Sound Off: Is there really love in the club?

Morning!!!!

Pretty interesting question, read on...

Dear LMC,

Have you ever been to one of those big girl parties? I went for the 1st time not too long ago and I had no idea what to make of it. There were girls of all sizes, the music was good but the things that stood out to me were this:

1. Why can't I feel this wanted in a regular club?
2. Is this feeling of me being desired real, as in do most of these guys have a fetish and that's why they are at the club?
3. I had the feeling that alot of the ladies were regulars, and most of the guys were preying on the ones with less esteem.

It felt great to walk into a club and not only be given attention when "that song" comes on - it felt nice that I didn't dress up only to stand on the wall, there were guys who wanted to dance with me and even some who wanted to exchange numbers. I should have gone to these parties before but I don't think I was confident enough to go, plus I heard that the guys were only trying to take advantage. I wonder if it's even worth going to meet a decent guy.

I know this email is all over the place, but do you really think there is love in the big girl club? Have you ever been?

~T



Hey T!

Some of us, myself included have ventured into the "big girl club" scene. The impression that some of us walk away with varies, depending on what the "goal" is. Awhile back I had a pretty lengthy discussion with some of my fellow plus-size beauties. As we talked about clothes, work, men and nonsense, someone brought up "the club", and not just any club but "the big girl club".


For some this is a touchy subject.. depending on where you live the "big girl" scene is different. And until some time ago I was oblivious about the "big girl club" scene out here, I knew they existed but never experienced it. So one day I finally decided to venture out with a group of my friends, I had a great time and like you it was nice to be asked to dance in a club setting. ( I refuse to stand on the wall, but I usually end up dancing alone).

However, I didn't come to the club to look for love.. I went to party. I went to check out the scene I had heard so much about .. and yes.. while I saw some things that were side-eye worthy, I tried my best to remain fair in that I saw side-eye worthy things in "regular" clubs as well. Since then, I've gone to a couple of other parties and every time I must admit I enjoyed being a part of the majority, it's a small rush that I get as I walk in. However, I go to have fun, nothing more.

To answer your questions, I don't think there is love in ANY club, not just one kind of club in particular. Sure you can meet someone at the club, but in the same vein you can meet anyone anywhere. Don't think that you have to go to a specific kind of party in order to meet a guy who likes you. Are you alone in feeling that when you go to a "regular" club that you may not feel as wanted as when you go to a "big girl" club? No, many people might feel the same way you do, the chances are just higher that a guy who is attracted to a plus size woman may go where he knows those women will be. The most important thing is that you feel confident wherever you go, not just a specific type of party. I hope this helps a bit - your confidence and what you think of yourself is what's going to find you love, not the location... you may even find "him" in the least expected place. :)

Have you ever to been to one of the parties we're talking about here? What's the "scene" like in your town? Do you like them or prefer them to other parties? Do you identify with T or have any words of advice for her? What do you think of T's observations?

Sound off, I'd love to hear your thoughts...

~Luvin' My Curves

Ask LMC: I can't wear what they wear

Hey Folks!

Today's question is a very interesting one. I'm usually pretty good at responding, but for this question I really needed to think a bit because it's a question that's been asked many times and there really is no clear answer.

S. from Mobile, Alabama asks "I love to read all the different plus size fashion blogs that are out right now. But there's something that bothers me -some can shop in straight size stores. I'm short, a size 26 and I can't adapt to the idea of making things that normally don't fit me, fit. I can't do that for two reasons- I refuse to pay money for clothes that don't fit me, and aren't made for me and two when I've tried to make it fit - it just doesn't work. I don't like when clothes look extremely tight or short on me, that doesn't work for me. I can't wear what they wear or maybe I just refuse to- what do you think?"


Hey S, this is a really good question - and depending on who you ask I'm sure you'd receive a different answer. There's no such word as "can't" so I think this all boils down to what YOU personally like for yourself. Everyone defines their own style and what works for them - so where one may like tight and short clothes, another may opt for pieces that "flow". I know of many ladies who are probably nodding their heads in agreement to your statement . I myself am not keen on shopping in straight size stores if I know that it will be a struggle to get pieces to fit, however I have become more willing to get creative and play with certain pieces by wearing them in different ways. I feel your frustration, as sometimes it's hard to visualize yourself in clothes in which the tag isn't in your size range or when you don't see it on a different body frame (in your case - short, over a size 20).

Like you, I'm not too keen on spending my money on clothes that I have to squeeze into - there are bills that need to be paid and other things that can be bought with that money- however that's just me. It takes time to know and work within your own fashion "comfort" zone - not everyone follows the "trends" if you don't want to buy clothes from straight sized stores then don't, it's ok!

Dressing for your body shape instead of focusing on your clothing size is VITAL ... what may fit you well may not fit another size 26 the same way. So my answer to your question is "DO YOU"... if you feel that you don't want to wear what others wear then don't worry about it, wear what works for you and makes you feel untouchable!


Do any of you feel the way S feels? Does the trend of wearing clothes that are not in your size range bother you? There's been alot of debate about this issue, so please speak your piece on this one...

Closet Essentials: Show Some Leg... Thigh high style!

Good Morning!

With Valentine's Day coming up, I'm literally seeing all shades of red, lots of hearts and plenty of lingerie in anticipation of the holiday. You can't go wrong with lingerie, but what if you're not "there" yet- what's another piece that's alluring , loaded with sex appeal , all without showing it all?

Solid Band Stockings $13.95, Hips & Curves

That's right, the Thigh High.

Charlena asks "I know nothing about thigh highs, aren't they only for costumes? My BF has said he likes them but I have no idea why, I can' t imagine wearing them to work and personally think I'm too big to wear them. What do you think?"

In my search for the perfect pair, I've found that it's all about finding the pair that's right for you- which in my case means the pair that looks good and stays up.

Lace Thigh Highs $10.99, Jessica London

Black Rhinestone Fishnet Thigh High Stocking $15.00, Torrid

Thigh Highs are not just for costumes, if you like they can be a part of your hosiery arsenal. Lace Top, Studded Back Seam, Glitter Finish, Fishnet or Silk - you can't go wrong with buying different pairs to suit your different moods. Thigh highs come in a huge variety of materials; nylon, wool, cashmere, even silk! Granted the material choice will determine how much stretch you get, and might not stay up on your leg alone. This leads me to the Garter Belt, depending on how you see things the garter can be used to hold up your thigh highs or just to add extra umpph to your outfit.

You're not the only one that's expressed that thigh highs are not in your closet because you're afraid that they will slip. To prevent thigh high "slippage" I would suggest getting a pair with an inner silicone or plastic seam that runs along the top. If it's too loose it will fall, but on the other hand if it's too it tight might cause it to squeeze your leg and run, it's all about the right size.

Lace Trim Thigh High Stockings $12.50, Avenue

There's lot to do with thigh highs - many folks think that they are only worn with short skirts or lingerie, but that's where the allure factor comes in, thigh highs are unexpected. (Your BF knows what's up!) Sometimes the most fun you have with your undergarments is the fact that no one else has to know what you have on underneath. So.. feel free to be an undercover office vixen and wear them under your corporate attire.

Don't let your size keep you from trying on a pair- I really believe that thigh highs were made with curves in mind. Imagine lacy thigh highs on a skinny leg with no shape? Not as appealing in my book ;)

Other good places to look:
Just My Size
One Hanes Place
Torrid
Hips & Curves

How do you feel about thighs highs? Sexy, too much or just what your wardrobe needs?

~Luvin' My Curves...the mystery is what lies underneath ;)

What's Up For the Weekend? Kiss the Curves

Good Morning!!!

All is quiet here- the students are gone for the weekend so I get some time to clean my apartment, do some laundry and get some things done. I had planned to go home but with the impending snow storm, I did a mental about face and decided to just stay put. However, if you're on the sunny and snow-free West Coast (more specifically the Bay Area) you should definitely check out "Kiss the Curves" tomorrow. Below is all the information you'll need- Ms. Marie Denee herself is the lead stylist so make sure you go and support. :)

Kiss the Curves: “The First Ever Plus-Size Fashion Gala in the Bay,” will be center stage on February 6, 2010 at the Historic Sweets Ballroom in Oakland, CA.This historic platform, hosted by Bay Area's Quiet Storm 102.9 KBLX-FM radio personality, Sterling James, will allow plus-size designers such as Ashley Stewart, Igigi, Marie Denee, Corinthia Peoples Designs, Chocolate Sushi Couture, A Clothes Mind, Tru Diva and Isle’s of Paradise to debut their latest collections to an audience of media outlets, VIP guests, socialites and fashion enthusiasts under the direction of renowned runway talent coach, Charleston Pierce.

While the excitement is brewing for a successful event, the recent fatalities and devastation in Haiti has broken the hearts of the entire Kiss the Curves staff. Compelled to extend monetary help to the Haitian relief efforts, Executive Producer, Tracie Collins will donate proceeds from this monumental event to the Red Cross.

Advertising sponsors of Kiss the Curves includes, Clear Channel Radio, PLUS Model Magazine,
Ashley Stewart, SKORCH Magazine, Lexus, Daily Venus Diva Magazine and Black Entertainment Monthly. Lead photography will be provided by celebrity photographer, Nana of 510 Media.

Pre-sale tickets to Kiss the Curves for general admission are currently on sale for $20, with VIP
tickets on sale for $35 and can be purchased through Airbourne Tickets. Tickets can also be
purchased at the door for $25 on the day of the event.

~Luvin' My Curves

Ask LMC: Take the Chill off ... plus a Holiday Giveaway

Good Afternoon!!

"Whether it's wearing my purple leather cashmere lined gloves or my sunshine yellow scarf the bad weather wont' get the best of my style, how are YOU staying stylish this winter?"

I got an email in response to my Facebook QOTD... "What if you can't afford to buy a new coat, what else can I do to not look so drab?" Well, the quick answer is to focus on what you need; a scarf to protect your neck, gloves to maintain the warmth and a hat to top it all off. Of course, my answers are never that short and I'd be wrong to not give you some fun visuals- take a look at my picks to keep the chill off this winter.

The Scarf:

My scarves not only adorn my neck in the winter, but I make it worth the $$ by making them into a headband or belt in the "off-season. I look for scarves that not only serve the purpose of keeping me warm but also stand-out from the regular. To complement my darker coats I look for prints while to go with my colored coats I look for simple prints and softer colors. My scarf collection has only grown in the past year ( I wont' tell you how much, but will say that they fill up a moving box). Of course, because scarves are in season the price may go slightly up- but you can find a scarf anywhere- whether it be plain or complicated.

Some interesting picks:

Khaki chunky snood, (15gb), Evans - excellent two-fer, wear as a scarf or a hood.; Watch Pocket Scarf $128, Anthropologie ( love this one, perfect place to hide an extra $20 or mints)

The Gloves:

The idea of my entire body being warm except for my stubby fingers bothers me. So gloves are definitely a winter essential along with a scarf. Most people are used to single color gloves, but I've seen then in an array of prints and textures. Leather, Cashmere, Fingerless, Long, Convertible, detailed or simple- for some reason these two especially the Elsa Gloves are catching my attention.

Elsa Gloves, $78, Anthropologie; Tarnish Chunky Cable Knit Fingerless Gloves $78, Nordstrom

The Hat:

I was never of hats until last spring- when it was warmer it was purely for fashion sake. But they really do help contain the warmth...that is, until they mess your hair up. Funny, how I'm more concerned about my hair than about staying warm (I know I'm not the only one). (Tip: If you hat is wool or cotton, make sure you line the hat with silk or satin to protect your hair.)

Mustard Chunky Cable Knit Beret $16, Torrid; Alfani Beret Solid Fisherman $23.99, Macy's; Applique Cloche $38, Urban Outfitters

The Shawl/Wrap:

So while it's not a winter essential, it's a piece that's most overlooked to take the chill. If your office is freezing, instead of keeping your coat on all day- try a wrap that can fashionably keep the cold away. Of course, the $10 pashmina on the street corner works just as well too.

Tis' the season - and to celebrate we have some giveaways this week!

Giveaway #1: One free item from Jen's Fashion Plus!Click here for more info!

Am I the only one who's ready to retire the dark coat?

Good Morning!

I'm just straight distrustful of the weather nowadays- one minute it's cold and the next you're sweating in your coat- this is the kind of weather that can make you sick. I know that I look nuts walking around in my wool trench coat but I REFUSE to get sick because of the fickle weather.


While I'm obsessed with the weather's effect on my health today's question is more concerned with dealing with the weather in style. Sade writes in that she's "Am I the only one who's ready to retire the dark coat, I'm tired of the grey, black and brown" boring winter coats. I'm ready to make a standout jacket part of my everyday routine."Bright Colors" make me smile and when it starts to get dark before I even clock out I need something bright. What do you suggest?"


Well, you know I'm all about color.... but with coats you have to be keenly aware of cut, fit, material, and quality- another factor that I always think about is price, is a $300 unlined coat really worth it? I think dark coats still have a place in a winter closet, but a color coat is definitely welcome. You want a coat that's stylish but that can also take you past just this one season- I think living in New England I'll assume that you'll want something that's extremely warm as well (no point in being a cute colorful popsicle, right?).

I picked a group of coats; some are thin and just for style and some are functional but they're all full of color....

Aqua Fold Over Collar Coat, (49.50 GB), Yellow Contrast Button Coat, (65 GB), Cobalt Blue Military Coat, all from Evans

La'Dan's Closet is all about flair,color and would definitely brighten up your mood.

Cape $239.99,, Wrap Coat $359.99, La'Dan's closet

These coats are all pretty warm (tested by yours truly)...

Calvin Klein All Satin Weather Coat, $98;Steve Madden Toggle Coat, $109.90; Ellen Tracy Kimono Topper,$218all at Nordstroms

Other places to check out for colorful coats:
Old Navy (this season's selections are quite stylish, but should be warmer considering the price tag)
Avenue
Dorothy Perkins


Has anyone found a warm, colorful coat? Do share :)

~Luvin' My Curves...staying warm or at least trying to.

Dress Me: Class is now in session...

Good Morning!

Whether we like it or not- some of us are back in the trenches of school once again. I received a couple of emails from teachers asking "What to Wear?" and this is especially fitting because I'm now in the same boat. I'm finding a small struggle between dressing within a conservative dress code while still remaining stylish and true to what I like and I see that alot of you are too.

Karen writes... "I've recently lost some weight and I want to buy some clothes that are still teacher appropriate but also show off my newly-discovered curves." while Annie expresses "I'm the youngest art teacher at my new school and I don't want to start dressing boring like the other teachers, any ideas?"

Well, Karen congrats on your "loss" and kudos to you for wanted to show off your curves... Annie, I feel your pain Being an educator it can be a fine line between what's seen as appropriate to wear in front of children but still age-appropriate, stylish and comfortable for you. Here are my top 5 no-fail picks...

1.ShiftDress

These are the kinds of dresses that you can make super professional with pearls and a cardigan, but if you'd like to go out after- mix it up with a scarf, belt or higher heels. I'm sure you're going to be busy,so you want to get pieces that transition seamlessly from day to evening and that can also look different with the addition of an accessory or sweater.

Calvin Klein Belted Ponte Knit Dress, $54.90, Nordstroms; Shira Pleated Knit Dress $47.90, Avenue

2. Fitted Blazers & Cardigans

Fitted blazers are the perfect way to flaunt your curves without getting lost in the bulk and cardigans are just a go to piece that you can throw over just about anything. For your blazers, play with colors & textures as they can definitely carry an otherwise plain outfit and don't be afraid to use your tailor (see Why You Need a Tailor) to get a bigger blazer taken in.

Murray Cardigan, $38, B & Lu; Seam detail Jacket $59.50,Coldwater Creek

3. Pants that fit just right...

A couple of pairs of pants in different basic colors and the outfit combination's become limitless. I picked trouser pants because they can not only flatter your smaller waistline (Karen) but can also be paired with Annie's favorite chunky heels- I'm sure a far cry from what the other teachers are wearing.

Right Fit Houston Pant, $39.99, Lane Bryant

4. Kitten Heels & Flats
If you can handle the 4" in the recess playground then I pump my fist to you!! But cute kitten heels , low platforms and flats are the perfect stylish & comfortable alternative to chasing kids or walking all over campus.

Ashur, $39.99, Bakers; Barefoot Tess Exotic Kitten Heel $189.95 & Hollywould Washington $217.22 both at Endless; Rockport Griano $65.66, Zappos.

(For some flat's inspiration check out my previous Post: Forever in Love with Flats)


5. Scarfs
The perfect go-to accessory for a cold classroom or a chilly study hall period. Also perfect way to cover up a blouse that goes too deep in the "v" if you know what I mean.

African Inspired Pashmina, African Tribal Arts; Wine Pashmina $30, Nitscreations (Etsy)

Do you have any suggestions for our teachers? What basics are you implementing in your closet this fall?

~Luvin' My Curves

Also, if you have a "Dress Me'' dilemma email me!

Ask LMC: I'm just a regular fat girl, is there any place for me at FFFWeek?

Good Morning!!

Let's get straight to it...

LMC, I'm really excited about what's about to happen in New York, finally a fashion week for plus size girls. Where I'm from there aren't many choices for clothes, which has forced me to rely mainly online to shop. There's no plus size scene where I live, which makes partying, networking and dating pretty boring. I've always had a love for fashion but by no means consider myself a "fashionista" or a model. I would love to buy my ticket and get my hotel room to come to New York, but I'm unsure. I'm just a regular fat girl, is there any place for me at FFFWeek?

I guess my fear is that I would feel unwelcome in the midst of full figured elite; celebrities, models, designers, business owners, and others who are able to whip together an outfit like it comes naturally. I keep thinking that I'll be sitting there and everyone will be wondering "Who is she and why is she here?"

- Unsure

Unsure,

Your words are the exact reason why you NEED to come out to NYC for FFFWeek!

FFFWeek is about SO MUCH MORE than a fashion show! If you look at the schedule, besides the actual fashion showcases; there's a Meet n' Greet at Re/Dress, "State of the Curvy Community" panel, Curves In the City Shopping Soiree, and even an afterparty! That's a full, well rounded schedule which will allow you to be surrounded by other curvy girls; a great way to socialize and network with others like yourself (men included)! Believe me, you won't feel unwelcome!

You don't have to be part of the, as you call it- "full figured elite" to be a part of FFFWeek, come as you are and enjoy what's in store!! FFFWeek will be historic! It's going to change many people's perceptions about the plus size industry, moreso what this event also has the great ability to do is change your perspective about how you feel about yourself.

You're going to see many different styles & ways of dress, but one theme will be consistent throughout : their confidence is shining through. Regardless of your size, or what you wear FFFWeek has you in mind. Come to NYC, take in the experience and I'm sure you'll leave thinking that you're soooo much more than a "regular fat girl".I think you would be doing yourself a disservice by NOT coming.

With that said, I just KNOW that I'll see you in June, right?

*LMC*



Psst: I'll be announcing the winners of the High Heel Confidential giveaway on Monday. Have you entered yet? Email me!


Enjoy your weekend!

~Luvin'My Curves... hoping that you've bought your tickets already!!

Ask LMC: How do I keep my zipper up?

Good Morning!!!

Today's question is something that hit's close to home, well at least close to my zipper.

Gail writes in:

"I can't keep my zipper up!! I buy jeans that fit, but the zipper just refuses to stay up. I'm tired of wearing long shirts and REFUSE to buy larger jeans just for the zipper! Please don't tell me I'm the only one that has issues with keeping her zipper up. Do you have any suggestions?"

Any lady who's had zipper issues before please raise your hand!

Gail,

My zipper would ALWAYS fall down, which made wearing t-shirts that didn't totally cover my zipper a non- option. I usually found myself constantly looking down, checking myself to see if the reason folks were looking at me was because my fly was open.

I used safety pins, intricate designs using paper clips (don't ask) but to no avail, the zipper still rode down or low enough that I might as well have just walked around with it open. Dancing at parties was abysmal because I was so afraid that I would have an embarrassing moment on the dancefloor. It was a sight to see me dancing with my clutch strategically placed over "there".

I looked all over for a solution because I could not deal!!!!

So finally I got my answer... on an online answer board! Besides some of the "smart guy" answers like "lose weight" I found one that I immediately tried and have been using ever since.

I decided to make a picture tutorial to help you out, enjoy!

1. Rubber Bands.. I like the flat latex hair bands because they are smaller. One elastic lasts a very long time and you could even wash your jeans with these things in them. Eventually the elastic will stretch out but it's ok because there are about 75 bands to a pack!

2. Loop it through the zipper & make a slip knot through the eye of the zipper handle.

3. Pull & zip it up as usual and wrap the other end of the rubber band around the pants button.

4. Then button your jeans & VOILA!

.... let me tell you this is the TRUTH, it works!! Only when I finally show my mom does she tell me that this is how she got her zipper up in her first weeks of pregnancy. (So my mom basically held out on me all this time (blank stare) I love her anyway!)

Word of caution... you might forget this small wonder if you really have to "go"... so I suggest giving yourself an extra 15 seconds!

Was this helpful? I hope so!

Luvin' My Curves... keepin' folks from staring at your fly.

L.M.C Alert: Interview with Ms. Gwen DeVoe, Executive Producer of Full Figured Fashion Week 2009

Since the site dropped on Monday there has been nothing but excitement and anticipation about Full Figured Fashion Week!!

Always striving to give you the very best, I had the opportunity to meet with Ms. Gwen DeVoe- the executive producer of Full Figured Fashion Week 2009. Of all the hats she wears, model, mogul, manager, mentor I find it inspiring that she's breaking new ground with this event to empower us all. We talked about EVERYTHING; fashion, life, business, and most of all what this monumental event will do for the plus size community as well as the "mainstream".

Read on, be inspired and get ready for June;


Full Figured Fashion Week, how did this come about?


We've been under served by the fashion community not because we lack the talent, but because of a lack of resources in which we have no vehicle to showcase what we have to offer.

My concept with Full Figured Fashion Week is for all of us to come together,to invest your talent and time in Full Figured Fashion Week but at the same time give back to the plus size community as a whole.


As an individual you've made such an impact on this industry already, but what is your ultimate goal with Full Figured Fashion Week?

My ultimate goal is to make Full Figured Fashion Week it's own brand, not just national but international-I am no longer seeking for the Fashion Week to include us. We've asked, cried, bonded, we've supported them but they've never returned the favor of supporting us. Full Figured Fashion Week shows OUR community that we can do it for ourselves unapologetically- we'll just take it by any means necessary.


What message would you give to anyone interested in being a part of Full Figured Fashion Week?

There are different messages for different people;

For someone who is not a model but is coming to be inspired or the plus size consumer:

For so long we have been forced to support those that don't cater to our needs, Full Figured Fashion Week is going to be by & for those that believe that the plus size consumer is a loyal consumer. For so long we've spent our dollars on fashion that didn't fit, wasn't fashionable or affordable- if it was affordable it wasn't the quality for the money we paid.

You say you want clothing to be available, the next step is for you to be loyal to those that are making it happen for you. You say you want fashionable, trendy & affordable- help us by patronizing those that making it happen for you.

For the up & coming designer who may or may not have a plus size line:

Quality vs.Quantity!

Some designers will try to replicate the straight outfits for plus sizes with paying attention to detail or structure. Don't cut corners, invest in the services of a seamstress, invest a couple of dollars to get it "finished". We don't need 30 lycra pieces; experiment with different fabrics, we like linen, we like double knit, we like silks. If you want to do it, do it the right way.


What do you envision for Full Figured Fashion Week? What message would you like to send?

I envision both Thursday and Friday to be time for fashion showcases & networking opportunities, soon the site will have the final details about those days. The final day, Saturday is the Finale Red Carpet Runway Showcase at The Cathedral.

I would like every plus size woman, business with products for the plus size consumer, designer with a plus size collection, boutique, retailer, volunteer whether you're plus size or not to join the movement All we need is the investment of your time & heart to the movement regardless if you have capital to invest.

It's time for all of us to pool our limited resources together; instead of us having pockets of good things here and there but none on the magnitude it could be on. Right now, we're all going through a hard time, let's bond, think forward, think smart and make it happen. Full Figured Fashion Week is about partnership, not just one individual or one group but community.

Designers say "Nobody knows we're here"; I'm giving you a vehicle to show ; Businesses say "I need more plus size women to know that I have products for them" I'm giving you the vehicle; Volunteers say " I'm plus size, I'm empowered", I got you.

Don't read about it next year, be about it.

~

I had a ball chatting with Ms. DeVoe; I was humbled by her graciousness, her honesty, her humor- she's on her game, about her business and determined to get all of us fashion-minded, full and fabulous folks together. Thank you Ms. DeVoe for this wonderful opportunity & thank you for all your efforts in bringing something so great to us!


My message to you all: We've complained and now it's here- make sure you support this endeavor in any way you can. We can try to appeal to the mainstream fashion all we want, but if we're not heard what's the point of continual fighting if we as a community have the ability to join together to do it on our own, it's no longer about approval. I encourage everyone to be here in June or if you can't be here spread the word and make this Full Figured Fashion Week the success that it's destined to be.

F.A.Q's about Full Figured Fashion Week straight from the LMC inbox:

1. Where do I stay?
The Full Figured Fashion Week room block at the Hilton Times Square is closed, however please go to the official travel agent for Full Figured Fashion Week, IPNY Travel. There are also numerous hotels in surrounding area.

2. How do I become a model for Full Figured Fashion Week ?
The form was made available on the Full Figured Fashion Week site yesterday, click here.

3. I'm a designer and I want to show my work.
If you're a designer or a boutique, click here.

What if I just started?
If you're an up and coming designer and not able to be in the main showcase, stay tuned.

4. Is there any room for vendors?
Yes, go here.

5. Are there any events going on during the day?
So far there are none scheduled, but keep reading Luvin' My Curves as I will be keeping you informed with all things "FFF".

6. What is DeVoe Signature Events?
The producers of Full Figured Fashion Week, DeVoe Signature Events is the premier place for the training & development of models in the plus size fashion industry. They conduct workshops such as Runway Bootcamp, Project Curves, & The Plus Academy.

7. Is it open to the public? I don't see any ticket information up yet.
Yes, it will be and the ticket information is coming soon.

8. You live in NY, can I stay with you in June?
Sorry, my house is FULL. ;)

"When the last model comes out, and the light goes up this is just the beginning." - Gwen DeVoe

~Luvin' My Curves

Forever in love with Flats

Good Morning!

Alia from Miami, FL writes in:

"I'm so used to wearing high heels all the time, but I recently had foot surgery that prevents me from wearing heels for 3 months! This is my worst nightmare because I have no flats in my closet and only wear sneakers for the gym. I don't want to be dramatic but I'm not used to being so close to the ground, how do you feel about flats?"

Hey Alia,

I have a love/hate relationship with high heels; I love looking at them but hate walking in them for long periods of time.

Don't get me wrong I appreciate what a pump or stiletto does for the "look"; and I defer to them for certain events but I can't co-sign in walking in heels ALL the time for the sake of looking good when all I really want to do is throw myself on the floor in surrender.

9 times of out 10 give me a flat shoe!

Flats not only save your feet from brutal agony but can comfortably dress up a plain t-shirt and jean outfit, or most outfits for that matter. Spring is the perfect time to break out the flats; and with so many choices you really can't go wrong. From the classic ballet flat to the flats adorned with sequins and jewels you're bound to find something to complement your style.

I've picked out some that caught my eye; take a look:


The "classic flat"

Ciao Bella "Fantasia" Flat $85, Macy's; Logan $49.99, Nine West; Rocket Dog Thai Silk Knotted Flat $34.95, DSW; Mossimo Odell Ballet Flats $12.99, Target; Steven by Steve Madden Stardom $128.95, Nordstrom; Sam Edelman 'Ianna' $99.95

I've always liked ankle strap flats because the strap gives the feel like I'm dressed up as if I had heels on, but can still talk a long walk without having to break out the flip flops from my purse. These are best worn when wearing anything short; skirts, shorts or dresses.

ALL BLACK Lacy Lady $34.48, Amazon ; Carlos by Carlos Santana Flirt Peep ToePour La Victoire Cezanne $98, Endless; Volatile Harp Purple $28.99, Shoemall; Zigi NY BelleBronze $21.91, Overstock $88.95,Endless;

Since it's warm in your neck of the woods; paint the tootsies and show them off in a peep-toe flat;

Metallic Peep-toe Flats $24.00,Newport News; Dolce Vita Moritz 37 $45.95, Endless; Twister Peep Toe Flat $19.95, Endless; French Sole 'Vineyard' Flat $239, Barefoot Tess; Blowfish Sherbert Peep Toe Patent Skimmer $39.95, DSW

Maybe at the end of 3 months you'll change your mind about flats- let me know :) Get well soon!

How do you feel about flats? Can't live with them or can't live without them?

~Luvin' My Curves