Giving Thanks.... plus some Black Friday codes!

Morning!

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving and I'm soooo ready for a break! I'll be spending Thanksgiving in cold but beautiful New Hampshire - but for a minute we're going to act as if your screen is the dinner table and we're going to share what we are thankful for, I'll start it off.....

What I'm thankful for...

1. You! My readers... I love blogging but what I love most are the comments and emails I get from all of you! Whether you're a dedicated reader or just browse this page from time to time- I'm truly thankful.
   
2. Friends & Family. Who deal with me while I'm in a blogging frenzy, those who text me as soon as I post to tell me that I misspelled something and the rest who indulge me in my fashion obsessions.
3. Designers- for making clothes that not only fit me, but flatter me! Thank for expanding the options for plus size women everywhere. (Special shoutout to the designers who have supported this blog!)
4. Guest Bloggers. Since I will be studying for the Bar Exam again, a great group of people have stepped up to help me out this winter. I appreciate you soooo much! (No worries, there's still room for more guest bloggers- if you're interested email me)
   
5. Haters. Most of the emails I get are from supporters, but every once in awhile I get an email from someone who doesn't like me , doesn't like plus size women or whatever. I'm thankful for you, because your disdain for me is a motivation to keep doing what I'm doing. "I refuse to let anyone walk through my mind with dirty feet"- Mahatma Ghandi
6. New Beginnings. This blog has grown at an unexpected time and in an unexpected way- but definitely at the right time. It has opened doors that I never knew existed and is making new ventures more attainable. There is soooo much in store for 2009 & I'm grateful beyond words.
   
7. My Curves. It took me a long time to "luv' my curves" (look out for a future post on this) and I'm so thankful that I'm at a point in my life where I'm in LOVE with me "as is". I no longer see the need for another to define me... I got this.

What are you thankful for this Thanksgiving?

Also, there was no way I could leave you out in the cold without some holiday and Black Friday sales: Enjoy!!

Monif C

• Until December 1st Monif C has coupons! (and added new items to clearance!)
  
• Spend $200 and get $40 off with code THANKS200
• Spend $300 and get $60 off with code THANKS300
• Spend $400 and get $80 off with code THANKS400

Abby Z

• The Abby Z Holiday Sale is running until December 3rd - take 30% of your entire purchase plus FREE SHIPPING.
  

Kiyonna

• 30% Off Storewide with the Coupon Code: Turkey08- this sale expires on December 1st.
  

I'll be taking a little blogging break for the holiday- but no worries I'll be back on Monday.

Enjoy your Thanksgiving! And if your dinner outfit is so fly it needs bragging rights, make sure to send me a pic, I'd love to see it. (luvinmycurves@gmail.com)



~Luvin My Curves..... and thankful!

I got love for gloves!!!

Good Morning!

"The best way to deal with the cold is INSIDE" -

It's cold here in NYC- especially on Saturday!! I attended the play "American Buffalo" on this weekend and though I had on one of my warmest coats I still felt like an ice cube! As my hands froze -I realized that it's definitely time to pull out the gloves.


I never liked gloves..... I always felt like they got in way of whatever I was trying to do.... making my already stubby fingers feel even more so. When I was young I was "famous" for pulling my gloves off as soon as I left my mother's watchful eye - However, I am a firm believer in doing whatever I have to do in order to remain warm so I've been on the hunt!

Button detail long knit gloves $14.50, Lane Bryant

Browsing around I got myself into a bit of trouble- seems like I can't be happy with just one pair. Noooo, I started looking for gloves that served the purpose of not only keeping my hands warm but amused me with different colors and prints- I got lost in trying to match the gloves with my numerous scarves or whatever pair tickled my fancy. Each pair seemed to transform my mood somehow; for example....

These remind me of the movies in which the heroine slapped her male counterpart with her glove , flipped her cape over her shoulder and stormed out the room. (Slap! Slap!)

Caroline Amato driving gloves $149-Eluxury.com ; Portolano Patent Driving Gloves $145, Bloomingdales

I think my functional, every-day pick will be the convertible glove- it goes from mitten to fingerless glove! Perfect for my "I don't feel like I can grab anything!" sentiment.

Convertible Mittens $9.50, Old Navy

Speaking of fingerless gloves - Michelle from Newark says "I love fingerless gloves- but can't find any pairs other than black- do you know of any?" What do you think of these Michelle?

Military fingerless gloves $20- Urban Outfitters; Long Fingerless Cashmere Gloves $48- Nordstrom's , Lindsey Leopard Entarge Fingerless Gloves $34 - Betsey Johnson

Here are some others that caught my attention - it's the details that catch my eye.

Ralph Lauren Lambswool Equestrian Glove $30Macy's; Alfani Diamond Quilted Leather Glove $68.35 Macy's ; With a flourish gloves $38, Anthropologie

And yes, you can always go with the all black pair that we all have - but if you're looking for a tiny change to your wardrobe- the gloves have it! :)



~Luvin' My Curves

So much to share...

Hey All!

It's Friday.... (sigh, thank you!)

So much info to share, let's get to it:

• There are some great things happening over at Abby Z! (Thanks for the info Laura!) New to the Abby Z? It's a must you check her out.

Come into an Abby Z. store from November 1st - November 26th, 2008 and receive $25 in Abby Z. cash for every $200 purchase made! Your Abby Z. cash is redeemable from December 1st - December 7th, 2008.

Abby Z. Stores are located at:
Soho-NYC Boutique
57 Greene St.
Between Broome and Spring streets
212.219.8562

Roosevelt Field Mall
2nd Floor near Nordstrom
Garden City, Long Island
516.741.5550

• Belle-Noir has some great information about the upcoming Real Women Summit in June, check it out here. I'm going to make it my business to be there, will I see you there?

• Plus Size in the City Holiday Meet & Greet- November 25 (this upcoming Tuesday) at 40/40 from 6-10 pm.

Plus Size In The City, the premiere social networking and modeling resource for beautiful plus-size ladies, will hold a Holiday Meet & Greet to introduce their models, announce 2009 plans, and provide a festive, upscale atmosphere for mixing and mingling. Free to the public, the event, which will have special guests and giveaways, is sure to be loads of fun, while also acquainting attendees with Plus Size In The City and its lovely members.
Established in 2003 by innovative Brooklyn businessman Kier Walker, Plus Size In The City fills a need, with the shortage of social networking outlets for plus size ladies and also provides career management for those members who are qualified and serious about modeling. With over half of the American female population wearing size 12 and over, this “specialty” organization actually serves a majority, as opposed to a minority segment. Big is beautiful, and there are lots of gorgeous plus-size ladies out there doing their thing!

• Make sure you get your tickets for "U, Me & She" a fashion show put on by - Douglas Says on Dec 27th.He definitely represented at The Art of Curves, so make sure you go out at support! (If you're new to Douglas Says, check out his Spotlight)

So much going on in the plus size community- make sure you show your support of the events, designers and other movers & shakers making great things happen!

Have a Great Weekend!

~Luvin' My Curves

Dress Me! Thanksgiving Dinner

Good Morning Everyone,

Is it just me or did the month of November make a drive-thru run for '08, Thanksgiving is next week!!!? Marie out of Washington, D.C writes:

"After 4 years I'm doing Thanksgiving dinner with my boyfriend's family this year- I've met his parents before but never the ENTIRE family. If you were in this situation what would you wear, I have no idea what to wear - I want to be "presentable" and make a good impression but still be comfortable - oh and I'm broke!...."

Hey Marie!
First off, "big tings" when your beau asks you to come to Thanksgiving dinner with the ENTIRE family. God bless, the "lucky" guy who can rock with my family during Thanksgiving. You're right you don't want to be uncomfortable, but want to look great in the process, not a problem. And the "broke" part... I got you. Hmm, what would I wear?

I would wear a dress, it's one of the best solutions for a huge dinner like Thanksgiving- something that's forgiving and won't show if you decide to go for extras. (sometimes that Mac n' cheese is damn good) And especially if you're in someone else's house- you don't have to worry about unbuttoning those pants after dinner - maybe that's just me :)

You know I have issues with Old Navy only selling the Women's Plus Collection "exclusively" online (like the exclusive part is supposed to make it sound better) but they have some good dress picks;

Flutter-Sleeve Dress $39.50, Matte Jersey Dress $24.50 both at Old Navy.

You also wrote that you love the way the kimono styles looked on you- these two combine the ease of a dress with your favorite style.

Calisto Dress $64 Benina & Lu , Ponte Sweater Dress $39 Ashley Stewart

With those dresses; a simple pump would do and have a field day with the accessories- go with something colorful and bold. Here are some picks:

Wide Filigree Cuff $16.99, Op Art Cuff $9.99 both at Girl Props

Silvertone Fringe Necklace $29.50 (buy 1 get 1 1/2 off) Lane Bryant, Amethyst Drop Earrings $9 1928 Jewelry

Last but definitely not least... your clothes don't make you "presentable" ; YOU do.... I know meeting the family can be a nerve-wracking experience but stay calm. Let who YOU are shine through, pretty soon it will be evident to his family why he's so into you. :)

What do you think you'll be wearing for Thanksgiving? Is there a strategy to your outfit or just whatever you feel?

~Luvin' My Curves

Plan B

Good Morning,

So... thanks for all the supportive emails- for those of you that don't know I didn't pass the NY Bar Exam. I've done my hysterical fit of crying- and won't lie I still choke up a bit the thought of it and get angry when fellow law school associates just flat out ask me (it's proper social law school etiquette to NOT ask - but wait until a person says something or wait until the public results come out and look for yourself).

I'm in the process of still trying to figure out what went wrong and frustrated that I have to figure out "plan b". I know that many people don't pass the 1st time - including people that I look up to. I guess I saw passing the Bar as the "answer" to finding employment, less stress, etc. With this recession/new-era depression going on, passing would have maybe made me more qualified but with people getting laid-off in all sectors there was no real guarantee of getting a job. Honestly, I've never been excited by working in a firm- always looked towards the more "non-traditional" legal fields. I realized this weekend that I wanted this license moreso for closure. and personal fufillment- that makes it a bit easier to deal. Perhaps, not passing is a means for me to figure it all out- my passions, my true plan. I'm doing my best now to put this all in perspective - I'm still down but NEVER out.

Some of you asked what I did this weekend to cope- well.. Friday was hysteric crying. Saturday, I cried some more and had some supportive conversations with friends and loved ones. I took some "me" time- went to see Madagascar 2 alone, had some comfort food, and then just did some reflecting.

Sunday... I told myself it was ok to be upset but I could only look forward- I refuse to let this exam define me. I headed out to the Monif C Customer Appreciation Luncheon... I am absolutely in love with the idea of a group of confident, full-figured women eating, drinking and chatting it up. I met fellow bloggers, business owners and all-around full-figured & fab chicas. Thanks Monif and all the lovely ladies I met, I had a wonderful time with you all!

The lovely Monif C!

Fab ladies!

Model Mia Amber & clothing stylist Brandon (thanks for the mimosas!)

Me, Katherine Finney aka The Budget Fashionista & Ms. Concetta

Work that dress!!!

If you havn't checked Monif's holiday line- you're missing out. Here are my favorites- these would make great "I'm so sorry you failed the Bar, but the Bar Examiners have no clue. But you're still a fab chick and should keep dressing like one" gifts:

"Nikki" Little Leopard Dress $189

"Paris" Silk Tie Neck Dress- Midnight Purple $208

If life we're ofren faced with disappointments- it's up to us to figure out if we're going to let it destroy, define or empower us. I choose to let this setback empower me....

~Luvin' My Curves

What's up for the weekend?

TGIF!

I'm trying to breathe easy for a bit...lots going on over here. I'll make sure to update you all on Monday.

If you're in the Atlanta area spend some time at Jibri's (check out Jibri's spotlight) "Curvy Girls Guide to Style" event this Saturday at the Chocolate Pink Cafe. Style consultations, sample shopping and foundation tips, ladies have fun! I wish I could be there.. (psst make sure to take pics!)

Whatever you get into, have a fab weekend!

P.S: I'm looking for guest bloggers! Any takers? Email me at luvinmycurves@gmail.com

Digital Love??

Morning!

So ... I'm always a bit uncomfortable when certain songs come on in the club -my old self-conscious habits kick in when "Watch out for the big girl" comes on. All the guys who weren't checking for me all of a sudden make a bee-line towards me. Has that ever happened to you? I get apprehensive.... are you showing me love or making fun?

Videos featuring big girls always strike a chord with me- I can never be too sure if we're being shown love or ridicule.. the words in the song may express appreciation but the portrayal says something different. Maybe the artist really wants to show us love, but I never feel that we're shown in a light that we are as sexy or as desired as a thinner video-girl. Here are some videos/songs, let me know what you think.

Bow Wow feat. Yung Joc "Big Girls" as much money as Bow Wow spends on videos...... hmm

Mike Epps "Big Girls"... I mean the food fight, really?


De La Soul "Baby Phat" I'm ambivalent on this one...I hear the appreciation but don't see it.



Redman "I'll Bee Dat" (YouTube was not letting me get this video,grr) One of the first to show us "love" ... but the portrayal always let me to wonder.

For good measure, I also some songs that I think really do appreciate us. These are from my "feeling good" playlist... enjoy!

Anthony Hamilton- Sista Big Bones(YouTube wouldn't let me get the video,sorry!)

Biggie Irie "Bigg Girls"

Special *wink* to those who see no shame or ridicule in loving our curves :)
Like Kenny says "Ain’t nothing better than a Big Girl who’s comfortable being a Big Girl.."

Soft & Silky.....Cashmere

Good Morning,

Hoping you all had a great weekend! Mine was great- Saturday was spent interviewing candidates for the A Better Chance program . I was humbled to speak with these young, gifted and talented children. They were so on point for middle-school children, I wonder if I was like that at 13 when I interviewed. (lol!)

On to today's subject... CASHMERE!!!

Yes, cashmere... that soft, luxurious fabric that's SO exclusive.... like the popular girls in high school. We have a tendency to think that cashmere is expensive; and we're right it is! It feels light but still keeps you toasty and because of this, it has a tendency to be expensive and a popular choice for gift-giving. (feel free to use this post as a hint to your friends,family,etc)

Jones New York Cowl-Neck Top $155 Macys, Scoop-Neck Sweater $59.50 Old Navy

What makes cashmere so coveted is the silky feeling without the bulk, it's a warm fiber so you're toasty without looking like you're bundled in layers. If money is an issue (DUH!) look for a cashmere blend piece, the price will be lower and your pocket happier.

Silk/Cashmere Cardigan $28.99 Jessica London; Via Spiga Cashmere Blend Grommet Walker Coat $124.99 Overstock.com

J.G. Hook Cashmere Blend Blazer $79.99, One Stop Plus ; Luxury Pointelle Cardi $40, Evans

I only own one piece of cashmere... a beautiful scarf (my post on scarves, here) that I received as a gift from a friend some years ago. It's so warm.... I'm on the hunt for some more cashmere pieces; on the wishlist a cashmere dress. (hmmm) If you want to begin your own cashmere collection you can seek out a cheaper "starter" piece or a catch a major sale and snatch a sweater.

Cashmere Wrap $68, Banana Republic; Cashmere Scarf $29.50 Old Navy

Just for some good "internet window shopping",if you are feeling luxurious, how about a cashmere coat?

Sutton Studio Cashmere Pea Coat $368, Bloomingdales

A definite closet essential!!!


In sad news:
R.I.P Mama Africa Miriam Makeba...she passed away on stage the way she said she always wanted to go.I've always been and will continue to be a huge fan, she was an amazing singer and this is such a huge loss. I leave you with "Pata Pata" one of her most known hits...





~Luvin' My Curves

Yes We Did!

Good Morning!

I didn't blog about the election on Wednesday because so many thoughts were running through my head-and they still are. It's been really challenging to put down into a comprehensive manner how this election makes me feel as a whole.

I cried, I laughed.... I wondered so much about the future and what this election has meant to so many people. The election inspired, motivated and mobilized SO many people- young, old, black, white, disenfranchised and disillusioned. Never before has an Election Day been met with so much anticipation......

Tuesday was just historic- I don't know about you all but there was an energy in the air - there was a feeling that something GREAT was going to happen. As I went to vote I saw a family outside taking a picture after they voted- I offered to take a picture of all of them- and the grandfather was hesitant.. I told him that this is history in the making and he needs to be in the picture just like everyone else- the look in his eyes told me that he agreed. On Tuesday whether you voted for Obama or not, ideological differences aside we witnessed and are still witnessing history.


That night, I hooked up with my girls and went to an election watch party at 40/40 - it was just so wonderful. So overwhelming every time Obama won a battleground state- and then goosebumps and tears when it was announced that he won.I didn't think I would cry but I did.... I spoke to some people who never voted because they never saw the point, those who became citizens just in time to vote and those who felt that they needed to step up as black men because Barack, our new president-elect has raised the bar.

How wonderful to see Michelle Obama as the new 1st Lady.... an intelligent, beautiful, strong wife, daughter, sister, and mother to two beautiful little girls. It is the most beautiful 1st family, one that I am so proud of. What they show us, is that anything is possible- even in a country that still suffers from the deep rooted scars of slavery.

It's nights like Tuesday that make me proud on so many levels - it's a night that I can only hope inspires others the way it has inspired me. When we hear a child of color say that they want to be President of the United States we now know that they actually have an example to look up to- they can point to a picture of our new President-Elect- how amazing is that?!!!

For those who were skeptical about voting- it's my hope that this election has made you a believer that your vote counts. Do you see what happens when THE PEOPLE actually get up and vote. With some precincts reporting upwards of a 95% voter turnout - it's an empowering, overwhelming, and just PROUD sentiment.

Yes We Can, Yes We Did and Yes We Will....... have a wonderful weekend everyone! Regardless of how you voted, how did this election make you feel?

~Luvin' My Curves

Spotlight: Veronica L

Hey Everyone!
If you've been following me you know I had a ball at The Art of Curves Fashion show. (If you missed my recap, click here). One of the lines that took on the runway was Tru Diva by Ms. Veronica L, her pieces were stunning; mixing formal pieces with some funky avante garde. Feminine with that bit of refined edge.. luv it! Ms. Veronica herself was soooo kind and was able to answer my barrage of questions- so let's get to it… enjoy!

LMC: What's your background, how did you get into fashion?
VL: I always had a passion for fashion. However, it was a void in the fashion industry for plus size clothing that attracted me to design. I am size 18, and I was frustrated with the garments that the plus size stores were offering. So, I decided to start designing my own clothes.
LMC: What inspires your creations?
VL: Mostly, I am inspired by bold colors & prints. Yet, different types of fabrics inspire me the most. I am always willing to try something different, by using fabric that you wouldn't normally see made in that type of garment.
LMC: What are the 3 fashion essentials every woman must have?
VL: 1^st, every woman must own several pieces of undergarment foundation. It is that most important piece in your wardrobe. Without this essential piece, your garment will go from fab to drab. 2^nd, every woman should have that little black dress that will take you from day to evening. Last, but not least, a black stiletto shoe or boot.

LMC: What is the biggest mistake that a plus size woman makes when getting dressed?
VL: The biggest mistake a plus size woman makes when getting dressed is not trying on the garment in the store. If she is not wearing the proper foundation when trying on that garment, she is making another faux-pas.
LMC: What's your take on the plus size fashion industry & what mark do you intend to make on it?
VL: My take on the plus size fashion industry is that I feel that it's getting better. New & upcoming designers, such as myself are bringing new flavors of design for plus size women. However, I would like to see more couture fashion for plus size women, I intend on making that happen.
LMC: What do you see for your line in 2008-2009? Describe your line, is there a message, theme?
VL: I see a fresh look for my line in 2008-2009. My line gives plus size women a feel of sexiness, fun & flirty looks. My theme is "Doing it voluptuously ALLDAY". I give you sexy, stylish, and glamour.
LMC: What's one styling secret that you would be willing to share?
VL: My stylist secret that I am willing to share would be- Accessorize! With the right accessories, you will look like a million bucks in a simple dress.
LMC: Any shopping tips?
VL: Never let a garment wear you. When buying an outfit, do not rush to wear it without taking the time to coordinate your jewelry, shoes and handbag.
LMC: Fashion "no-no's"?
VL: A definite no no is wearing an ill- fitting garment!!! Don't squeeze into a size 16 if you're an 18.
LMC:Fashion commandment….Never let them see your panty lines.

LMC:Complete the sentence: Every woman should
LMC: Your designs…make a woman feel sexy for no reason.
LMC: What are the 5 things a fashionista should not be without?
VL: The 5 things a fashionista should not be without:

1. Her make-up kit in her pocketbook you never know who you may run into.
2. Small sample of your perfume in your pocketbook just to refresh yourself at the end of your work day.
3. Keep a credit card handy just in case those shoes you have been watching go on sale. (LMC: LOL!!)
4. For those bad hair days, keep a floppy hat in your car in a neutral color that will go with everything.
5. And if you're not a hat wearing person, a lace front wig will always do the trick. Can I say Hello & Goodbye?

LMC: What's in store for 2009?
VL: In 2009, I hope to be able to display my line in several boutiques. Also, I want to open my boutique.

.

LMC:Where can we find your clothing?
VL: TruDiva

LMC: What words of advice would you give to the everyday, average plus size woman who is reluctant to "step out"?
VL: My advice to the everyday, average plus size woman who is reluctant to step out: Do not allow society to dictate what you can & can't do. 1^st, you must love yourself. Then your, confidence will show. 2^nd, you should take care of you-your health, body & skin. As your confidence builds, you might add a little hair color, a new dress, shoes & handbag to enhance your new look. Lastly, you will realize that you are out of your comfort zone and loving it! Always DO YOU!
LMC: Any more thoughts?
VL: I would like to thank my husband John who is my #1 fan. Also, I can't say thank you enough to my assistants, Kelly & Kiley. Moreover, I want to thank my girlfriends, Cathy & Michelle, who support all of my shows & functions. Most of all, I can't thank GOD enough for giving me this talent & opening doors for me. Without him, none of this would be possible.
Thank you Luvin' My Curves for this opportunity.

Ms. Veronica you are MORE than welcome! Just keep designing for the curvy girls!!

~Luvin' My Curves

What J is Jonesin' For - November

Good Morning!!
(I'm feeling wonderful today, how are you?!)

I don't about you all but I'm still in "luxury exile" meaning that my pockets are still in a recession. I know that alot of you like myself are starting to become "Recessionista's"- (there's even a NY Times Article on the term!). We're becoming even more aware of our pockets, looking harder for deals and making our dollars stretch more than before!

I found some things all under $50... have you all found any deals? Show & Tell!! Here's my contribution!

I love hoops.... and already have too many pairs but I love the details on these Microbead Hoops from Forever 21 and at $2.80 (yep!!) wouldn't you just grab them just because they're so cheap?!!

Versatile pieces are your friend especially when you're watching your wallet. This dress is a 2 for 1 because you can wear it at work with a cute jacket or glam it up and for a night out- Ruby Rox Dress $48.30 at Macy's.

Even though it's getting too cold- I'd still wear this. From across the water at Australia's Dream Diva I found this Belted Summer Jacket and at 69 AUD which comes to about $46.38.

I have a penchant for clutches, but for my everyday you will never see me with a small purse. My friends can testify that my bag is always heavy and full- which is why I NEED this $24 Big Buddha 28101 Shoulder Bag at Amazon.com in my LIFE!! (no seriously... I know my bday was in September... but still)

And along with the bag... can I please have these shoes? Thank You. Jade T-Strap Platform, $27.99 at Payless.

Sorry to excite you but these shoes are not on sale... though my wallet is in "luxury exile" that does not mean my mind has to be. Aren't these darling.... Pedro Garcia Melany sequin peep-toes, $425 :( at Net-a-porter.

And the grand finale.. what I'm Jonesin' for the MOST, what I'm in NEED of.... is CHANGE! Whatever you do, VOTE! Just a community organizer tee $24.99 @ Dangerous Negro.


~Luvin' My Curves.... still on a budget & VOTING!!