me back a time of the early 2000s and watching nighttime television with shows like Sex and the City. Being a native of the city, Bounds seemed to have not only grasped the vision of the film’s production, but she was able to style Michelle Buteau in such a way that made me want to try on the apparel and add them into my closet.

Out of curiosity, I asked her about her time working with Michelle Buteau.

On working with Michele Buteau, Keia Bounds shares, “She’s AMAZING! To work with her as a woman, as a Black woman, as a curvy woman! Like all these things, Michelle is hilarious! She’s not the kind of hilarious that you wish they would turn off either. She’s just herself and just naturally funny and naturally brilliant. It was fun!”

Throughout each episode, I noticed familiar brands and brands that I had not been introduced to yet. With each cast member having their own stylistic appeal, I often wondered if the styling crew had any challenges with finding different fashion brands wanting to collaborate with the film.

Although the fashion industry has evolved and continues to evolve with size inclusivity and body type inclusivity, while also creating supportive and stylish forward environments for the members of the LGBTQIA+ community, there are still brands who aren’t as on board with making clothing for the ever-changing society that we live in. 

Knowing that the film excitedly highlighted so much of the plus size AND LGBTQ community, we wondered about Keia Bounds’ experiences or challenges with accessing plus size fashion for the cast members.

Keia shares, “I think that, because as we know, it’s hard to find fashionably pieces (especially designer pieces) in plus sizes, for curvy women. For the fashion industry to still not be up to speed on what is happening in the real world made it hard for me to find a lot of the things that were needed.” 

Understanding her challenges, Bounds applied her creative and professional touch throughout the series with creating pieces that were needed to be created, reached out to different designers to receive specialized original garments, and took the treasure of finding unfamiliar brands to make sure the crew were styled to the T.  

Although not surprising, Bounds’ empathy towards not having as many available plus size designer brands to choose from for this project helped me to want to ask myself, “What is the hold up with the fashion industry?” 

With a career that has stylishly stretched from the early 2000s, Keia Bounds has worked with actors such as Jack Black, Dave Chapelle, and Edie Falco, and television series like “The Get Down” and “BMF.”

“I would love my legacy to be about impacting the culture in a positive way. Whether the culture be the culture of fashion or the culture of people of color, I would love to be able to have a stamp in there somewhere.”

Keia Bounds

Getting a sneak peek in her background was surprising. Having turned from being a fashion designer to becoming a stylist, then to costume designing, Keia Bounds has a flexibility with her creativity that has not only made her a pioneer but also given herself the ability to continue with the legacy of helping others make an impact, working in fashion and style within the television and film industry.

Be open to the possibilities and be willing to learn all of the different processes in order to figure out what that one thing is that you want to do. ”

Keia Bounds

Bounds spoke passionately on the challenges and successes of being a costume designer in the film/television industry, while also mentioning how refreshing it would be to have more higher-ups respect and appreciate the art of costume and wardrobe styling and compensating more for the profession and talent within the film/television industry.

Watch Netflix’s “Survival of the Thickest”

With television projects like “Survival of the Thickest,” we hope to see more indie plus size designer brands featured and included to serve the ever-changing society that we’re currently living in.

Update: “Survival of the Thickest” will return for season 2! Make sure to follow us on Instagram for more updates about the show.

This article, Survival of the Thickest Will Return for Season 2: Meet Keia Bounds, the Costume Designer Behind All the Season 1 Looks first appeared on The Curvy Fashionista and is written by dnicole.

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When it comes to major fashion events and red carpets, plus size people and style is ALWAYS few and far in between or just never represented altogether. There’s so many gaps, limitations, and complete discrimination in plus size fashion that I can’t even begin to list.

Every time a major red carpet event occurs, I’m reminded just how rare it is to see a plus size figure donning high fashion and off the runway styles. When I was younger I used to wonder if fat women were even invited to major red carpet events! (I know, sounds crazy right.)

So, when I see the plus size girlies with different body types, showing up to award shows and in these spaces, I give them their just due because I know what went into putting this look together and bringing their visions for themselves to life. Seeing plus size fashion on the red carpet deserves a moment and we are giving it!

Plus Size Fashion on the Red Carpet– The Emmy’s Edition

Lizzo

Tulle, tulle, and more tulle! The first look that caught my eye was of course the boisterous and gorgeous pop star and 6x Emmy nominee (and winner!), Lizzo. She wore a high bun with an extravagant red ruffled dress and Lorraine Schwartz jewels.

Nicole Byer

Nicole Byer showed up bearing royal blue like the regal goddess she is. She also made a statement in a dark blue silk crop top giving a tummy and pants combo. Who doesn’t love to see some plus size stomach and midriff on the red carpet!? I know I do.

Nicole paired the fit with a beautiful ombre blonde natural colored hair in an African Fulani style.

Natasha Rothwell

Natasha Rothwell stuns in a satin ruby red flowing puffy sleeved dress showing a bit of décolletage in custom Safiyaa with jewelry by Angara and Lang Antiques. Her sleeves added the perfect essence to her smile and natural hairstyle including a top bun with a swooped bang.

Melanie Lynskey

Melanie Lynskey showed up in a Christian Siriano original; a green mint off the shoulder number with ruffles and a bit of tulle on the bottom. I always love anything made by Christian Siriano. Melanie even spoke on the red carpet about how important the dress was to her and that she happy to be wearing something that made her feel comfortable.

Ashley Nicole Black

Ashley Nicole Black not only wows us on the screen for “A Black Lady Sketch Show” and her writing in “Ted Lasso,” but she also wows on the gold carpet in a black gown with gloves to match! The mesh/see through bottom half of the dress gives it just enough sexy while her silver clutch and low bun brings the classic Hollywood look together.

We Need More Plus Size Fashion on the Red Carpet!

It’s important to see this because while there are plus size designers and plus size stylists at the ready, there are still quite a few designers and stylists who refuse to style or work with stars over a size 8/10. So yes, I’m going to celebrate these looks and moments because it’s 2022 and unfortunately this is still considered groundbreaking.

AND, plus size people deserve to see themselves glammed up and show-stopping on the Emmy’s carpet and everywhere where high fashion is welcomed and is the standard.

The plus size girls who showcased plus size fashion on the red carpet, won last night. That’s it. That’s all.

Did you have a favorite look for the night? Let us know!

This article, Plus Size Fashion on the Red Carpet and Center Stage at The 74th Emmy’s first appeared on The Curvy Fashionista and is written by Toni Wilson.

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Just 3 weeks ago, Beyoncé stopped the world again with her latest album Renaissance; an ode to and reclaiming of deep house music, Black LGBTQ Ballroom culture, and her dear Uncle Johnny.

Renaissance is a feel good album created to make us dance, escape some of the societal turmoil we’ve had to endure over the past 2 and a half years, and to remind us to be proud of who we are and the different marks we will all leave on this world.

Beyoncé is not new to creating women’s empowerment anthems (I mean, she’s been writing them since the age of 16!) nor is she new to producing music that centers Black people and our various marginalized voices. She has been using her music to express her political thoughts and stances for the past few years. Her new hit, Cozy, is no different.

Cozy is an Affirmation

While listening to Renaissance for what is probably my 100th time, I came to the realization that this album is simply an audible collection of affirmations; a sweet note to yourself to love yourself in spite of what society, naysayers, and doubters try to tell you about yourself.

Cozy has quickly become the stand out track among fat positive influencers and plus size content creators as you see them reveling in the lyrics while scrolling Instagram and TikTok.

Beyoncé kicks off Cozy by proclaiming, “This is a reminder!” She sets us up to take note and heed to what’s to come and follows up her warning with, “Damn I love the dagger from the burning of the words that you say, Kiss my scars because I love what they made.” Bey is making a statement about her post baby body and not only honoring her body for what it’s done but also bigging herself up in a way that’s the perfect combination of braggadocious and sexy.

Let’s Breakdown Cozy’s Feature

Featured on this song to solidify the message of body liberation in all forms, is plus size Black trans woman, media & cultural sensation, TS Madison. Beyoncé samples TS Madison’s YouTube video speech, “Bitch I’m Black” where TS explicitly shares her pride in being a Black person and how important it is to her, all while naming all the other identities she holds and how much oppression she is compounded with.

TS details are exhausted from being a Black, big bodied, transwoman, and having her Blackness erased due to her transness. Madison uses this moment to name that she is “fat and juicy” and tired of being hidden in the shadows by men who love her only in the darkness and never in the light.

In the Shadows

“I’m cozy. I love me. I’m juicy. You hate me cuz you want me.” It’s pivotal here that we uplift the different ways fat women, trans women, and other marginalized people that Bey is writing this self-love letter to, to experience romantic love.

It’s important because much like TS Madison, we know what it means to be hidden as fat Black women and what it means for society and those sexually attracted to you to want to harm you, not just because you look the way you look, but because they secretly love the way you look.

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As a fat Black woman, I know what it looks and feels like for a romantic partner or love interest to only take you out on late dates, to only receive invites to someone’s apartment, but never creative or fun outings.

Cozy is more than an anthem for fat Black women; it’s a rallying cry and declaration for people who are othered in society, to take center stage.

It’s a song with deeper layers that reminds us to dance in front of the mirror naked while hugging all the parts of us that the world around us rejects. It’s the necessary step we need towards true body liberation. We all deserve to be comfortable in our skin.

Thank you for the reminder, Bey.

P.S. Check out these plus size influencers getting cozy! @Chrissybstyles, @MsKristine, @Thenitadanielle, @StillGlitter, @Victoria_Yetunde, @SydneyBell, @Oyamabotha!

This article, Why ‘Cozy’ by Beyoncé is the New Black Fat Girl Anthem first appeared on The Curvy Fashionista and is written by Toni Wilson.

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Initially, a side character on the show, Jasmine quickly became one of the favorites. Befriending the main crew, we witness Jasmine’s character deal with tragedy, heartbreak, and wild adventures.

Garcia admits she wasn’t originally going to audition for Jasmine Flores. Instead, it was a friend who encouraged her to go for it. She loved how outgoing Jasmine’s character was and quickly related to her being the “class clown.”

“[I] saw the pain right away because I was the class clown, too. […] If you build up these walls around you, then people can’t hurt you. And that’s very much what she did,” Garcia stated.

It was in the second season where viewers got to see Garcia’s role elevate. Jasmine was the caretaker for her father, a disabled veteran who served in Afghanistan. As a result, fans no longer see the bright, bubbly Jasmine. Instead, we experience the raw, heartfelt emotions that Jasmine feels from taking care of her dad.

***Spoiler Alert***

Jasmine works hard and is accepted to her dream school, the University of California, Berkeley. But, unfortunately, her dreams are short-lived when she learns that she cannot leave Freeridge because her aunt can no longer take care of her father.

A bittersweet ending for a sweet character. Although Jasmine didn’t receive a happy ending, Garcia appreciated the growth given to her role.

“And I’m so thankful that they allowed me to show that and they didn’t make her this caricature for four seasons, because I don’t think people would have related to her or cared about her as much as they do.”

We’re Not a Monolith

Garcia moved from Orlando, FL, in pursuit of becoming an actress just a few years before her role in “On My Block.” “We’re not a monolith,” she explains. And the lack of Latinx characters on the screen, and because of this, she champions series and films showcasing underrepresented voices.

“There’s just so little of us [on screen] that it’s hard to try and represent everyone. So hopefully our show skyrockets other shows to tell those stories that have not been represented for so long.” 

Garcia’s sentiment is that regardless of who wins what awards show, we [underrepresented voices] are all in this together. She is proud of the future opportunities and spaces that are created.

What’s Next for Jessica Marie Garcia?

This isn’t the last of Jessica Marie Garcia. She has interests in writing, producing, and directing and recounts rewriting herself into her favorite movies as a teenager. She also intends on using her platform to create opportunities for others.

Garcia makes it clear she is the same girl from Orlando. She is grateful for the success of “On My Block” and the opportunity to play Jasmine. Jasmine because her character taught her how to be her unapologetically. She is proud of all the young lives her character will affect.

I was a huge fan of “On My Block,” and Jasmine was one of my favorite characters out of the crew.

Did you catch the final season of “On My Block?” If so, what was your favorite episode? Comment below!

This article, Jessica Marie Garcia Talks On My Block with Teen Vogue first appeared on The Curvy Fashionista and is written by Jazzy.

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As we know, for every plus babe living her best life, there are always about 100 haters. People were furious to see that Lizzo rocked this sheer lavender dress and couldn’t contain their fatphobia. 

You know the usual, “she’s too big to be wearing that,” or my personal favorite, “Lizzo always does the most!”

Hot or Not…or Just Haters!

I woke up to my pageant mother, Brandi (@brandimallory) spark a discussion about HollywoodUnlocked’s “Hot or Not” topic and you already know who the topic of discussion is. Brandi calls out people’s ignorance and the bias society has for different body types.

Now, I am sure it was no shade from the blog because their job is to talk about the latest, hottest topics. But the comments were in shambles! It was so infuriating to read what some people were saying.

“Y’all gone act like ain’t nothin wrong with this sh** too (throw up emoji).”

“Can’t believe these are the people who are blessed in life.”

“People need to stop enabling this woman. This is does not suit her. She’s does these things then cry when people have an option.”

As long as Lizzo shows off her curves, she will always remain the center of attention. And I truly hope as a fellow plus woman, that she doesn’t stop.

How Do You Love Yourself When I Am So Repulsed By You?

Unfortunately, Lizzo’s confidence is an issue. It is as if plus size women shouldn’t ever dare to one, want to make a statement, and two, actually make it. And that sheer lavender dress did just that!

Last year, Nicole Byer had American writer Roxanne Gay as a special guest on her “Why Won’t You Date Me?” podcast. Byers and Gay truly dissect the fatphobia they’ve experienced. And to this day, Gay’s words about fatphobia have never left me.

“How do you love yourself when I am so repulsed by you?” Gay asked. “People are so…they just don’t get how I don’t kill myself? Because I think if they were my size, they would. And it is really telling.”

 It is bone-chilling how true those words are. How dare Lizzo have as much confidence as she does at her size! Because let’s be honest, Lizzo’s dress was beautiful. What girl wouldn’t want crystals to adorn their body?

And her dress was no different from the one superstar Rihanna rocked at the 2014 CDFA Fashion Awards. The only difference was the color, and Lizzo’s dress had sleeves. Yet, the “Rude Boy” singer didn’t receive nearly as much hate. Or more recently, Megan Fox wore a similar getup to the 2021 VMA Awards.

I wonder if she received the same level of hate?

The “Rumors” sing constantly finds herself the topic of backlash, but I am proud that she continues to do her. She shows that anybody size can wear whatever they please. That if you want your cakes out, that your size doesn’t need to be in a single digit.

What are your thoughts on Lizzo’s dress? Comment below!

This article, Yes, THIS Sheer Lavender Dress Exposed Everyone’s Fatphobia first appeared on The Curvy Fashionista and is written by Jazzy.

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