Model: Andrea Jackson Photo: R. Jones Photography
Editor- In-Chief Evron ”Mello” Andrews Co-Founder Tyquane Bates Senior Editor Latashia Andrews Managing Editor Barbie Armstrong
Cover Photo by Doug Swaim | Jovanna Reyes
Who is Harlem Diva? Who I am: Harlem Diva is a persona I created to represent the multifaceted levels to my personality that are not directly related to my extremely curvy figure, rather they enhance my God-given beauty and amazing personality. “The challenge for me as a woman who is Plus Size and Fabulous‌ is being true to myself, unwavering in my thoughts and aspirations, despite the constant pull from this world to try and change me, who I am, and what I represent. The challenge for me is to be myself in a world filled with people who have lost themselves, and know nothing of the oneness of creativity and the beauty of looking within and being contentâ€? -Harlem Diva 2013
Thanksgiving dinners, Work Christmas party, holiday shopping, dinners with in laws, children’s recitals, and NYE party. I’m just tired talking about it!!! We all have events that we have to attend and we all ask ourselves, what am I going to wear? I love the holidays (mostly because I love winter) so writing about dressing up for those special parties and dinners is a small passion of mine. From color and metallic to the classic black and white, I’ve cover what is hot in plus size clothing and accessories. ENJOY!!!!
Model: Julenny Veras Dress: Project D @Simply Be Jewelry: Honey B jewelry
Photographer: Andre McNeil Makeup: Andrea Tiller Hair: Tokira S. Wells
Photographer: Kym Fajardo (www.kymfajardophoto.com) Models: Michele Hilton, Lia Italiano, Millie Raid Clown makeup model: Allisa Gottlieb Designer *excluding Allisa's oufit: Shanice Jones Makeup Artist: Allisa Gottlieb Special thanks to Lindsay and Paul of Engineered Horse for providing location.
Photographer: Kym Fajardo Models: Michele Hilton, Designer: Shanice Jones Makeup artist: Allisa Gottlieb
Set The Table Somewhere in a cold dark place there is someone all alone this Thanksgiving. It maybe a neighbor, c o - worker, classmate, or even family member‌
Model: Mocha Makeup, Wardrobe & Styling: Barbie Armstrong Photo: Mello
Statistics show that four out of ten Americans will be alone this Thanksgiving. Lets spread love this season. Step out of your comfort zone and invite someone new to feast with you at your dinner table this year. -Mello
Model: Mocha Makeup, Wardrobe & Styling: Barbie Armstrong Photo: Mello
The AH-HA MOMENT
The AH-HA! Moment (Written by Malinda Bell)
The A-Ha! Moment is when the light bulb turns on and truths and realizations come pouring down like shocking cold shower water. It’s the moment when you stop placing blame on other people and take a good hard look at yourself and become completely embraced by who you are, what you are not, what you want in life, and what you need to do to get there. I have many AHa! Moments but one stands out in particular that I would like to share. I was in a relationship with someone I wasn’t happy with. I dreaded coming home, felt anxiety when we were in the same space, and our atmosphere was constantly tense with arguments every other day. I was not sleeping well and I was sad because what I envisioned and dreamed our relationship to be, was just that- a dream. I was holding on to his potential and frustrated. In turn, he was also frustrated because he felt I was trying to make him live up to his potential but on my time frame. Time kept moving forward, but we were at a standstill. We threw past indiscretions in each other’s face because we had never whole-heartedly forgiven one another. We said we did, but internally, each of us still held on to the past like vice grips; silently archiving the painful memories until our next blow up. Photo by R.Jones Photography Make Up: Puttiwongsassontorn Dress: Be Pretty Inc. Styling: Joey,Banasko & Ivan Sedukas
While sitting at my desk, my A-HA! Moment had come! It was like a firefly on a dark country night illuminating my consciousness like a bright quiet warning sign. The truth was that I could delay going home every night after work, vent to friends about my woes, be miserable, and stay in a relationship for the sake of companionship. All these things would drain my spirit, and as I cannot predict the future, I had the gut feeling that if I continued on this way, I would end up having to call my friends for bail money if one dayhe really tap danced on my last nerve. Instead of pointing the finger at my ex-boyfriend, I had to take a good hard look at myself and stop complaining about him and do my part and fix what was wrong. Do I stay and complain? Do I stay and try to fix it? Or do I leave? I choose to end it. The truth was that I had the power to be in any relationship I wanted to be in because I am the sole controller of my life. If what you’re in is not in your best interest, you have to make the decision of what makes you happy and most importantly, ACT ON IT! So the A-Ha! Moment is the revelation that will lead you in the decision making process and ultimately your action for a better outcome. Hopefully within this revelation one should also notice their own character flaws and correct them so that the past is not repeated with attracting new people with the same destructive patterns and behaviors. At the end of the day, you want to be able to look in the mirror and appreciate the total reflection of yourself as mind, body, and spirit. Today, I’m happier and I see my growth as a woman prepared to work hard in every aspect of life, including myself.
Photo by Doug Swaim | Jovanna Reyes
Photo by Doug Swaim | Jovanna Reyes
Photo by Doug Swaim | Jovanna Reyes
Wear a size 12W, where to get my shoes? By Nanthale Collins Everyone talks about what is trending in fashion but what about footwear? Better yet, what is trending in the plus size (Size 11+) footwear? I am happy to give you BareFootTess.com. They give really comfortable fashionable shoes. From Holographic animal print, wedge tall riding boots, men inspired oxfords, kitten heels pumps and studded and spiked flats, you will find every shoe trend there is in one shop. They have not missed a beat with this fall selection. Wanted to share because so many of us are a 14. I only have one shoe from this online retailer but I can not wait to try something new from the Fall line. If you're a size 10 and up (they carry up to a 14!!!) and need new shoes?....GO HERE!!!
THE TOP 5 THINGS THAT TURN MEN ON 1. Under a shirt, in a bra or free as a bird; men love breast.
3. Although every woman may not comply, most men have or do fantasize about being involved in a threesome or witnessing some type of girl on girl action. 4. Oral sex, an act that nearly every man wants and can’t resist.
Kill ‘em with Curviness Don’t let your size take the fall for why you’re single Plus-Sized ladies! Stop blaming your weight for your decision to be single and miserable about it…You’re perception of yourself is a force-field blocking you from the possibilities! The truth is, you are beautiful, sexy, and desirable, and the biggest obstacle you have to being in a loving, fulfilling relationship is YOU! Men love a woman that is confident, pleasant, and a pleasure to be around. Men hate to be around someone who whines and complains all the time , especially about her weight. It’s the ultimate turn-off. Instead of complaining about your size, do something to actively work on your figure, while still showing love for yourself. You’re never too big to date! There are plenty of men in the world that love you just the way you are, right now, in your current physical state, whether short, tall, fat, skinny, etc.
Love and Relationship Advise for the Full Figured Woman By Harlem Diva
Open your mind to the possibility of being Curvy and Confident. Your weight should not be an excuse for you to remain single, without a prospect of a relationship anywhere on the horizon. Remember to get out of your own way….work hard to maintain having a happy and positive outlook on life. Most of all remember to SMILE because you are a Full Blossom
Beauty
Kill ‘em with Curviness! Harlem Diva!
Models: Mocha, Techla, Annoula Hair, Makeup, Wardrobe & Styling: Barbie Armstrong Photo: Mello
Hair, Wardrobe, Makeup & Styling: Barbie Armstrong Photo: Mello
Some
of us have a friend or two that is
exceptionally supportive and they are our go to person when you need a listening ear, honest feedback, or encouraging words. They are such a valuable relationship in your life that we would be lost without them. While others have a circle of people that bring something different to their life. For example, when you are having a bad day and need to laugh there’s that one friend that all they have to do is answer the phone in a silly way and that alone can make you feel better. The point is you mean something to that person in either scenario. I’ve seen posts and have actually stated myself ‘who supports the supporter’ or ‘who encourages the encourager,’ being the strong one leaves you exhausted sometimes. Let’s face it a city like New York is extremely competitive it can chew you up, spit you out and do it again. Moving here has really made me depend on my support team more than ever and even realizing that everyone is not there for the long haul. Support can be a beautiful thing but it can also show you sides to people that you never would have imagined that they had.
If you have a person or people in your life that are constantly there for you, make a point to reverse the roles because eventually if it doesn’t go both ways then that relationship is going to suffer at some point. If you already do then great make it a point to verbally thank them. Thank you’s go a long way it shows that person that you truly value them and the relationship. Returning text messages is a big deal to our generation especially with so many outlets to seeing where and what a person is doing at that precise times thanks to Google Maps and the check-in feature on Facebook. Not to mention everywhere you turn people are constantly looking down at the rectangular device in their hand … ‘buuuut you didn’t see my text??’
People are brought into our lives for a reason and we all know that for whatever reason they sometimes are not here to stay. When you come across friends and associates that you vibe well with treasure those moments, take the time to say thank you when they do a genuine act, and support them and what they are doing in their life. Sometimes you never really know what you mean to someone so don’t take relationships for granted.
Charity Lynette
Let me introduce myself. My name is Felicia Haroon. I'm 35 with 4 children and I'm a plus size model and blogger in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. I struggled most of my life with weight because it was always so hard where I live to celebrate curves. As a older women I find the Canadian industry opening its doors to Plus size women and I love it!!! The views I share are mine alone and do not reflect the opinions of others. Enjoy the article and please feel free to share opinions. Let’s have a talk ladies about the upcoming trends for the next season and what it means to Canadian fashion. First off as a plus size diva I have to extend how happy I am that more and more I'm seeing designers cater to our needs. Even this year in New York fashion week. One of the biggest events of the year. Well this year's designer Eden Miller has decided to break a 70 year tradition and work the runway with a plus sized collection. Looking at her use of bright colors and bold prints make me want to clap with joy that the industry is finally opening its doors to us plus size divas. As a woman who struggles in this industry I send me thank you and gratitude to her.
With that being said let’s take a peek at some of the new things coming in the new season this year in Canada. I don't know about you but I think the little black dress is always a favorite and can be played up or down depending on the mood or event. I plan on wearing mine to Atlantic Fashion Week here in the Maritimes. Big bold chunky necklaces has paved their way from summer right into fall and I'm excited about that because nothing plays up a plain jane look then a chunky necklace. Or if you're going for a natural chic look throw on a bangle and a sexy pair of earrings and leave your neck bare. I know fashion from everyday and fashion from the runways I walk on are different. The runways are crowded with a lot of whites and monochromatic looks this year. Also very clean lines and powerhouse suits for the working women. Very big a bold pieces played with little to no color. And hey, I don't know about you but I am all about layering the jewelry I personally think it adds to your outfit. Booties seem to be extremely hot this year as well. I see them in every color. I see a black pant paired with a white top and a blue skinny belt a brown overcoat with a vibrant blue bootie. These are all styles I have seen on the runway and even when I’m out and about in my city. We all have our own personal style and I think we can all benefit and share it with other and grow more. A variety of pin up styles coming back into style in Canada as well. A role model of mine whose name is Tess Munster has that gorgeous pinup look and some her amazing pictures of her playing that role. I’m seeing a lot of different styles and inspirational pieces. I showcased a piece by Tanya Jeanine in her Line called Fulfilled and it was a gorgeous deep red dress that draped in the back and was Greek inspired. I also did a promotional photo shoot in a local store owned by Brittany Dawn Conners called Vivacious Vixen. It a local store that is based entirely on pinup style with a new age twist. There are so many styles and colors to choose from. Prints or textures. It seems a bit overwhelming to someone new to the industry but rest assured. It doesn't take long to create your own style. The best way to create your own style is work with all different pieces from different inspired looks or styles and make it your own. Ladies I leave you with this. Please be yourself and don't allow standards to define or refine you. Be who you want to be and love yourself no matter what. If we can handle the pain of looking good in a high heel we can handle the small minds of others. And this is my confession. XO
WAYS TO SAVE MONEY FOR THE HOLIDAY SEASON - Ronald Freeman Here we are again folks!! Holiday season 2013 is here and I’m hoping to drop some information on how you can save your hard earned money and not dig yourself deeper in debt. This is the time of year where most of us are looking to buy the gifts to make the tree look really “healthy” yet we put ourselves in “critical condition” by overdoing it. Not to be an Ebenezer Scrooge but the fact of the matter is that gift giving should be left for the kids. We adults should know better therefore we have to do better so that we are not placed in a poorer financial condition going into a new year. So here are a few ideas to follow.
Family, the Christmas holiday is just for a few weeks out of the year. We have to learn how to re-gain control of our finances in order to live a financially rewarding future, not just for now but to leave a legacy for our children. This is one of the first generations where we will have to struggle in order to leave anything for our children. It is our responsibility to leave them off better that we had it growing up. Let’s make it our business to pay off our revolving credit debt. Let’s look into saving first, investing after that. The most important thing to do is to get rid of that anchor called debt that keeps us in the same place.
About Ronald Freeman: Ronald Freeman started his financial career in 1992. He worked for major financial institutions like John Hancock, MetLife, Penn Mutual and most recently Washington Mutual Bank helping them secure their financial futures or fund their financial dreams. During that time he has also started a few companies and was very instrumental in the growth of others. This experience caused him to form Advanced Business Consultants. Advanced Business Consultants is a small to mid-sized business consulting firm that specializes in sales and marketing programs for business growth. Ron is also the founder of The Success Team. The Success Team is a group of business minded individuals that are in the process of making the paradigm shift from that of an employee to an entrepreneur. We are adding members to the team on a daily basis. For more information on Ronald and his business endeavors please text Ronald Freeman to 55469. For more information on The Success Team please click www.thesuccessteam.weebly.com and leave your information in the guest box.
“PLEASE GOD MAKE IT STOP!!!” “GOD, I promise if you stop the room from spinning I will Never Drink Again!!!” “OH GOD WHY???”
By Nicole Flores
Model: Yolette Hinds Photo: Mello Have these words ever been a part of your desperately drunken attempt at spirituality while praying to the Porcelain Gods? Yea…. No need to answer that because I already know, they sure have!! The remorse of overdrinking more times than not, has us proclaiming some pretty empty promises to the Gods of Hangover Heaven. With little to No Mercy they look down upon us, and I’m more than certain they are blasting Sunshine Anderson, as they really have NO PROBLEM shutting down our plea's cause see, they “Heard it all Befoooore!!”
Going HAM makes the Gods Scram, leaving us to fend for ourselves in the aftermath of Excessive Beverage Consumption. No quick fixes here buddy! Us Mortals are on our own. FEAR NOT cause I’ve compiled a quick little reference guide to some of the methods which I can say have help to aid my in my recovery from Gluttonous Guzzling. First a little science! The hangover is not really caused by what you drank, but rather the bodies’ metabolic process in breaking down the alcohol consumed during its attempt to return the body to its natural enzymatic balance. Ok that’s as sciency as I’m taking it but you get the jist … You done messed up and that last shot of whisky has you wishing you just said NO!
So first up on my list of Hangover Helper…
Hydration, Hydration, Hydration! Since Offense is the best Defense let’s start at the bar. For every 2 drinks you consume make sure you take in a glass of water or at least sip it to keep hydrated. This will help you slow down your drinking long enough to allow the effects of what you’ve already consumed to settle in. We often times be like ‘Girl I still ain’t feelin’ it, Line up another one!” WRONG you just haven’t slowed down consumption long enough to recognize your body is actually feeling that Patron. So sip some water and allow yourself to feel the buzz!! (A little bartender trick… YOU’REWELCOME!)
DANCE IT OFF!
That’s what you came out for right?!! Put that drink down and get your butt on the dance floor!!! Nothing worse than ‘Bruckin it Down’ in your most fab 6 inch stilettos sloshing through a concocted puddle right?! In my opinion busting a sweat can help you to excrete the alcohol and DOUBLE PLUS BONUS shed the calories ingested!! Just make sure you’re not sloppy with it. Remember to refer to rule number one and always remember… WORLDSTAR!!!
The Point of No Return! You’re stumbling, murmuring and yet you just couldn’t turn down that last shot the cutie at the bar offered could you? I know… I wouldn’t have either. So what do we do when it’s the point of no return?? Rally the troops because it’s going to be operation hair hold!!! Another important tip is knowing the crew you’re with got your back. Make your way out the club (granted you scored that hotties number during the more sober moments) then catch that cab home and get ready because IT’S ON NOW!!
Home Sweet Home! Now if only the room would stop spinning long enough for you to close your eyes and get some recuperative rest. Chinese Researchers say that contrary to what you may have been told certain teas can offer the adverse effect to relief suggesting Lemon Lime soda as a remedy as well as Soda Water. Whatever you do, DO NOT take any Tylenol or pain reliever until you’ve had some sleep as you do not want to mix meds with alcohol.
Next Day Rituals
PAMPER YOURSELF!! You had a long night of self-inflicted over partying so hook yourself up!! A nice long soak in the tub complete with your favorite bath time accents should do the trick!!
ONLY BARBIE COTTON CANDY Featuring Cotton Candy Lip Whip by www.pinkstilettocosmetics.com
Makeup & Styling: Barbie Armstrong Photo: Mello
Hair, Makeup & Styling: Barbie Armstrong Photo: Mello
*Fabulous finds on gadgets, accessories, beauty and everything girly*
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FBM’s Exclusive Interview with Trina Monique Creator of Tres Chic Cupcakes I was at shopping event in Harlem when I stumbled upon and fell in love with a cupcake! Two cupcakes to be exact. I had sampled a cookies and cream and peaches and cream mini cup cake and it was love at first bite. My objective was simple find the creator and beg for more. The creator of these deserts is owner Trina Monique and her company Tres Chic Cupcakes spawned these gourmet delights. I went home with a half dozen of the full size version of cupcakes that evening and every morning I gobbled one for breakfast! Cupcakes bring out the little girl in me and brings out my "happy". I caught up with Trina Monique for a interview on her journey in the culinary world.
FBM: Hi Trina Monique tell the FBM audience a little about your company : Trina Monique: Barbie,Tres Chic Cupcakes is the name of my company and we are a celebrity gourmet custom cupcakery. We create custom cupcake flavors , designs and gift packaging. FBM: How did you come up with that (business) name ? Trina Monique: I wanted a name that would truly reflect the brand and our style of customized cupcakes. FBM: What inspired you to start your own business? Trina Monique: My love for Culinary Arts; most importantly to leave a legacy for my daughter. I wanted to let her know there isn't anything WE (women) can't achieve. FBM: Was baking your first career choice? Trina Monique: No, It was not. I had a career in corporate America where I was a Vice President for a Fortune 500 company for years. FBM: Wow what a totally different career. How did you feel about your former career? Trina Monique: The experience I gained from my former career taught me how to interact well my clients and how to manage a successful team. A skill-set that I value in my current business.
FBM: Trina starting your own business is challenging , what obstacles have you had to overcome while changing careers and breaking into the baking business?
Trina Monique: The biggest obstacle i faced was the scary reality of going from a guaranteed paycheck on the 15th and 31st of every month, to relying solely on the income generated from my business. FBM: You refer to yourself as an executive Cupcake Stylist ? Did you go to culinary school? Trina Monique: Yes, I attended culinary school. I refer to myself as the Executive Cupcake stylist instead of an Executive Chef, mainly because I create and style every cupcake order to meet my clients needs. FBM: When did you realize your passion for baking? Trina Monique: Cooking has always been my passion, I started cooking at 5 years old. It wasn't until I went to culinary school, I embraced and overcame my fear of baking and fell completely in love with it.
FBM: Trina what is the one thing people should know about what you do? Trina Monique: One thing everyone should know is I really love my clients reaction. Their reactions together with my love of baking is the best feeling ever.
FBM: What superpower would help you most in the course of your daily work, and why? Trina Monique: I would love to have the ability to be in more than one place at a time. This super power would allow me to be present at every event, and to share each moment with my clients.
FBM: Who was your first celebrity client? Trina Monique: Speedy and Meeka Claxton were my first celebrity clients. I started to personal chef for the Claxton’s shortly after I graduated culinary school, before Meeka appeared on Basketball Wives. One day I made cupcakes for the family. Meeka told me my cupcakes were delicious and needed to focus my attention solely on baking. Meeka has always supported me and has been instrumental in helping me take my brand to the next level.
FBM: What special flavors do you offer and what's the craziest order you've received? Trina Monique: All of our flavors of cupcakes are special and extremely moist. Our Top Sellers are Red Velvet, Banana Pudding, and Peaches & Cream. For the grown and sexy adults Tres Chic Cupcake offers a Alcohol Infused Cupcake. Since all of our cupcakes are made to order I don't consider any to be crazy as I love what I do. FBM: Thank you for sharing today and as we wrap this up what advice do you have for women reading this magazine who want to start her own business? Trina Monique: My advice to all is to find, believe and feed your passion and never let anyone discourage you from making your dream a reality. Have a Fabulous Day, Trina Monique Executive Cupcake Stylist www.treschiccupcakes.com (516) 690-7721 "Couture To Your Door" Follow Us: www.facebook.com/Tres-Chic-Cupcakes http://www.twitter.com/treschiccupcake
From The Susu to Savings Bonds Creating New Holiday Traditions One Generation at a Time By Kimberly Matthews
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Anthia Prince Independent Beauty Consultant 347-581-0320 www.marykay.com/aprince35 aprince35@marykay.com http://www.facebook.com/anthia.prince Twitter : prince_ anthia
Nerium International
Epitome of Sexy Christmas Edition
All Hair, Makeup, and Styling done by Barbie Armstrong
Why are you so late? What do you mean one more stop in New Zealand? I’ve been waiting up for you! -Mrs. Claus
Model: Annoula Dritsas Makeup, Wardrobe & Styling: Barbie Armstrong Photo: Mello
‘Tis The Season… Model: Annoula Dritsas Makeup, Wardrobe & Styling: Barbie Armstrong Photo: Mello
Chestnuts roasting on an open fire‌ Model: Annoula Dritsas Makeup, Wardrobe & Styling: Barbie Armstrong Photo: Mello
March of the Wooden Soldiers‌
Model: Nicole Flores Makeup, Wardrobe & Styling: Barbie Armstrong Photo: Mello
Model: Nicole Flores Makeup, Wardrobe & Styling: Barbie Armstrong Photo: Mello
This Christmas will be a very special Christmas‌ Model: Techla Nesbitt Makeup, Wardrobe & Styling: Barbie Armstrong Photo: Mello
Models: Mocha, Techla, Annoula Hair, Makeup, Wardrobe & Styling: Barbie Armstrong Photo: Mello
Hark The Herald! Angels Sing‌
Models: Mocha, Annoula Makeup, Wardrobe & Styling: Barbie Armstrong Photo: Mello