Evolve magazine -December issue

Issue 5

Robyn Lawley

Velvet D’Armour

Anniversary Issue Nominated for BEST PLUS SIZE PUBLICATION 2011

EDITORS NOTE

December 2011

Y

EAAAHH we did it, we have made it through our very first year of publishing EVOLVE Magazine!!

How proud I am that we have achieved it, although it has not been easy I could never have done this without every single person that has supported and worked with us (past & present) – THANK YOU!! Our anniversary issue, in my opinion is our best issue to date and we really hope you feel the same.

This issue is all about celebrations!! Let’s celebrate curves, achievements, beauty and fashion. We were delighted that the amazing Tocarra Jones wanted to be our cover star and we had a fantastic time on the fashion shoot with her, check out her exclusive interview inside this issue. Not only have we got an interview with Miss Velvet D’Armour but she was also the photographer of our ‘Pursuit of Happiness’ editorial, what a fabulous lady!! We bring you all the latest curvy news not only from the UK and Europe but worldwide, whilst our fashion writers let you into this season must haves in our fashion winter wonderland pages. We share with you my secret obsession with (fake) fur coats, and have an exclusive chat with the model of the moment Robyn Lawley and don’t forget to check out our celebration page, this and soooo much more in YOUR magazine Evolve!

We will be back in February 2012 with our ‘Love’ issue, lots of new additions to the magazine and some fantastic news sssshhh! In the meantime enjoy this fantastic festive season, eat lots of turkey and make sure you look FAB but most of all……..

Be Proud Be YOU!!

Tell us your thoughts on the latest issue. We welcome your comments and suggestions please email editor@evolve-magazine.com Rianne Ward Big hugs and kisses xx

CONTENTS 3 4 6 10 10 14 28 30 46 48 58 66 68

NEWS

Readers File Evolve News Worldwide Evolve News Full Body Project

FASHION

Designer Spotlight Pursuit of Happiness Furs Trapped in a Skinny World Evolve Essential Holiday Outfit Top 5 Xmas Outfit Michelle Alexandra: Beauty Shots

HEALTH/LIFE STYLE

78 Twin Talk 80 Phenomenal Healthstyle 82 Obese What 84 Figure 8

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9 26 38 50 52 55 56 60 62 76

FEATURES

Evolve Nominated Details Evans COVER STORY – Tocarra Jones Exclusive Interview - Robyn Lawley Simply Be Christmas Model Spotlight - Harriet Anna Scholz Interview Curves in Couture Velvet D’Amour

BEAUTY

32 Beauty Basics

88 89 90 92 94

ENTERTAINMENT Sherryl Blu Movies to Watch Shiikane Interview Celebrity Gossip Aml Ameen Interview

Editor in Chief Rianne Ward Art Direction & Design Sylwia Szyszka www.sszyszka.com Copy Writer Angela Nketia Features Editor Olga Crosse Arts@ Entertainment Editor Sherryl Blu Contributing Writers Ayanda Soares Zandela Soares Bella Marie Sarah Potter Melita Davis Caroline Bilkey Queen Allen Alison Chapman Photographers Margaret Yescombe Michelle Alexandra Velvet D’Armour Nathan Thompson Website GO Dzine

READERS FILE

readers file Special Anniversary messages from our readers.......

Special love from our readers for our Anniversary

So if you could pick ANYONE dead or alive - who would you have round for your xmas din dins?? Let us know

Congratulations keep on growing !! – AlwaysForMe (via twitter)

I would have Billy Holiday. I heard she was really outspoken – Sasha Brown

Congrats to Evolve. Style Queen Boutique will also be a year old on 18 Dec. Onwards & upwards! – Sharon CEO of Style Queen Boutique

Edgar Allen Poe and Tim Burton. See who had have the scarier Nightmare Before Christmas :D – Jake Basford

Time flies when you’re having fun! Can’t wait to see the new issue.. Definitely gonna dedicate a post to it. – Je Tuan Layonne KEEP GOING FORWARD! YOU’RE THE BEST..Fandebbw Dekarlito The 18th is a fab day to celebrate... That’s my birthday as well! Congrats – Lindsey Brown Long may the ‘Evolvelution’ continue!!!! - MinStyle Queen

Jimi. Hendrixs – Robert Sampson Is it to much to say Jesus? – Michael Shaw I’ll invite Nicki Minaj, Lil Kim, Foxy Brown and Remy Ma (on day release) - that be one hell of a party.

Oh yeah Mille Jackson as a special guest for my Dad – Kwamsta Du Mica Paris :) – Junior Joseph

I have enjoyed seeing high fashion for the full figured woman. Evolve has done an amazing job of keeping us all entertained and empowered! – Je Tuan Layonne

WHOOPIE GOLDBERG.... She is such an inspirational actress and full of fun.... I think we would laugh throughout out dinner... probably not even eat... hahaha.... I love her humour and I would love to act with her one day, GOD willing...!!!.... xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx - Martha Wolfenden

CONGRATULATIONS!! – PlusForUs Evolve has done a great job at bringing valuable, relevant information paired with fashion and fun! A great read! – Julie Thomson

Tina Turner, Barry White, Marvin Gaye, Prince, Dr.Martin Luther King Jr, James Brown, Bill Cosby, Elvis Presley and Clint Eastwood ....there were more but I had to stop. Xxx – Cherise Stone

Happy 1 year! I’m at 10 months for my page and can’t wait to get to the big 1 year – Samantha Morris Whoop! Keep evolving ladies! Proud of ya! :) x x – Yvey Yve

Whitney Houston, Hugh Jackman, Janet Jackson, Angeline Jolie, Brad Pitt, Will and Jada Smith... hmm.. – Myisha T Hill Oprah, First Lady Obama, President Obama, Daymond John, Steve Jobs :o) – Saja Young Mark ruffalo, olly murs, michael buble, gary barlow and kelly clarkson. – Rakhee Bentley

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NEWS

EVOLVE NEWS 1 Little Black Dress for EVERYONE??

Do you own the perfect LBD for your style and shape?? Well if you don’t the new design from IGIGI maybe just what you are looking for….. http://www.igigi.com/plus-size-dresses/kaori-infinity-dress.html Kaori Infinity Dress is one dress that can be worn in multiple styles from a halter dress to a one sleeve on even a tube dress.

Designed to take you from the boardroom to that special date!!

Evolve is giving this item the thumbs up!!

Big & Beautiful love with ANTM Whitney

Whitney Thompson the previous winner of one of my favourite shows, ANTM has decided to launch a new website NO it s not a modeling website and NO it is not a fashion site as you may expect but a DATING website especially for curvy/plus size women. I met the lovely Whitney recently at the Curves in Couture show in London where she happily told me all about it … She told me ‘I have launched the dating site www.bigandbeautiful.com because Men want REAL women! On the site you can customize your profile to let possible cupids know that you are looking for a ‘hook up’ ‘date’ or a long term relationship all for $40.50 a month!

Well she has already had over 95,000 visits to the site in the first few days of it launching – so as we already know men are looking for CURVY LOVE!! We would love to know your thoughts on the site. If you were looking for love - would you check out this site??

Email your thoughts to editor@evolve-magazine.com

Gemma Collins - Fashions from ESSEX???

SSSSSShhhh…. Recently there have been a lot of rumors that the curvalicious Gemma Collins from TOWIE is in the process of creating a plus size 16 – 32 fashion range. Gemma says ‘People have just accepted me for who I am & I want to give them something back’ Ladies what do you think? Are you excited to see her range? What do you expect to see in the range (and errmm NO white handbag jokes please ;-) ) let us know your thoughts at editor@evolve-magazine.com

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Special Anniversary Gift from SONSI.com!! $225

Our lovely friends over at SONSI.com want to celebrate our 1st anniversary with us!! So they are giving away 2 fantastic goody bags worth $225 to lucky Evolve readers…

This exclusive goody bag consists of a fantastic handbag, exclusive accessories and much much more as well. And with SONSI now shipping overseas – why not be 1 of the 1st in to be wearing their amazing collection…..you have nothing to lose…..

To win this exclusive anniversary prize all you have to do is tell us: What celebrity was on the 1st ever Evolve Magazine Cover??

Send us your answers to editor@evolve-magazine.com please include your full name First 2 names to be selected randomly will win Closing date: January 10 2012

Cherryl Cole @ StylistPick.com

So Cherryl’s eagerly anticipated shoe collection for www. stylistpick.com is finally here. She recently tweeted that she is ‘SO excited’ about her new collection. We love the fact that after doing the short survey on the website they will pick out the best shoes and accessories for you according to your style. Let us know your thoughts on Cheeza’s collection editor@evolve-magazine.com

Ms Curvaceous UK2012 – Finals!!

Ms Curvaceous is Streamline Empire’s signature pageant where 20 stunning curvaceous ladies from all over Britain are narrowed down to just 10 during an intense two rounds of training and 4 heated rounds in the Finals. The final 10 contestants are judged on everything from their walk to their future aspirations at the live shows. Well the finals have arrived and it will be taking place on: Friday 3rd February For more info check out http://www.streamlineempire.com GOOD LUCK LADIES!!!!

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NEWS

worldwide

EVOLVE NEWS GISELA RAMIREZ

Australian Fashion Designer

Gisela Ramirez is an exceptionally talented new Australian Fashion Designer, currently on a meteoric rise of gargantuan proportions.

Gisela has had her beautiful designs worn by none other than Fluvia Lacerda on the cover of a recent edition of Beautiful Magazine! Many of her wonderfully feminine, yet edgy and colourful designs are in line with the approach that plus sizes should wear designs more flattering to their bigger shape... actually, scratch that! – Gisela has a distinct rebellion to that train of thought, simply putting it out there boldly: ‘F*CK FLATTERING’ – Literally!

It’s her popular design on a printed crop tee that’s been getting everybody’s attention across the world of plus size fashion! Take a look at the gorgeous colours and arrays of figure hugging & sheer designs that can only be described as, cheeky, sexy, alluring & chock-full of attitude.

Wear Gisela with a side of attitude and a smattering of some bold jewellery, and this Aussie’s style will be sure to turn heads. pics courtesy http://giselaramirez.tumblr.com & http://www. giselaramirez.com.au

CURVY GIRLS TV SERIES

Brand new television: CURVY GIRLS http://www.mynuvotv.com/ series/curvygirls sees 4 aspiring plus size models through the lens, negotiating lives in the world of plus size modelling. Curvy Girls has just recently been featured as a special preview in October on American television through NUVOtv. The featured women aspire to become the world’s first, plus size supermodels. This candid program also highlights pitfalls that come with such pursuits of happiness. Of course life, love and drama feature heavily in this US filmed series, & when boiled down, expect there to be some fiercely forward entertainment as their lives are magnified in such a competitive industry.

Reviews reveal many truths about the mysterious & growing world of plus size modelling : As featured on NUVOtv.com: * “In the competitive world of modelling, the common congratulatory phrase “Good, I’m happy for her” – really means “I hope she breaks a heel on the runway!” *Even beautiful working models struggle with insecurity. Sure the billboards and magazine covers help, but as the ladies of ‘Curvy Girls’ reveal, determination speaks confidence.”

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pics courtesy: http://www.mynuvotv.com If this is testament to how CG is to explode my wide-screen, I’m gathering, couch-potato-ing & watching every single episode. Not to mention the awesome and inspiring hair, makeup and fashionista ladies of the show - all gorgeous in their own respective rights. Keeping the show real, & allowing us into each and every one of their lives – with a magnifying glass on everyone’s personal lives. Another reality-type program, but one that makes us all feel we are just as human as the next. ~ Props to the Curvy girls!

Denise Lorna Rosie Victoria

17 SUNDAYS – NEW LABEL

pics courtesy: www.17sundays.com New designers - 17 Sundays the Australian plus size fashion label, are majorly street-wise and funky.

Pieces encompass the ideal that 14-26’s can be sexy, sassy, on-trend - even when running an errand or out on a date. The attitude of 17S is: fashion should encompass all of you: your curves, your personality – the ideals of your own style. Many comfortable, stylish & relaxed pieces & an awesome selection of plus sized denim. 17 are a new plus fashion label on the map for raising awareness of self and opting to express that in the way we dress.

Layered looks & belted babes adorn their Facebook, Tumblr & Twitter pages with a slight bohemian, youthful and on -trend mix of lovingly designed clothes, for comfort and sassiness.

“We want to grow 17 Sundays as a cultural destination, where everyone who values fashion, art, music, politics and creativity can contribute and become part of something positive. 17’s about taking self esteem and expression back, and let’s face it we ain’t going to be doing that in a kick leg elastic waist jean and printed chiffon mu mus...”

Check out: http://www.17sundays.com online. Pieces are quality made and seasonally friendly, especially when layered and accessorised just right. Plaited summery colourful belts are 17’s newest accessory, soon to hit their online store and selected outlets - to be announced on their site soon.

FULL FIGURED FASHION WEEK 2012

pic courtesy http://www.facebook.com/DeVoeSignatureEvents Announcement from Full Figured Fashion Week (tm) (New York, Los Angeles and Canada): “We will be working to complete the FFFWeek (tm) 2012 website before everyone gets into the swing of the holidays. Designer, model, and volunteer registration links, announcement of our host, schedule of shows and events, charitable partnerships, etc. will be up and ready. Stay tuned!”

Yay! It looks as though the dates are set and preparations are underway! It’s going to be a huge onslaught of new international designers and participants in 2012. Stay tuned as they say – for more exciting news and details to whet our already voracious appetites for magnificent full figured fashion.

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Th

f u o ank Y

u o y l or al

! s e t r Vo

NEWS

Full Body Project Winners of Full Body Project 1. Congratulations on winning this fabulous competition! What made you decide to enter? a.I’ve entered in the past, but never won anything, but since I had just started becoming more active in the body positive community, I wanted to help my actions support my thaoughts and words. Even if I didn’t win, I wanted to put myself out there and say “I’m fat, and I’m okay with that”.

2. Did you watch the announcement live on the internet? a. Yes, I did, and I pretty much squeeled when she said my name. I was so excited!

3. What is your favourite part of your body? a. My favourite part? Hmm. I think that’s probably my hair or my hips. I keep my hair really, really long and take excellent care of it, and I take pride in how soft and flowing it is.

Plus, I can do a lot of different styles with it.

4. Along with the prize of being featured in Evolve Magazine you also received a number of prizes from clothing designers.

Can you tell us what designers and what clothing you choose to get? a. I won a free piece of Alight.com clothing. I chose a really cute pink top that was accented

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with a string of pearls along one of the shoulders; it looks fantastic with jeans.

5. Have you always been confident with your body? a. No, not always. I’ve found that I’ve become a lot more confident since meeting my current partner of 4 years. It’s not that I needed a man in my life, but it’s more than I needed someone who loved and supported me – regardless of whether I weighed a lot or weighed a little.

That’s led me to loving myself.

6. Evolve Magazines motto is: Be Proud Be You! What makes you Proud to be you? a.

7. What would you say to encourage other women who battle with their self image? a. I have a hard time saying the typical “Be yourself” here because when it comes to selfimage, you think yourself IS the problem. But it really isn’t. Just how everyone else views you is! Make sure you get regular exercise and eat regular, nutritious food, and what your body looks like is what it’s going to look like. I don’t live my life just to diet and strive for physical perfection (I’d honestly rather spend that time reading!), and as long as I feel and am healthy about it, my body supports whatever pasttimes I choose.

Winners of Full Body Project 1. Congratulations on winning this fabulous competition! What made you decide to enter?

Thank you for the congratulations!!! I decided to enter this competition because I am proud of my body!!! For too long, voluptuous women have been ashamed of their curves…Not me…not anymore!!

2. Did you watch the announcement live on the internet?

Unfortunately I was unable to watch it live due to a business meeting. However, as soon as the meeting ended, I ran to my computer to see if I had won. Initially, I missed that I was a winner. But after I scrolled down, I saw my name listed. I was elated!! But, I was still in awe, so I watched the announcement video for confirmation!!!

3. What is your favourite part of your body?

My favourite part of my body is all of the parts that curve in some way (my hips, buttocks, breast…ok, I love my whole body!!)

4. Along with the prize of being featured in Evolve Magazine you also received a number of prizes from clothing designers.

Can you tell us what designers and what clothing you choose to get?

I received a gift bag from The Avenue. It was filled with goodies, from a beautiful embroidered

scarf, to a beautiful ring and necklace set, to a watch, and a hat, scarf, and glove set. In addition, I received a fabulous ruffled scarf, cute tights, a free pair of jeans, and a $100 gift card.

Way to go Avenue!!

5. Have you always been confident with your body?

I was not always confident in my body because I was average size until I had my son. After that it seemed I was unable to lose the weight.

So, as time went on I began to get more comfortable in my skin. Now, it seems, my confidence is at its peak. I am thankful for the body I have…it is voluptuous, beautiful, and real!!!

6. Evolve Magazines motto is: Be Proud Be You! What makes you Proud to be you?

I am proud to be me because I am unique, and wonderfully made. I am like no one else, and no other person is like me. I stand proud of my accomplishments, my compassion, and my contribution to society.

7. What would you say to encourage other women who battle with their self image?

To remember that it’s not the size of your body, but rather the size of your heart that counts!!!

Don’t ever let what others think about you to dictate what you think of yourself. We are all beautiful, and we come in various packages… some big, some medium, and some small. I love BIG packages…don’t you?

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FASHION

Looking for new exciting jewellery and shoes to suit your plus size style?

Evolve searches the web for new looks and new designers just for you!

by Melita Davis.

SHEILA FAJL - JEWELLERY If you’re hankering for some plus-size, funky, bold and stylish jewellery – you won’t be disappointed in the array of stunning pieces offered at Sheila Fajl .

Not only are Sheila’s pieces all quality made, but they are also made in an ecofriendly manner which can only mean style and beauty that can be worn with bold attitude & pride. Based in California, the Brazilian beauty started out as a fashion model and with this life experience, it’s given her a keen fashion sense, which contributes to these individual pieces of stunning jewellery. Her ethic, charm and awareness of what makes a woman feel beautiful no matter what size, is apparent.

“Beauty to her is in the soul, it is how you wear your body, and has nothing to do with standards or your weight. Her goal is to be an inspiration to make every woman feel beautiful without breaking the bank or starving. Sheila’s pieces are created with one thing in mind: to make women feel good about themselves” Bearing these words in mind, you should take a look at some of the amazing pieces on offer in her online store – shipping worldwide this is a wonderfully inspiring website to drool over. http://shop.sheilafajl.com

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GMK – LEATHER ACCESSORIES For a change up of style with more of a harder edge or ‘rock chick/chic’ feel – check out Australian based leather accessory design company GMK - http://www.gmkexclusive.com/index.htm - their beautiful pieces are handmade and exclusive.

Individually hand crafted items that will make any outfit unique and statement.

The range includes unisex leather items that are crafted exclusively with an array of different & exotic leathers. Leather belts and leather bracelet cuffs are a speciality, and can be made to order, ensuring your piece fits perfectly and customised to your needs & fashion style. (As seen on Australian plus size model Teer Wayde’s blog – ‘Curves To Kill’).

DUO – WIDE FITTING BOOTS http://www.duoboots.com/products/boots/ At UK based DUO – the styles of wide fitting boots go on and on and on... With sizing going up to a UK10 & calf measurements up to 50cm, there is sure to be something on-trend and comfortable for everybody.

You won’t be able to resist these luxurious suede looks and classic patent boots offered online to all over the world.

(Thanks DUO!) As an absolute bonus – DUO offer free shipping worldwide when ordered from their online store. A simple boot in a neutral colour can go a long way in a winter wardrobe, and the black boot is an absolute must-have.

They stock wide-fit knee high (and above) boots aswell as wide fit ankle boots http:// www.duoboots.com/products/shoes/ shoetypeid/ankle+boots/ Perfect for this seasons snug, practical yet timeless look of the winter boot, their designs encompass all age groups and styles dressed up or down.

TUK – SHOES I don’t know about you – but my shoe collection could have dozens of different styles & colours, but unless they’re well made and feeling so darn comfortable – I will only wear them on the odd occasion.

That’s why quality, affordability & comfort without having to compromise on style and sass, is high on my list when shopping for *insert Heavenly hymnal music here* SHOES. Shoes shoes shoes – they are like the pairing of souls/soles to our outfit.

US based, T.U.K. Shoes http://www. tukshoes.com/store/women offer such a funky, more-ish type of shoe that you will probably be hard-pressed to decide on just one pair. Sizing up to a UK10/EUR43 the individuality of these gorgeous statement pieces with ensure your individuality out on the street, whether you’re sporting heels, flats, boots or even flip flops. US based designers, T.U.K. offer international shipping and easy payment via Paypal & credit card. This original footwear is so bright and bold – to enhance any outfit from Rockabilly to Retro to Rock n Roll baby.

17 SUNDAYS - ACCESSORIES The ‘must have’ belt for the season has to be found at one of the newest plus size labels based in Melbourne, Australia – 17 Sundays. (http://www.17sundays.com) Their Mercy Belt is a hugely popular style due to the size range – add to that – a contemporary and funky street fashion styling, and you have a belt with many endearing qualities for any outfit. It has been reviewed by the gorgeous Jessica Dee of the wonderful ‘Too Many Sequins’ blogspot – an Australian plus-size beauty with so much style it hurts. Check out her review here: http://toomanysequins. blogspot.com/2011/11/ootd-im-beggingyou-for-mercy.html and see how wonderful and diverse this belt can be for any style/ outfit.

It can be worn with jeans, shorts mini and maxi dresses, to accentuate your hot curves and make a huge statement. 17S has a wonderful site to peruse and great suggestions as to how to wear their funky accessory pieces .

17 Sundays have a flat rate for shipping internationally and have also announced that they will be adding to their belt bar with these gorgeous summery colours (pictured) & accessory range in the very near future.

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Pursuit of Happines

Photographer: Velvet D’Armour, Stylist: Caroline Bilkey, Hair & M.U.A: Clare Cherry, Model Harriet

FEATURES

EVANS & Style 369 new

by OLGA CROSSE

I

was invited to the Evans bloggers press day to view Evans and STYLE 369 new A/W11 collections in London’s West End. Not only were we there to view the A/W collections but we were also invited to hear about their new way of dressing their curvy clients.

It turns out far from being complacent about their core customer base, Evans team were busy conducting market research, interviewing customers and devising a new concept in dressing curvy women, not to mention actually designing new ranges for the season for both brands.

Basically they have completely overhauled their Evans and Style 369 brands. They have sat up and taken notice of their customers, and listened to the consumer for once (other brands take note!).

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Now, instead of focusing on a one size fits all approach, they have gone back to the very beginning (even to designing their own mannequins from scratch) and realised that all curvy women, despite their dress size are a wild variety of shapes (we all knew that anyway but hey ho!).

Basically no 2 size 22’s are the same which apparently is fairly unique within the fashion industry, hence the new ‘Whats Your Curve’ concept. Fiona Ross, Brand Director at evanscomments, “Everyone of us has a unique figure and we will help curvy women to identify, shop and dress for fabulous shape and unbeatable confidence.”

To that end they have designed four body shapes for each size to take into account this unique concept.

w curvy concept Pear - Curvaceous hips and bottom, contrasting with smaller bust and shoulders Hourglass - Equally proportioned bust and hips with a waist Apple - Softer and fuller middle with slimmer legs and bottom Busty - Voluptuous bust with narrower hips and bottom Now for the statistics part!

The body metrics survey of nearly 5,500 womenacross the UK, was conducted in store and online. From the4,000 customers that were spoken to in store, 48% fitted intothe Apple category, while 28% were Hourglass, 16% Pear and 8% Busty’.

Not only that, Evans plan to revolutionise the highstreet to help women ‘shop by shape’ as well as size, (in my view ‘revolutionise’ is a pretty strong word and I hope they remain true to that). They tell me ‘Evans are developing labelling, pattern blocks and customer guides in store and online, to offer modern collections that fit to flatter. In addition, an updated staff training programme will be taking place to ensure that the body confidence message is rolled out across all evans stores. With an increased focus in the news about size and with fashion always evolving, so are women’s bodies. As the specialists, Evans believe that the British woman needs to be given a new direction and that this new way of communicating to a customer is now the shape of things to come’. Pretty good stuff I am sure you will agree. I have seen the new collection and its a vast improvement, its current with a good strong nod to the catwalk and designer collections.

I particularly like their Style369

collection, which is younger, trendier up to minute feel. Well done Evans, this can only be a good thing.

Evans is the leading fashion retailer for women sized 14 - 32 with over 300 outlets nationwide, over 60 stores worldwide and an online business at evans.co.uk.

- Lingerie is available up to size 50 and H cup and select stores offers an expert bra measuring and fitting service.

- Evans also include longer lengths which are ideal for those over 5’8” and shorter lengths for women 5’2” and under.

- All footwear is wider fitting from e-eee and available in sizes 4-10 Olga Crosse www.rubenisstas.org www.accessaccessories.com www.mirabellejewellery.co.uk/blog/

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FASHION

furs

by Caroline Bilkey It is all about fur this season, and what better chance to wear it as the temperatures drop?! Whether it is high end or high street, either will last you through the day, until night. Anything and everything goes. Try adding a pop of colour to your Winter wardrobe, with the gorgeous colored faux ones and layer, layer, layer. Hooded vests look great under your current coat, and popping out the fur hood for show. We are also very excited about the Elegance brand which stocks to a size 22. These are Evolve Magazines top 10 furs for the season...

1.) Turquoise fur collar coat - £35Available at Primark (photo1) 2.) Black coat with faux fur detail £69.99- Available at TK Maxx stores (photo2) 3.) Fur hooded Vest with tails - £750 (As seen in black on Toccarra Jones) Available online at www.devallenger. com (photo1) 4.) Cognac leather coat with fur collar - £1299- Available at Elegance (photo 2) 5.) Camel coat with fur trim - £1499Available at Elegance (photo3)

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FASHION

by Sherryl Blu

L

ast month, I had the privilege of hosting the exclusive I PLUS U fashion event which aimed to celebrate women of all shapes and sizes.

The Trapped in a Skinny World event was held on Sunday 6th November at the classy Thomas Beckett bar in London.

Trapped, prides itself on being a brand undefined by size and is less than ready to conform to fashion trends.

Upon arrival to the bar, I was met by a gentle buzz of excitement combined with a relaxed vibe. The set up of the bar was open and airy, allowing space for the many attendees to move around and mingle freely.

The thing that stood out most for me was the fact that the cross section of women in the bar represented reality in that there were women of varying shape and sizes and everyone one of them looked totally glam and absolutely beautiful.

I instantly felt glad to be a part of what I felt was going to be a phenomenal event.

After a few Kodak moments, the show was ready to begin.

I opened the show with a short introduction about myself and launched into a poem which I felt was perfect for the occasion. The poem was called; ‘Trippin Off The Chocolate Biscuits’ (Read here>> http://www.facebook.com/ notes/sherryl-shairi/trippin-off-the-chocolatebiscuits/213713632004698). The poem raised a few chuckles and nods of acknowledgement, then it was time to introduce the fantastic Body Gossip ladies; Natasha Devon and Ruth Rogers.

After Ruth explained to the audience all about the fantastic work that Body Gossip does, Natasha took the reins and reinforced the need to be body confident, embrace your body regardless of the size and shape and to try and encourage everyone to campaign for positive body images.

Following Natasha and Ruth, poet Chelsea Frances-Duarte took to the stage with some

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inspiring positive poetry.

After Chelsea’s two superb poems, new singer Blaise, took the opportunity to use the event to make her debut on the live music scene. Her vocals were warm, powerful and quite frankly, amazing!

The highlight of the evening had to have been the fantastic fashion show with ‘real’ models that ranged from UK size 12-24. These models definitely gave the catwalks in Milan a good run for their money!

The fashion show featured the Trapped in a Skinny World vintage collection which included; furs, jackets, dresses, shorts and shirt dresses.

High street looks for Autumn/Winter 2011 were also featured and new French plus sized designer Massari showcased a leather bodice, suede, leather tops, yellow pants and orange skirts.

In addition, we were treated to some Black wrap dresses from everyone’s favourite bargain store; Primark and Max C also tantalised us with a variety of different dresses.

All the ladies looked great on the catwalk which was

designed in such way that everyone in the bar would get to see the clothing on display.

After the fashion show, the atmosphere was vivacious and everyone was lively and energetic.

X Factor 2009 boot camp attendee, Shanna Songbird took to the stage as the final act for the evening and sent shivers down everyone’s spine with her powerful vocals.

Shortly after Shanna’s set, CEO of Trapped, Remi Ray, shared a few words with the audience. She congratulated the models and thanked all those involved and even presented the participants with a yellow rose each as a lovely way of saying ‘thank you’.

I personally got a very special gift which was totally unexpected. What was it? I hear you ask. Well, let’s just say, they have a killer heel and look darn right sexy!!

Please visit the Trapped in a Skinny World site by following this link: www.trappedinaskinnyworld.com For more information on the Body Gossip Campaign: www.bodygossip.org

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BEAUTY

beauty basic Written by Clare Cherry

INTRO: As the long cold nights draw in it’s pretty darn clear that winter has arrived. Battling the cold weather, Christmas office parties and the stress of present planning can all take their toll on your skin, which is why I’ve put together my top tips to keep you looking and feeling great this festive season.

Winter Skin Savers!!

Winter weather often takes its toll on your skin, leaving you with a dry and dull complexion. If you want to avoid this stick with a great skincare routine, it’ll leave you looking fresh and beautiful.

Cleanse – weather your skin is oily or dry it’s important to cleanse your skin twice a day to keep pores squeaky clean and free from those harsh environ mentals which build up on the skin. Bobbi Brown’s Extra Cleansing Balm £41 is definitely a winter must have and is perfect for dry or dehydrated skins.

Exfoliate – its important to exfoliate at least twice a week to remove dead skin cells from the surface and to keep that fresh healthy glow present – try XXX

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Moisturise – the most important part of any skin routine is keeping your skin hydrated. There are millions of great products to choose from but make sure you pick a moisturiser that works with your skin type. Crème de la Mer have some brilliant products, namely their Moisturising Lotion £95 and their Radiance Infusion £68, both are a pricy but perfect if you want to treat yourself to a little luxury. Affordable alternatives are Bobbi Brown Hydrating Face Cream £36, an award winning moisturiser, which keeps skin soft and hydrated, or Estee Lauder’s Hydronist Maximum Moisture Cream £33 Serum – serums are concentrated skin corrective skin treatments and often used to address specific skin needs.

As your skin regenerates at night, I’d recommend slathering on Estee Lauder Advanced Night Recovery £41-£54 every night before bed. You’ll notice the difference in your skins appearance almost instantly.

Base- A good base is always a personal choice in how you like the appearance of the skin to be, the right foundation will make you

look like you’re not wearing any foundation at all, be happy in your skin and you’ll have even toned, great looking skin.

Foundation can give the look of a matte or dewy finish, look out for new Immasaqua Skin Base Foundation or Giorgio Armani Luminous Silk foundation £33.00, or if you prefer the more matte appearance MAC studio fix fluid £19.50 is always a winner

PARTY PIECES AND STOCKINGFILLERS Party season is here and there some great must have’s to keep an eye out for as Make up counters everywhere are Christmas crazy so if you’re stuck for presents this year here’s some fabulous inspiration for some great gifts this year...

The Love, love, love for ShuUmera Lashes, always so sexy and ultra glam look out for the dazzling diamante eyelash Bobbi Brown Party Shimmer Brick MAC Glitter and Ice collection lipstick in ‘such flare’ £13.50 Nails Inc Special K Red varnish MAC – mini brush sets, come in varieties, Mineralise, Special and Classic and are an absolute bargain of only £39.50 for 5 brushes!! Hurry because these will sell out fast!!

MAC – dazzleshpere – another steal at only £25.50 for ranges of glitzy eye shadows, glosses and nail varnishes, so great you will defiantly to be tempted to even treat yourself!!

Don’t forget the SPF – even in the winter the sun is still shining so ensure your moisturiser or foundation has a sun protection factor to keep those harmful rays away from damaging the delicate skin on your face.

Jo Malone – the gorgeous luxury home fragrance range, pick up a candle for the home in Pomegranate Noir £38.00 Bliss – winter wonder hands gift set £10

Hair needs some love too – try the fabulous Moroccan oil range, these amazing hair products really help to repair the hair and lock in moisture, keeping it soft and shiny. Apply the Moroccan Oil Deep Restorative Mask £30.45 (www.feelunique. com) to your hair twice a week, leave it on overnight and wake up with luscious hydrated locks.

Skincare is the most important part of any make-up application, and without a well prepared canvas, make-up application will not have the radiant, flawless finish or durability on the skin which it deserves. Spend some time talking to a skin expert on skincare or make-up counters in department stores if you feel you need some guidance on identifying your skins needs. Selfridges is ideal and great customer service where you will be able to find any of the fabulous products already recommended above.

Perfect Party Pout!!

Follow these steps bellow to create that perfect classic red lip...

1. Using a cotton bud gently Exfoliate the lip to rid of any dead flaky skin on the lip, (Jemma Kidd Perfect Pout Lip exfoliating treatment Balm £8) 2. Use a concealer on and around the lips, this will help to neutralise lip colour and to help bring out the lip from the face, ensuring all redness is taken away from around the lip!!

3. Prime the lip to enhance the staying performing of the lip colour and to get beautiful application of the liner (Mac prep and prime lip £10.50) 4. Starting at the cupids bow start to line the lips along the lip line, if you want your lips to look fuller, line just above your natural lip line to produce a an ‘m’ like shape on your top lip.

5. Taking a lip brush start to apply the lip colour onto the lip, blending the colour into the liner with the brush, keep building up colour until lips are even and well blended (Chanel allure lip colour – lover) 6. For head turning party lips apply an ultra shiny gloss over the colour (mac clear lipglass £11.50 or for a glitzy finish mac dazzelglass £16.00)

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FEATURES

Lena Bryant

by Caroline Bilkey

L

ena Himmelstein Bryant Malsin was a pioneer of her time, being the first ever person to introduce Plus size clothing in to the fashion market in the 1900’s, and revolutionary in the creation of their design, shaping history for our plus size women today.

In 1865, Lithuanian born Lena, aged 16 arrived as an immigrant to New York, having travelled alone from her birth place, in search for a better life. A gifted seamstress, she supported herself working as a dressmaker for a US$- a week. Quickly becoming very skilled in her craft, within her first year her earnings had transformed to an extraordinary $15per week. Before the age of 20, Lena married a Jewish immigrant jeweller from Russia named David Bryant, of which sadly soon passed away after their son Raphael was born.

A woman of many talents, who was widowed at such an early age with David’s sudden death, Lena Bryant chose to support her and her young son, by pursuing a career as a dressmaker. By borrowing a mere US$300 off her brother in law for capital, she was able to open a bank account in order to start her business. On visit to the bank the bank officer misspelt her name as ‘Lane’ instead of Lena, which is what prepositioned her to change her name for her work and company as it is today.

Due to her success in dressmaking, in 1904 she rented a small storefront in Fifth Avenue, New York, paying US$12.50 per month for rent. The store provided living quarters at the back for her and her son and she could hang all her designs on the gas fittings at the front of the store. Lane opened her women’s fashion company Lane Bryant, to the streets of New York.

One of Lanes first challenges became apparent when she was asked by one of her pregnant customers if she could design something ‘presentable but comfortable’ to wear. Lane created a dress with an accordion

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pleated skirt and elasticated waistband. This dress was to be documented as the first commercially made maternity dress in the world, and thus increased the number of middle class women who seeked to the break the Victorian tradition.

This garment also helped poorer pregnant women, who had no choice but to go to work. The maternity dress soon became the best selling garment in Lanes shop.

In 1909 Lane married Albert Malsin, who systematically took charge of her business and began to develop and expand it, by becoming her business partner. With the help of Albert, by 1910 sales from Lane Bryant women’s store had reached US$50,000 a year. Albert went on to modernise all the systems at Lane Bryant, producing more dresses at a lower cost by employing high speed sewing methods, and leaving Lane herself to focus on the supplying of the design pattern making materials and financing for contractors.

Unfortunately the potential with Lane Bryants maternity product was limited, as rules were strict

own homes, without the discrimination of others.

On doing so by 1917 revenues had reached well over one million dollars.

and frowned upon, of the advertising of pregnancy at the time. By 1911, with great effort Albert finally managed to convince the New York Herald to accept advertising for their company, marking Lane Bryants name in Fashion History. Incidentally her entire stock sold out the very next day.

To help cope with the discrimination from the newspapers, Lane and Albert created the first ever mail catalogue for maternity wear. The mail orders helped women order clothing in the privacy of their

After the huge success from the maternity range, Lane discovered there was a niche market for clothing for the ‘stout-figured women’, something that had never been touched on before World War 1. Lane personally measured 4500 people in her store, as well as drew analysis from some 200,00 others and came to the conclusion, that there were three types of ‘stout-figured women’.

She designed for these women, who in the modern world would be known as our ‘plus-size’, and by 1923 her company sales had reached five million dollars, and her ‘stout-figured’ clothing had completely exceeded sales of her maternity range. In 1915, Lane Bryant opened its first branch retail store in Chicago and by 1969; the success from the company had grown to over 100 stores within the United States, with combined sales of 200 million.

On a personal level Lanes customers were very important to her. At her own suggestion, her company worked with the Red Cross to replace any Lane Bryant customers wardrobe destroyed in a disaster. After the 1947 Texas disaster the company outfitted 58 mail order customers whose homes were destroyed in the fire. Lane then became a pioneer in a different way, by offering profit sharing, pension, disability insurance, group life insurance plans and medical benefits from within her company, which therefore meant by 1950 she had more than 3500 employees participating.

After Lanes death in 1951, her sons took over her business. The Lane Bryant operations were purchased in 1982 by The Limited, founded by Leslie Wexner and in 1999 the retail operations were sold to Charming Shoppes for $335 million, which has since gone on to introduce online and outlet stores. In 2004 a flagship store was opened in New York, near Fifth Avenue.

Although now no longer a family based company, Lane’s family legacy went on to continue. In 2002, two of Lane’s great grandsons formed a new company named Fashion To Figure, to follow on with her ranges of plus size clothing. Aside of this, today Lane Bryant is a house hold name for a large retail clothing chain, present in many shopping centres across America. Her pioneering ways helped shape history for plus size women, and the acceptance of a ‘different’ figure, and she was revolutionary of her time to shape the future as it is today.

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FEATURES

evolve 1st anniversar

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ry

Thank you for all your support!!! Luv Rianne xx

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COVER STORY

Model, Celebrity, Icon

by Olga Crosse

I

had the pleasure of interviewing Ms Tocarra Jones in East London recently whilst she was doing the amazing cover shoot for the this issue. Toccara is as stunningly beautiful and confident in the flesh as she is in pictures. She has achieved phenomenal success as a Plus Size model, appearing on Vogue Italia, working with Jay Z, a successful T.V. career not to mention appearing on the cover of Evolve’s 1st anniversary issue. We chatted about everything from appearing in the nude to her taking over Italy!

You are from Dayton Ohio and have the key to the city. Where do you live now?

The earth is my turf. I have travelled all over the world working. I lived in Harlem NYC when I started out at 16. I now live in Hollywood with my family. It was a great honour to be given the key to Dayton.

Home though, is where my things are and not a physical location.

You were in the Ultimate Merger – a US dating show, why would a stunner like you go on a dating show?

To meet a guy why else?

Did you get a date?

Of course I did. I picked Jason who is mighty fine mmmmmm on top of fine.

ME- Still seeing him?

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TJ – Might be!

Did you see much of Donald Trump, who has an eye for pretty Ladies?

TJ – What do you mean?

ME- Did he flirt with you?

TJ - He couldn’t be nicer and his wife is beautiful.

You could have your pick of any man, is there anyone special?

She looked at me coyly Me – so there is then. Ok, Toccara has a boyfriend she won’t mention’ TJ – laughs !

You must have come across some famous guys who are keen?

TJ - Yes maybe (laughs).

What’s your type?

I don’t really have a type, as in a physical type. I’ve dated older men, I like very intelligent men, who I can learn from, who are smart, successful, and who are willing to share their intelligence.

Tell me about the JAY Z plus size range?

Jay Z asked me to be involved in his ‘I will not lose’ campaign as I am plus size and passionate about it.

gold black top - worn as a dress - Dynasty Gold bracelets and rings - Lula Lula Shoes - models own

He asked me to make plus size hot and I made it HOT. Me- Did you meet Beyonce?

TJ - Yes of course. (At this point we all nearly fainted) .

Those shots in Vogue Italia are seriously sexy and smoking hot, especially the shots in the boot of a car, how do you turn that on?

I was unsure at first about the boot of the car shot, but Steven Meisel is amazing.

I really see myself in those pictures, they are very subtle, and I love them. I have them on my wall at home.

Appearing on Vogue catapulted you to a different level in terms of profile.

Did it affect your career ?

Yes a little. I am always busy ‘praise God’, I’ve been blessed since ANTM. I can now make decisions and I am in control of me. I want to go to Italy next and take over Italy.

ME- Berlusconi is gone there is a vacancy.

TJ – (laughs), they love black women in Italy. I would love to live in Milan, then move to Paris, hell I want to live everywhere.

You have shot campaigns for Evans and now VOGUE Italia and Evolve Magazine. Europe seems to have taken a shine to you?

I love Europe too. Italian Vogue is the capital of fashion and I made history featuring on that cover and was called revolutionary that’s the highest compliment.

How did the Vogue shoot happen?

I was recommended for it. It all happened so fast I thought I was auditioning but I was actually getting sized, so it was quick.

You mentioned that you would walk around in the nude if you could, how did the body confidence come about?

I’ve always been confident about my body. I prefer no clothes to be honest.

When I work I think about something sexy, I feel it, I feel good and then it happens.

You get your clothes off for the Vogue shoot albeit in a very tasteful and

classy way, is it awkward at all, how do your parents feel about it?

Its not awkward at all, my father was at the shoot and my family are very supportive in everything I do. I see nothing wrong with it. I am very comfortable in my own skin.

How well received was the Vogue campaign in the US? It was sold out, the publication had to do a reprint. It had a red stamp across it and was the most wanted back cover in history. People were ordering 10/15 at a time and if you wanted a copy, you had to put yourself on a list. It was phenomenal.

Whats in store for Tocarra?

Laughs – I want to take over the world.

I am going to do it all, my story will continue. I’m going to continue with my acting classes and bible classes, . I have a movie coming out in March 2012 called Think Like a Man starring Terrence J and Megan Good.

Do you have any advice for anyone wanting to break into modelling?

Take care of yourself, eat well, sleep, make sure you have a dream and follow it, f**k what people think. Women really do have power and must learn how to say no.

ME -Have you ever encountered nastiness?

TJ – Yes all the time. ME- WHAT?.

TJ (very graciously) everyone is entitled to their opinion, there is freedom of speech.

ME- agreed, but no need for abuse.

TJ – I choose not to retain those negative comments. I’m an optimist, I choose to put my energy somewhere else. Any press is good press, at least they are saying my name.

Evolve’s motto is Be Proud…Be You, what makes Toccara Proud to be Tocarra?

I love where I started from. I want to be the best Toccara I can be and rock this thing.

Evolve – Be Proud Be You. Olga Crosse www.rubenisstas.org www.accessaccessories.com

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Photographer: Margaret Yescombe, MUA: Sharn Hunjan, Hair : Mimi Murray, Stylist : Caroline Bilkey

burgundy dress by ASOS Gold necklace - de vallenger design ÂŁ49

50,s dress Vivien of holloway Vintage necklace de vallenger design ÂŁ39

FASHION

WINTER ACCESSO Fur Coats

Leopard, Dalmatian, Raccoon, Tiger.

Fur coats come in a variety of furs this season, all faux naturally. The good thing is about these coats, there’s a shape for everyone! Gilets can be belted over maxi dresses for a nipped in waist when the weather is mild. As soon as the temperature drops, the style points heat up as you have so many shapes and styles to pick from; long and shaggy, short and cropped or even as a feature on shoulders or sleeves, fur is the only coat you should be seen in this season

Boots

Knee length, calf length, ankle length, shoe boot. There are so many ways you can wear the boot. For daytime, pick a super flat riding boot a la Topshop. For night time, glam it up with a block glitter heel, inspired by ‘shoe of the season’ Miu Miu’s. New Look do a fantastic pair.

Hats and Headpieces

Whether you want to stand out in a crowd with a wickedly wild headpiece, or just keep warm in a cosy beanie, hats are the most important accessory this season.

No longer just something to wear on bad hair days, a hat shows off a piece of your personality. A beret in a pop colour will complement a trenchcoat, nailing that 1940s Parisian femme fatale persona.

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ORIES

by sarah potter

The Collar

Peter Pan collars have had a serious fashion moment this past eighteen months, and this season they’re just as hot, incorporating the newest trends. Tiny furry necklets seen on River Island knits, shiny gold sequin collars with ribboned pussybows and silk bow ties with fetish style studs, the collar is a great way to update an old favourite little black dress!

Perfect Cover Ups

Sometimes, you can have everything you’re supposed to have. The perfect shoes, the perfect jewellery, shoes, handbag. Yet there can be something missing. A cover up!! For many women, one of their real problem areas is their arms, and they’d rather cover up than bare all. No need to bulk yourself out with knits, or put back that sleeveless dress on the rack. A cover up is the perfect piece to pick up this season. Lace, sequinned, kimono shaped, there are so many to accompany your party dress you’ll wonder why you never swapped that cardigan before!

PLUS Evolve Lust/Wish List Look Magazine Beauty- This weekly glossy has launched a fab makeup range with super affordable prices.

TIGI Candy Fixations- Candy scented hair products in retro packaging! Too sweet.

Karl Lagerfeld for Sephora. Our two favourites things combined- a fashion legend and gorgeous makeup!

Everything by RAINLondon.com A gorgeous new place to shop at for plus sized clothing.

GHD Hairdryer. GHD literally stands for Good Hair Days, and with their brand new hairdryer, we need never fear a BHD! The blocked monochrome heel collection from ASOS. Very Chanel!

All of the colours in the new OPI ‘Touring America’ collection. Finally we can nail our nail art!

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FASHION

Holiday Outfits Sorted

!

Sequins/Glitter

All that glitters may not be gold, but you can feel like a million dollars this Christmas in sequins and glitter! A whole range of metallics are available this season, from gunmetal greys, gorgeous golds and beautiful bronzes and whether your choice of shine comes from lame or sequins, it’s one look that’s sure to get you noticed. Inspiration is taken from Miu Miu’s catwalk collection, is which THOSE gold glittery shoes were first showcased.

CATWALK INSPIRATION- Miu Miu HIGHSTREET HOTSPOT- Miss Selfridge

Polka Dots

More demure than Minnie Mouse, the new polka dot is sexy, sassy and everything in between. Think grown up glamour with a twist of kitsch! Perfect for that vintage feel, while still staying comfortably on trend.

Polka dots are seen on everything from tights to tops this Christmas, and one of the biggest delightfully dotty inspirations in Stella McCartney’s collection. Her bodycon dresses ooze just the right amount of sex appeal, and the high street is catching her up!

CATWALK INSPIRATION- Stella McCartney HIGHSTREET HOTSPOT- Pilot Fashion

Animal Prints

Leopard, dalmatian, snakeskin, elephant. Ok, that last one was a lie, but my drift is... animal prints are ferociously on trend, whatever your animal of choice may be! Catch it? For a look that will turn heads, choose a flowing maxi dress in animal print and team chunky wedges! For wallflowers who still want to pack a punch, choose accessories in animal prints, like scarves or shoes. A subtle nod to a trend that could be tricky for you.

CATWALK INSPIRATION- Topshop Unique HIGHSTREET HOTSPOT- Topshop

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!

by sarah potter

Velvet

1940s Chic

There’s something so gorgeous about vintage.

Whether it be the romance of days gone by, or the thrill that you are, in essence, wearing a bit of a ‘costume’ as such and can be whoever you want for the night, the 1940s are definitely in this present! Gucci’s silhouettes were sleek and refined on the catwalk, and you can easily emulate the look on the highstreet.Team your outfit with wiggle inducing heels and a slick of sexy siren red lipstick and you’re ready to paint the town red!

CATWALK INSPIRATION- Gucci HIGHSTREET HOTSPOT- Vivienne of Holloway

Less velour, more va va voom, velvet is IN and it’s far easier to wear than you may think! Less vampirish chic and more, well, chic chic, velvet comes in sumptuous jewel tones this season. Think bordeaux burgundies, midnight blues and deep plums, there will be a colour to suit every skin tone. Combine velvet with less fussy fabrics for a modern contrast.

CATWALK INSPIRATION- Marc by Marc Jacobs HIGHSTREET HOTSPOT- Mint Velvet

Androgynous

Boy meets girl meets girl meets boy?! This trend is actually far from confusing. Looking like a boy has never been more chic! Whether it be tailored cigarette pants, a crisp white shirt and a black silk bow tie, the more androgynous the better! It’s also the perfect trend for any ladies who aren’t really keen on wearing dresses. For a more understated look, loose the tuxedo jacket, add a cardigan with elbow patches and team with a pair of flat brogues.

CATWALK INSPIRATION- Dolce & Gabbana HIGHSTREET HOTSPOT- Asos

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EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

by Lacara Kutcherman

ROBYN LAWlEY 50

H

ailed as the “size-14 Elle Macpherson”, Robyn Lawley is taking the fashion world by storm! She has graced the covers of French Elle, Italian Vogue, and was the opening model for Elena Miro in their SS12 show.

Robyn was kind enough to take some time out of her busy schedule to have a quick chat with Evolve magazine, here’s what the rising superstar had to say...

How were you discovered?

I entered a modelling competition when I was 16 years old.

You’ve become the new ‘poster child’ for the plus size community, how do you feel when people comment on your size?

I know it’s going to happen regardless of whether you are a ‘straight’ model or ‘plus’ model because a model is based entirely on what you look like, so you need to have a strong backbone to be able to handle a lot of criticism. I do however love that I represent a community that gets poorly misrepresented so it gives me huge joy when we reach milestones.

What has been the highlight of your plus size modelling career?

Meeting Steven Meisel and getting the opportunity to work with him - every models dream How did it feel to be on the cover of Vogue Italia?

It felt amazingly unbelievable, its one of those very surreal moments in life but I am so happy that it happened.

If you could change one thing about the fashion industry what would it be?

Their opinion on plus size models.

If you weren’t a model, what other career would you have?

I’d be a chef or a DJ Who are your favourite brands/designers?

I like a huge variety, I buy majority of my clothes from urban outfitters and vintage stores, I appreciate brands like Alexander Mcqueen or Willow, I like when a designer expresses themselves through their clothing designs A great plus size brand that I love is Damn you Alexis.

What is one surprising fact your fans wouldn’t know about you?

That I love too cook. http://robynlawleyeats.tumblr.com/ What is your favourite dessert?

Mulberry tart Finish the sentence : Always... Love Never... Settle

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FEATURES

SIMPLY BE

by OLGA CROSSE

I

was very excited to learn that the march of the Plus Size retailers has gathered pace recently, with Simply Be (the online retailer) opening two retail sites recently in the North of England. The first in Liverpool One was opened in September 2011 and occupies a whopping 3,217 square feet.

It was officially opened by the vibrant Lisa Riley and attended by Coronation St actress Katy Cavanagh. The second store is in Bury Manchester and was opened on the 6th October 2011, and it occupies an equally impressive 4,314 square feet. I am reliably informed that there are 4 more store openings planned for next year up North and then a nationwide rollout depending on the success of the existing stores.

Simply Be is my personal ‘go to’ fashion retailer and caters for those of us between sizes 14 and 32. Part of the JD Williams group, it prides itself in catering for curvy women. Offering real fashion that fits, Simply Be are the experts in fit, shape and fashion.

Speaking of the new openings, Simply Be’s Marketing Manager Alison Forbes said ‘Simply Be has long been an online destination for curvy fashion and we are excited to make this logical step into retail’.

There are design collaborations with design heavyweights such as Zandra Rhodes and Anna Scholz ensuring all the fashions are current, happening and up to date and very important this - reasonable.

I wish Simply Be all the best and continued success and am heartened to know a retailer is investing in growing the Plus Size offering especially given the current economic climate and the negativity that exists towards Plus Size fashion. Simple Be – Be Proud Be You, we here at Evolve are proud to be associated with you.

Evolve – Be Proud Be You Olga Crosse www.rubenisstas.org www.accessaccessories.com

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53

FEATURES

Christmas comes but once a year – nearly all year

I

love and dread Christmas in equal measure. The dread starts sometime around September and the love starts at the first of the Christmas parties. Christmas comes but once a year , maybe its me, but lately it seems to stay a helluva long time. Forget the 12 days of Christmas, my local Tescos started selling the Christmas cakes and puds sometime in early September.

I was eating Christmas cake and hadn’t even gone on my summer hols yet. It’ll elves on the beach in June next. I’m sure there’s a plot to have it for most of the year right after Easter (once they’ve flogged the eggs and bunnies).

Speaking of Easter I actually bought a crème egg last week, yes you guessed it, they have started ever so slyly selling Easter eggs in November!!! Having said that I do have a super ultra organised friend (we all have the one), who buys all her crimbo pressies in the January sales, so her prep lasts nearly the whole year!

So with the preparation and expectation rammed down our throats for much of the year, what exactly does Christmas mean to us?

Well for me personally it’s a bottleneck of disasters all rolled into one. Stories of my mishaps are regaled year on year, with more added all the time. Yes, I know I sat on the Christmas cake one year and ruined 3 months of soaking, basting and icing - I have not been allowed to forget it. I also am fully aware (but was not at the time) of crashing head first into my friends tastefully decorated tree and breaking a window- taking ‘rockin around the tree’ to a whole new level! I even caused an accident with a poinsettia perched precariously on the front of my push bike once – believe you me the season of good cheer was not in force that day on the Cromwell Road with bits of red plant all over the road and a tailback to Hyde Park Corner.

Then there are the rows, the infamous annual family splats (you know the ones). It usually starts out well enough, with me thinking that with a bit of effort (well ok a lot of effort), maybe, just maybe this year we’ll act like the Waltons, all nice, saying grace, singing around the fire and feeling the love. I put the harmony which the Waltons reside in firmly down to the fact they have a huge house, with a massive garden and a granny flat to the side. Our family discord, I reckon, is due in no small part to a large number of adults crammed into small rooms having power struggles which would put many a Mafiosa to shame.

It never ceases to amaze me when seemingly sane, respected members of the community who work, have successful careers, manage staff, pay mortgages, bring up children revert straight back to childhood seething with resentment, arguing over board games, whilst wearing coloured paper hats the minute the Queen’s speech is over ,having seriously overeaten.

One year I even went away on my own to escape and you know what I missed it. It’s a chance to behave in a totally irrational, childish way for a day.

So remember as you eat your overboiled sprouts and dive into your 50th Celebration chocolate, or go off in a sulk to watch Willy Wonka (if you can find the space). Christmas is for kids, why not behave like one…. after all it only comes but once a year…and at the rate things are going it’ll soon be all year!

Happy Christmas, see you in 2012!

Evolve Be Proud….Be You Olga Crosse www.rubenisstas.org www.accessaccessories.com

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MODEL SPOTLIGHT

Harriet UK’s latest plus model sensation

by Charmaine Coward

H

arriet is rapidly becoming one of the UK’s top up and coming plus size models.

Evolve Magazine sat down with her to discover all out this deliciously curvy model with the enviable sexy pout…..

Born in Germany to parents that were serving in the British armed forces Harriet quickly became accustomed to travelling at a very young age, until 1992 when her family settled in Hampshire, England.

Harriet has always loved fashion and modeling and is currently following in her mothers and grandmothers foot steps that were both models! One of her most vivid memories is of her as a child spending numerous hours going through her mothers and grandmothers modeling photographs, which influenced her desire to continue this family trend of a career in front of the lens.

‘You could asay that modeling is in Harriet’s blood’...

However, believing that modeling was an unrealistic career path Harriet studied Fashion design, Textiles and Art at college, until she was scouted by Toni & Guy, where she undertook her first modeling assignment for the Toni & Guy Academy in London.

This opportunity soon escalated leading

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her to become one of the finalists for the L’Oreal colour trophy, where the panelists included, Andrew Collinge, Charles Worthington and Trevor Sorbie.

Harriet is one determined young lady at only 21 years of age and in the short period that she has been signed to Milk Management she has already achieved so much. Harriet recently flew over to the USA to be the face of Evans Macy’s and Nordstrom and soon to be featured in UK designer Anna Scholz’s Black label campaign. Let’s not forget her fantastic fashion spread in December’s issue of Evolve magazine.

Harriet is different to a lot of other plus size models her look is very current it’s a cross between editorial and sexy commercial.

Milk recently sent Harriet on assignment with Muse models in NYC and instantly she was a hit with American clients. Harriet thrives on fashion and loves everything about the industry.

What inspires you to be a plus size model?

I want to succeed in the world of Plus Size modeling, because I feel that more Plus Size models will help to readdress the balance of the size zero factor and that the more curvaceous figure, will once again be at the pinnacle of the modeling industry, which it so rightly deserves.

Outside of fashion what are your hobbies?

I love travelling and seeing different cultures – I believe that culture can be a

good inspiration for fashion too lol!! I also love photography when I have time I love many music genres but especially electro!!!

What is your favourite food?

I’m a bit of a foodie, so my favourite foods would be; sushi! Anything Italian! And you can’t beat a roast dinner! I’m keen to try anything!

What can’t you leave home without?

My favourite product at the moment is my Paul and Joe lip treatment and my Moroccan hair oil!!

What makes you proud to be you?

I couldn’t be more proud to represent being a ‘normal’ & average sized woman, with curves!! And to be part of the plus size industry! I’ve learnt by working hard in life.... Anything is possible!!

Harriet is off for a 3 month modeling stint in NYC in February. Watch this space!!

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FASHION

top 5

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We just can’t get enough of these gorgeous patent yellow loafers from Accessorize. They will ad a pop of colour to any wardrobe. As its Winter you will need to wear tights with them, but try funking them up for a more preppy look with some knit socks. They are great with skirts, dresses and trousers and will draw the attention to your feet. Mix and match with other pop colour accessories, like a printed scarf, or a bright necklace. What we love best about them, is they will take you right through to Spring 2012, and still be totally on trend then for your Spring ensembles.

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by Caroline Bilkey

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Look no further for your perfect trousers, than these Anna Scholz leather look Jeans, available at Simply Be for a well priced ÂŁ60-.

With the cigarette style shaping of the leg and the gorgeous texture of fabric, they are current, yet classic. Use these like you would, with your staple pair of black leggings. Wear them during the day with some cool colored flats or riding boots, and by night spice them up with some killer heels. They look fantastic with a long embellished top over them, or a tucked in a white oversized boyfriend shirt into the waistband, worn with a silk printed scarf. They are sexy and a must have staple for any womans Winter wardrobe.

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This polka dot pussy bow blouse is a classic, and only £25- from Next. This is the perfect staple for anyones wardrobe, as it works well for the office, as well as at night. It’s design is classic and the bow draws attention to your face and neckline. It has no fastenings other than the bow, so a perfect throw on. The spots are very now, and it looks great peaking out of a blazer or a coat. You can even wear with a fitted knit jumpers, but remember to pull the bow out in front, so you dont miss its gorgeous detail.

5 4 We just love Republics take on the classic snood, this one being named the ‘miso frost snood’, priced at £14.99. This aubergine colour is fantastic for Winter and it’s chunky knit will keep you cozy and warm. Wear it with anything and everything from coats, to plain long-sleeved tees. We love this colour teamed with olive green and tan brown colours to compliment. The almost necklacelike neckline, makes it perfect for layering, so it is still warm but not too bulky.

These Next red leather gloves are an absolute steal at £16- pounds a pair, for genuine leather. This bright orange/red colour is hot for Winter, and brightens up any outfit.

Us fellow Brits are known for our constant use of black, particularly during Winter, so these gloves are the perfect answer to mix with your black clothes. Clash them with other colours in your outfit, if you so dare to, or wear some bright red lippy to compliment. The little bow detail ads an elegant feminine finish, but don’t be fooled by this, these gloves mean business!

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INTERVIEW

Anna Scholz The woman BEHIND the brand

by Olga Crosse 60

I

popped along to Anna Scholz’s offices in North West London recently and spent a very enjoyable few hours chatting with Anna and being shown around.

Anna started her highly successful label 16 years ago, pioneering high end fashion for the curvy lady at a time when curvy fashion was being seriously ignored by the mainstream.

Originally from Hamburg, she came to London to study and never left. Hamburg’s loss is our gain.

Describe a typical Anna Scholz customer?

That’s not an easy one. An Anna Scholz customer is so many different types of woman, from a 25 year old, spanning right up to women in their 80’s.

My main label is geared towards high end fashion and my Simply Be range caters for the customer who wants reasonable but fashionable clothes.

What were people’s attitudes towards curvy women when you started out and now?

Fashion comes in waves. Jean Paul Gaultier, started using Plus Size models 20 years ago and there was a spike of excitement, but then heroin chic took over in the early 90’s and that took off.

The clothes options then were dreadful. We have all come a long way since I started 16 years ago.

There are still not many brands, and it’s only lately that it has occurred to designers and retailers that big people want and like fashion too. Women do not want to wear sacks.

Where do you shop?

I wear my own creations mostly, but for jeans I wear Jessica Svoboda which are sold online on my website. I am obsessed with accessories. I love earrings, shoes and collecting vintage sunglasses.

I love foraging in vintage markets for old jewellery.

I love little independent boutiques and Portobello road.

Who inspires/influences you?

Everything, I love having my friends around and picking their brains for ideas. I am a sucker for vintage and am very inspired by the 60’s and 70’s. If I find a print or fabric, cushion or tea cosy then I will use it as a starting point, re-colour, change it and it mutates into something great. I love colour and people watching. Londoners are very individual and London just inspires me.

Do you have a muse?

No, I find lots of women inspiring. I love old movies, Sophia Loren, Claudia Cardiniale, Frido Kahlo strong women with individuality.

Are people’s perceptions different here than in the US and Europe towards curvier people?

I find in the US there is a complete divide between the overweight and the health and fitness conscious. Manhattan fashionistas can be terribly condescending and look down on you for ‘letting yourself go’. In the UK people are far more relaxed about it all. Germans are far more judgemental.

The Dutch are totally non judgemental. Italians celebrate curves, and love women who are proud, strong and confident. I have modelled since I was 18 and have never really suffered for my size the way some people have. I get lots of positive feedback.

How did it all start?

I studied at St Martins and in my final year I worked in a shop in Portobello Road where I sold my designs one day a week. It was there I learned the psychology of women and couldn’t believe how depreciative women are of themselves. I’ve had women tell me that they can’t laugh because they have a fat tongue. Women are very hard on themselves and on each other. When I graduated I spotted a gap in the market and off I went.

You also have a high street collaboration with Simply Be. How did that come about?

I had just finished a collaboration with Debenhams and Simply Be approached me, I liked their ethos, and they are more fashionable. I am finding the collaboration very enjoyable and love working with the team there. SS12 is now in the bag and AW12 is currently being designed, and it will be finished at the end of Jan 2012.

What are your style predictions for SS12?

Hippy deluxe, rock and ethnic with a strong Moroccan influence.

Happy clothes and lots of bright colours. The SS12 range was shot in Marrakech featuring Robyn Lawley.

Whats next for Anna Scholz?

We are growing online and are developing a standard basic line i.e. the perfect white shirt, black trousers, suits with a twist. We will still sell to retail but online is the future.

Evolves Motto is ‘Be Proud… Be You’ – What makes you proud to be you ?

Not being boring, having confidence in myself, my loyalty to my friends and as a friend. I like to think I am kind and exciting.

Evolve – Be Proud Be You. Olga Crosse www.rubenisstas.org www.accessaccessories.com

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FEATURES

Curves in Couture The Tabernacle, Notting Hill 17 November 2011

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he Evolve team Rianne (Editor), Angela (Copy Ed), and myself attended the Curves in Couture fashion show at the Tabernacle West London in aid of the Advance Centre East Grinstead on 17 November 2011 as one of the sponsors of the show. We were treated to a bevy of beauties (guys and gals) from a diverse range of backgrounds, all looking gorgeous and healthy in beautiful fashion. Never have I seen so many Amazonian goddesses looking like they stepped straight out of a Renaissance painting’.

The evening was hosted by Pamela Stephenson (comedienne, psychotherapist and Billy Connolly’s other half) looking stunning in a hot pink and black Renaissance dress. Pamela joked that she has never seen so many boobs in her life and especially not at a fashion show.

She drew a huge whoop and loud applause when she commented that there is a place for size zero fashion as dusters and handkerchiefs.

Also compering the evening was the lovely Natalie Cassidy, who commented that she has been every size from a 20 to a 12 and was proud to be part of this event.

Other luminaries included the organiser of the show and CEO of Models of Diversity Angel Sinclair, designer Zandra Rhodes, journalist Eve Pollard and Lynn Featherstone (MP), Miss Trinidad & Tobago, Caroline Rush CEO British Fashion

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FEATURES

Council, Flawless, and Lee from Imagination.

Kelly Knox, winner of Britain’s Missing Top Model, opened the highfashion show. We were treated to Toccara Jones, Robyn Lawley (fresh off the cover of Vogue Italia), Lizzie Miller to name but a few, modelling a range of designers including Renaissance by Kevin Freeman, Anna Scholz, Erin Lacey, Danielle Liane, Jill Alexander (who flew from California especially for the show), Jose Hendo (eco consious label) and stunning hats from Ilda Di Vico – Ascot will never be the same again.

I had a great chat with Whitney Thompson – winner of America’s Top Model, who was telling me about the launch this week of her new dating website called thebigandthebeautifil. com. She also told me about her range of eco friendly candles and jewellery and about her work with the US Association of National Eating Disorders. She also manages to fit in modelling for Forever 21, JC Penney and Target. When I asked her why this event was so significant, Whitney said its important to ‘accept yourself, love yourself, never allow others to define who and how you

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Photographs courtesy of Nathan Thompson

are’. Whitney told me she was planning on shopping in Primark , drinking Dirty Martinis and Pinot Grigio (sounds like a woman after my own heart). Originally from Jacksonville Florida, Whitney now lives in Hells Kitchen NYC and is dating a lawyer.

I bumped into the fabulous Velvet D’Amour in a beautiful black and cream lace corset who had everyone eating out of the palm of her very elegantly clad hand.

I had a quick chat with Olivia Campbell (interviewed in the last issue), who was literally fizzing with excitement and Debi – A Dutch model who modelled a beautiful dusky pink evening dress. On the way out I caught up with Lizzie Miller who is as charming in person as she looks, she is busy as a bee and has just moved into a new apartment in NYC on the corner of 91st and Broadway and was delighted to be over in London at this event.

All in all it was a superb event and showed Plus size and diversity in a very positive way. I am confident it will become a regular feature on the London fashion calendar and be emulated on the catwalks the world over.

Evolve – Be Proud Be You. Olga Crosse www.rubenisstas.org www.accessaccessories.com

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FASHION

Christmas OUTFIT STYLES YULE LOVE!

by MELITA DAVIS Whether you’re stepping out into a winter wonderland of sleet and snow this Christmas, or a swinging summery Christmas party this season, there are many style ideas to get you into the festive holiday spirit. Never more than ever, has there been more choice after choice ,of beautiful plus size outfits to show off some sexy curves if you’re in party mode or just curled up under the mistletoe.

From cocktails to casual Christmas parties - look no further than our holiday season styling for your Christmas curves. Here are a few ideas for bringing the sexy, stylish and swoon back to Christmas & the New Year and (most importantly) the curvy girl - in 2011 /2012.

Sequins glitter & metallics always give that holiday sparkle. Pretty party dresses teamed with a more subtle heel in nude, silver or black are a classy Christmas look. We mix it up with lace and bold colours, paring accessorised outfits back down to a minimum, but still bringing the bright festive colours to the fore.

A more subdued holiday outfit can always be brightened up with an accessory such as a coloured clutch, heel or even some coloured or metallic jewels. Remember, if you are wearing a stand out metallic or glittery dress/outfit; keep the accessories to a bare minimum if you want to avoid the outfit being too overwhelming... If not – bling it up & bring in the New Year with style, whatever your style!

Merry Christmas Evolve-ers! xx

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1)http://www.saksfifthavenue.com/include/Zoom.jsp?PRODUCT%3C%3Eprd_id=845524446442840&FOLDER%3C%3Efolder_id=282574492821982&bmUID=jgjMOGM 2) http://www.lanebryant.com/p122391/index.pro?relatedItem=true#productTabs_1 3)http://www.asos.com/au/ASOS/ASOS-CURVE-Jacket-With-Sequin-Sleeve/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=1811170&cid=9582&Rf-200=1,4,17&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=20&sort=-1&clr=Black 4)http://www.asos.com/au/ASOS/ASOS-Curve-Exclusive-Maxi-Dress-In-Metallic/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=1760612&cid=9577&Rf-200=5,11,1&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=200&sort=1&clr=Gold 5) http://www.asos.com/au/ASOS/ASOS-CURVE-Slash-Dress-With-Split-Sleeve/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=1811625&cid=9577&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=200&sort=1&clr=Green 6) http://www.asos.com/au/ASOS/ASOS-CURVE-Green-Skinny-Jean/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=1857088&cid=9577&Rf-200=2&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=200&sort=1&clr=Green 7) http://www.17sundays.com/dresses/kiss-my-grass-beach-dress/w1/i1002466_1001195/ 8) http://www.asos.com/au/Warehouse/Warehouse-Pleated-Maxi-Skirt/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=1599004&SearchQuery=red%20pleated%20maxi&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=20&sort=1&clr=Red 9) http://www.asos.com/au/ASOS/ASOS-Curve-Exclusive-Playsuit-With-Fluted-Sleeve/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=1757522&SearchRedirect=true&SearchQuery=red%20jumpsuit%20curve 10) http://www.asos.com/au/ASOS/ASOS-CURVE-Chiffon-Dress-With-Kaftan-Sleeve/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=1811298&cid=9577&Rf-200=5,11,1&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=200&sort=1&clr=Red 11) http://www.asos.com/au/ASOS/ASOS-CURVE-Exclusive-Lace-Vest/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=1854335&cid=9577&Rf-200=2&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=200&sort=1&clr=Green 12) http://www.asos.com/au/ASOS/ASOS-CURVE-Exclusive-Katie-Lace-Dress/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=1669447&cid=9577&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=200&sort=1&clr=Black 13) http://www.asos.com/au/ASOS/ASOS-CURVE-Maxi-Skirt-In-Mesh-Spot/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=1805925&cid=9577&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=200&sort=1&clr=Black 14) http://www.asos.com/au/ASOS/ASOS-CURVE-Lace-Dress-With-Long-Sleeve/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=1725651&cid=9577&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=200&sort=1&clr=Red

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15)http://www.solestruck.com/haus-of-price-the-neptune-multi/index.html# 16)http://www.solestruck.com/jeffrey-campbell-kicker-red/index.html# 17) http://www.adorne.com.au/trends.aspx 18)http://www.stevemadden.com/item.aspx?id=63399&affSource=CJ&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=2011&utm_source=cj&o mid=affiliate&CID=cj_3252109 19)http://www.torrid.com/torrid/Accessories/Belts//Red+Stretch+Rhinestone+Double+Buckle+Belt-543100.jsp 20)http://www.adorne.com.au/trends.aspx 21)http://www.styletread.com.au/lady-marigold-11h025-silver.html 22)http://www.torrid.com/torrid/Accessories/ShopByBrand/IronFist//Iron+Fist+-+Parting+Kiss+Sequined+Clutch-557940.jsp 23)http://www.stevemadden.com/Item.aspx?id=57645&green=7814F5E2-7880-513B-B5A9-B742163437D1 24)http://www.stevemadden.com/Item.aspx?id=62937&np=127_282-155_448 25)http://www.asos.com/au/ASOS/ASOS-Curve-Metallic-Metal-Keeper-Super-Skinny-Belt/Prod/pgeproduct. aspx?iid=1724324&cid=9577&Rf-200=5,11,1&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=200&sort=-1&clr=Metallicgold 26)http://www.asos.com/au/ASOS/ASOS-Curve-Mirror-Metallic-Skinny-Belt/Prod/pgeproduct.aspx?iid=1760497&cid=9577&Rf-200=5,1 1,1&sh=0&pge=0&pgesize=200&sort=-1&clr=Gold 27)http://www.stevemadden.com/item.aspx?id=63399&affSource=CJ&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=2011&utm_source=cj&o mid=affiliate&CID=cj_3252109 28)http://www.cherryred.com.au/summer-in-portofino-bracelet-set.html 29)http://www.adorne.com.au/trends.aspx

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Beauty Madness “venom� it is an antique gold assorted spike bow ring

“black swan�

ink black coque feathers attached to leather banding with

“metal petals�

Uni lens sunglasses with black pyramid stud and black

“dimepiece�

a gold assorted chain reverse earlace with spike

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ts is a black acrylic jumbo flat link chain with dark gunmetal chain and spike detailpearl detailing

Photographer: Michelle Alexandra www.michellealexandraphoto.com Model: Shelby Secor Ford Models http://www.fordmodels.com/ Accessories Designer Bedlam Accessories http://www.welcome2bedlam.com/ Make-up/Hair Kyra Kouture

“unzipped” in “bondage” Clear goggles with zipper and black pyramid stud detail

INTERVIEW

Velvet D’Amour

by Olga Crosse

V

elvet is fascinating. Velvet is not so much a star as a constellation of stars dazzling us. She’s a photographer (just check out her amazing shoot that she shoot in this issue called ‘Pursuit of Happiness’) she is also a Plus Size role model, muse of Jean Paul Gaultier, magazine editor and a ridiculously nice person. With Velvet, anything is possible. Once met you never forget Velvet.

You were born in the US, how did you end up living in Paris?

I first lived in Italy (I fell for a guy), then moved to Paris 17 years ago and never left.

As a photographer, its said you have the ability to reach the inner soul and find inner beauty?

I see beauty in everyone, I love taking a person or a look and working it in my own velvety way.

Your photographs are gorgeous, sensuous, sexy and influenced by Greek mythology?

I choose Greek mythological themes because they’re more erotic and theatrical.

Plus Size is usually portrayed in an asexualised and desexualised way, yet mainstream fashion images are highly sexualised. There is something very powerful and sexy about a fat woman. I am inspired by Helmut Lang, Helen Unworth and Bruce Weber who tell a story. I love

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photographing nudes and the naked form.

You come across as being very confident, sassy and totally at ease with yourself. Were you always this way?

Sassy is my middle name (its my Irish, Polish, Czech background). When I was younger I was bullied a lot for being fat. I couldn’t depend on just my looks to get by, so I developed a strong personality and sense of humour. I lost a lot of weight when I was younger. When I was thin, I thought I wasn’t thin enough. When I began my journey of self acceptance in my early 20’s, I made a choice not to feel like sh*t and to be me and to embrace my features and use them to the best advantage.

Where do you shop ?

I shop in Rainbow NYC. I like the African American look. I love form fitting clothes, I like my body and love extreme fashion Lady Gaga style.

And those wonderful corsets?

I have them made.

The French, Parisians in particular are always perceived as being weight conscious, do you agree?

The French have always respected me, they respect people who go out of their way to look good and who respect fashion regardless of size.

You are a sex symbol, were you always as sexy and confident?

Damn right I’m a sex symbol. I was a child growing up in the 70’s during the sexual revolution which rubbed off on me for sure. I believe in harnessing your power as a woman through sexuality.

Tell me how to become a sex symbol?

Get photographed by me (laughs). The key is to love yourself. Guys know I like me so they respond to that.

Women are a lot harder on themselves, if you feel good then there are no holds barred.

Do you find you get a lot of attention from men in particular?

Lets face it men will love anyone who wears a corset.

I like attention, it makes you intrinsically powerful. I am not a size 16, in fact I am pretty darned massive but men LOVE it, they know I like myself, they get my power. Men react to all that positivity.

I bet you get offers all the time, anyone special?

Oh yeah sure, everyone gets offers. I have the hottest love. I’ve been with him for 3 years, he is lovely, beautiful, masculine, sexy as hell and hot as Hades. Me- Sounds serious? VD- It is. I am a big flirt, but I have a heart for love. I live for love and I am in love with my love.

It is rumoured that you have a new magazine in the pipeline, tell us more?

Its called Volup no 2, its free online on Feb 14th, in English & French. The first theme is Ectas/Ectasy and is mainly a vehicle for my photography, it will show different body shapes with the emphasis on Plus. The motto is Love your body, Love yourself.

I see you as a complete pioneer in terms of breaking moulds and new ground. What advice would you give?

Really believe in yourself. Jean Paul Gaultier could see I am daring and self confident, he could have chosen lots of other models but he chose me.

Are you in ‘ The Fashion Universe by Jean Paul Gaultier’ out now?

Yes I am one of the first images in it.

Where are you spending Christmas and with who?

In France, with my love.

Evolve’s motto is Be Proud Be You, what makes you Be Proud to be You? Shooting for Evolve Magazine makes me proud.

Evolve – Be Proud Be You. Olga Crosse www.rubenisstas.org www.accessaccessories.com

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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

Twins talk Fun & Fitness

by Ayanda & Zandela Soares

Hoping to lose a few pounds before Christmas or praying that your body rejects the thousands of calories your getting ready to consume? join the club.....

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f you are like us and eat so much food at this time of year that you put yourself into a small coma and wake up around 2nd January sign up to the first gym you see and start searching for the best quick fix diet going, Then you like properly 50% of us need to take some time out before the festive season for planning and preparation.

We all know the two single things that help with weight loss 1) HEALTHY EATING, 2) EXERCISE AND However is knowing what we should be doing good enough for you, because it defiantly is not enough for us. Despite knowing these two things, despite taking

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part in the ITV show The Biggest Loser, we are just like you and find this time of year a real challenge and often give in to our inner demons at the first hurdle.

We believe that the third and most important thing to successful weight loss and healthy living is 3) MINDFUL AND POSITIVE THINKING. Sometimes we can spend our entire day thinking about food, while eating breakfast, we think about what to have for lunch, while eating lunch we think about what we will have for dinner and these are the thoughts we a conscious of. Have you ever seen a snack food wrapper on your desk at work, your car dash board, or next to you on the sofa

Christmas Weight Loss Tip • Add healthy foods to your mels • Eat breakfast no longer that 1hr after waking up •Portion size does matter • Change your attitude • Mindful thinking is powerful • Roast or grill NOT fry • Make your own pudding

and said to yourself “hold on when did I eat that” LOL. After discussing this we felt that we on arrange think about food around every 15 minutes of every waking day. We recognized that we are properly never going to change this about ourselves but with the connect mindful thinking, different food options within our reach and a new attitude we would maybe change that snack food wrapper we see all too often in to a piece of fruit or vegetable.

So this Christmas we decided to put aside the rush to get all the gifts wrapped on time, we put aside deciding on the outfits we would put on, we put aside thinking who’s cooking what, when and where we are going to eat it, we even put aside the thought of not having time off from work and this year for the first time ever, we have started to plan and use mindful thinking of how we can eat just a little healthier on that day.

We have a few things that we think anyone wanting to lose weight, maintain weight or remain healthy should do during this time and the first thing we often use before reaching for the unhealthy option is: Scare yourself: Remember this information, oobesity brings an added risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, diabetes, some forms of cancer, depression, osteoarthritis, joint problems and respiratory difficulties, over eating makes you feel sluggish and miserable. This method can sometimes, SOMESTIMES! Work for us however it is a difficult one to concor when faced with a table of some of your favourite foods.

So when faced with that little of everything: be sure to be mindful of what you are eating and have a little of everything you like, we no longer need to eat until we cannot move for a few hours. If you enjoy

the taste of something do not deprive yourself of it but be sure to only have a little of these unhealthy fatty, sugary, crabby and salty foods.

Be prepared, be prepared for inner demon of temptation and when it comes try not to act on it but find a way to distract yourself.

Shake those feelings: shake those thoughts and feelings of feeling isolated, it does not matter if you are the only person eating salad on Christmas day just think of all the good it is going for you.

Remember that your Christmas meal is not the biggest problem. You can cut calories by choosing white turkey meat, removing the skin (saving about 50 calories per portion) and stacking high the unbuttered veggies but where’s the fun in that? To put on 1lb of body fat you need to eat an extra 3,500 calories not that hard to achieve on Christmas day.

But one blow-out meal will not push you up a dress size. The real issue is the days before and after Christmas day if you know that you are going to have a blow out meal then use the mindful thinking on the days leading up to Christmas excises take long walks, play active games with the children and do anything to keep your body active as this will help to burn of those calories and keep your metabolism active.

Visit www.wellnessproposals.com for information on being wise about your portion size In the next feature we are going to look at ‘does being thinner, make people happier’? If you were once thin and are now bigger or if you were bigger and are now thin please send us in your thoughts on this question to: ayandasoares@evolve-magazine. com Keep Eating Health

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LIFESTYLE

PHENOMENAL HEALTHSTYLE Written by Bella-Marie

Bella-Marie is passionate about fitness and works with people with busy lifestyles to help them find ways to fit healthstyle into their life.

ONE SIZE FITS ALL ….

One size fits all! Don’t you just love the words?!?!?

Those words not only apply to your clothing it also applies to fitness. It doesn’t matter what size or weight you are, everyone can enter into the fitness realm.

I fully appreciated the above a few years ago when I took on a morbidly obese client (morbid obesity is when a person is weighing at least twice the ideal weight). For privacy reasons let’s call her Marie. Marie weighed in at 22 stones / 139.70 kg / 308 lbs and only standing at 5ft 2 inches / 1.59 meters. I will never forget the day I saw her at the gym; she was walking around from machine to machine trying to find one that could manage her size (not

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all gym floor equipment caters for large people). Watching from afar my admiration grew for her because I could see no matter what, she was going to get her workout despite the apparent obstacles.

I waited for Marie to finish her workout before approaching with my ‘I’m such a great Personal Trainer’ splurge. We sat down and chatted about her goals and current lifestyle – I was shocked to hear her say “Bella, I’ve come as low as I can, I have no self respect anymore and I cannot go any lower, the only way for me is up”, she concluded with “if you hear a fat person say they are happy with their size, it is a lie, they say that because they’ve given up trying”. In all honesty I didn’t know how to

respond to those words the only thing I found myself saying was “you are here now, so let’s start from the beginning”.

Admittedly I had little knowledge on obesity and exercise so I went home did some personal research – I knew training an obese client represented a series of unique challenges. Apart from the obvious, which is health & fitness I knew I was about to become a support structure. To ensure Marie’s success I would need to be in contact with her almost daily either through emails, texts and/or phone calls. I knew that building a solid trainer/ client relationship may be the only thing that would prevent her from giving up.

SHE IS A BIG LOSER Before the influx of fitness reality TV shows such as The Biggest Loser, training with Marie changed my entire perspective on larger people and fitness. For a person like Marie to step into an arena where there is prejudice towards the larger population takes a lot of courage. To continue day in, day out without the aid of a gastric band or the celebrity limelight takes so much determination.

After a period of time Marie lost 2 stones / 28lbs / 12.7kgs, could cycle for 30 minutes plus and her greatest achievement was to jog on the treadmill for a few minutes in fact it was a very emotional one, she started crying.

HONESTY So how did Marie lose her weight? First, by being inexcusably honest about her eating program, the amount and type of foods she ate.(Food is a very VERY personal matter and 95% of people lie about what they eat. If I ask a person for their weekly food diary, I can almost guarantee they leave out the naughty foods only because they feel slightly ashamed.)

eating the bags of Walkers she so enjoyed, the cartons of fruit juices (which are full of sugar and unnecessary additives) she also enjoyed mix with water (half and half). I also suggested she eat more regularly (little and often, 5/6 times a day - the more often you eat throughout the day, you can boost your metabolism. The faster your metabolism, the more calories your body burns throughout the day). See an example below: 07:30 – breakfast- bowl of fruit or porridge/muesli 10:30 – snack – yoghurt with an apple or pear / Crackers 13:00 – baked potato with tuna/chicken fajitas with vegetables 16:00 – snack – small bowl of soup (any flavor) 19:30 – meal – meat/fish with lots and LOTS of vegetables Her exercise regime was very specific and carefully structured to suit her injuries and ailments. She would train 4 times a week for around 45 minutes with a mixture of cardio and weights (high repetitions low weights).

ONE SIZE FIT(NES)S ALL It doesn’t matter whether you are size 14 or size 20; the fitness (and health) world is for every single person to venture into and enjoy. Nowhere in any location will you see a gym or health club with signage such as ‘Large Not Welcome’ or ‘Big is not Best’. Fitness holds no barriers……. One Size Fit(nes) s All. So now you’ve read this article set yourself a realistic goal whether it be to lose 10 pounds or participate in a 5km run, get down that gym, book your class or one-to-one and get your fitness on.

Remember ……. One Size Fit(nes)s All and don’t let anyone tell you differently.

I started off with baby steps so I suggested to Marie she stop

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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

British women officially the fattest in Europe – Eurgh!

Written by Alison Chapman As every society, not just British or American and MOST of the European countries get more affluent we will eat more and probably cook less, because we are working longer hours, raising a family and paying off the national debts! I can’t help wonder how all this stacks with the fact we are all living longer too?

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was sunning myself on the decks of P and O cruise liner Adonia. I had been invited to join the cruise to give a couple of after dinner talks. I was feeling happy about life lying on the deck in my swimsuit, comfortable in my own skin, reading the daily paper, when I was appalled to see the headline: “British women officially the fattest in Europe”. The article then added insult to injury by linking obesity to lower IQ’s.

access to 24 hour quality food, unable to indulge without feeling responsible for my nation’s fat ranking!

Were we ever classed as the thinnest women in Europe or nearly the thinnest? The way it was written, I felt, we British woman had lost our position on the European thin scale.

Well hold on a moment – slow down!!

So, British women are fatter and thicker?

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I felt indignant, for woman kind. The way the article was presented was to create as much shock value as possible. It wasn’t written with any challenge or question.

I momentarily wondered why I had wasted my money on what I would like to think is a reasonably balanced intelligent broad sheet.

I hastily scanned the article to see who commissioned the research but all I could find was that the figures were released by the European Commission. Well who compiled the data? What is their area of expertise? Who sponsored the study? A diet aid retailer, perhaps? Without knowing where this information came from I found it hard to take it seriously.

How many anorexic women are going to be looking at themselves with an even greater critical eye after reading this headline? How much more self loathing, in all sizes, will this fan? How many more women will forgo their facial good looks for the sake of their backside?

Just imagine, there I was on a cruise ship with unlimited

Having spent a small fortune in compiling this study, which I have no doubt spread doom and gloom amongst women in the UK, what are they going to do about it? Are they going to offer us European Fataid? Will we get free gym membership? Will they reduce the waiting time for those women who want surgery to reduce their waistlines?

Will we get assistance with slimming club membership?

Will they offer counselling? Will they worry when the anorexic rate increases?

Somewhere in the back of my mind something rang a bell and when I got home I decided to do some research.

Interestingly what I found was this news isn’t so ground breaking. In the Mail on line 4th Feb 2011 there was an article written by Jenny Hope entitled “Women in Britain are the fattest in Western Europe……but still not as big as the Americans…” – well lucky old us!

As I scrolled further back in time I came across a further headline 25th April 2009 “British women don’t mind being Europe’s biggest (it’s French females, the slimmest, who worry most about weight)” written by David Derbyshire.

So, I started to conclude that there just wasn’t enough news last week. Also, the evidence was starting to suggest that British women have historically been larger than their most of our European sisters.

But it’s much more than this isn’t it. These articles mention over and over again about the BMI (Body Mass Index). BMI has become the yardstick off which all weight hangs. What many don’t know is that this method of assessing weight was invented not by a scientist or a doctor but by a mathematician over 180 years ago! The man responsible was Belgian, Adolphe Quetelet, We know that using the BMI method to judge obesity has

flaws as a large number of people fall foul of it who are actually very healthy with a low fat ratio. It also fails to test fitness. Using the BMI method pretty much puts all athletes in the obese category. It is only using the “real fat rate” that you can truly gauge the true level of obesity.

I put it to you that if a restaurant used this method to assess the fat content in meat they would fall foul of the trading standards in the UK. All this talk about British fat women as if they lounge about all day doing nothing is ridiculous. In the past, women didn’t get the food, the men did, and women would get the scraps. Women don’t have to have the scraps any more.

As every society, not just British or American and MOST of the European countries get more affluent we will eat more and probably cook less, because we are working longer hours, raising a family and paying off the national debts! I can’t help wonder how all this stacks with the fact we are all living longer too? My daughter, Jessica, is currently in Vietnam and the greatest compliment you can pay a woman there is to say to them “you’re looking big”. Women there save to have cheek implants so they can look fatter; in the east plus size women are considered the perfect women, how ironic it is.

I am not saying that being fat is healthy, but, the fact is fat is on the UP and there are no signs of it abating, so science, doctors, drug producers, clothes manufacturers, educators better get their skates on and catch up!

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HEALTH & LIFESTYLE

Figure 8 Ladies

by Yemisi Ilesanmi, Rachel Cooper Wherry & Queen Allen

Photographer: http://www.marcellophotography.com/ hairstylist: Nicola Gigli make up: Karen Salandy/Erika Thomas MUA

W

hat do you get when you bring together four women who are strong confident beautiful and plus sized? You get four amazing friends who between them are about to set out on a road less travelled and change the face of Plus Sized perception in the UK. When the Catwalk Professor organised the ‘We love figure 8 figures 2011’ competition, little did he know that he was unleashing a powerful set of forces into the world.

The winners of the Figure 8 competition have already made an impact in the London fashion world - with appearances at the BEFFTA red carpet award ceremony and the ‘Sporah television show where they held their own against the finest of this year’s Miss Nubian Pageant entrants.

The Ms Figure 8 winners’ mission is to positively represent plus size women. They also provide support for plus size women through the social network group, Ms Figure 8 support network. The team aims to reach out to plus size women through counselling, plus size beauty tips, group sessions and confidence building.

The team members are achievers in their respective chosen careers and are also plus size models, knocking with heads high and curves, on the doors of fashion and beauty agencies. They understand

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the importance of positive representation, recognizing diversity in beauty and how important it is for every woman to embrace her body shape.

Emma Howell, the winner of the competition is an accomplished youth worker. She helps young people find the much needed confidence to cope with life as a young person. She also practices what she preaches by translating that action into her plus size modelling career. She said “I am Emma Howell, a plus lady, just like many women, in your office, down your street, in your family. We are here in the majority.

Curves are sexy. We will not be ignored.

Get with the 21st century. There is beauty in curves from the dawn of time and most of them were Goddesses, like the pre historic Venus of Willendorf, Rubens Bacchanal and Beryl Cooks fabulous paintings… I hear all the time what my figure 8 sisters have to say about the fashion industry and being marginalized when it comes to clothes and the pressure they feel to conform or be stigmatized, instead of being proud and empowered. No person should be ashamed of their body because a fashion house or magazine says they are not “normal”. No woman with curves should feel they have to hide under tent-like garments because there is nothing else out there for them.

I say, chest out hips sway and strut your stuff with heads held high.”

Yemisi Ilesanmi is a qualified lawyer, high flying trade unionist and human right activist (http://yemmynisting. blogspot.com/). She is against any form of discrimination which is one avenue that led her to plus size modelling.

She said “Beauty comes in different colours shapes and sizes and plus size women spend their fair share keeping the fashion industry alive, they should also have the comfort of seeing women of their body sizes walk the runway and advertise clothes that represent all sizes.

Diversity adds a natural spice to the fashion industry.”

Rachel Cooper Wherry (Cherry Red Rachy), second runner up is a vivacious housewife. She has a fanpage on Facebook with almost 6,000 fans (https://www. facebook.com/pages/Cherry-Red-Rachy-AlternativeBBW-model/192190934156734). She said ‘For me modelling is an art form and I am proud that my work inspires other larger ladies to be more confident about themselves.... I strive for the day when ‘Plus Sized’ is a term correctly applied within the fashion industry...I know that The Figure 8 ladies and the support network we are building is about ready to change the world.’

Queen Allen, third runner up of the Ms Figure 8 competition is a foster carer for her younger sisters but, before, had been a feature Plus Size model and actress.

She is now back modelling and acting and already flaunting her curves on the runway for Evolve Magazine and Models of Diversity. “I have constantly had to battle again race and size discrimination all my life. As a carer, I don’t want my sisters to have the same insecurities and anxieties as I did when I was growing up. I believe that the images that surround us in the Media, beauty and entertainment industries contribute to influencing how women feel about themselves and that women should be represented in all our different and glorious forms.”

Together these curvaceous beauties make up the Figure 8 Support Network (https://www.facebook.com/pages/ The-Figure-8-support-network/194403393971284). They hope the Figure 8 support network wold help ease some of these problems plus size women face daily, the team aim to point BBWs in the right direction to making plus size women’s lives a plus size beauty!

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ENTERTAINTMENT

Sherrryl Blu Entertainment Editor

W

ow...Christmas? Already?! Seems like just yesterday I was deciding on where to take myself to get my annual fix of UVs and then POW...here we are just days away from Christmas!

I must confess I am slightly panicking at the lack of Christmas presents bought to date after promising myself that I would start buying in August...yeah right!

Anyway, where are my manners? I am Sherryl Blu, the new Entertainment Editor for Evolve magazine.

In this edition, you can enjoy two fabulous interviews, see what those celebs have been ‘tweeting’, get some last minute gift ideas and of course have a read of my review of the I PLUS U fashion show that took place last month which I had pleasure in hosting.

Enjoy the read and have yourself an absolutely fabulous Christmas and a sensational New Year!

Smooches and mince pies...Xx Wake up with Sherryl Blu on Bang radio every Saturday morning from 8am-midday: www.wearebang.com / 103.6 FM Connect with Sherryl: www.sherrylsworld.com / Tweet @Sherrylsworld

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ENTERTAINTMENT

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ENTERTAINTMENT

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Hot Ladies, Hot Music....

SHiiKANE

by Sherryl Blu

ade up of twins; HRH Shay Shay, Princess Annamay and Sister BabyKay, these South East London born hotties are ladies of many talents which sees them writing, arranging and coproducing all their own material.

This year, SHiiKANE has been working tirelessly on their debut album and have recently released their second promo album; ‘Paradise on Saturn’ , have been nominated for a variety of awards including a BEFFTA, became ambassadors for the Richards House Children’s Hospice, started their own clothing and jewellery line and show absolutely no signs of stopping there!

With 2012 looking to be SHiiKANE’s year, I caught up with the ladies to see what has been going on and what is on the cards for the New Year...

Hi SHiiKANE, how are you lovely ladies doing?

We’re great thanks, lots in the pipe line so we’re all really excited!! (All)

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Tell us where the name SHiiKANE came from?

Well, in simple terms, it’s basically an amalgamation of all our names put together.

Shay, Kay and Annamay, so I guess we were pretty lucky it sounded cool.(All) How and when did the group form?

We’ve all really loved singing from when we were kids. Shay and Annamay used to sing together as a duo (they had the whole twin thing going on which was really great!) I studied musical theatre at drama school and got involved in musical theatre stage tours (Kay) Is music a first love for you guys?

We absolutely love music! Where would we be without it? Music can capture a moment in time that can change your life!! (Kay) How long have you been on the scene?

About 4 years now. (Annamay) What do you make of the UK music scene at the moment?

Love it! I love the fact that there are no limitations, almost anything goes right now, which is what music is really about, experimenting with sounds and mixing genres together.(All) Which artists inspired you growing up and which artists inspire you now?

We had a very musical house. Growing up our parents listened to a variety of artists including; Michael & Janet Jackson, Michael Bolton, George Benson, Shirley Brown, Stevie Wonder, Phil Collins, Bob Marley, and David Bowie. There was a real mixture. Artists that inspire us now, I’d say Destiny’s Child for the major success they had as a girl group and the fact that they were also a brand which is what SHiiKANE aspire to be. We also admire Beyonce for being one of the hardest working females in the industry! (Shay) Who would you most like to collaborate with?

UK artists would be Snow Patrol, Wretch 32, Kasabian, Bombay Bicycle Club, Calvin Harris, Coldplay, Tinie Tempah. Other artists, Kanye West, Pharrell (Neptunes, N.E.R.D one of them, all of them we don’t mind!) Boyz to Men and Michael Buble.

Just a few (Kay) Describe the SHiiKANE sound?

Our sound is “Pop” with influences from different genres. We rap and have Rock and Afrobeat influences in our music. Sometimes we call it a “Pop Gumbo Soup” (Shay)

Being nominated for a UMA (Best Unsigned Act) BEFFTA (Best Female) and also nominated for 2 NUBAA awards ‘Best Female Artist’ and ‘Best Up and coming Artist’ (Annamay) What is the most fun thing you have done as a group?

Performing at Crusaid Walk For Life alongside The Feeling and shooting our very first music video in LA with Taj Stansberry (Annamay) The entertainment industry is very competitive and requires you to constantly up your game.

How do you ladies keep your style and sound fresh?

One word…. Internet!! It’s an amazing tool. You have to keep up with what’s new and current in the industry that’s the only way to stay relevant. (Kay) Does it help that you are group of sisters?

Definitely, it helps a great deal. Because we have that closeness, being sisters our voices just blend perfectly together. We know each other’s voices so well so we know what works (Annamay).

Are there any sibling rivalries?

Nah, we can’t afford to have any of those because we know we have to rehearse and work together in the next 5 minutes (Shay) The SHiiKANE brand is not limited to only singing and performing. Tell us more about your ever growing empire?

We have our own fashion label Shii-Brit and a jewellery line called Diced which is all designed by us. We usually wear our designs when performing at shows or if we’re making PA’s just to give people a little taster.(Shay) What is on the cards for SHiiKANE in 2012?

More of the same, work, work, work!! We are releasing another single by February 2012, our debut album will be out by summer 2012. (Annamay) If you could give one piece of advice for an upcoming artist, what would it be?

This industry is so tough and you can face rejection and knock-backs but if music is what you truly love doing, keep pursuing it and you will get to where you want to be (Shay) Keep in touch with SHiiKANE: www.shiikane.com Facebook: Shiikane, Twitter: Shiikane.

For gigs, bookings and any other business. Please email info@shoshoproductions.com

What’s your biggest accomplishment to date?

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ENTERTAINTMENT

celebrity gossip THE ROYAL WAY IS ESSEX!

Curvy Essex queen Amy Childs, has been spotted rocking the same pretty short Zara dress as the Duchess of Cambridge!

Stocks of the dress that Kate originally wore to a charity concert earlier this month, were sold out within days!

The dress which is priced at £69.99 was sold out on the UK and U.S Zara websites too.

So, how did Amy get her perfectly manicured mitts on this ‘high in demand’ dress?

Well, she bought it long before Kate wore it...of course!

Maybe...just maybe, Kate’s been taking secret style tips from Amy! Who knows?

Half the NESS she was...

You have to give credit where credit is due and in this case, Ruth Jones deserves a whole bucket full!

Ruth, who played Nessa in the hit TV show; Gavin & Stacey, has shed a whopping 4 stone by claiming she simply counted calories!

Ruth claims something ‘just clicked’ after ‘overdoing it’ on a holiday last year.

You have to admit, she looks fabulocious!!

**SPOTTED** Beyonce

at a Michael Jackson theme show in Vegas sporting a huge bump!

Talking of the world famous bump, Beyonce has been speaking out on American TV about the stories circulating that claim she wears a prosthetic belly and her bump isn’t real. She has branded the rumours ridiculous.

During an interview with Kate Couric for ABC, she has said the stories are like water off a duck’s back as they are so far from the truth it just does not bother her – alright Bey! Bey has also denied the crazy tales about her pregnancy cravings, so she set the record straight by stating she does not need ketchup on everything she eats nor does she crave hot sauce, bananas or pickles!

She is however, extremely excited about meeting the baby who she calls her favourite person in the world (even though they are yet to meet).

Exciting times ahead...I personally wish Bey and Jay all the best!

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? t a h w say I’ve been a very good girl, with very bad thoughts #naughty @rihanna Good girl gone bad anyone?

Was i the only one looking at that Mayors chain and thinking ‘I wonder how much that would get at ‘Cash For Gold’? @AlanCarr Alan Carr’s ‘other’ job is handing out money management advice.

Sat on my own in a posh restaurant wearing a comedy jumper! I look like I’ve been given the night off from pot washing for good behaviour! X @ therealgokwan But Gok, we thought you were style KING?!!

I have a surprise for little monsters! @ladygaga Dare we ask what?

Jane Fonda

clearly has unlimited access to the fountain of youth as she has just released two work out DVDs at the ripe old age of 73!

On the cover of the DVDs, Jane has recreated the exact same image as the one included on her 1986 video cover, complete with a short feathered hairstyle.

Although she looks fab, it has not always been plain sailing for Jane. Over the years she has had a hip and knee replacement but, that has not stopped her from defying the stereotypical view of what a 73 year old should be doing. She has told the Today show, she is still able to do everything she did back then, now!!

Can you imagine? Most of us couldn’t do what she did then when we were 12, much less now!

All I can say is...go Jane!!

I LOVE my brown suede boots from Roberto Cavalli that I wore to the ivy that people are slating @ MissKatiePrice Katie clearly cares NOT what YOU think.

I’m trending right now! Thank you all!!! @LA_Reid LA keeps his ear to the ground and shows his appreciation.

Love you! Sleepytime: ) Goodnight! @MariahCarey Uhmmm...night, night Mariah!

The menu called it Croque Madame, I call it cheese on toast with an egg on top x @clbleakley Tell ‘em Christine!

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ENTERTAINTMENT

Aml Ameen

Interview with

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ritish actor AML AMEEN, former star of ITV’s hit show; The Bill and lead in the acclaimed Brit urban flick KiDULTHOOD. Aml is currently starring in his first major Hollywood role alongside Oscar winner Kathy Bates in the David E.Kelley comedy drama; Harry’s Law. After solidifying foundations in 2011, big things are definitely on the horizon for Aml so I decided to have a bit of a catch up with him...

Hi Aml, how’s life stateside?

Life stateside is on and poppin’! Life is good, sunshine, chilled atmosphere of Burbank California...

It’s all good!

What do you miss the most about ‘home’?

I miss my family, who are my back bone, the different kinds of people and Guinness Punch!

You are currently starring in multi award winning David E. Kelley’s new legal drama, Harry’s law.

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by Sherryl Blu

Tell us about the character that you play, Malcolm Davies?

Harry’s Law is classic David E Kelley Comedy Drama starring Oscar winner Kathy Bates. I play Malcolm Davis, an ex drug addict that tries to commit suicide before going to jail. As he jumps to his demise, he lands on Harry Korn (the wonderful Kathy Bates).

He takes this as divine intervention and becomes determined to have Harry represent him in the court.

For those yet to see an episode of Harry’s Law, please give us an overview of the series and what to expect?

You will see Harry defending the most unlikely clients from the urban neighbourhood and Malcolm’s past coming back to haunt him.

You will see Malcolm falling in love twice, and him growing into the potential lawyer he could be. It’s a fun intelligent show!

Your part in Harry’s Law is your first major Hollywood role and some might say, it came a little bit too easily! Tell us about how you got the part.

There are tons of actors that become an overnight success with 20 years investment in the game; I am one of them I guess. I was flown to America from London to test for another show on another network.

I didn’t get that role but my manager insisted I stick around and utilize the opportunity. 13 days later, I was cast in Harry’s Law - a truly blessed moment in my career.

AmeenDream Entertainment is my production company set up to tell the stories that are important to me.

We know you are no stranger to acting and in fact you have been popping up on our screens for the best part of 10 years. In terms of television, most people will remember you in your role as PC Lewis Hardy in the ITV Police series; The Bill. How different is the role of Malcolm Davies to that of PC Hardy?

Hmmm! Well Malcolm and Lewis are similar ages, both have a troubling past. Lewis is clearer on where he stands and what’s important for him...his community!

Malcolm’s journey is a lot more personal.

How do you find the time to juggle everything?

Having a great team on side who I should take a moment to thank. They know who they are!

Take us back to 2006 when you starred in Noel Clarke’s KiDULTHOOD as the main lead ‘Trife’.

Would you say the success of this film fuelled your desire to act?

Yes, anytime you have a moment in your career, it gives you the confidence to go and reach the vision you have for yourself. Kidulthood gave me the outlet to have wonderful crazy fans and to be respected as leading male actor in the UK industry. It fuelled me to want more!

Before I let you go, I want to get a little personal if that’s OK? What’s your favourite pass time?

Laughing, romance, movie nights.

Since KiDULTHOOD, several films focusing on ‘urban London’ have been released and continue to be made. What do you make of the quality of films and message put out from the London film scene especially within the ‘urban’ genre?

I think there is space for more diverse stories to be told from a London Urban perspective. Perpetuating the same stories over and over is not good for art.

Being smart and creative is important, marry art and commerce and if you have do that street ish, do it great!

Not only are you magic on screen, but you also like to get involved in every aspect of production including scriptwriting. Tell us how that is coming along.

I wrote and directed four short films last year through my company AmeenDream Entertainment. I am interested in taking that experience and success up a level.

Earlier this year, your innovative film and production company AmeenDream Entertainment was officially launched at the prestigious home of the UK leading film body, BAFTA. Tell us about AmeenDream Entertainment, what it stands for and what it aims to do.

How important do you feel it is to provide a platform to showcase alternative representations of youth culture?

It’s vital for informing the youth generation of their life options. Entertainment is one of our greatest teachers.

Film is not a complete reflection of life, but it influences heavily.

Here at Evolve, our motto is ‘Be proud, be you’!

What one piece of advice would you give to those aspiring creatives that often lose hope in the industry?

We all lose hope at different times. Go through it, find a way to inspire yourself to breathe and get back in the ring.

Favourite food?

Any Caribbean, my family is from St Vincent and Jamaica.

Pint of beer or a glass of wine?

Glass of wine -Port to be exact!

Favourite film?

Maybe the first half of GoodFellas What track gets you on the dance floor?

MJ “Don’t stop till you get enough” London or LA? LA for now.

And a question for the ladies....what do you look for in a partner?

Chemistry is important, humour, sex appeal, a great amount intellect and debating skills.

Most of all, a good woman that intends to do the right thing in this crazy world we’re living in!

Finally, what’s in the pipeline for Aml Ameen and AmeenDream Entertainment?

For AmeenDream; feature films, domestic and worldwide. For Aml Ameen; moving and inspiring people through entertainment... God wiling!

How can people stay in touch with you?

Twitter @amlameen Facebook.com/amlameen

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Merry Christmas from ALL at Evolve Magazine see you in February for our ‘LOVE’ issue

Keep updated with everything EVOLVE right here www.evolve-magazine.com www.twitter.com/evolveonlinemag www.myspace.com/evolveonlinemag http://bit.ly/9CCTeM http://evolveonlinemag.wordpress.com/ Please tweet us and tell us what you thought of the latest issue !!!