Happy Monday! Hope everyone had a great weekend!

On Saturday I attended the second day of New Jersey Full Figure Fashion Week in Atlantic City, NJ. This was my first time going to a Full Figure Fashion Week, so I didn’t know what to expect. I was nervous and excited. Nervous because I was flying solo and excited to be apart of the event. Unfortunately the weather was cold and rainy and my allergies decided to kick in big time, so I really wasnt feeling good. The event was held at Bally’s Hotel and Casino Expo Center (yes I played the slots, no I didn’t win any money…Boo!). I registered and waited for the first program of the day which was the fashion panel discussion facilitated by Paula Michelle (CEO of Nfinite Form, the founder of NJFFW). The participants on the panel were Jene Luciani (author of “The Bra Book”), Chelsea Settles (MTV reality star), Heather Feather (from TLC’s Big Sexy & Heather Feather), Amiee Cheshire (founder of Madison Plus), Nikki Blonsky (actress from the movie “Hairspray”….which I LOVED!!!), Gabi Gregg (awesome plus size blogger of Gabifresh) and Kayla Humpfries (celebrity model). The women on the panel were extremely knowledgeable, they all shared their personal stories and experiences about being plus sized women in the fashion industry and society. Their messages about self-love, body acceptance and creating your own personal style resonated with me. It was great seeing women who I greatly admire talk about similar challenges that I experience. These women are definitely on the frontlines in trying to change fashion’s perception of plus size women. After the panel I was able to meet Amiee Cheshire, Chenese Lewis (host of Plus Model Radio) and CurvyCeo (another amazing plus size blogger who has been so supportive of me). They were so gracious, kind and very approachable. I wasn’t able to get a photo with Amiee Cheshire but I got one with Chenese Lewis! Meeting them was the highlight of my day.

I also met Keysha and Karla from Brooklyn, NY when I sat at their table for the panel. I was initially shy when I sat down but introduced myself to them. I immediately felt at ease once I began talking to them. I struggle with being terribly shy at functions where I don’t know anyone so going to this event by myself was a huge leap for me.

The shopping expo began immediately after the panel. Retailers such as Eliza Parker, Bare Necessities (they offered bra fittings & had EXCELLENT customer service!), Jockey for Her and Baby Phat were in attendance. The DJ was played great music while we shopped and waited for the Formal & Bridal Fashion Show to begin. After about an hour, the fashion show started. The show featured dresses from IGGI by Yuliya Raquel, Monif C., Tadashi Shoji and Faviana. The models rocked the hell out of the runway! They were beautiful , gorgeous and proud of their voluptuous bodies. Vibrant colors, print and current trends were boldly on display. It was great seeing so many designers giving curvy women multiple evening/formal wear options that weren’t boxy, boring and shapeless. It was clear that they know their client base and design clothing that celebrate plus size women not marginalize us. Also many of these dresses were perfect for teens looking for a dress for prom. My personal favorite was the Susan Moses black jersey beaded gown. It’s a stunning v neck floor length gown with beading on the sleeves. The dress puts your curves on display in an elegant way. I fell in love with the dress immediately after I saw it. I wasn’t able to get a picture of it which is a shame because it’s such a beautiful dress.

Unfortunately due to a personal emergency I wasn’t able to stay for the remainder of the day. I was looking forward to the swimwear portion of the fashion show because I’m in the market look for a good bathing suit for the Summer.

I’m glad I decided to attend NJFFW. I had a good time and met some wonderful people. By being there I truly felt apart of the plus size community. I look forward to attending next year!

Have a great day!

Blazer: Nordstroms Rack (as seen here)

Jeans: ASOS Curve (as seen here)

Tank: ASOS Curve

Boots: Joan & David (I think! LOL)