Category: Nashville Curves

#NashvilleCurves – 2018 Sneakpeek!

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Get your tickets to our VIP ROOFTOP LAUNCH PARTY HERE!

It’s Nashville Curves season! Yes! My annual plus-size confidence campaign is set to launch on August 25th. This season’s class is just as wonderful as their previous class members (Check out the Classes of 2016 and 2017). As much as the Class of 2018 is beautiful, the ladies are talented and give so much to our wonderful city! We have a two educators, two bloggers, and a wardrobe stylist! Continue reading “#NashvilleCurves – 2018 Sneakpeek!” →

#NashvilleCurves presents, Melissa, the creator of Nashville Curves!

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Before we get this profile started, I must say “Thank You!” to everyone who viewed, shared, and commented on the #NashvilleCurves campaign! Each woman shared an amazing part of themselves. Besides putting on a bathing suit, they shared parts of their struggle and parts of their hearts. I truly appreciate their transparency! Make sure to read about Kimmy, Nora, Kearsten, and DD; leave some comments on their posts.

So, I’m gonna answer some of the questions I asked the other ladies in their profiles. And, I’m gonna answer some questions I’ve received about the #NashvilleCurves campaign and our upcoming Plus-Size Meet-Up! Let’s go!

Continue reading “#NashvilleCurves presents, Melissa, the creator of Nashville Curves!” →

#NashvilleCurves presents Nora

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Nora is an upcoming plus-size Nashville Blogger! She uses her platform to speak to young women about style, confidence, and beauty. Read Nora’s profile, below, learn about the power of positive words and not allowing negative comments ruin your life.

Continue reading “#NashvilleCurves presents Nora” →

#NashvilleCurves presents Kimmy

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FabGlance is not the only plus-size blogger in the city. Every day I find another woman sharing her stylish plus-size experience online. When I stumbled across Kimmy’s microblog on Instagram, I knew I had to follow. Every day, Kimmy shares her great style and amazing ideas online. She never stays away from discussing the topics of feminism, race relations, and being fat in America. We need more truthful, young, vibrant voices like hers in our world. Make sure to follow Kimmy, as she adds style and truth to your timeline!

Name, Age: Kimmy, 25

What do you do, why do you do it?
I have a full time 8-5 job but that isn’t my passion. I do Instagram and social media because I have found these are meaningful ways to interact with people. It is also a space where less represented body types and less represented people, like people of color of disabled people, finally have a space to be themselves and get messages of support from followers and friends. I love having an online space and community to uplift people who are traditionally left out of a lot of spaces.

What made you embrace your curves?
When did you say, “I’m ok with me?” Honestly, joining Instagram was the biggest step in overcoming my body hate and turning it into body love. I found a huge community of women who were plus size and curvy. It was the first time I had ever seen women who looked like me, and they looked beautiful. I was able to shift my perception of myself and curvier and larger bodies by seeing these women, and seeing them apologetically love themselves authentically.

Continue reading “#NashvilleCurves presents Kimmy” →

#NashvilleCurves presents Kearsten

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Kearsten is a recent college graduate with a mission to make a big impact in the health industry as a nurse. As the youngest member of #NashvilleCurves Class of 2017 it’s amazing to see her evolution as a voice in Nashville’s plus size community! Confidence is created when we are faced with our greatest truth. Read Kearsten’s story below. Be inspired to be a confidence creator in the lives of young women around you.

Name, Age: Kearsten, 22

What do you do, why do you do it?
I’m a Class of 2017 graduate of the Illustrious and historic Fisk University. For as long as I can remember I’ve always wanted to be a part of healthcare in any capacity. I currently work as a CNA for while working towards obtaining my Master’s of Science in Nursing. As of late, it’s becoming more evident that I need to do more in pursuing plus size modeling as these types of opportunities have been presenting themselves. But…we’ll see *birdman hand rub*

What made you embrace your curves? When did you say, “I’m ok with me?”
Honestly, this happened for me fairly recently. All through college, I would steer clear of social events or being visible period because I wasn’t 100% comfortable with my size. This meant I didn’t like how I looked in certain clothing which led to me thinking I had nothing to wear so now I don’t have to go anywhere . . . yay. Closer to the end of my undergraduate years, out of nowhere really, I gained this confidence and adopted a mindset that allowed me to step out of my shell and be who I genuinely was. That meant being comfortable with ALL that God has blessed me with.

Have you had to deal with mean or backhanded comments from family, friends, and/or strangers? What did you do?
I’ve never been skinny in my life except for like once when I was like 3! So, I’ve always had people comment about my size; especially family that you haven’t seen in forever. After my first year of college, not gonna lie, I gained a scary amount of weight. I remember, in 2014, when my uncle came to pick up my brother and I to go to our family reunion in Cincinnati. This was the first time he had seen me since I graduated high school. Literally, the first thing he said was “Wow, freshman 50?” It really hurt at that time but I just laughed it off.

Continue reading “#NashvilleCurves presents Kearsten” →

#NashvilleCurves presents Derika

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Some know her as Derika, others know her as DD, but I guarantee, after reading her profile, you’ll want to call her friend! This Nashville entrepreneur tells us how therapy helped her be ‘ok’ with her and allowed her to cultivate the confidence to experience a more enriched life! 

Name, Age: Derika, 32

What do you do, why do you do it?
I’m a typical left-brained person. Very logical, analytical and solution driven. So naturally when I identify a problem, I can’t wait to find a solution and fix it, even the hard stuff. After being bored, almost to death, with corporate America I decided to start a boutique software development company (@madebyamaven) a couple years ago. Now I get to collaborate with talented people from all over the world to create custom software solutions for businesses. It’s pretty dope!

What made you embrace your curves? When did you say, “I’m ok with me?”
I started going to therapy a few years back while mourning the death of a friend. I didn’t realize it then, but this was one of the best decisions I ever made. I didn’t expect to discover that I had subconsciously convinced myself that certain goals were unattainable for me because I was over a certain size. Removing that mental block changed everything, leaving me open to more experiences, more opportunities, more LIFE!

Continue reading “#NashvilleCurves presents Derika” →

#NashvilleCurves – Class of 2017

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I am so happy to introduce the wonderful women of #NashvilleCurves, Class of 2017! Kim, Nora, Derika, and Kearsten were selected for their awesome beauty, great style, online presence, and curvy confidence.  Kim, Nora, Derika, and Kearsten are bloggers, teachers, coders, and motivators – all using their skills to bring feminine flair to our city. You might not know them now, but after this week, you’ll be giving them a follow.

Fabglance-classof2017
(l to r) Kim, Nora, Fabglance, Derika, and Kearsten

Visit Fabglance this week to meet and learn more about each lady from the Class of 2017! Seriously, I love these ladies and their dedication to spreading confidence in our curvy community.  It’s amazing, because, there are plenty of plus-size women in the city, but their voices are barely heard. I’ve decided to take on the cause. Curvy women deserve to be heard and we deserve options to make us feel beautiful.

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Each year, I keep my eye on plus-size women who are making waves. Presenting plus size women, in bathing suits, in NASHVILLE has proven to open a door of opportunity for our curvy community. That’s why I’ve created the #NashvilleCurves Plus-Size Meet-Up! In celebration of the success of the #NashvilleCurves photo series, we want to to create a space for plus size women to listen to inspiring speakers, shop at plus-size vendors, and meet amazing curvy ladies like yourself!

So, come back EVERY DAY this week to get to know our Class of 2017!

#NashvilleCurves presents Temitope!

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Today’s profile features a real life beauty queen! Temitope uses her beauty and brains to help women in the community. Nashville Curves is proud to have Temitope representing in the summer edition. The goal of this campaign was to give a space to the amazing beauties that do every day work while flaunting their curves. Click below to read more about Temitope:

Name, Age: Temitope Oshomoji, 32 . . . but we can switch it up and say 23! lol
What do you do and why do you do it? I am a Jill of Many Talents: I am a Insurance Claims Adjuster by day, International Makeup Artist, Plus-Size Pageant Queen (currently I am the World’s Ms Tourism Beauty 2017), Domestic Violence Advocate, motivational speaker, afro-beat dancer, and a mother 24/7. My passion is ending Domestic Violence; I am a domestic violence survivor.  I have started my movement called Bruises2 Brushes and I am sharing my story.  I feel that I am equipped to uplift, empower, and educate women. I help women realize early signs of domestic violence and how to walk away from what can become a horrible life.

 

  
What made you embrace your curves? When did you say, “I’m okay with ME?” After battling and surviving cervical cancer, I now embrace ALL of me. Clearly The Most High felt I was deserving of life – with my curves! If The Most High loves them, who am I not to embrace them?
What made you embrace your curves? When did you say, “I’m okay with ME.”? I used to be so caught up with how people felt about my actions, looks, etc. But, I’ve have been through too much in my life to be concerned with how people feel. Don’t get me wrong, I accept constructive opinions, but I am at that point in my life that negativity rolls off. Negative comments are now fuel for me to do more and build my community.
What advice would you give your YOUNGER curvy self? Young Curvy Temitope, “LOVE YOURSELF! Never allow anyone’s opinion on your size determine your destiny. I’d tell myself to keep pushing regardless of what society says. Young Temitope, you are indeed destined for GREATNESS.”

When you were asked to do a bathing suit shoot, what was your first reaction?  Me?!?!? She must have accidently sent me this message! I am not a size two, I am not 5’10”, so surely this is a mistake. But after I made sure Fab Glance was serious, I was so excited. It is time for society and Nashville to know, regardless of our size, height, or skin color – WE are QUEENS!

Are curves appreciated in Nashville? No. There are maybe two plus size shops in Nashville compared to over 100 straight-sized shops. Clearly, Nashville want us curvy ladies to walk around naked! Lol!
What’s your favorite store to shop as and why? (local, online, vintage, etc) My favorite shop is Dorothy Perkins. Her clothes fit me perfectly. I always get compliments when I wear clothes from this European shop. In general, European Fashions are more classy, retro, and unique.
Tell us about one item in your closet you’ll never let go of? My 2016 World’s Ms Tourism Pageant National Evening Gown. This dress cost me way too much to let it go! Lol

Where can we find you on the internet (Social Media)? You can find me on Instagram: @WorldsMsTourismbeauty2017 and SnapChat: @naijavixen

#NashvilleCurves presents Francheska

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We are back with Day 3 of the Nashville Curves photo series. The response, wow, the response has been amazing. I’ve got loads of questions about the future of this campaign. I’ll answer all those questions at the end of the week – believe me, it’s going to be pretty exciting! Today’s profile is all about the feisty Francheska! This admissions counselor and entrepreneur has an easy breezy style and a chill demeanor. She was an amateur in front of the camera, but became a pro with the first click. Check her out:

Details: Swim top – Victoria’s Secret, Brief – Ashley Stewart, and Kimono – JCPenney
  • Name, Age: Francheska W., 28 years old
  • What do you do and why do you do it? I work as an admissions counselor for a vocational training program. I also have a new drapery and event design company called Exquisite Appeal. During the week, I like teaching young people that there is more than one way to become successful.  If you work hard at what you love, you’ll be successful. Now, drapery is something special – it’s something I love too! I love transforming a space that was once dull and then bringing it to life with the draping and lighting. The look on clients’ faces when they see the finished product is the real reason I do what I do.
 
  • What made you embrace your curves? When did you say, “I’m okay with ME.”? I have always had curves so embracing them was not a problem but this womanly figure took some getting used to. I would say that in 2014, after I had fibroid surgery, was when I began to feel more comfortable with my beautiful womanly figure. I, then,  realized how strong my body really was.
  • How do you deal with mean or backhanded comments from family, friends, or strangers? I don’t. When I was younger they used to really get me down but I’ve learned to ignore them for the most part; or use sarcasm. Something along the lines of “maybe its time for you to do some self reflection.” Sarcasm is always fun!
  • What advice would you give your YOUNGER curvy self? I would tell my younger self not to be afraid to stand out. It is okay to be different and curvy. Not everyone will like or agree with you and that is okay. Your kind of love is not for everybody!

 

  • When you were asked to do a bathing suit shoot, what was your first reaction? Me, in a bathing suit for the world to see?! I was terrified!! I am so used to assisting or being behind the scenes instead of being a focal point but I figured “I might as well”. Nothing ever comes from being scared – so why not? What’s the worse thing that could happen?
  • Are curves appreciated in Nashville? I think that there is more of a following in Nashville as of lately. I feel that we still have a ways to go but we are off to a great start.
  • What’s your favorite store to shop as and why? (local, online, vintage, etc) Locally I shop at Forever 21 and Torrid. I can always find something in these stores. This is where I go when I need something quick. I enjoy Ashley Stewart and Lane Bryant for more sophisticated pieces, swimwear, and bras. But my new favorites are Rebdolls.com and Fashiontofigure.com! I love the clothing they have to offer: dresses and skirts for everybody! They are chic and modern without being corny. Plus, I appreciate that the models they showcase are realistic.

 

 
  • Tell us about one item in your closet you’ll never let go of? I will never get rid of my black body-con dress because I can always grab it when I have nothing to wear. I can dress it up or keep it casual. I can put on a cute heel (any color – I love heels!) or a pair of tennis shoes. I like to keep it cute for the people!
  • Describe you favorite summer look. My favorite summer look is light and fun. I am really into dresses with tennis shoes – mainly Converse. I also enjoy sandals, crop tops, lace, and just about anything I can see-through.

 

  • Where can we find you on the internet (Social Media)? You can follow me on Instagram. You can follow my personal instagram, @Franwill25, and follow my professional account @Exquisite.Appeal. People have been pressuring me to get a Snapchat so that might be coming in the near future!
  • Tell us about one item in your closet you’ll never let go of? I will never get rid of my black body-con dress. I can always grab it when I have nothing to wear, I can dress it up or down. I can put on a pair of cute heels (any color –  I love heels) or a pair of  tennis shoes. I like to be cute for the people!
  • Describe you favorite summer look. – My favorite summer look is light and fun. I am really into dresses with tennis shoes – mainly Converse. I also enjoy sandals, crop tops, lace, and just about anything that’s see-through.
  • Where can we find you on the internet (Social Media)? Franwill25 and Exquisite.Appeal on Instagram and @ExquisiteAppeal1 and Miss Francheska Williams on Facebook. People have been pressuring me to get a Snapchat so that might be coming in the near future!

#NashvilleCurves presents Amber Curry!

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Welcome back to the Nashville Curves Summer Photo series! I’m so excited that you are excited to know more about these amazing beauties. Each woman selected adds a rich element to Nashville by bringing brains, beauty, and body! Today’s featured curvy creative, is Amber Curry. She is a mixture of magic, momentum, and marvelousness. To know Amber is to love her and to love her is to embrace everything she loves about herself. This creative director and hairstylist is manifesting a culture of self-love that’s undeniable. From the way she styles hair to the way she curates images, Amber is a force, and you need to know her.

Suit: Rue 107, Garcelle One Piece

Name & Age – Amber Ileene Curry, 32

What do you do and why do you do it? I am a creative director and Freelance Hairstylist. I do it because it’s my craft, my passion, my love. I do it because I bring something to the industry that is fresh and innovative and ahead of the curve for women of color and women with multi ethnic hair.

 

What made you embrace your curves? When did you say, “I’m okay with ME.”? I’ve always been plush as I like to put it. So I think that acceptance has been gradual. My parents always made me feel good about my body and encouraged self-esteem no matter what. Most of my 20s I spent trying to impress and be how I thought folks wanted me to be. My 30s have been all about embracing me and the lacks of fucks I give for folk who think I should be ashamed of my body frame. My goal has always been to be the fiercest in the room period.

How do you deal with mean or backhanded comments from family, friends, or strangers? I don’t. I’m pretty outspoken so you can go there if you want but be ready. Just be ready. My body my rules. Eff your body politics! Stop policing black bodies. All of these comments have been left at one point in time or another.

What advice would you give your YOUNGER curvy self? Get naked girl. Let it all hang loose. Rip your shorts when your thighs don’t fit! There are no rules and when they tell you there all break them all.

 

Are curves appreciated in Nashville? I don’t really care if they are or not. I appreciate them and as a result expect those around me and in my circles to do the same.

What’s your favorite store to shop as and why? (local, online, vintage, etc) Forever 21 locally at Opry Mills mall. It’s a whole floor of plus size goodness. Online I currently love Zelie for She, Rue 107, and Rebdolls. I’m all about pushing the limits and being bold in a big body.

Tell us about one item in your closet you’ll never let go of? My Black Leather Kangol hat. Got it in 1997 7th grade. And it just gets better with age I get offered money for it every year when I whip it out for winter and fall. I love hats!

Describe you favorite summer look- A pair of Dee Dee Dukes (I live for short shorts. The shorter the better.) A low cut bodysuit. I am so glad the 90s have returned with a vengeance. Chic flat sandals and A fierce cut on my curls. It’s either that or bell-bottoms, a boho crop, no bra (FREE THE NIPPLE) and accouterments as needed.

Hair by Lucy Bell Salon
Where can we find you on the internet (Social Media)? @bespokecurry on IG, Snapchat, Twitter and Facebook. You can also check out my salon at Lucy Bell Hair Studio on FB and IG

Are curves appreciated in Nashville? I don’t really care if they are or not. I appreciate them and as a result expect those around me and in my circles to do the same.

What’s your favorite store to shop as and why? (local, online, vintage, etc) F21 locally at opry mills mall. It’s a whole floor of plus size goodness. Online I currently love Zelie for She, Rue 107, and Rebdolls. I’m all about pushing the limits and being bold in a big body.

Tell us about one item in your closet you’ll never let go of? My Black Leather Kangol. Got it in 1997 7th grade. And it just gets better with age I get offered money for it every year when I whip it out for winter and fall. I love hats!

Describe you favorite summer look- A pair of Dee Dee Dukes (I live for short shorts. The shorter the better.) A low cut bodysuit. I am so glad the 90s have returned with a vengeance. Chic flat sandals and A fierce cut on my curls. It’s either that or bell-bottoms. a boho crop. no bra (FREE THE NIPPLE) and accouterments as needed.