Coast to Coast Curves Model Search OOTD

If you'd like to view the post with all the awesome pictures from the Coast to Coast Curves Model Search, check it out here...otherwise, continue on to the OOTD post below :)

I wanted to remix the awesome Forever 21 Sequin Butterfly top that you all seemed to love so much. I wanted a bit more of a relaxed, chic look. So I opted for a pair of grey denim flares and black wedges. I stacked my bangles and left the neck bare. It was raining in Cali today, so of course my trusty black faux leather jacket made another appearance. I think it turned out well! I totally meant to take just plain ol' outfit pictures, but I'm a major fail at being narcissistic...but from the pictures, I think you get the idea!

So, I need to add that this is the first pair of flare jeans that I have worn in years! I usually opt for a skinny or bootcut, but I love the way these balance out my legs. Not to mention, flares have been in all of the magazines. Will you give flares a chance, again?

Sequin Top, Forever 21 / Denim Flares, Gifted from Jens Fashion Plus / Faux Leather Jacket, Ross / Wedges, Torrid / Bangles & Earrings, Forever 21

Coast to Coast Curves Model Search hosted by Chenese Lewis & Plus Model Magazine

Today I attended the Coast to Coast Model Search hosted by Chenese Lewis and Plus Model Magazine in Ashley Stewart at Fox Hills Mall in Culver City. From 4-7, in LA and NYC, curvy divas lined up for a chance to win a $300 Ashley Stewart Gift Certificate, a glam photoshoot and an editorial in Plus Model Magazine. In LA, there were women of all shapes, sizes, heights and ages lined up for their chance at this awesome opportunity! Maddy from PMM hosted the event in NYC. I can't wait to see the pictures from that event!

I met beautiful girls from the local area. Everyone was excited! The mood was very relaxed and inviting...I was definitely vibing off of the energy. The staff at Ashley Stewart were so helpful and nice. They even snagged curvy girls walking by and asked them to participate. Everyone seemed to make friends while standing in line. I know I did. I ran into a model who I've seen before, but never had the chance of meeting, Miya. She's a gorgeous, tall chocolate model with a very down to earth attitude.

The windows at Ashley Stewart are ready for Spring and right on trend w/their military inspired ensembles

Plus Model Miya

Competition was stiff!

Taking a break after our audition...YUM, sushi! <3

A lil bit of sparkle (OOTD)

Last night, I linked up with Iza to watch Ryan's stand up last night at the J. Anthony Brown's J-Spot in LA. Unfortunately, Ryan got bumped for some comedians that were less than funny. I'm not sure how talking about "semen on the face," oral sex and using every profane and sexually explicit phrase in the book is more funny than smart comedy. I was seriously puzzled. I spent $11.50 on two cokes thanks to their 2 drink minimum and I wasted gas. Eh, but at least I got to wear my cute new top from the Torrid clearance sale! Oh huge shout out to Iza and her cousins, oh and Ryan to for putting me on the spot. Thursday is Ladies Night at the J-Spot and they hold a "Stiletto Strut" contest. OK, I know I'm a model and I've ripped runways but I have terrible stage fright when you put me on the spot...needless to say, my legs wobbled the entire time. LOL I didn't win, but it's ok. I put in the effort. hehe

On to the outfit. Sorry about the blurry pics. That's what you get when you take pictures outside at night. Thanks to Iza for being my photographer! :D

Shimmery Cowl Neck Tunic, Torrid / Jacket, Ross / Skinnies, DEB / Shoes, Sam Edelman Nordstrom Rack

Spring Things; Michael Kors

Many of you may not know this, but there are some designers that we drool over that actually make clothing in OUR size. For example, check out these great new arrivals from Michael Kors. I mean seriously, do you see the sequin trimmed tunic? *dies* During my brief stint working at Filene's Basement, I discovered lots of higher end designer brands that made clothing for curvy women. Shocked? Somewhat. The trendy pieces such as these featured below are hard to find, but if you've been saving up a few pennies, you could totally grab some of these! If you're a curvy fashionista that's always on the hunt for bargains like Allison of CurvyGirlChic, I'm sure you can snag an awesome piece like this!

Check em out! **Note that these pieces are available in regular AND women's sizes.

1. Striped Shirt
2. Sequin Trimmed Tunic
3. Convertible Zip-Out Jacket
4. Clip Front Cardigan
5. Cinched Shirt Dress
6. Belted Draped Cardigan

Introducing Island Michael Kors Palm Beach

I was zipping through my Ulta advert yesterday evening, when a sample card fell out from between the pages. I literally went, "OOOH, Michael Kors has a new fragrance," to my friend Liz. Immediately I ripped open sample and sniffed. I sniffed and sniffed some more.

The Michael Kors Palm Beach smells like an amazing summer day. It's a bit sweet, but still light enough for everyday wear. It's definitely going to be added to my collection! You can purchase Palm Beach at Ulta or by visiting the official Michael Kors website. I believe both are actually about the same in price, but if you're like me, you like racking up points on the Ulta card. Not to mention those awesome little incentives they will usually mail you after signing up!

Chenese Lewis speaks out about loving your body (P.S.A.)

I'm super happy that I've had the pleasure of meeting Chenese Lewis after stalking her for many years all across the web. Chenese is the founder of Hollywood NOW's LOVE YOUR BODY DAY. She is very active in the plus size community and industry as a positive body image advocate.

The video was filmed by Michael Anthony Hermogena who was once the resident photographer for Torrid. Michael is a Los Angeles based photographer, you can check out his work under 8x10 Proofs. He is also active in the plus industry and I'm sure you've probably noticed the lil' guy with the mohawk on the discussion panels during Full Figure Fashion Week(tm).

I am pleased to share with you this P.S.A. on finding and maintaining a positive body image.



Hollywood should not determine how you feel about yourself. It is a fantasy.

Definition of FANTASY:
The power or process of creating especially unrealistic or improbable mental images in response to psychological need ; also: a mental image or series of mental images (as a daydream) so created.

Unfortunately, I was one of those that grew up being teased...classmates, random kids and even my own siblings. My parents always told me I was beautiful, but when the world tells you otherwise you kinda feel like that's the job of your parents to tell you such things. It took years for me to finally become comfortable within my own skin. Someone wrote on my facebook blog page that she too wanted to be as confident as I am. My suggestion to her? Surround yourself with positive minded people and watch yourself begin to love yourself a little more each day.

Looking for Plus Size Swimsuits? Try these!

No matter the woman, we all loathe swim suit shopping! Putting on a swim suit means we are showing the world the parts of our body that we criticize the most. Now, before you try to talk me and yourself out of owning a swimsuit, let me first tell you this...YOU ARE THE ONLY PERSON WHO'S OPINION MATTERS WHEN IT COMES TO SELF! :) No one wants to swim in basketball shorts and your boyfriend's white tee.

Now that we've got that out of the way, C'mon ladies! You can own a swimsuit that you will feel amazing in! There are tons of options that are popping up. Retailers are listening and most importantly, they are delivering. These aren't your grandmother's swimsuits. We have options and I'm going to help you find some.

No matter what your shape or size, you can find a swimsuit that best fits your personality and preference. Take a look at the picks I found from 4 different retailers. Also, be alert for reviews from bloggers. You can check out Sam's reviews here and Cid's review here.

Always For Me...

1. Rio De Janerio
2. Venus
3. Libson Wrap Waist
4. Andria 2pc Tankini

Swimsuits For All...

1. Unfortunately, the Delta Burke is no longer Available
2. Sunburst Surplice
3. Slimming in Circles
4. Fashionista Brown Halter

Lane Bryant...

1. Shirred front Halter Swim Top
2. Retro Polka Dot Shirred Suit
3. Animal Print Sonatina by Miraclesuit
4. Shirred no-wire Watercolor Swim Top

Torrid...

1. Z. Cavaricci Couture Leopard Print One pc
2. Pink and Black Lace Stripe Faux-kini
3. Mixed Animal Underwire Faux-kini

Spring Things: Aldo Shoes

Whether you are ready for sandals and open toed shoes or looking to transition into a lighter spring boot, Aldo Shoes has tons of new arrivals on hand! I've shopped Aldo before, yes me! With my size 11 foot! Don't forget to check out their accessories!

Sign up online and you too can receive awesome deals to your inbox. 

Here are a few (or a ton) of my favorite new arrivals! 

1. Cynth
2. Holling
3. Esroilda
4. Walter
5. Haggstrom
6. Taberski
7. Glu
8. Shulz
9. Schrunk
10. Tromp
11. Happer
12. Awilda
13. Bermudes
14. Colen
15. Gutkowski
16. Newgard
17. Bleasdale
18. Luzier
19. Colyar
20. Afurong

Friday Night Snapshot; Plei LA at the Custom Hotel

So far, I've had a beautiful weekend. Here's a snapshot of my Friday night at Plei LA the Speed Dating edition at the Custom Hotel in Culver City! BTW...How ironic that I stayed in this same hotel last April when I visited Ryan. Then, on top of that, Friday was our would be one year anniversary. Memory overload, but the evening went quite well.

To see all of the pictures from that evening, you can see 'em here and here. Oh and p.s. I'm sorry, I totally did not get a picture of my outfit. But I am wearing the same dress I wore on my birthday from Forever21 that was seen here. All photos courtesy of Cheryl Lizana.

Be a kid again!

Where else can you go on a Friday night and Hula Hoop!?

Speed dating!

Mingle and Plei! If you want to know the next speed dating event, email me!

Originally I was trying to make him cheese really wide, but I ended up choking him out

Ha, so then he thought he would get me back (no person was harmed in the capturing of these pictures lol)

I love Monet's smile!

Beautiful hostess...myself & Shay, yes we greet you at the door

Cheryl & Rob, the masterminds behind Plei LA

Monet's tasty finger!

How has your weekend been so far? Anything interesting to share?!

Spring Things; Style369

No matter where you are right now, you are probably dreaming of Spring. Unless of course you are caught up in the excitement of New York Fashion Week, in that case, you are drooling over Fall 2011. BUT, if you're anything like me, Spring is a season for renewal. Time to SHOP SHOP SHOP! Over the next couple of weeks, I will be sharing with you a few Spring Things from our favorite stores and brands and even a few new ones to get you excited about kicking old man winter out of the picture!

This week, I checked out some of Style369.com's new things. Of course, I have to share with you some of my favorites. I found tons, but I didn't want to overwhelm you! Take a look to see what's new and feel free to point out any and all of your favorites too! Oh and FYI, they are currently offering 20% off all orders! Even more reason for a spring cleaning!

1. Max C Lace Dress
2. Lovedrobe Tulip Printed Dress
3. Khaki and Leopard Print Parka
4. Lovedrobe Paisley Print Maxi Dress
5. Floral Zip Round Purse
6. Max C Red Frill Dress
7. Indigo Wide Leg Jean
8. Charcoal Chino Trousers
9. Max C Purple Studded Shoulder Dress
10. Leopard Stud & Charm Bag
11. Camel Heeled Clog Style Courts
12. Tan Soft Brogues
13. Red Cutaway Heeled Courts
14. Rust Charm Satchel Bag

Today would make 1-year

I want to start by saying thank you to each and every one of you who so left kind words and shared your stories on my last super emo post. :o) I usually try to respond back to each comment, but I was overwhelmed (in a good way) with all of your love and well wishes. I know that when I am going through something, whether its love or life, there are always those of you who can empathize. I take the time to open up and share with you, because if it makes me feel a little better talking about it, then perhaps you too will feel a little better. So thank you and hugs & kisses to everyone!

Our very first picture together in my car on
the way back home from O'Hare.

February 11, 2010 I greeted the world with much excitement. I had such a hard time sleeping the night before, because I knew that I was to pick up the man that said, "I love you," long before he had ever touched my face. I was going to pick Ryan up from the airport.

We considered this day to be our official anniversary, although we had been together since Christmas...but because this was the day that we finally met face to face, it would be dubbed our anniversary.

A year later, and while it still stings a bit that we did not make it to our official 1-year anniversary, I don't have a single regret about my decision to move here to follow love. I won't sit here and tell you all that I don't wish for the outcome to be different, that would be a lie. I still do wish that we were planning our weekend out together and enjoying each other. But reality versus expectations vary greatly! Yet, there is a part of me that is so pleased that I got to experience a love and connection like this. It was more than physical and emotional...it was also, spiritual. I can make the decision to be sad and bitter or I can accept what is happening and find a moment of clarity to thank God for placing an amazing person in my life.

Looking at the bigger picture, if it weren't for him, I wouldn't have met all of my awesome LA family. Some of you are his friends and some I've gotten the pleasure to meet through blogging. Either way, none of this would have been possible with him in my life. And I still believe in love, even when my heart feels less than whole.

At the moment, we have not had any conversations discussing "us" or where we stand or what we'd like to do. I'm slightly ok with this, because when we do have a talk, I want to be able to express what I want without breaking down.

In the mean time, I am keeping busy today by moving into a new, more permanent spot. I think this is going to be crucial for my transplant to LA. I have yet to feel like I have "settled in," so this is going to be good for me. (BTW, when I moved here, Ryan and I did not shack up. Originally, that was the plan but we later mutually decided that we may not  be ready.) Then later, I'm sure to see Ryan as a I head over to Plei tonight. I'm sure I will be fine. I'm sure of it.

I say all of this to say, Happy 1-year of knowing you sir. :o) If you even read this...Thank you for loving me and exposing me to your world.

Kim Kardashian launches Belle Noel

Kim Kardashian celebuzz photo

Last week, the curvy Kim Kardashian launched her jewelry collection, Belle Noel at Revolve Clothing in LA. After the bomb that K-Dash was, I am very pleased with this jewelry collection that Kim is presenting. She teamed up with jewelry designer Pascal Mouwad to create a collection of statement jewerly that is elegant, trendy and affordable. The line is said to reflect Kim's personal style seeking inspiration from classic bombshells like Sophia Loren, Vivien Leigh and Lauren Hutton.

Of course, you don't have to be in LA to purchase, you can also shop online!

Here are some of my favorites from Belle Noel. What do you think of Kim's new Noelle Bell. If you stay tuned to her celebuzz page, she's doing a giveaway very soon!

1. Nugget Belle Locket
2. Nugget Earrings in Gold/Ivory
3. Multi-Chain Nugget Necklace
4. Glam Rock Webbed Necklace
5. Glam Rock Long Finger Ring

Dear Christian Siriano...

Your Fall 2011 collection rocks...please make the follow in my size!

All photo credits belong to http://www.nytimes.com