Have a Happy New Year!

It's been a crazy year for Luvin' My Curves, crazy but good! I've achieved some great personal goals (passing the Bar, getting a job) and it's been a pleasure to keep blogging about the fit, fashion and style in the plus size community. Admittedly, I havn't been writing as much like I used to- the new job has taken on so much of my time , and with the move it's been hard to really sit down and focus... but adjustment time is over and it's time to bring back LMC harder and better for 2010.

Have a Happy and Safe New Year, see you on the flip side!

Happy Holiday Giveaway #2

Good Morning!!

Back in NY for the holidays, how can you not love NY? The snow is a doozy but there's no better place than the comfort of home :)

Because I havn't been home in awhile I'm going to take a small break to spend time with my family and friends. (Especially since I was sick the last time I was home and saw no one)



Giveaway #1 was very well received, maybe I'll try to make this a yearly thing. Randomly picking names out of a hat "LaToya W" is the winner of the Jen's Fashion Plus Giveaway-Congratulations!!!!

On to Giveaway #2, one of absolute favorite designers Monif C. has offered a $100 gift certificate! Click here for your chance to win!


Wherever you are be safe and enjoy your holidays!


~Luvin' My Curves... enjoying the holiday season!

What are you thankful for?

Good Morning!!

I am so happy to be back in NYC for the Thanksgiving holiday, it's been awhile since I've seen my family and close friends and to be honest, I miss the New York feeling. This year has been a whirlwind for me and there is so much to be thankful for so today if you don't mind I'd love to share and hope you take the time to let me know what you're giving thanks for this year.:)


1. Readers, Twitter Followers, Facebook Fans. Thank you for your patience, I know I havn't been blogging like I used to but thanks for sticking around nonetheless. I love reading entry comments, and emails from you it's exciting!

2. A job!!! Times are hard and I was fortunate enough to land one just as I felt like giving up looking for one. I love what I do, and I'm so excited for the potential to grow. I'm truly blessed to be in a good situation. I have a great group of students who make even the tough days worth it.

3. Passing the Bar!! OMG, I am soooo thankful that this chapter is over- the only thing that's left of this process is getting sworn in. But no more books- no more studying, no more worrying.

4. Friends and Family. As always my biggest support, regardless of the paths I choose. So much has happened in a year, so much has changed - those that are still around, thank you. Everything happens for a reason, even if the reason is unknown right now. I've learned alot of lessons and I'm a better person for it.

What are you thankful for this Thanksgiving?

Have a wonderful & love-filled Thanksgiving. If you're venturing out for Black Friday, be safe and I wish you many steals & deals!

~Luvin' My Curves

Ask Carmen: Valentine's Day

Buen Dia!

I'm taking over for our girl LMC as her head is way into the books. Pobrecita! I'm not a blogger but I volunteered to help her out any way I could. She's already used me as a guinea pig for the "Peek A Boob" strips and some other things she has planned when this exam is all over.

So today instead of Ask LMC, we're changing it to Ask Carmen - just for now.
A.J from Dallas wrote in "My man is due home from Iraq after 18 excruciating months! I was never a lingerie girl but I really want to "minx" it up especially because this is our first Valentine's Day in a minute. I want to make this really, really special, what do you suggest."

Mami,

Maybe I was supposed to read this letter, because I understand. Mi novio is a Marine and is currently overseas, you must be so relieved. J a.k.a LMC and I were going through it together as she was in the same situation before. I'm pretty wild when it comes to lingerie, all bets are off! All my picks were crazy, (I'm a fan of Big Gals Lingerie )but when I finally got a chance to speak to our lil' studyholic she suggested some more modest pieces since you said you aren't usually a lingerie girl and might be reluctant to go over to the "Carmen Side". She said the worst thing to happen is that you're not comfortable wearing something so crazy and then you'll be more focused on the outfit than on your man... good point.

I mixed a little bit of wild, with a little bit of sweet, hope you like it:

The Duchess Steel Boned Corset (149.95) w/ Cinderella Petticoat ($29.95),Hips & Curves; Embroidered Diamond Lace-up Corset $48, Lane Bryant

Torrid has some really good "recession-friendly" picks:

Black Satin Ruched Bustier & Thong Set, $21, , Red Floral Babydoll Set, $21 Black Lace Pink Bow Peekaboo Babydoll $21 (peekaboo's are good mix of the sweet & sexy! (LMC)

Your man has no idea who or what he's coming home too! Minx!

P.S: A trenchcoat ... and only a trenchcoat works wonders too (wink wink)

xoxo,
Carmen

Looking Forward....

Good Morning!

Thanks to all the readers, Twitter, MySpace & Facebook family for making 2008 a wonderful year for Luvin' My Curves. My goal for '09 is to keep bringing you the best. Stay tuned for new features, roadtrips, interviews, and even a Meet n' Greet being planned for the spring ...

The Plan for '09

1. I will shop smarter- coupons, revamping looks etc. I don't have to spend a fortune to look like a million bucks. My holiday party was a perfect example.. the whole outfit was under $60!


2. I wont make the resolution to lose weight- but I will continue to have a better and healthier relationship with my body in 2009.

3. I will have a better dating life .... nuff said. Not that 2008 hasn't been a good dating year, but let's just say it's more material for an interesting blog post than anything else.



Also... I'm in good spirits so I'll only leave you with a couple of "What Not To Wear" to close out 2008...

Black Harem Trouser ~at Evans 24.47 gbp

Reminds me of Hammer pants..... (singing "Can't Touch This:....)

Crocs Women's Mamoth Mule $45

I don't know.. I can't.. I mean seriously!!! I just looked and it's not available any longer on Macy's.com, is it because they realized that this is a serious no-no or did people like these shoes enough to be sold out?


PS: The wonderful folks over at Kiyonna are giving Luvin' My Curves readers $25 off your purchase of $100 or more, just use the code "LUVINCURVES". Hurry, the code ends January 31, 2009.

PPS: Many of you know that I will be going back into the cave called "Bar Review". I still plan on blogging but will have to cut the frequency down a bit, I have a host of guest bloggers coming to help out during this time- I can only hope you understand and bear with me. :)

2009 will be the year of 2000 & FINE (thanks Bevin!)

Have a Happy, Fun & Safe New Year's!

Dear Santa....

Dear Santa,

I don't want much this year, being unemployed will do that to you. (Though I indulged here) For some reason, I've been filled with the Christmas spirit this go 'round- so much more than the past couple of years. I don't have much to give gift wise but have thoroughly enjoyed giving; through this blog, mentoring, volunteering, etc. I've always been a giver and had a problem with receiving but I'm learning to humble myself in order to receive because giving makes others feel good as well. "It's better to give than to receive" wasn't meant just for me... I see that now.

What I want for Christmas can't be bought, but I'll ask for it anyway. Here we go, Santa, what I want for Christmas is ....

• My best friend to come home safely from Iraq. - I miss her mucho!!! (thanks for the purple leather-cashmere lined gloves.. they are DIVINE!!)
• To pass the bar this Feb.
• A job !!!
• A nice mistletoe moment (*wink*)
  
• For my dinner guests to enjoy the loads of food that I'm preparing
• For you all to keep enjoying Luvin' My Curves
  

That's it...Really!

Leaving out the cookies & milk (and some spiked egg nog if that's your preference),

Ms. LMC

Whatever your mode of celebration; Hanukkah, Christmas, Kwanzaa (on the 26th), Boxing Day...

HAVE A WONDERFUL HOLIDAY SEASON!

Personal Side Note: This morning I felt kind of bad- I saw that alot of my law school buddies not only passed the Bar but also have new jobs. I wondered "where did I go wrong? Why couldn't I be blessed with the same fortune" - something that could have lasted a long while only lasted about 2 minutes- I shook myself out of it- my fortune is something completely different- I wasn't supposed to be blessed with the same fortune. If I pride myself on being different then a different path comes with the territory, right? Not everyone is meant to do the same thing... not every J.D is meant to be in the firm or the courtroom. I'm right where I'm supposed to be. :)
-LMC

Bring '09 In Right...

Good Morning,

So we've already covered the Christmas party (click here) so I figured it was only right to cover New Year's Eve - I did it early so you all could get a jump on shopping for the perfect outfit to ring in the New Year. NYE is different from Christmas, don't get me wrong you always want to look your best but New Year's Eve can be extra special- you want to put the past of the previous year behind you and start the new year at your beautiful best.

You all were thinking the same exact thing because I received more than a couple of emails - the most blunt one came from Stace;

"New Year's is coming- if you don't find something for me to wear I will blame you, wear nothing but pajamas and stay home!"

LOL, Ummm well Stace - I wouldn't want you to stay home on my account so I HUNTED LIKE MAD...I found alot of black dresses and though I still believe black is used as a crutch color ( see "Backing Away From Black") - a cute black dress paired with the right accessories would be a good outfit for New Year's.

(l to r): Ruby Rox Lace Trimmed Dress $53.99 Macy's , David Meister Black Floral Lace Dress $348 Nordstrom, Cecille Asymmetrical Lace Dress $117 Igigi, Black Chiffon Tiered Tube Dress $68 Torrid

If you prefer color here are some suggestions....

(l tor): Suzy Chin Silk Bubble Dress $99 Nordstrom ,Olivia Sequin Party Dress $158 Monif C, $Siren Dress $50 Igigi, Silver Jacquard Sheath Dress $49.99 Avenue

Yes, I know I posted the Monif C dress on my Christmas list-but it's HOT!

As for shoes- metallics are definitely in this season- if you're going to dress like you're ready for what '09 brings then you have to come correct on all fronts!

(l to r): Electra $89.95, Chinese Laundry "Willie" $60, Nina "Usoa" $99,Guess "Okanarra" $59.40

Resolutions aside- you're still great-why not let everyone else see what they've been missing all year??

**And whatever you do, don't forget the Chapstick- gotta make sure the lips are ready for smooching. (For the single ladies like me- maybe a hearty hug lol)**

~Luvin' My Curves

I'm healthy, I'm happy, I love my curves

Good Morning!

I had a WONDERFUL weekend! I had a great dinner date, went to a club to "wuk up" for my sister-friends's birthday, and did a little shopping with another sister-friend as we tried to find shoes for my upcoming holiday get down.

I had a post all planned for today- but last night as I checked my email I got the sweetest email from a reader- I love comments and emails, but this one in particular touched me, read on...

"Hello,
I don't read your blog, but my wife does faithfully. When she first started her weight loss journey she was determined to be "skinny" - she didn't realize that her curves were sexy, she didn't appreciate that in a sea of thin women - she was just as- if not -more beautiful. She's recently shed about 80 lbs but she is still a beautiful full figured woman - and I couldn't be happier. Recently a friend reminded her that her goal was to be a size 8- not 14 - my wife proudly replied "I'm healthy, I'm happy, I love my curves". I asked her later about her change in attitude and she mentioned your blog- where we're from there aren't many places to purchase plus size clothing but she credits your blog with helping her find her confidence as a plus size woman along with places to shop! ( my credit card thanks you too!). I decided to check you out for myself- and I'm impressed and I'm thankful. I tell her she's beautiful all the time -but I think that she finally BELIEVES it now - and the closet space ,along with the new lingerie that she has taken up proves it. I'd spend all the money, time, whatever in the world in order to make my wife smile and feel the way she has always yearned to feel. Thank You for sharing your voice - if you ever come across a day where you don't feel as if you haven't touched someone through this blog- please think of my confident wife and a very grateful husband.

Humbly,
James "


Wow, James.. thank you. I'm touched. I'm humbled - there's nothing like a new found confidence because it's the foundation to so many wonderful things- including an expanding closet. I'm also excited for you- how wonderful is it to have your wife finally BELIEVE in her beauty ? Revel in it.. and enjoy the lingerie!


On another note: I'm blessed to have wonderful people in my life- I know my friends read my blog to support me but I never thought that my friends would actually buy some of the things on my wish list- so I just want to say thank you to my friends- the beautiful dress and the Nina Garcia books- thank you. It's not about the gift themselves but the sentiments behind them, so lovely and extremely appreciated.

Reminder: I'm loving the stories I'm receiving as part of the Peek-A-Boob strips holiday giveaway. (my post here) Keep them coming!

Next up.... What to Wear for New Year's Eve!

~Luvin' My Curves

All I want for Christmas....

Good Morning,

Feeling a lil' bit better- there's nothing some nasty, NASTY Buckley's cough syrup can't fix. Trying to nurse my blahs I made my "list"- my Christmas list that is. Funny thing- I had to REALLY think about what I wanted or needed-that's what unemployment and living below my meager means has done! Check it out...

All I want for Christmas pt.1 by LuvinMyCurves

The details...

• Set of Stacked Detail Ring $7.24, Asos
• On Stage Powered Speaker System $149, J & R
• "Olivia" Sequin Party Dress $158, Monif C.
• Padma's Purple Hued CZ Cocktail Ring $68;95, Emitations
• Cross Over Detail Ring $11.56, Asos
• The One Hundred: A Guide to the Pieces Every Stylish Woman Must Own ($14.93)& The Little Black Book of Style ($13.57), Amazon.com ( I think if the librarian has to renew these books for me ONE more time she'll have a fit!)
• Lindsey Black Pearl Necklace $58, All Girls Love Pearls
• Samara Skirt $28, B&Lu
• Spin Class Series@ Soul Cycle
  

What's on YOUR Christmas wish list?


****Make sure to check out the "12 Days of Diva" over at Belle-Noir- myself along with some other fabulous bloggers have contributed to making sure your holiday list is ultra through- ENJOY!****

~Luvin' My Curves

Ask LMC: Holiday Party Help

Good Afternoon!

(Sorry for the late post... PC issues)

It's that time of year again - it's after Thanksgiving and then all of a sudden your inbox is flooded with Holiday Party invites. Pretty soon your calendar is full of party's and you're faced with "what to wear"?

I knew I wasn't the only one in this predicament -

Camille writes " I just landed a new job and they are having their annual Holiday Office Party- I'm not too sure about what to wear- HELP!"

Tani also wrote in " Our office party was canceled- but my friend's annual holiday party is still on- I'm feeling flirty , I'm thinking sparkly, glitter, any suggestions?"

Ladies...I'm with you. I have so many holiday parties coming up- including my own Holiday potluck . Let's see what we find...

The Office Party

I would keep it simple- because regardless of what some may think -it's still an office party; as in you work with these people and when the holidays & good cheer are done - these are STILL the folks you spend your 9 to 5 with. How you behave at an office party may effect your "office life" later on, just something to think about. My suggestions would be to play it up a bit.. but not too much. Maybe a nice blouse, or a dress or skirt with cute details- that would work. Think a simple black pencil skirt with a shiny silver tank - you can put a cardigan on during the day and take it off during the party- you like?

Evita Skirt, $48 B & Lu, Brocade Tailored Pencil Skirt, Trentacosta

Organza Side-Tie Blouse, 39.99, Just My Size,Black Sleevless Shimmer Top $48, Evans,Black Belted High-Waisted Skirt $44 Torrid, Scarlet Satin Top $17.99, Alight

Black & Silver Satin Ruffle Secretary Dress $58 , Torrid

Formal Party /Cocktail

For Ms. Sparkle (aka Tani), here are some pieces to dance or flirt the night away. These dresses would go great with shiny metallic peep-toes, flirt on sister!

Red Gorgeous Sparkling Dress $42.99, Belle Avenue, Adrianna Pappell Ruffle Halter Dress $218,Nordstrom

Black Sleeveless Lace Dress, $88 Evans Uk, Sequined Short Party Dress 99Au, Dream Diva

Calvin Klein Sweetheart Satin Dress $178, Nordstroms, London Times Ruched V-Neck Sheath $89, Macy's

I would love to splurge on that Calvin Klein Dress for my on Holiday party/potluck but with this recession (because now we're "officially" in one) I'll just revamp something from my closet.


As always, have a fabulous time and don't be the person swining off the chandelier -there's always someone that gets whispered about after the party. :)

~Luvin' My Curves

P.S: For those who wrote me about New Year's - my take it right around the corner, stay tuned...

What J is Jonesin' For - Get Tested!

Good Morning!

I'm back from my lovely New England "mini-vacay"- I got alot of rest, had the "Black Friday" experience and even tasted fried turkey for the 1st time!! (Yum!)

This month what I'm Jonesin' for is a revamping of my foundation pieces- every once in awhile our closet staples need to be replaced- wear & tear, piling, the piece may not fit you like it used to or you just want to change it up a bit. The choice is yours to spend a little or alot on your staples- some are truly investments while others can be easily replaced. Here's what I need...



Jeans- Right now the Lane Bryant Right Fit Jeans are my staples! But pretty soon I'm going hunting to try on all types/styles of jeans- who wants to join me?

Right Fit Stretch Bootcut Jeans, $29.99, Lane Byrant

Bras- After my "lil sis" finishes up her finals- we're going bra shopping. Gotta support the girls- no worries I'll blog all about it. Did you know that 80% of women are wearing the wrong bra size? Get fitted!

Cardigan - perfect to stave off the chill a bit. I have a couple in different colors- they are soo versatile. I can wear it over a t-shirt with jeans for a casual look or pair them with a dress. Elbow sleeve or full sleeve- dress up and see which one you like best.

Ruffle neck cardigan $26.50, Old Navy

Fishnets- Yes, fishnets are one of my closet staples! They are fun! Worn correctly its' the perfect "wink" in your outfit- what's better than show-stopping curves in a dress, fishnets & high-heels?

Fishnet Stockings with Back Seams, $7.95, Hips & Curves

Wrap Dress- Ok, so I don't need to replace my wrap dresses, but I want a new one! Forever flattering... you can't go wrong.

Alexandra Wrap Dress $54, Igigi

Hoop Earrings- I wear hoops just about everyday- definitely one of my staples. They come in many different colors, designs, textures and most of all varying prices! Versatile, easily replaceable, always elegant.

Tyra's Triple Hoops $9.95, Emitations.com

Boots- I definitely need a new pair of boots- my poor boots I've been wearing them ragged! (Check out my past post on boots ! )

Fitzwell Kyoti Wide Calf Boots $103.20, Zappos.

Tote Bag- I love clutches but my everday bag is HUGE! And with studying I need something to fit my notes and books... but still cute.

LimeNRoses Joey Tote $35.20, Ebags.

What would Jonesin' be without indulging a bit.....

Nine West Mixed Company Clutch $27.99 & Nine WestBold Strokes $68, both at Ebags.

In the coming weeks I'll be writing up about some of these staples in detail- stay tuned... what needs replacing in your closet?

Is it just me or do most of us curvy ladies do our "Black Friday" thing on "Cyber Monday"? Are any of you getting some major deals?

~~~~~


If you didn't know- today December 1st is World's AIDS Day. There are more than 1,300,000 people living with HIV/AIDS and about 58% are women between 15 t0 49. I've lost way too many friends to AIDS and can't express to you all how much education, testing, protection, prevention and the power of good choices can make a difference.

Spending some time in South Africa teaching AIDS education I saw the devastating effects of AIDS 1st hand. Kids who I played games with in the beginning of my trip - were experiencing the debilitating effects towards the end of my trip and I was sending condolences not too long after my return to the U.S.

I can't stress to all of you how HUGE AIDS is.. please if you're sexually active get tested, if you're not get educated- there are way too many myths and stigmas going around. I'm Jonesin' for a cure... most definitely.

~Luvin' My Curves

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!

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