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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 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)
The Best Shapewear for Fat Girls! (Caution: Curves Ahead)
Check out our Plus Size Bra Fitting and Review Video Blog here!
I have come to learn that one of the most important, yet most DIFFICULT part of being plus size is having to deal with making the fat look like curves. If not done properly, this could go horribly wrong. The trick? SHAPEWEAR!
No matter how big or small you are, beauty is pain at times. Currently I am wearing a pair off spanxs so tight I can hardly breathe! But after you get used to wearing Shapewear and making it part of your daily routine, you’ll learn some tricks to make it a lot easier.
- Shapewar Tank tops & Camisoles are a lot easier (and sexier) to wear than high waist briefs, and they still cover your ass when you bend over. A must-have alternative to Spanx if you plan on hooking up tonight!
- Spanx have a built in hole in the crotch so you don’t have to take them off to tinkle!
- Bras can double as Shapewear as well – side and back smoothing, bridal corsets, and minimizer bras are made to shape you better.
- Waist cinchers (like Squeem) not only give you an hourglass figure, but improve posture too.
When I was in high school I was too scared to wear shapewear, thinking… “How can I go to school looking sloppy fat one day and sexy curvy the next without making it obvious that there’s Shapewear under here?” There is no easy way. You can either start off a little at a time, or go balls to the wall and just do it! I started off slow, and now am a Shapewear junkie.
Here are MY spandex staples:
Best Brands & Where to buy:
- Spanx -When it comes to undergarments, Spanx is the leader of the pack. Affordable, durable, and practical.
- Squeem – Gives you unbelievable curves! no, really – unbelievable – as in, too good to be true and its pretty obvious when you wear one. But damn sexy anyways. Better for big booty girls, rather than us muffin top chicks.
- Lipo In A Box sold by QVC and on Amazon.com – The quality is by far, the best – this coming from someone who has tried them all. Though pricey, totally worth the money. Goes up to size 2X (they stretch!)
My Choices:
- Camisole: Lipo in a Box Long Tank (original fabric) – I have to admit, I wear this garment almost every day. When I first took it out of the package it was so tiny, but you step into it like a swimsuit and BOOM! Takes off 20 lbs. Its durable fabric has held up for probably a year now, and every time I wash and dry it, it shrinks back to its baby shirt size. It doesn’t ride up, so no adjusting all day. Flattering neckline fits under most shirts without noticing.
- Bottoms: Spanx Higher Power Brief – Again, you get what you pay for – High Quality. Great to wear under a dress , too tight jeans, anything! I avoid the thigh slimming version because it seems to cut me off mid thigh and create some unlovely lumps.
Hope this helps you ladies find the best shape for your body!
Stay Curvy and Keep Curious
Related articles
- VIDEO BLOG: Bra Fitting, Reviews, and Advice for Plus Size Gals
- Shapewear Trends (singletonelmer1.wordpress.com)
- SPANX’s New Star Power Shapewear Collection Is Here! (shefinds.com)
- Look Slim and Sexy with Shapewear Camisole (listfree.org)
Bullied for Being Fat? More like “The Fat Bully”
So it seems like all I hear about with teens these days (besides childhood obesity) is bullying. I always wonder to myself, “I was fat in high school, why don’t I feel like I was bullied.” I soon realized the answer: I was the bully.
Middle school was hard – I was bullied, but not for being fat. I was made fun of for having my own style. (Having pink hair at the age of 12 isn’t exactly traditional). I dressed “goth,” so some people spread rumors that I was smoking crack in 7th grade. Even though I wasn’t being harassed about my body, I was at my most insecure state in my life. I was too embarrassed to eat in the lunchroom because I didn’t want my boyfriend to see hos fat girlfriend eating…. anything. I would go hungry and then binge and purge. Though these internal behaviors were horribly unhealthy, I believe that the fact that people cared enough to make up these ridiculous stories, rather than bully me for being fat, helped me build my confidence for the future.
That future confidence took a while to set in. As puberty went on, I started cutting myself, smoking cigarettes, drinking alcohol… anything to overshadow the fact that I was fat. I would have rather been viewed as a bad-ass than “the fat girl,” and it worked.
High school was freakin’ fantastic! Well, somewhat. I had a lot of friends, who were all fat chicks too (or felt fat). We would joke about being fat, share our fat girl problems, share clothes, it was fabulous. Having “Fatourage” (OK, I made that up) definitely was the key to building my self-confidence. Problem is – I built up a bit too much and became a real bitch.
To the few haters our clique had, rather than letting them get me down, I would use my strength and intimidation to avoid being bullied. When the local punk rock band came out with a song called ‘Fat Chicks Suck’ that went viral, what did I do? I punched the kid in the face. What did he do? Made a website about me and how fat and annoying I am. All I could do was laugh, thinking, “Dumbass, I punched you in the fucking face. Who won this battle?”
That wasn’t the only time I used my size to intimidate others. On another occassion, a boy and his friends were yelling fat-insults to my best friend (why not me???) so what did I do? Caught him off-guard and put him in a choke hold in the stairwell, and explained to him that he had no idea what was coming to him if he kept fucking with us. Lets just say I didn’t hear a peep from him again.
So those are examples of what I would call “Defensive Bullying.” But in order to keep up my bad-ass reputation, I couldn’t just bully back. I had to pay it forward too. This wasn’t easy, considering I was the fattest girl in school. I look back now and think of some horrible things I did to people just to feel better about myself.
Here are my examples of my “Offensive Bullying”
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The only big girl not in our entourage was made fun of by the whole school. I would pretend to be her friend to get private dirt on her and spread it to the rest of the school. She told me she wore a size 18 and we made a huge deal about her size, while in the mean time, I was a size 22!
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I broke up with a boy at school, and every time my friends and I saw him, we would call him “Goat” because of his beard and make Goat noises…. ok a litle funny but still mean.
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We got mad at a member of our clique, hacked her MySpace, and replaced all of her photos with pictures of Mr. Ed (the talking horse) because she was made fun of for her teeth. How horrible is that?
I could go on and on, but I think those three are enough to show what an insecure bitch I was. Due to some personal troubles (totally unrelated to bulling), I ended up leaving school my junior year, started a career, and graduated early from night school. I work in the Human Service field, and have been since I was 17. Now my life is spent improving the lives of others rather than trying to ruin them. I think that removing myself from the “group mentality” by leaving school was a turning point, but it wasn’t until I was about 20 that I realized in order to be completely free from my ignorant, angry past, was to let go of my cohorts and star over, on my own.
Now I am a strong advocate for disabilities, mental illness, obesity, bullying, racism, and pretty much anything related to human rights. Bully turned Humanitarian. Who would’a thought?
Related articles
- Is your child being bullying for being OVERWEIGHT? What you can do! (kellygetthin.wordpress.com)
- What if I’m Being Bullied? (illustrationstoencourage.wordpress.com)
- Cyber-bullying brings horror home (bbc.co.uk)
Curvy and Curious 