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Curvy Girl Spotlight of January – Ashley Terry
Age: 25
Measurements: 47 – 42 – 52
Tell us a little bit about yourself?
I am from Portsmouth, VA. I moved to Raleigh, NC to go to Shaw University. That is where I began modeling. In 2006 I joined a plus size modeling troupe called Pure Elegance. I have a BS in Business Management and one in Accounting. I am still living in Raleigh and building my print portfolio. My goal is to do runway full-time.
What inspired you to get into modeling?
I have always been into fashion and when I stepped on a runway I fell in love!
I have done runway and print.
What are your likes and dislikes about modeling?
Again, I LOVE runway and how being on the stage empowers me.
I do not like worrying if people will like my work.
No.
Versatile, Frugal, 40’s
I love shopping and I cannot pass up a good deal whether it’s a sale, thrift buy, or free.
What does Curvy and Curious mean to you?
It means to be shapely and open. We should not hide from the world just because we have a more meat on our bones.
If it’s your dream, go for it at 100%. I think you need full dedication to reach your full potential.
IG: @TerrysThe1 / http://instagram.com/Terrysthe1
Hiphopnc.com (Women’s Empowerment 2013 fashion show video)
I have the Bridal, Fashion and Couture Convention coming on February 16, 2014 in Norfolk, VA. Also some promo shoots in 2014.
Related articles
- How to Become a Plus Model in 6 Steps (curvystylerocks.wordpress.com)
- IMG Modeling Agency Wants Diversity, But It May Take A While (thestyleofthecase.com)
- Stylist’s Secret: Runway Tips and Tricks for Everyday (mommystylist.com)
Branding: Just How Important is it?
If there is one most important thing I am learning about “the biz,” it’s branding. For example, I am building my “brand” as Curvy And Curious. Whatever I post on this site represents my personality, my goals, dreams, etc. This site is then viewed all over the world. When I meet readers, they know a lot about my personality and even my secrets, because I chose to brand this site, and myself, as REAL TALK.
Even though I am all about keeping it real, I am starting to learn that the industry revolves around being fake. Feeling down? Talk about it and it shows that you are weak. Feeling overwhelmed? “Oh, she can’t handle the pressure.” We all have feelings, so why aren’t we allowed to voice them?
It just irks me that many people in the industry seem to care more about building a brand around a fake personality than to build a brand around your real self. I believe my realness is what sets me apart from other models and actresses. If being real ruins my brand, well so be it, but at least I’ll still have me.
Don’t lose yourself in your brand. Be you, be real, and be proud of who you are and what you do! The world is your runway, so rock it with your signature walk.
Keep Curvy and Stay Curious
Related articles
- Curvy And Curious the LIVE show! (curvyandcurious.com)
What’s “Ratchet”
We are constantly striving to keep up with whats fresh. Unfortunately, along with the fad of “twerking” has come along the word “ratchet.” Last time I checked, a ratchet was part of a wrench, right? Not anymore.
UrbanDictionary.com defines “Ratchet” as:
A diva, mostly from urban cities and ghettos, that has reason to believe she is every mans eye candy. Unfortunately, she’s wrong.
Typical signs to beware of include, but are not limited to:
- BLARES anything by Drake, 2Chainz, Nicki Minaj, Gucci Mane, Waka Flocka, Lil Wayne, T-Pain, Cali Swag District, or any other garbage entertainment rapper
- rowdily quotes “lyrics” from aforementioned artists
- has a weave reminiscent of a bird’s nest after a tempest hit the tree it was in, and is dyed at least thrice
- wears torn leggings/stalkings (mostly of the fishnet variety), unpolished 8″ heels (or higher, depending on how God-awful they look), fitted jean jackets (to accent the blubber ’round their arms and stomach), and 4 layers of caked on make-up to go clubbing
- repeatedly use ludicrous terms such as “YOLO”, “swag”, “boost”, “beaking”, “doe”, “really”, “naw”, “actually”, “twerk”, “coaster”, “dagga”, etc., to make a valid statement when they speak
- have side bangs, despite having incredibly small-ass foreheads to support them
- are commonly overweight and are mind-numbingly stupid; a safe assumption to make would be saying they’re uneducated (as if they could pass the 4th grade)
After attending many parties and clubs, mostly in NYC, I’m seeing more and more “Ratchetness” with the growing acceptance of size. Ladies used to feel like they needed to cover up or couldn’t wear tight dresses if they have curves – these days are no longer. No matter how acceptable you may think your wardrobe is, you need to remember that you are a woman with curves and need some help keeping those curves in place! You can wear a short skirt or slutty dress, but wear tights (ahem, not fishnets), a bra, and shapewear. Come on, do you really want to look like this?
Twerk away ladies, just make sure there are no wardrobe malfunctions!
BTW, who said fat girls cant twerk? GET ‘EM GIRLS!
Stay Curvy and Keep Curious
Related articles
- Room for the Ratchets (aytchschondra.wordpress.com)
- Epic Fail of the Day: Ratchet Girls Twerk on NYC Subway Tracks (bagladyboutiqe.wordpress.com)
- MC: Ratchet Is The New Classy?? (luluchris58.wordpress.com)
Curvy Girl Spotlight of December: Tarina Rana’e
Tell us a little bit about yourself?
I was born in Savannah Georgia and spent one term in the US army. I am a mother of 3 boys who are my life. I’ve always wanted to be a model since as far back as I can remember but although I was small enough for regular modeling, I wasn’t tall enough. My favorite color is pink.
What inspired you to get into modeling?
After giving birth and being diagnosed with PTSD (post traumatic stress disorder) I struggled with self esteem issues for years. Now I look at modeling as an opportunity to be an inspiration to every day women who may have self esteem issues or feel that because they aren’t a certain size or height they can’t model. If I can do it, so can you!
I have done runway and print.
What are your likes and dislikes about modeling?
I love the transformation process, traveling and meeting wonderful people.I dislike the separation and discrimination of “Plus” and “regular” models.
I am a part of the Virginia Full Figured Fashion Week (Vf3w) team and I work alone.
Eclectic.
Shoes and accessories
What does Curvy and Curious mean to you?
C-onfidently U-nderstanding a R-adiant V-oluptuous Y-ou with endless possibilities!
Be confident in yourself and always try regardless of the odds.
Www.facebook.com/tarinarenae
Www.modelmayhem.com/tarinarenae
Www.instagram.com/tarina_renae
Twitter: @ga_p33ch
The Lawrence Brother’s hair and fashion show Dec 8
Glam Gurls Inc Holiday Affair Dec 21
Metro Style Inc April 2014and much more to come!
Thrift Store Swagg 2! Plus Size Clothing Exchange Returns to NYC
It’s Baaaack!
Thrift Store Swagg is a clothing exchange, shopping, and runway event that was first held on October 12, 2013 by Curvy And Curious. Since the event was such a hit, we are now getting ready to do it all again! This time we will be donating toys to Toys for Tots and again, all extra clothes will be donated to Goodwill.
Thrift Store Swagg 2 will be held at Break Bar and Billiards, located at 32-04 Brodway, Long Island City, NY 11106. $15 admission gets you half price drinks and free pool all day, plus the clothing exchange! Bring your best gently used clothes and trade them for other peoples’ hot looks! Also enjoy a fashion runway show by Oh So Fabulous Boutique and Curvy Girlz Lingerie. Don’t forget to shop with Chocolate Cream Beauty Supply too!
Tickets on sale for $15 now at http://www.ThriftSwagg2.eventbrite.com
Click the flyer below for all the details!
Related articles
- Thrift Store Swagg Plus Size Clothing Exchange was a Success! (curvyandcurious.com)
The Model Bag Rules
So lately I’ve noticed that most new models have no idea what to bring to fittings or shows. This is ok girls! We all start somewhere and I am going to share with you the necessities of your MODEL BAG!
The NECESSITIES
1) The Bag – A small suitcase is convenient and about the perfect size. Remember – backstage is always cramped so you dont want to take up too much space. Try something like this to put your sacred belongings in:
2) The Shoes – 2 pair – Black pumps and Nude pumps. Heel must be at least 3″ and no wedges. Good to bring an extra pair of black open toe and/or a colorful choice with you just in case.
3) SHAPEWEAR! – This is important no matter how great your figure is. Shapewear smooths you under tight garments and distribute your weight more evenly. This is a MUST! Check out my article here for my best shapewear picks.
4) Stockings – Ah, the one I didn’t even know about until as of late. Nylons are great to have on hand. thank god I brought them to my last runway show 🙂
5) BRAS! – Lots of them! OK, maybe I’m just a little too obsessed with boobs, but I wear a full-coverage bra (like this) to every fitting or show, and bring at least 2-3 more (black strapless, white strapless, black convertible), plus bandeau tops in case I need to smooth things out. Check out this article all about my favorite bras.
6) Foundation – This is another one I just learned how important it really is. I prefer to bring a full eyeshadow palette along with all my makeup necessities. Most makeup artists I know reccomend Smashbox High Definition, but for us drugstore-budget girls, I personally use Revlon PhotoReady Airbrush Mousse Foundation.
I hope you ladies have found this helpful! From now on, anyone I spot WITHOUT a full model bag will be immediately directed to the nearest computer to visit CurvyAndCurious.com!
Keep Curvy and Stay Curious.
Curvy Girl Spotlight of November: Ms. Candy J
I am an aspiring actress and model. I recently relocated to New York from Miami, FL. I’ve lived here for two months and I am just getting used to the big city. I love the entertainment industry and I am very much dedicated to making a lucrative career in modeling and acting. I have trained at Barbizon School of Modeling and Acting. I have experience as an extra in film, television, and commercial. I also love to sing, I would to see if there is a possibility of me making it in the music industry, but I know that I need to work on it a little more. I am planning on taking acting classes and vocal lessons to hone my craft and make myself more marketable.
I’ve wanted to model since I was 13
Plus Size Fashion, Commercial, Runway, and Print
I dislike that there are so many limited opportunities for plus size models who are not 5’9″I like the fact that so many aspiring plus size models are making the opportunity for themselves
I am the President of an up and coming modeling agency in South Florida, Star Plus Model. But I am not a part of any agency.
I have a versatile personality, so when it comes to my style
Curvy and Curious, I love my curves and I want to see just how far I can make it in this industry
I want to be on the cover of Plus Model Magazine and I want to be the featured model in music videos and commercials
I was once told that preparation plus opportunity equals success. So if you want to be a model do your research and invest in yourself don’t wait for opportunities to come to you go out and find them.
Facebook: www.facebook.com/CandyJ22Model Mayhem: www.modelmayhem.com/CandyJ21Twitter: @MsModelBehaviorIG: MsModelBehavior22Website: www.mscandyj.com
Related articles
- Curvy Girls Rock! (caribbeanlace.com)
- 23 Things You Should Totally Say To A Curvy Girl (blisstree.com)
- Curvy Girls To Follow On Instagram (thecitizensoffashion.com)
Thrift Store Swagg Plus Size Clothing Exchange was a Success!
On October 12th, 2013, CurvyAndCurious held it’s first event, “Thrift Store Swagg” Plus Size Clothing Swap and Runway show at Pioneers Bar in NYC. The event was a lot of fun – Full figured women from all over brought bags of gorgeous clothes to exchange for new ones! I know I’ve been enjoying my new wardrobe. Ose (Uh-Seh) and Mad! Couture showed some fabulous looks on our gorgeous models (more pics coming soon), and I even previewed my line pf upcycled t-shirts 🙂 This is a must-repeat event! Check out the photos by Turf Photography below!
Related articles
- Thrift Store Swagg 2! Plus Size Clothing Exchange Returns to NYC (curvyandcurious.com)
Get your Foot in the Door : How to be a Model 101
So you have decided that you want to be a model. Great Idea! Just be prepared for the hard work to come.
In the past month, I have been organizing my first fashion event and runway show, and being on the CASTING end of the modeling world has really changed my perspective on things. I have recently met some great ladies who want to model but don’t know where to start, which inspired me to write this article, How to be a Model 101.
Rule #1: KNOW YOUR MEASUREMENTS
Everybody knows their dress size, but this means nothing unless you know your measurements. Go to the craft store and pick up a measuring tape – you will be using it A LOT.
This video is a great guide on how to get your basic measurements:
In addition to your Bust-Waist-Hips, there are other measurements you will need to know, and numbers you should be familiar with. Here are my tricks of the trade:
Extra Measurements:
- Thigh circumference (widest part)
- Bicep circumference (widest part)
- Across back of shoulders
- Inseam
- Waist-to-floor
- Neck circumference
- Apex (from nipple, around neck, to other nipple – helps determine neckline sizes)
- High Hip (4″ below your waist)
- Low Hip (8″ and 10″ below waist)
Tips and Tricks:
- Industry standards state that anything size 8 + up is PLUS SIZE. Market yourself as such!
- The standard minimum height for models is 5’8″. Do whatever you can to get there if you’re close.
- If you’re shorter that 5’8″ and have the right look, your height won’t necessarily hold you back, but good luck if you’re under 5’6″
- In FIT modeling, the height for petites is 5’5″-5’6″ and for women’s regular 5’8″ and up.
- Male models should be at least 5’10”
- measure yourself before any go-see. They will likely measure you there, or ask you your measurements when you walk in the door.
- Keep your resume up-to-date – I update my measurements at least once a month
Rule #2: Model Mayhem is your Friend
I always thought ModelMayhem.com was a site for creepers and wanna-be’s, but most of the photographers I ave worked with were professional, open minded, and happy to shoot “TF” (meaning “trade for” pictures in exchange for credit). Still beware of creeps! get phone numbers, references, and make sure their portfolio matches your style of photography you’re seeking.
Rule #3: Comp Cards / Business Cards
Comp Cards (model version of a headshot) are probably the most important thing in your model bag. A comp card should have a headshot on the front, and various photos on the back, along with your measurements and contact information. I use Spotlight Printing for mine – they have the best prices and customer service. Here is an example of the most recent proof they sent me:
Front of Comp Card
Back of Comp Card
Business Cards are also very important. I give out business cards at every audition, photo shoot, go-see, or just networking. I have made many connections through business cards alone. You may not think you’re not ready for cards since you’re just starting out, but they will be what gets you the connections!
Rule #4: Building your Portfolio
After about three-four months of modeling, I starting printing out pictures from my shoots for my portfolio book. I chose 3-5 or my best shots from every photo shoot, and had them printed by Adorama Pix. Great quality prints at some of the best prices on the market. When I put my photos in my book for the first time, I really felt like a model!
Rule #5: Work for Free
Getting your face and name out there take a lot of time, hard work, and dedication. Fan sites for BBWs on Facebook will not make you a professional models. Do a lot of runway work if you can. They are a great chance to meet people and network, plus are a lot of fun! Eventually with enough experience under your belt, you will become in demand and payable.
Remember, this is no easy process, and event the most beautiful models take time to get known (ahem…. even Michelle Hilton, Annoula Dritsas, and Ayana Smith are all STILL working their asses off and they were born to be models!)
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- Michelle Hilton
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- Annoula Dritsas
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- Ayana Smith
Work hard, play hard, and keep your mind straight. Most important;y, be REAL!
Keep Curvy and Stay Curious
Related articles
- Work hard, Play hard? Yeah, right. (curvyandcurious.com)
- Modelling: Facts About Modelling Agencies (rythminunical.wordpress.com)
- Model vs. Model: Types of Modeling in the Entertainment world (entertainersunite.wordpress.com)
- Model mayhem – unreliability. (ninjadawsie.wordpress.com)
Curvy and Curious 