All Eyez On...:Tru Diva Designs to Host Trunk Show & Launches Search for New Face for Brand

Veronica Lipscomb, the design mind behind plus fashion brand, Tru Diva, announced via press release that she is hosting a trunk show later this month to celebrate the relaunch of her brand. Taking place on Saturday, October 27th at Basha Studios 34, Tru Diva will also host a search for new faces of the full figured fashion brand.


Launched in 2006, Tru Diva has quickly made a name in the plus size fashion market by setting itself apart. Known for its innovative and unique use of colors and styles, Tru Diva and Veronica have earned tremendous praise from women worldwide in the size 10 to 26 demographic.

Recently Ms. Lipscomb decided to take the design aesthetic Tru Diva became known for up another level with the expansion of more customizable fits for her curvaceous customer. Veronica understands that not all plus size bodies are build alike. To better serve her clientele, the designer now offers four fits (straight, pear, hourglass and oval) to better flatter their diverse shapes. The trunk show will give attendees a sneak peak at her new offerings for Holiday 2012—which will include coats.

“Knowing your body type is half the battle,” said Lipscomb. “But getting the right fit is winning the war,”
The announcement of the new fits is in tandem with the relaunch of the Tru Diva website which will now be a full service e-commerce site.

The Tru Diva trunk show will begin at Noon. To learn more about Veronica Lipscomb and Tru Diva, visit www.trudiva.com and facebook.com/TruDivaDesignsbyVL.

All Eyez On...: Beyond The Rack, The New Flash Sale Destination for Plus Size Fashion!

Beyond the Rack, North America’s fastest growing online retailer announced yesterday that it has launched a new destination accessible through its website called My Curvy Closet - devoted solely to plus size fashions. Members can expect ten new events per week including a selection of sportswear, dresses, denim, outerwear, intimate apparel, shapewear, accessories, and footwear – all up to 80% off

Recent studies indicate that almost 2/3 of North Americans wear a size 14 or more and that plus-size consumers represent approximately 30% of consumer purchasing power.

“Plus-size fashions have been a top requested category from our customers for quite some time. Providing plus-size customers with an equally broad assortment of goods tailored to a variety of shapes and sizes - in a dedicated shopping destination - was a priority for us,” says Yona Shtern, CEO of Beyond the Rack. “Listening to and acting upon feedback from our members has always been integral to our success and continued growth.”

My Curvy Closet will be accessible to all new and existing members of Beyond the Rack. Membership in the club is always free.

  We're loving their slogan "Love Your Curves, Fill Your Closet!" Belle-Noir Readers, be sure to check out My Curvy Closet! To sweeten the deal, they are offering a $10 shopping credit to our readers when you sign up for the site when you sign up here. Also, be sure to check out The Curvy Fashionista, Marie Denee, as she selects her favorite looks for the month of October, while also sharing her style recommendations for plus size fashionistas!
 

Click here to sign up for My Curvy Closet
and receive your $10 Shopping Credit!

All Eyez On...: IGIGI by Yuliya Raquel’s Voyage Exotique

IGIGI by Yuliya Raquel’s Voyage Exotique takes Full-figured Fashionistas on a Magical Journey around the World Rich in Colors and Enchanted Luxury


Adeola Maxi Dress - $175

 San Francisco, California—June, 11, 2012— IGIGI by Yuliya Raquel’s latest collection Voyage Exotique is a delightful summer escape inspired by some of the world’s most captivating and exciting regions including Japan, Africa, The Tropics, and the Mediterranean jewel, Ibiza. Raquel’s muse, plus model Grisel Paula, begins her journey dressed in ethereally beautiful Japonesque prints and continues onto an adventurous and sandy safari where she becomes a powerful and mesmerizing African queen. Next, she is in colorful and rich patterns inspired by the lush greenery of a tropical paradise. The journey ends in Ibiza where a glamorous Grisel is the life of the party dancing the night away before a dive into the warm waters at sunrise. Voyage Exotique is now available at http://www.igigi.com/ and select specialty stores worldwide. The link to the video can be viewed here, http://www.igigi.com/inmotion?linkid=topmenu.



Eva Maxi Dress - $175



“Summer is the most exciting time of the year to escape to exotic, fun, and historical places for vacation, and I wanted to have our fashionista channel a world traveler going across the globe visiting different popular destinations perfectly dressed for each climate and occasion. I concentrated on pieces which are both bold and beautiful as well as easy to pack and wear for an effortless and chic style.” said Yuliya Raquel, IGIGI Founder, Head Designer, and Creative Director.

Voyage Exotique includes dresses and separates ruched and draped in signature Yuliya Raquel style that carry the season’s most sought after trends. Maxis and cocktail dresses in daring and vivacious floral, animal, and color-blocked prints, and lace; and business and casual separates in breathable, soft linen are just some of the highlights of the collection.




Diana Infinity Dress - $165

 Headquartered in San Francisco, Ca, IGIGI by Yuliya Raquel was founded in 2000 with a mission to transform the world’s view of beauty by providing full-figured women with fashion-forward, quality, and well-fitting clothes that would help express their beauty. Collections are designed in-house and produced locally through independent San Francisco Bay Area contractors. IGIGI by Yuliya Raquel has been featured in major fashion and life style magazines likeMarie Claire, The Oprah Magazine, People StyleWatch, Ladies Home Journal, Glamour, and Essence, and it has been a favorite among celebrities such as Nikki Blonsky, Kim Coles, KayCee Stroh, Jill Scott, Kelly Price, Ashley Fink, Martha Wash, and Gabourey Sidibe. IGIGI by Yuliya Raquel collections are available online atwww.igigi.com and select boutiques worldwide. IGIGI by Yuliya Raquel was honored with the Best Plus Fashion Retailer of the Year award (Full Figured Fashion Week, June, 2010), and made Internet Retailer's Top Hot 100 list (December, 2010), and received About.com Critics’ Choice Best Plus Designer Award (March, 2011).

Mid-Week Must Have: Queen Grace Announces Vieta Handbags

We received the following from our friends at the Queen Grace Collection:

"Introducing the popular and ultra stylish handbag line by Vieta Accessories!

Vieta handbags are 100% sustainable, eco friendly, luxe looking, super stylish and the best part? They are a fabulous compliment to our gorgeous QG spring color palettes and we think these luxe bags are priced perfectly just for YOU.


This special, limited edition series will be running through Spring 2012 so get your QG Vieta bag now - they just may sell out before you blink your pretty little curvy girl eye!"

Redeem code QUEENIE25 and enjoy 25% off your 1st order! Free Shipping for all orders over $100.00! They ship worldwide & Queen Grace is proudly made In the USA!

I am loving the Allie Clutch and the Honor Handbag! Do you have a fave?

Have you checked out the Vieta Accessories line from the Queen Grace Collection? It's available now at www.queengrace.com!

All Eyez On...:Igigi Spring 2012 Look Book

If you have been reading the Belle-Noir Mag blog for while now, you already know that I have a love affair with Igigi. Team Belle-Noir has heard me say repeatedly that if I ever win Lotto, I would probably purchase just about every dress Igigi comes out with every season. It is not only the fact that their clothing is feminine, flirty, and just gorgeous, but in having purchased several of their dresses (both semi-formal and formal) as well as a few of their tops, I know first hand that their clothing is made with quality and from materials that just hug every curve I have (while often hiding the ones I don't really want to make stand out).

Our friends at Igigi were kind enough to send over their new Look Book for Spring 2012 entitled "A Breath of Fresh Air". And true to its name, the dresses featured make you just want to run outside on a warm spring day, breathe in deeply, exhale and say "ahhhhhhhh!"

From Igigi abut the new Breath of Fresh Air collection:

"My design sensibility has always had a vintage vibe to it, so this season I decided to go all the way and just have a blast with stylistics. I took the old covers of Vogue magazines from early 20’s all the way trough 50’s and created homage to the history of style.” Said Yuliya Raquel, Founder, Creative Director and Lead Designer in a press release.

Here are a few of my favorites from the collection that are available now (all in sizes up to 32):

Daffodil Love Dress
$122

Vintage Floral Dress

Lempika Dress $128.00

Vintage Polka Dot Dress

What do you think about these selections from the Igigi Spring 2012 Look Book? You can check out the full Look Book here and visit Igigi at www.igigi.com.  

Facing Facts: Black Women Are "Heavy & Happy"

Washington D.C. based Fitness Instructor Michelle Gibson is phat, fit, and fabulous!
Photo credit: washingtonpost.com

I am sure that many of you have seen the recent article in The Washington Post about black women being "heavier and happier with their bodies than white women". The data comes from a recent survey conducted by The Washington Post and the Kaiser Family Foundation.

[The survey]...focused on African American women. The poll found that although black women are heavier than their white counterparts, they report having appreciably higher levels of self-esteem. Although 41 percent of average-sized or thin white women report having high self-esteem, that figure was 66 percent among black women considered by government standards to be overweight or obese. - from WashingtonPost.com

The article also discusses what we, as Black women, have known for some time: the media tends to not portray us, and when they do, it is often a poor representation of who we truly are. Therefore, we have not relied on what the media and society has to say about us to uplift us.

What I personally applauded and shouted "YES!" to when reading the article was the wonderful interview with D.C. Area fitness instructor Michelle Gibson, a plus size woman of Color herself, who stressed that the ideas of health and fitness for black women have for a very long time been different than those white women.

Her rule: “Do you,” Gibson says, “and be okay with me being me. I can never be mad at this thin person. I say, ‘You’re sexy, you’ve got it going on. But don’t think for one minute that I don’t feel the same about myself.’ ” - from WashingtonPost.com

For me, the only raised eyebrow was a comment from a woman whom I admire so much, Michaela Angela Davis:

But Davis acknowledges that with fewer cultural deterrents, black women are more likely to slip into obesity, and that’s not celebrated. In 2009, black women had an obesity rate of of almost 43 percent, compared with 25 percent for white women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. As a result, African American women suffer from higher rates of diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure and other serious health problems.

“We’re not saying its super fly to be super fat. We’ve never said that,” Davis contends, but unlike in white culture, “black women are not criminalized for it.”

This statement, unfortunately, continues the stereotype that plus size women beyond a certain "acceptable" plus size cannot possibly be healthy and not be suffering from diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, etc. And while black women within our community are not "criminalized" for being "super sized", there is not only often a disconnect within the plus community between what is accepted and what is not when it comes to images of models that are used, but also an acceptable practice of plus size women (usually portrayed as a large & sassy black woman) being made the butt  of jokes.

What did you think about the article? Do you feel that black women are "heavier and happier"? Do you think that all black plus size women are being equally represented in this article?

Let's talk about it ladies!

Happy Valentine's Day! Yes, We're Talking To You!

Happy Valentine's Day!

If no one else says it to you today, we love all that is Big, Beautiful, and You!

Take time out today to show some love to the most important person in your life--

YOU!

You deserve it!

*hugs*

Taking Care of You: It Comes From Within

Two weeks ago, I talked about taking care of yourself health-wise and how that goes hand in hand with how you take care of yourself from within. This week, I want to talk more about taking care of yourself - however, this time it's about taking care of yourself from within since that is really the starting point in taking care of yourself overall.

Society paints this picture of what the standard is for a “normal” woman, how we SHOULD look like. That standard is not only unrealistic but honestly, it’s unattainable. I say that because we all come in different shapes and sizes. There is no one type of body shape. Some of us carry or gain weight on top, some on the bottom. Even thin women comes in different shapes and sizes. However, just because we cannot fit the standard does not mean we are abnormal. We are unique beings and we are all beautiful by our own right.

We have to first let go of that standard that has been drilled into our heads since birth. We have to stop thinking that the standard is thin or that skinny is beautiful. There is no standard. Most of the images we see in the media have been photoshopped and altered. As I already said, none of us are perfect. Beauty comes in all shapes and sizes. Other people’s opinions of us don’t matter and shouldn’t matter. What matters is how we feel about ourselves. It’s not you – it’s them with the problem.

Someone will always have something to say but at the end of the day, we can’t equate their beliefs with our own happiness. Once you accept this, you will free yourself from that mess and be able to feel confident about who you are. Our view of ourselves controls how we feel about ourselves and subsequently treat ourselves. That is why building confidence and self-love is so imperative to having a successful and productive, happy life.

We all have parts of our bodies that we are not happy with. Sometimes it’s to a point where we loathe certain body parts. So first things first, you need to make peace with your body. You have to understand that no matter what your size, you are a beautiful person worthy of being happy. You have to realize that none of us are perfect. Know your worth, inside and out. Our flaws are what make us beautiful. I have a small c-shaped scar in that area under my nose and above my upper lip. I got the scar when I was 12 - my brother was playing with my dad's tools and swung a pair of pliers, which accidentally hit me in the face. I hated that scar for years until one day I decided that it was my scar and it gave me character and a story to tell. I also found out that the scar was not even noticeable to others until I mentioned it. Sometimes we make flaws seem bigger or worse than they really are. The world does not always see what we see. So really it's the power of the mind and how we choose to view those flaws.

Instead of focusing solely on those body parts you loathe, focus on the parts of you that you love at that moment. Take it one day at a time. Look in the mirror and admire that feature. I know for me, I love my hair. It is truly my crowning glory. I will spend quality time in the mirror, flipping my hair or trying new barrettes or headbands in it. My hair makes me feel good. When you admire a feature like this, over time you will develop a habit of admiring yourself, appreciating those features and celebrating YOU. It’s about changing how your mind works, which will change your view over time.

Now for those body parts you loathe, you can use the same concept too but in a slightly different fashion. Each day, focus on one body part at a time and come up with one positive thing to say about that body part or feature. I will admit that this is going to be hard at first but once you develop this habit of doing this over and over again, you will eventually change your mind about those body parts for the better.

Fashion is another great way to boost your confidence. We tend to hide behind clothing to cover up parts of ourselves we don’t love. Some of us think if we wear baggy clothes that our lumps, bumps and imperfections will all be hidden. While you may be hiding your body parts by swimming in your clothing, you are not flattering your body at all. And you wonder why you are not feeling 100% confident? Who would feel happy wearing unflattering, ill-fitting clothes? Think about it.

It’s as easy as this…buy clothes that fit. You’d be surprised at how clothes that fit you well will flatter your body. And don’t wait until you have lost 50 pounds to wear that dress you have been eyeing. Wear it now. Trust me, it will give you such a spirit boost and a pep in your step. If you love what you’re wearing and rock it, the world is going to love it too. When having a bad day at the mirror, dressing yourself up can also help get you through that day and help you strengthen your positive mindset on your body.

In the end, it starts within. It starts with the belief in yourself and your beauty. You just have to keep pushing through. Don’t give up. You might fail at times but at least you tried. Everyone’s confidence wavers from day to day. We are all works in progress. But if we keep at it, we will succeed more than we fail. Once you’re happy with yourself, the world will be a better place – opportunities will open up to you, people will be more receptive to you and your energy will be off the charts. When you love yourself, you feel confident and that makes you want to achieve your dreams even more.

Think of it this way: there is only one you in this world. That in itself is pretty empowering. And you have the choice and power to make you the best YOU possible. Life is all about enjoying the now since tomorrow is not promised to us. Wouldn't you want to live the best life possible and enjoy it now? I know I do!

Be proud, be inspired to be you.

Believing in You, Part 2

"It’s not who you are that holds you back, it’s who you think you’re not.” ~ Author Unknown

Two weeks ago, I talked about believing in your beauty, which affects what energy you project out to the world and how others see your beauty. Confidence is everything. Now I want to talk about believing in yourself. Believing in yourself means believing in your greatness and your value to the world. Believing in your beauty is important but believing in yourself is imperative to living a great, happy and productive life.

Today marks 7 months since my dad passed away. It is also what would have been his 62nd birthday. The one thing about my dad that always amazed me was how he always believed in me and what I could do in this life. He believed in me when I didn't believe in myself. Sure, he's my dad and I am his only daughter so of course, he's going to think the world of his baby girl. But it went farther than that. His belief in my greatness wasn't just because I was his daughter. He truly believed I was destined for greatness. I was extremely lucky to have a father like him. He taught me so much that shaped me into the person I am today. I am not perfect but I am happy with who I am. I know my greatness and I believe in myself.

I think that the secret to life is that simple. You just have to believe. You have to believe in you; believe what you can do in this life. If you believe it, it can happen. Think of all the possibilities out there. If you can dream it, you can believe in it. Now I know you must be saying, “Well, that’s easier said than done.” That is true. However, would you rather let your setbacks and disappointments make your life one that never goes anywhere? Or would you rather be in the driving seat of your life and make it great? We only have 1 life to live and the choice is yours.

We all have setbacks and disappointments in our lives that have made us feel like it is never going to get better. But the key to getting through that and believing that something better is on the horizon is to recognize those setbacks and disappointments for what are: They are moments in time that test our strength and teach us a lesson. They are moments in time that are preparing us for the bigger picture.

Belief gives you determination. It gives you that strength to push through and keep going. When you believe in what you can do in this life and your value to the world, your view of life completely changes. It’s as if you then understand that everything happens for a reason; that the choices you make will have an outcome. Not all outcomes will be the ones that you want but it just means that, that outcome was not meant to be and there is a better one out there waiting. When one door closes, I believe a better, bigger door opens.

To truly be able to believe in yourself, you cannot listen to what others are saying. The only opinion that is important is yours and not others. You should never give others the power over your self-belief. Some people may have failed at a challenge that you are attempting and they may feel some kind of way. That’s their issue, not yours. There will always be naysayers. What counts is how you deal with those naysayers. Again, it’s your choice.

I know it’s scary to tackle a great challenge or put yourself out there but honestly, it is better to try than not try at all. If you fail, you learn the lesson and move on. But there is a chance you may succeed and you won’t know if you’re going to succeed unless you try. When you accept that failing is a way to learn the lesson, it’s like viewing a failure as actually winning. If you learn from your mistakes, the next time you try, your chances of being successful are even greater because you have learned from your mistakes.

Life is all about challenging yourself. When you believe in yourself, you feel fearless and feel that you can do anything you set your mind to. Believing in yourself means not being afraid to go out and attempt what you have been told is impossible.

A few years ago, I went to Hong Kong, China with my best friend Herman. I love Asian culture and have a fascination with Buddha. On Lantau Island at the Po Lin Monastery sits the largest seated bronze Buddha statue in the world. And it is said that it’s good luck to touch Buddha. However, you have to climb like 20 flights of stairs to get to Buddha.

We get there and it’s like 105 degrees, sun blaring. Herman takes one look at the stairs and then looks at me and says, “There is no way you’re going up there. It's too much.” Here I am, overweight and not in the best shape so of course, he’s thinking there is no way she is climbing 20 flights of stairs in the blazing heat and he is concerned, ready to throw in the towel. I just replied, “You’re wrong. I’m doing it.” If someone tells me I can’t do something, that just gets me fired up to do it even more. And I did it. It was extremely hot and exhausting. But I was determined to touch Buddha and I believed that I could do it. That belief is what got me up those stairs.

In life, there will always be that 20-stair moment. You can’t let the height of the challenge intimidate you or make you feel like you can’t do it. Believe in yourself and you can do it. When I would tell my dad that I felt I couldn’t do something, he’d look at me like I was crazy and say “Marce, stop it. You know you can do it. It’s a given.” Thank you, Daddy for believing in me even when I didn’t believe in myself.

So dear readers, look in the mirror and speak the following affirmation out into the universe:

“I believe in myself and can do anything I set my mind to because I am valuable to this world.”

And then get out there and start making your dreams a reality! You can do it! Just believe!

Believing in You

”In order to be beautiful, you have to believe you're beautiful.” ~ Nina Flowers, Drag Queen, RuPaul's Drag Race

I think drag queens are beautiful. They take a lot of heat from society because of their sexuality and the idea that men should not dress like women. Society tends to box us into certain groups and label us, which honestly stifles our freedom to be who we are. Even the most confident have moments of insecurity and question themselves.

However, no matter what your opinion is on homosexuality and drag queens, we can all take a lesson from them. They are confident, bold and make no apologies for who they are. It takes a lot of guts to be a man, dressing as a woman in a world where that is deemed “abnormal”. However, they believe in themselves and in their beauty. That’s what fuels their courage and empowers them to dare to be different. The lesson here is simple: Believe in your beauty.

Last week, I had two profound moments. One being Oprah’s Lifeclass Thursday evening, which Ms. Aja B. wrote a great blog post about last week. It was such an important message:

You are responsible for the energy you bring into a room. You are also responsible for energy you project out because what you project out is what you get in return.

That episode of Oprah’s Lifeclass really hit me like a ton of bricks. It’s amazing what happens when you realize that you are in control of the situation. When you walk in a room, you are making a decision on how that room is going to respond to you, whether you know it or not. You are in control of the energy you share with the world which determines what energy you get in return. Lastly, you decide who you let into your space and life. If you choose to deal with “energy suckers”, that is your choice and no one else’s. This stayed with me all day Friday and so forth to even this moment.

On Friday night, I had a get-together to go to and before I walked in the room, I made the decision to walk in there, shining bright. While at this get-together, I meet this woman, who is a friend of a friend. She had such great energy but somehow had sad eyes. And it felt like she was drawn to me because she just came over to me and honestly, started telling me her business.

Now this is not the first time this has happened to me. I have had complete strangers come up to me in places like the subway and the airport, telling me their life’s story. I jokingly tell my friends that I am like Lucy Van Pelt from Peanuts – I even own a small figurine of Lucy sitting in her psychiatric booth, charging 5 cents for her services.

Anyway, this woman really touched my heart because she reminded me of myself many years ago. She started telling me how after having a few kids and getting older, she has gained a little weight that has been hard to lose. We all know this feeling. That last 20 pounds or whatever – it just doesn’t come off as easily as it once did. Our bodies change as we age, give birth, etc. Unfortunately, these changes are a part of life.

She continues on, telling me that her husband constantly puts her down, tells her that she is fat and ugly, especially when they argue. It really got to me because your spouse, of all people, should uplift you and love you for who you are, not tear you down. These comments from her husband now has her feeling like she is ugly and fat, hence her sad eyes.

It reminded me of a past relationship from 20 years ago, where my ex was in the “skinny” closet. He secretly loved my size but didn’t want the public to know he was with a big girl. So we dated in secret and he would always tell me how he wished I wasn’t so big because then he could be seen with me and not be embarrassed. He would make me feel like it was my fault that we couldn’t be a normal couple out in the open. It was one of those things where I was still new to the dating game and yearned for someone to like me. I was not as confident as I am today. But there was always this inner voice in my head, telling me I deserved more. I gathered up the courage to leave him, even though I didn’t want to be alone. At the time, I thought I would never be able to find another man who would like me. I was so wrong.

As life would have it, my path took many turns, which shaped me into who I am today: a beautiful, confident big girl who believes in her beauty and knows her worth. It has not been an easy journey but I am a work in progress and know I am walking in the right direction.

So I spoke from the heart when I told this woman at the party that she has to believe in herself, believe in her beauty. That her outer contents do not define her beauty, it’s what’s in her heart that matters. I also told her that perhaps she needs to re-evaluate her life, her marriage… talk to her husband and let him know that it is not okay to put her down. Again, as Oprah said, we are responsible for the people we let in our space so we are responsible when we let those people treat us any kind of way. I wasn’t telling her to leave her husband because in the end, that’s her choice and not my place. However, she has the power to change her life and it all starts with believing. That is the message I was trying to get across to her.

I gained a friend that night and I truly believe part of it was the energy I brought into the room and part of it was fate. I hope she learned the lesson. If you’re reading this and going through something similar, I hope you learned the lesson too. As Nina Flowers said, in order to be beautiful, you have to believe you are beautiful. So take responsibility for your life today and start believing. Trust me, it’ll change your life.

Would you like to tell Marcy your life story or sit at her psychiatric booth? She can be reached at marcyc19@gmail.com. The doctor is in! :)

Beautiful You Monday: Style File: Just As You Are

Greetings folks! Welcome to another edition of Beautiful You Monday here on Belle-Noir.com. For those of you who are new, Beautiful You Monday is where we discuss everything fashion, beauty & style!

Our Facebook fans & Twitter Followers might recall my speaking about being invited to the Plus Model Magazine Blogger Conference a few weeks ago. Held at the absolutely GORGEOUS Hudson Terrace, the event was to announce the launch of a new line of plus size outerwear, Just As You Are. This post is all about the fabulousness that is the Just As You Are Fall/Winter 2011 line.

Plus size ladies--particularly my ladies who are like me, sizes 24+, and live in cold weather states--can relate to this experience: you know the winter is coming and you begin the search for a winter coat that will survive the wind, rain, snow, and everything else winter can throw your way. Some might just be looking for something sleek and stylish they can wear with office wear. Others might be looking for something that will stand up to busy fall & winter weekends. What usually happens (at least in my past experience) is one of the following:

• I will find a coat that I absolutely adore, but it stops at a size 24 (often times, much smaller).
• I will find a coat that I absolutely adore, but while it comes in my size, the only color options are black, black, and did I mention black?
• I will find a coat that I absolutely adore, but it is so expensive that I find it hard to justify the purchase. Not to mention that the fit is just not quite right.

Ladies, Just As You Are has heard these, plus many more of the common complaints that we have as plus size women looking for stylish outerwear. What they have created is a line of outerwear that is completely about fitting your shape and helping you walk away with a coat that will "embrace your shape" make you look fabulous "just as you are".

First, there are no sizes when you shop with Just As You Are. Your perfect coat shopping experience starts with your measurements. By entering your chest, waist, hips and height into the measurements form, you will then be given the coats that are recommend as best for your shape! Browse the selections, fall in love with your new favorite coat, add it to your online shopping cart and viola! So simple, yet genius!

As I always say, we must support the designers who are designing clothing that is especially for us. What I also love about Just As You Are is that there is no mention of  a coat's "slimming qualities" or other phrases that assume that I am looking for something that is going to make me look smaller.

Here's a look at some of the coats from the collection that were debuted that night:



Accra wrap $159
Photo credit: LucasPictures.Net




Angola wrap $219
Photo credit: LucasPictures.net



Aurora jacket $249
Photo credit: LucasPicture.net



Aspen jacket $269
Photo credit: LucasPictures.net



Alabama jacket $169
Photo credit: LucasPictures.Net



Arizona jacket  $179
Photo credit: LucasPictures.net

What do you think ladies? Will you give Just As You Are a try? Be sure to check out the website and follow them on Facebook.

Special thanks to Madeline Figueroa-Jones, Editor-In-Chief of Plus Model Magazine, the Just As You Are team, and everyone else involved in making the Blogger Conference a great time.

Beautiful You Monday: All Eyez On...Domino Dollhouse

Greetings everyone & Happy Labor Day! So, with it being Labor Day, it means that Summer 2011 is unofficially over.While it makes me sad that Summer 2011 went by so fast, there is something very refreshing about Fall. The days are starting to get cooler, but it is still warm enough to dress in sexy layers-blouses, jackets, skirts, boots--oh my! Another great thing about Fall is Halloween, which while by calendar days is still a little less than 2 months away, it is never too early to get those costumes ready for all of the plus size Halloween parties coast to coast.

Today's All Eyez On... featured designer has you covered for both great Fall Fashion and some great dresses perfect for you to play with for your Halloween Costume. Meet Domino Dollhouse!

I received a press release in my inbox from a lovely woman named Tracy Broxterman with photos attached of the cutest dresses! Although you may not know it, I am a dress girl, so it immediately made me want to check out the website and find out more about this new plus size brand.

From the website:
"Plagued her entire life by drab clothing choices, owner Tracy Broxterman has always worked towards adding style and glamour in the plus size fashion world. She started in 2009 with her own personal style blog, Chubble Bubble, and continuing now with this unique online plus size shop, Domino Dollhouse! While the choices for sizes 14 and up are expanding, Domino Dollhouse strives to bring exciting, charming, and fun clothing and accessories to a market thirsty for more. While others give you water, we  give you fruit punch!"



Fruit punch indeed! Domino Dollhouse's most recent collection is the "Delectable Dresses Collection":

 

Wow-termelon Dress

 

Cupcake Cutie Dress

 

Berry Beautiful Dress



 

About the Delectable Dresses Collection:

"This mini collection was designed and produced by Domino Dollhouse. It is available exclusively through our web boutique. Using yummy treats as our muse, each dress evokes the playful spirit of food, something plus size women are often told not to do. Embracing the adorable, these dresses are not only perfect for everyday wear, but would make FABULOUS Halloween Costumes. The pieces are available in sizes 1X-4X and the retail prices range from $69.99-$79.99."

I can completely see using the Berry Beautiful Dress to be a sexy plus size Strawberry Shortcake (note: while this dress is currently sold out on the website, Ms. Broxterman expects a new shipment of them within the next 2-4 weeks, so stay tuned to their website for when it is back in stock!) And what lady who loves sweet treats couldn't picture themselves as a Cupcake Cutie?Add this adorable necklace from the Domino Dollhouse website, some tasty homemade cupcakes (or a dozen from your favorite bakery if you aren't the best baker) and voila! Someone could find herself into a pretty sweet situation!

Besides loving the entire Delectable Dresses collection, I also happened across this dress from a previous line that made me swoon. I'm always on the look out for a great LBD (Little Black Dress) and this one is quite sassy!



Tail Feather dress from the Make Out Circus Collection



Do you see the cute "tail feather" ruffle? Love it! And at $39.99, definitely a "buy now/ wear later" type of dress. Be sure to check out Domino Dollhouse online and on their Facebook page. Tell them Belle-Noir Mag sent you if you do!

What do you think of Domino Dollhouse? Do you see yourself wearing one of their dresses--for Halloween or otherwise?

Boutique Buzz: ReDress NYC Opens Online Boutique



Happy Beautiful You Monday Folks! Hope everyone had a great weekend!

I have mentioned ReDress NYC on the blog quite a few times before. Mostly because I love the shop's owner, Deb Melkin, because I feel she is one of the few women who are leading the size acceptance movement that gets that size acceptance can be about activism AND great fitting fashion at the same time. But equally so because they have an awesome boutique in downtown Brooklyn where every time I go, I walk out with at least three items that fit all of me perfectly.

Until recently, fatshionistas and curvy divas had to wait until a trip to New York City (perhaps for Full Figured Fashion Week) to partake in the wonderful shopping experience that is ReDress NYC.

But no more!

Behold, the beauty that is the ReDress NYC Online Shopping experience (now in its Beta version).



Homepage of the new ReDressNYC.com Online Shop!

The online shop has a modest number of dress, tops, bottoms and jewelry available that will definitely whet your palate. I'm excited to see how, as the online shop grows, they continue to bring all of the eclectic mix of vintage items and great plus size finds that come through their doors everyday onto the web for plus size ladies everywhere to enjoy.

Have you shopped at ReDress before? Will you be visiting their online shop?

If you have a plus boutique in another city in the US and would like us to feature you on the Belle-Noir Mag blog or in an upcoming feature in Belle-Noir Magazine, email us at boutiquebuzz@belle-noir.com. Please include the name of the boutique, the name of the owner, city and state of location and your contact information.

Reviewing the Racks: Clique to Know

Happy Monday Folks! Those of you who have been fans & followers of Belle-Noir Mag for awhile know that a few years ago, every Monday was Beautiful You Monday. We stopped it for awhile, but with so many great new designers, online shopping stops, and more out there for us plus size ladies to take advantage of, we decided to bring it back! And we are kicking it off with one our our favorite features: Reviewing the Racks!

Name: Clique to Know

Location: Exclusively Online (http://www.cliquetoknow.com/)

Claim to Fame: "Clique To Know is a new members-only site dedicated to all you curvaceous women out there. Love fashion? Need a designer fix? Adore securing a bargain? Then Clique To Know will be your one-stop shop for fabulous luxury fashion at discounted prices from US size 10 and upwards." - From their website.


Price: $$$$ - From reviewing the website so far, I have seen not only some designers that I have never heard of but whom have some gorgeous designs for plus size ladies, but I have also seen some fairly decent prices if you are looking to add some new staples to your wardrobe. My only disappointment was that, as a size 26/28, there were not that many options on the site when I looked on July 22. However, they often have an Igigi by Yulia Raquel sale--and you know how I feel about Igigi. *happy sigh* I am eagerly looking forward to seeing what is offered, as the last Igigi sale had some great dresses that I did not recall seeing on their website.

What to Look For: The key to this site, ladies, is to keep lookingand sign-up for their mailing list! New sales start every few days or so, and as the old saying goes "the early bird catches the worm". I look forward to purchasing some items from them and giving you a full review.

Have you checked our Clique to Know? Have you ordered anything from them as of yet? We'd love to know your thoughts!

The Scene: TLC's "Big Sexy" Plus Fashion Reality Show

The talk of the online plus community is of the upcoming reality show "Big Sexy". Peep what the producers say about the show via their press release:

They are fabulous, fashion-forward and not afraid to show off their fuller figures. They are the ladies of TLC’s newest three-part series, BIG SEXY, which premieres on Tuesday, August 30 at 10:00 PM (ET/PT).



The Ladies of  TLC's "Big Sexy"
L to R: Nikki Gomez, Heather Roach, Audrey Curry, Leslie Medlik, Tiffany Bank.



The image-conscious industries of fashion and modeling are difficult to penetrate. With trends and looks that dominate the urban scenes, Americans have grown accustomed to perceptions of what is hip and forthcoming. BIG SEXY New Yorkers Leslie, Tiffany, Audrey, Nikki and Heather hope to expand and revise this commonly-accepted idea of what is beautiful and sexy – giving viewers a candid look into their lives as confident plus-size women who are shooting for the stars with their careers.

From designing clothing to booking modeling gigs, BIG SEXY will follow the ladies as they take over Manhattan to make plus-size sexiness more mainstream. Weight bias is notoriously rampant in their chosen industries, and it is their mission to prove that a bigger girl – the girl that most Americans can relate to — can break the mold and change the fashion and cultural norms that have restricted and rejected them for so long.


Each episode will feature the women as they attend major industry events, parties and opportunities, all while giving a candid peek into the balancing of their personal, dating and family relationships as plus-size women. They are big, they are beautiful, and they are not sitting at home waiting for life to happen. They know better than anyone that real women can be sexy with curves — no matter what society says.

BIG SEXY is produced for TLC by Atlas Media Corporation.

One thing I will say is that I am thinking that this will be a FAR cry from the FOX reality series "More to Love". These ladies look like they are fearless and full of confidence and style! I doubt there will be any "woe is me" moments. I have a bit more faith in TLC's ability to show plus size women in a positive light because I adore their show "Say Yes to the Dress: Big Bliss". Still...I remain cautiously optimistic.

Will you watch "Big Sexy" when it debuts on TLC on August 30th?

All Eyez On...: LeMystere Lingerie

Hi Friends! Welcome back to Beautiful You Mondays here on the Belle-Noir Mag blog! We are so glad to be back and cannot wait to bring you the best in everything beauty & fashion every Monday this summer! It excites us to begin with an announcement that came to us right before the holiday weekend about lingerie company LeMystere.

While most lingerie companies that sell items for full figures are not showing them on full figured frames, LeMystere Lingerie has broken the mold by featuring Plus Model Asia Mone't as the face of their Full Fit Collection.

Debuting with the spring campaign, Asia Mone’t will showcase the brand’s philosophy of being “all about the fit” by becoming the first full- figured model (and first model with a G-cup) used in Le Mystere’s advertising history.

“I am honored to be appearing in a brand that not only produces quality products for fuller figures, but is actually catering to the curvy woman in their marketing,” Asia Mone’t said in a press release. “I hope my appearance in this campaign will inspire women of all shapes and sizes to be proud and confident in their own beauty.”

Ladies, we always stress the importance of supporting the brands that will feature plus size women when selling plus size clothing. Check out the LeMystere website and the Full Fit Collection today. For more information on Asia Mone't, visit her website at http://www.asiamonet.com/. Congratulations, Asia Mone't, and thank you for being such a positive role model for plus size women and women of Color!

All Eyez On...The Pretty Girl Project 2011

Last year, we introduced you to The Pretty Girl Project. The Pretty Girl Project was founded in 2008 and is an initiative- based non profit organization that encourages self-esteem, individual expression and positive relationships in girls ages 12-17. Co-Founders Stephanie Penn- Danforth & Cassasndra Jones-McBryde are on a mission to deter high risk behavior by helping girls to build healthy self-images through a variety of programming.


It is no secret that our nation’s poor economy has affected every area of the human condition in Detroit, MI. With the increased cost of basic essentials, coupled with the city’s record unemployment and foreclosure rates, prom expenses are among the least of a family’s priorities.


The Pretty Girl Project, however, will host its 2nd annual Pretty Prom Princess event in an effort to help curtail or completely eliminate the costs associated with upcoming proms on Saturday, April 30, 2011 from 1 p.m. – 6 p.m. at YWCA, 25940 Grand River Avenue, Redford, MI.

The event is the project’s culminating affair after months of soliciting, collecting and organizing hundreds of new and gently used donations of formal gowns, cocktail dresses, shoes, and accessories for young women unable to buy their own.

To celebrate their transition from adolescence to becoming young women PGP holds an event for graduating seniors where they will receive information on etiquette, ballroom-style dancing, hair and age-appropriate makeup application. Local celebrities and motivational speakers are available to share their experiences and offer real life solutions to this promising group of young women.

“We want to teach these girls to feel good about themselves. It's about loving yourself and knowing your value,” said Pretty Girl Project Co-Founder & CEO, Cassandra Jones-McBryde. “Everyone deserves to feel beautiful for at least one day. You get to dress up like you want and to feel like a princess."

If you are interested in donating or volunteering with the Pretty Girl Project or are need of one of the services they offer, feel free to contact them.

Pretty Girl Project
P.O. Box 18393
River Rouge, MI 48218
info@prettygirlproject.org
http://www.prettygirlproject.org/
Pretty Girl Project on Facebook

All Eyez On...The Fat Girl Flea Market

The Fat Girl Flea Market, a fun-filled rummage sale, is back for its 7th run raising money for Nolose and The Femme Conference.

Having attended this event in the past, it is the ultiamte place to find great bargins on plus size clothing in a fun and festive atmosphere!
This year, the organizer's will be accepting donations only on Friday, April 29 and Saturday, April 30. For information on making a donation, go to http://www.fatgirlfleamarket.com/ to find out when and how to donate.

Shop on Sat 4/30- All clothing at the flea market runs from size from xl to 5xl. All clothing is priced between $1.00 and $10.00 each! There is a 10.00 entry fee.

Support- We need volunteers to help sort clothing on the 29th. And also bloggers, media, and stylists needed to help get the word out.

Visit http://www.fatgirlfleamarket.com/ for more info! We will definitely be bringing you more updates as the date draws closer, so stay tuned!

Boutique Buzz: Kurvacious (Nanuet, NY)

On Saturday, February 19, 2011, I was invited to the Kurvacious Boutique as they filmed their TV commercial. I love hearing about new boutiques, and I know you, our readers, do too! So, I hopped in my car on a windy Saturday and headed up I-87 to Nanuet, NY to check out Kurvacious Boutique.

About the boutique (from the website):

"For the woman who has more to offer."

Kurvacious is a boutique that specializes in clothing for the Kurvy Diva. We carry top designers in the full figure fashion arena such as IGIGI, Kiyonna, Jibri, Dereon, & La Dan's Closet just to name a few.

We have both an online presence as well as a retail location 20 minutes from NYC in the heart of Nanuet, NY.

We specialize in sizes 14-28 however upon requests we can honor the wishes of our larger divas for sizes 30-32.

Check out more of our behind the scenes footage in our first Belle-Noir TV clip below and be sure to let us know what you think!



For those of you who live outside of New York and the regions where the commercial will air, you can view it here on YouTube. You will be hearing more about Kurvacious from us in the coming weeks, so stay tuned!

Kurvacious
344 West Route 59
Nanuet, NY 10954
http://www.kurvacious.com/