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CONTENTS MARCH-MAY 2013 32: 14 pairs of show stopping shoes 34-35-46 Nuvo Curvy girls Phat Magazine talks to co creators Lisa Toton and Laura Poorman about the huge hit 36: Peace Love Spandex Editorial 56: Dare To Go There Editorial A seek peek inside our 2013 summer/pre fall issue

MEET THE STAFF

5: Letter from the editorand-chief

THE 411

7: NYC Pop-up shoppe 8: Industry Interview “Hanan”

FASHION:

12: Inside Out Editorial Learn how to rework your old wardrobe.

WHAT’S TRENDING:

24 What’s trending “ Hyper Real Brights”

by Contributing editor Jan Morris 26: Beauty Unveiled Editorial 30: Hot Off The RunWay Elena Miro Spring/ Summer 2013 Collection

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Confessions of a Phat Girl:

The inside scoop on Phat Magazine bloggers they will take you inside of their worlds and closets.

COVER LOOK

Forever 21 polka dot blazer,Baby Phat Jeans, Baby Phat belt, H&M hot pink tube top, Ashley Stewart link choker necklace & bracelet set, Ashley Stewart Rhinestone oversized cuff bracelet.

a letter from the editor ello everyone, I’m LeTiciaF. editor - and - chief of Phat Magazine. I am also a highly respected published fashion photographer, makeup artist,hair stylist & wardrobe stylist with 10 plus years of industry experience under my belt. Being a curvy women within the fashion industry and a true lover of fashion.

I became tired of seeing magazines showcase the same body type over and over again. Searching the internet for ( 3 months straight ) to my surprise, the mainstream fashion industry did not have a publication that catered directly to all women with curves! I simply could not believe it, magazines were either showcasing very small women all the time or plus women all the time. No one had taken the time to create a truly diverse publication that would cater directly to women with curvy bodies. After raving about my discovery with a close friend he stated. “ maybe you should start your own magazine if you are so unhappy ” After so many up’s and downs ( Phat Magazine ) was created.

I know some of you may be thinking (Le’Ticia what makes Phat Magazine so different from any other magazine? ) The answer is very simple you guys. Phat Magazine does not discriminate, we plan to showcase women of all shapes and sizes all the time, not just some of the time. We will always offer our readers cutting edge high fashion editorials, content from leading industry professionals, fashion based events, the latest fashion trends and so much more. I am very excited to finally be able to share my passion and my love of fashion with the world. I would like to personally thank you for being one of my readers today. Phat Magazine is 100% invested into our readers and fans. If you guys are not happy, we are not happy. We welcome all comments,ideas and questions. So please don’t be shy contact us today!

XOXO editor -and chief

LeTicia F.

- Staff Editor- in -Chief Le’TiciaF. Executive Fashion/ Advertising Director Lauren Harris Beauty Editor Princess Hawthorne Lead Marketing/ Advertising Director Lauren Harris Lead Photographer Assistant Brittani Shantel Jackson Editorial/Creative Director Assistant Raven Martin Creative Director Assistant Clay Gray Phat Magazine Executive Director Sandra Gillis Editorial Model Director/ Model Scout Kelly Ward Social Media Coordinator Intern Ashlei Davis Executive Designer Intern Shauntel Calhoun We are always looking for bloggers and contributors to add to our team.

Please send your info and resume to phat.magazine. submissions@gmail.com

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fan mail Tiffany Morris Location: New York, New York I am very excited to see a pro curve magazine like phat magazine.

I think it is important to have curvy women in the mainstream fashion industry a lot more.

I look forward to the magazine and wish you all much success.

XOXO Tiffany Kelly Thompson Location: Atlanta, GA Being a Plus model myself. I am very please to see curvy women being taking serious. Phat Magazine appears to be top notch so far.

I am excited to see this magazine in print and look forward to many more amazing images from you guys.

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Rhonda M Clarkson Location: Detroit,MI I am very interested in modeling for your magazine one day.

Not because I’m a plus model. But because your magazine inspires curvy/ bigger women to be happy with their bodies and most important We are just as stunning as everyone else.

Dana Curvy Girl Plus Location: New York I am very excited to see this magazine shake the industry up some.

Me and my friends look forward to getting our print issues in the mail soon.

Jen Matzelle Location: Canada Great Magazine I would love to model for you guys.

Chloe Fleming Location: Victoria, Australia I look forward to seeing your swimwear issue this summer.

I hope to see you guys in Australia one day soon. I would love to be a part of your magazine.

Emma Location: Queensland, Australia I would love to be apart of your magazine.

Australia does not offer many publications that show cause curvy women. We need more magazines like Phat Magazine all over the world.

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LeTicia F.

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Spotlight

HANAN MAKING WAVES IN THE INDUSTRY! ith a voice that boasts of a soulful Motown Inspired swagger wrapped in a commercial hiphop appeal, and a dash of exotic middle eastern spice, Hanan’s music appeals to the masses. The gifted vocalist writes her songs with intentions only to paint a vivid picture stroked onto audio canvas. And her latest single “You Make Me Wanna Write You A Love Song” does just that.

As a singer/songwriter Hanan is taking the music world by storm. Last year fans nominated the vocal powerhouse for a Georgia Music Award, and she won Best Female R&B. “I was surprised, I know that I work hard but I didn’t know that other people noticed. My music is inspired by life. I don’t sing songs that don’t touch me. So it was nice to receive that recognitionand know that I touched other people.” Despite having an unforgettable voice, gaining her unwavering sense of confidence has been a journey. ”Music is something I’ve always wanted to do but I didn’t believe in my talent until later on in my adult life. My first time performing was actually at my cousins wedding. My family was shocked that I had such a strong voice some of them had never heard me sing before. From there I got into the music scene back home in Detroit. I actually got a standing ovation when I sang karaoke at a local bar that was the first moment where I felt like I could really do this.”

The entertainment industry is known for being all about image. Hanan has managed to maintain a strong sense of self confidence by staying true to herself. Hanan “You have to believe in you more than anyone else and have the strength to never back down from who you are. My confidence is spiritual, I believe in destiny and not giving up. God didn’t place me here without everything that I need to achieve my dreams. The pressure to fit this mold is definitely there but I don’t let it bother me. I can’t depend on an outside source for confidence. “ Armed with the talent, drive, and charisma to take her to the top. Hanan is in position to take the music industry by storm and be an inspiration to many women. Visit her website www.hanansvoice.com to listen to her latest single and stay up to date on the latest news.

Story by: Lauren Gabrielle 10 WWW.PHAT-MAGAZINE.COM

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Turn your old wardrobe inside out.

By creating chic looks just by tweaking one of your older outfits or repurposing a piece of clothing or even adding some vintage jewelry to one of your looks. The inside out editorial will show you ways to “reimagine” your existing wardrobe.

Photogapher: Le’TiciaF.

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DARE TO STEP OUT IN THIS FITTED NUMBER. Go to one of our fav stores. FOREVER 21 dont forget to pair this number with a statement necklace to spice it up even more. Forever 21 Dress $ 30.00. Vintage pearl necklace $ 75.00

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SPRING IS IN THE AIR Love this look? Simply dig out that cute little spring tank dress from last year. Throw on a ton of sexy necklace’s and a pair of 5 inch pastel heels. And there you have it, a trendy look without spending a dime!

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URBAN FLARE Every girl should have atleast one designer dress in her closet.

Our model had this super cute zip up Dereon number just waiting to be rocked. Its important to not over style yourself girls, the hood on this dress says everything nothing else is needed.

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STRAPPED FOR CASH Short on funds, don’t know how to dress up that old black strapless dress? Dig deep into your closet until you find the perfect tee-shirt or funky top. Simply put the dress over the top and there you have it. A brand new look for free!

This look is fun flirty and most of all sexy.

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MAKE IT WORK: Dereon Fringe top $100.00,Gold Cost Sliver vintage necklace $200.00,glitter her 5inch pumps $165.00 20 WWW.PHAT-MAGAZINE.COM

Forever 21 polka dot blazer, Baby Phat Jeans, Baby Phat belt, H&M hot pink tube top, Ashley stewart link choker necklace & bracelet set, Ashley stewart Rhinestone over sized cuff bracelet.

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BEAUTY EDITOR NOTE: Hair stylist Le’TiciaF. used salon graphic super hold hair spray to create soft to the touch, but strong holding waves.

She also used Frizz-Ease Secret Weapon Finishing Cream by John Frieda to help maintain the models style.

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OH MY FRINGE Looking to make a serious statement? A Fringe style of dress is the way to go. Its chic, fun & very sexy.

Beauty Editors Note: Its always a huge plus ladys when your eyebrows match your locks. Phat Magazine’s beauty editor say’s invest in not only giving your roots a touch up but your eye brows as well.

H&M Black Fringe Dress Photographer: Le’TiciaF. Stylist: Le’TiciaF. Stylist asst: Lauren Harris Hair/Makeup: Le’TiciaF. Photographer Assistant: Brittani Jackson Makeup asst: Ashlie Model Alanna Martinico Model: Nicole Dilley

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Does your ad belong here?

Contact us today

phatmagazinemarketingpr@gmail.com

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Beauty UNVEILED Photographer: Krista Svalbonas.

Stylist: JaQuette Jones, Hair: Cari Duprey, Make Up: Tara Taylor, Model:Emily T from Wilhelmina

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Hot Offthe Runway ELENA MIRO SPRING/SUMMER 2013 COLLECTION

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Elena Miro debuted her 2013 spring/ summer collection at LFW. The collection was full of luxury fabrics, rich color and bold patterns. There were form fitting silhouettes with sheath dresses and leather skirts with amazing detail in every look! Elena’s spring/summer collection would not be complete with out one of her signature over the top, red carpet ready dresses! “ This years layered chiffon dress with hints of royal blue, navy blue and white though out the print was amazing. Elena’s spring/summer collection was perfectly designed this year. 2013 simply put has been the year of black and leather in any weather.

Seeing the recurring trend of black and leather which is not typical for spring, in Elena’s collection was very exciting.

I must say I loved the black leather embellished skirts she sent down the runway. The collection was sexy, edgy, sophisticated and of course Phat!!

By Jan Morris

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accessories

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INTERVIEW WITH CO CREATORS LAURA POORMAN & LISA TOTON OF THE HIT TV SHOW CURVY GIRLS PHAT MAGAZINE: Thanks so much ladies for taking the time to speak with us and our readers. Please explain to our readers who you guys are and what role you play within the TV Show Curvy Girls?

LAURA/LISA: Thank you for having us. We are two of the co-creators of the show. There are also two more co-creators: James Flint and Rick Pendleton. Our role is simply that: co-creators. But it is a big role! After all – without creators, there is no show, right?

PHAT MAGAZINE: We agree creators are very important. Being you both are co-creators, where did you ladies get your start in the Television Industry?

LAURA/LISA: We knew we wanted to create a show called Curvy Girls ever since we started our company in 2005 called Curvy Girl LLC. We started off as a fashion company with the goal to expand to TV and beyond. I “ Laura “ met with Rick who was a TV veteran and we discussed working together to create a reality show about plus size women and that is where it all began. Lisa and James joined the team shortly after and we were able to develop a concept and create the sizzle reel which was ultimately used to sell the show.

PHAT MAGAZINE: Thats amazing how things change but still work out in the end. Being women with curves of your own, how important was it for you guys to be apart of a show that showcased curvy women?

LAURA/LISA: Extremely important. We think that it is not only important to see that curvy, successful and happy women are on camera but curvy, successful and happy women are behind-the-scenes in creating a show like this as well. If you want to make a difference, you have to want to do more than just be a *star*. If we had more curvy women in visible roles creating and producing television, the trickle effect would hit the stars of the show and you would see a lot more diversity on TV – whether it be gender, size, race, age or sexual orientation. Anything really. We are happy that Nuvo TV and Stage 3 shared our vision and cast some of the women we had in the original sizzle reel but beyond that – developed the show that Curvy Girls is today. It is showcasing curvy women the way we originally intended – in a positive light. That was critical. Millions of curvy women enjoy happy existences every single day but when you watch TV, you would think all they did was sit around and stuff their faces or dress in sweatpants and cry their eyes out because they were unlovable. Curvy women have exciting and fashionable lives and that needed to be reflected in the show.

PHAT MAGAZINE: Curvy Girls is such a fun show with curvy girls of all shapes and sizes. Where did the show concept come from? Did one of you wake up one night with the idea?

LAURA/LISA: We thought about the idea for years. While running a clothing company for 5+ years, we encountered many beautiful plus size women in various areas within the fashion industry, not just models. We knew they were interesting enough to star in their own TV show. We started the clothing company to help women feel better about their bodies through fashion – offering clothes that were not your standard boxy overpriced items. After working 16+ hour days for years, and the unexpected illness of Lisa’s husband, we hit a 34 WWW.PHAT-MAGAZINE.COM

point where we evaluated the business at all levels. It was suffering in a poor economy and we were exhausted and burning through money. We still wanted to make a difference to millions of women and we decided that maybe it was not clothing that would do it – but through TV. Through the years, many rumors would circulate within the industry that someone was close to selling a show about the plus size industry but nothing ever materialized. We finally said - let’s be the ones to make this happen. It was not easy and it certainly took a combination of the right things at the right time. People laughed at us for saying we would get the first full season show about plus women on the air. We like to say --- who’s laughing now? We were blessed that Nuvo and Stage 3 have turned our original concept into the amazing show it is today because it could have turned into a train-wreck and it did not – we are proud to have our names attached to this show.

PHAT MAGAZINE: Lol we love the fact that you said who’s laughing now? Some Phat Magazine readers may not know about the show.

How would you guys sum the show up? Why should people tune in?

LAURA/LISA: People should tune in because 1) it is a feel good, guilty-pleasure reality show – just like many other reality shows out there. It is fast paced and fun. There is a lot of fashion and the women are very interesting and inspiring. But more importantly – 2) this show being successful opens doors of opportunity for many other plus women in tv. That is why women need to watch it – DVR it – tell their friends and family – everyone. Other networks may be willing to take risks with a plus-size cast now that there is a successful show that has done it. The women of Curvy Girls have embraced their bodies and are living very fulfilling lives. It is not your stereotypical representation of plus size people shown on tv who usually take part in body shaming and hate themselves. The butt of every joke. On the contrary, these women are unapologetic about their size and why should not they be that way? They have amazing lives that many other women aspire to have. They are inspiring other women to take chances and wear more fashionable clothing and say what they want to say and do what they want to do because that is what life is about. Be happy! Today! Some people ask us why so many people consider it to be inspirational when it is just like a lot of other reality shows out there. Exactly. And is it worse off because the stars are curvy? No! Just look at it. The women are not 5’10” and size 0-2. Many viewers of the show can relate to one of the bodies of the women on the show because the average woman is a size 14/16. The models on the show are anywhere from a size 12 to a size 24. They are relatable. Isn’t it about time you saw a fun reality show with people you could relate to?

PHAT MAGAZINE: We are happy you pointed that out it is time for the industry to open their eyes. Most of the women walking around are curvy. So why not showcase them on TV, in videos, on runways?

We had to throw that in lol. Ok Ladies so many of our readers want to know how you guys or the casting directors went about picking the models for the show?

LAURA/LISA: Rosie and Denise were in our original sizzle reel. We knew they had huge star potential from the moment we met them and we are so grateful they agreed to work with us on this project from the beginning. Even without Curvy Girls, they would be stars – their ambition and work ethic (and unbelievable beauty) were going to lead them to great things. Lornalitz had been on the network before (Model Latina) and while we have known Ivory for years (and she was on our list of potential stars) – she was technically referred to the show by Denise. We love the cast and there is a 5th cast-member being added this season who we are so excited about. We think the viewers will be very happy. Stage 3 and Nuvo have final say on all casting decisions – but we have had no complaints about who they cast for the show. The women are all multi-dimensional with interesting stories that we hope the audience gets a better glimpse of this season. Let’s just say these women are more than just insanely pretty faces and great curves. They have so much more depth and their lives are full of things that other women can relate to. Not everyone can relate to being a model but these women are also mothers, daughters, sisters, entrepreneurs, philanthropists, etc…and they have dreams and ambitions much bigger than modeling.

PHAT MAGAZINE: So exciting a new cast member is coming to the show. Do you guys see yourself doing a spin off in another city or creating another show based around curvy women?

LAURA/LISA: We hope that Curvy Girls can become a franchise show and you will see Curvy Girls: Miami or Curvy Girls: LA and beyond.

Even international. Curvy Girls: Australia. We are certainly behind that idea but that is up to the production company. We have several other projects in development now and quite a few have curvy women in them. We will always fight to get the “underdog” cast in our projects but you will see very diverse projects from us that showcase women and men of all shapes & sizes, colors, ages and sexual orientation. We do not want to pigeon-hole ourselves into only doing tv about plus size women. We will not discriminate on others the way plus women have been discriminated against. We are above that and our parents taught us to treat everyone equally with the same amount of respect. That opportunity should be equally available to all. We want to make great TV and cast the right people – whoever that may be. We just want to make it clear that plus size women have just as equal of a chance with us as someone who is skinny. Do not talk yourself out of an audition because of your size. Just own it. It is all about personality. If you are interesting, we are interested in you – we do not have a mold as far as what the people we will work with need to look like. This is Reality TV – it should reflect reality, right?

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Peace Love Spandex top & pants. Vintage Dior belt.

B Flyy necklace, sheluxe couture earrings

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Peace Love Spandex bathing suite with hood, sheluxe couture earrings.

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Peace love spandex net bathing suite, B-flyy custom necklace & bracelet. Earring by sheluxe couture.

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Peace Love Spandex bathing suite.

Shoes stylist own.

Stylist: Le’TiciaF. Hair/Makeup: Le’TiciaF. Stylist asst: Lauren Harris Photographer Assistant: Brittani Jackson Plus Model Tiffany@ Ipm Models Special thanks to www.peacelovespandex.com www.sheluxe.bigcartel.com www.ipmmodels.com B flyy Creations.

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Photographer: Krista Svalbonas. www.kristastudios.com Hair: Cari Duprey, www.cariduprey.com Make-up: Tara Taylor, www.tarataylor.net Stylist: JaQuette Jones, 42 WWW.PHAT-MAGAZINE.COM

Beauty Editor’s Top 10 Affordable beauty products for the Spring/Summer 1: Love that pop of color,

one of the biggest makeup trends of the year. Neon hues. Check out Maybelline’s lipstick color vivid in neon red for the low cost of $5.99 its a great deal.

2: Frizz-Ease Secret weapon Finishing Cream

by John Frieda. We all know how important it is to maintain our hair styles after leaving the salon. Rainy days and humidity during the spring and summer can cause us girls some serious problems. Ask your stylist to try Frizz-Ease Secret weapon Finishing Cream to instantly tame frizz and smooths frayed ends. This product can be found at your local drug store for the low cost of $8.00 bucks.

3: Jergens Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer $9.99

Is formulated with a blend of antioxidants and vitamin E, Jergens Natural Glow Daily Moisturizer helps keep skin healthy-looking and nourished as well as giving you that J-lo glow that we all love so much.

4: Maybelline Volume Express Colossal Waterproof Mascara $7.00 dollars its a great deal and worth the few bucks. We recommend using water proof to help with the raccoon eye look during the summer.

5: Burt’s Bees Replenishing Lip Balm with Pomegranate Oil

can be found at your local drug store for about $3.00-4.00 dollars. This lip balm made our list because it works. A little goes a long way. Its a great product for the price.

6: Essence of Beauty Bamboo Brush Set. You can get this

set for about $12.00 dollars from your local drug store. This make up brush set is a steal. Essence of Beauty brushes are made from the finest quality materials to achieve flawless results, every time. This eco-friendly set has all the brushes you need in a reusable cosmetic bag. Made with durable bamboo handles and silky soft bristles, they’re perfect for application of eyeshadow,blush and much more.

7: IMAN Skin Tone Evener BB Crème SPF 15 skin care and color combined to even, protect, tone and compliment your skin tone is a great buy for the spring/summer. The cream go’s on light and flawless. Check your local drug store for pricing.

8: Cinema Secrets Ultimate Foundation Palette

Unknown to many this supper affordable foundation pallet is amazing. As the seasons change,our skin tones tend to change right along with them. This pallet will allow you the option to adjust your foundation to your perfect shade by including 5 different colors into the pallet its a great buy at only $21.00 dollars. Check out www.http://camerareadycosmetics.com

9: This smooth powder

adds a healthy, sun-kissed glow to any complexion, instantly giving your skin the look of a natural tan. Its petite size is perfect for slipping into the tiniest bag or purse so you can glow on the go. Check your local drug store for pricing.

10: Magic Lumi light infusing primer by L’oreal

If you enjoy soft highlights. This is the perfect product for you. Try using a little extra along your cheek bone or simply mix a little into your foundation. A little goes a long way. Check your local drug store for prices PHAT MAGAZINE 43

(Continued) PHAT MAGAZINE: We are very happy you talked a bit about giving everyone the same opportunity because Phat Magazine feels the same way, that is why we plan to showcase curvy women of all sizes. We agree with you 100% it is wrong to discriminate.

Nowadays there are so many reality shows out. But many of them seem to be scripted, is Curvy Girls 100% raw or do you guys control what happens on the show somewhat?

Stage 3 Productions handles the production of the show so they would have to answer that – but we tell people that the cameras do not just show up and start shooting. There is an outline involved – but it is not a script. No way. It is definitely reality. We know the women on the show so personally and when we watched season 1 – we’d call them up and get the details behind certain things that happened.

I wish I could do that for every reality show I love. We get some of the details of what is happening during taping, but we watch the show for the first time along with everyone else and it is quite surreal.

PHAT MAGAZINE: Did you guys think the show would be a huge hit right away? If so why?

We had no doubt. We believed in this project from the moment it was conceptualized and as we sat through the tapings for the sizzle reel and listened to the interviews by each of the women who participated – there was just no question. It was time for this show. There is a movement out there being led by people who are sick of the unrealistic images that Hollywood is feeding us and the negative effect it has had not only on us but on younger generations who are far more susceptible to body hatred and low self-esteem. Celebrities like Lady Gaga, Christina Aguilera, Demi Lovato, Jessica Simpson and Adele are speaking out about image and being criticized for their size and celebrity champions like these powerful women are going to lead to changes in the entertainment and fashion industries. We hope Curvy Girls will be the show that people look back upon one day and say – that was the moment that the world saw a different side to the plus-size woman – a positive role model for others who simply want to be happy and love themselves and their lives.

PHAT MAGAZINE: Phat Magazine is all about fashion and beauty for women with curves. We are pushing the fashion industry to start respecting women with curves more. But sadly it seems, the clothing stores just do not understand the trendy and hip curvy women of today. So we are always on the lookout for cutting edge designers and brands that are pro curves. Are there any up & coming designers or fashion brands that you know to be pro curves that rock?

We are friends with a lot of the plus designers out there so we do not want to hurt anyone by picking favorites but a few stand-outs over the past season are Jen Wilder’s Cult of California line and Shellice Behari’s Blacklisted Couture. Monif C has a great collection. In the past month we have purchased items from: Macy’s, ASOS Curve, Pinup Girl Clothing and Igigi. The best LA Fashion district junior plus line is www.FashionOutlet4U.com. Generally junior plus items do not fit the plus body well (they run very small) but this company has great sizing and some very trendy pieces at very affordable prices. We are obsessed with some of their dresses and their stovepipe pants.

PHAT MAGAZINE: Thanks so much ladies for taking the time out to speak with us. We look forward to speaking with you guys again really soon and keeping our readers updated on the show.

Thanks – we appreciate everyone showing so much interest in the show. You can follow us at @CurvyGirlsCA for updates on all projects we are involved in. Our website is www.curvygirlproductions.com – if the green light on the front page is flashing, it means we have sold a show! We are hoping that flashing light shows is coming soon – we are lighting green candles!

Also follow: @TheCurvyGirls (this is the actual show Twitter site managed by Nuvo) and @AS3Production (Stage 3 Productions). All of us will post when season 2 will air and Nuvo and Stage 3 will post future casting opportunities specifically for Curvy Girls.

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1: Enitan Plus Size Leather Jacket - $529.00 2: Mulberry Daria Leather Clutch $268.00 3: Top shop faux leather studded clutch $ 60.00 4:Petal high waist Leather skirt $89.00 www.leathercult.com 5:Acne Leather Dress- Size Xl- 3xl $1,365 www.leathercult.com 6 / 7Versace Lace Up Leather sandels Pair 1 $ 2495.00 Pair 2 $3000.00 8: Asos Faux leather/metal belt $ 45.00 9: BAUG faux leather belt $55.00 10: Abstruse leather dress Size S-2xl $ 849.00 PHAT MAGAZINE 45

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Photographer: Le’TiciaF. PHAT MAGAZINE 00

iheartposhshoppe.com highwaist black pant, sheer sleeveless blouse.

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Black cotton leggings macys, print body suite by iheartposhshoppe.com, jacket stylist own.

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2be 2 tone rhinestone bracelet

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Stylist: Le’TiciaF. Model: Liz Shar Hair/Makeup: Le’TiciaF. Styling: Le’TiciaF. Asst: Photographer: Brittani Shantel Jackson Special thanks to: www.iheartposhshoppe.com and retoucher Alastair Newall

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Images belong to copyright owners not phat-magazine

INTERVIEW WITH INTERNATIONAL CURVY MODEL PEEKY PHAT MAGAZINE: Peeky thank you for taking the time to interview with us. I have to say you have such a cool name. What is the origin of your name?

PEEKY: I get that a lot, which is funny if you hear the story about my name! ( Peeky ) is actually not my real name, but my nickname. I chose it as a name to chat with, which was a big thing when I was in highschool and internet started to become available to the home user, back in the 90’s. I got it from my last name, which is Peek. My real name is pretty much unpronounceable in English, being very old fashioned Dutch. It’s Geertruida, a name that is common under very old ladies, but not so much for youngsters.

PHAT MAGAZINE: I know you hear this question a lot, but Peeky how did you get started in the industry,and how long have you been apart of the mainstream plus industry?

PEEKY: I never had the ambition to become a model, because I knew I was too big to become one. So obviously I had never heard of the plus size industry. That all changed when I read about this plus size modeling competition in a Dutch girls magazine that I used to read. I was fascinated by the phenomenon, and decided to send in some pictures. I was selected to join the competition, won it, and the rest is history, as they say...so unlike a lot of my colleagues, I started off as a plus model right away. I have been fortunate enough to be able to do this work for ten years now, and I still feel blessed for every job that comes my way. It is amazing to work on a different location’s and with different people all the time, it keeps me inspired.

PHAT MAGAZINE: The plus model industry is changing so much these days, up & coming models do a few shoots and think they are super models lol. What are some of the things you love and hate about the industry as it is today? And tell us a few things that have changed since you first started?

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PEEKY: I love being around creative people, meeting all these new people, and seeing all these new places. It inspires me! And making money with something that you love to do of course is amazing. But the tales are true, this industry is a tough one. It comes with a lot of rejection, so you have to be one strong character to not let it get to your head. The negative things, but also the positive things. In the end we models are just normal human beings, just like everybody else, and being labelled as ‘pretty’ does not make us better than people who do not happen to be a models.

What has changed since I started? Well there has been more publicity for plus models, which makes us more known to the public. Besides that, not much in my personal experience actually.

PHAT MAGAZINE: What would u like to see changed about the fashion industry as a whole? And how does staying humble play a role in your amazing career and success?

PEEKY: Of course I have to go for the obvious answer here, I would like to see the day when there is no difference between normal sized models and plus models. In the end, a good model is a good model, no matter what your size is. So it would be great if more plus models were considered for the bigger campaigns in the future. As for the staying humble: for me, it is something that comes natural. I was taught that everybody is equal.

But besides that: who would want to work with an arrogant, self centered model? Your career would not last long, for sure, because clients would stop booking you.

PHAT MAGAZINE: Moving right into your lovely and curvy figure. Peeky how do you maintain your figure? So many women weight tends to go up and down all the time. Do you have that problem? And if so how do you control it?

PEEKY: I used to be the chubby kid in High School, and was called ‘fat’ and ‘ugly’ back in those days. Coming back on the previous question: that sure is a way to keep you grounded, having been on the other side of the beauty spectrum. I remember shopping sprees with my mum would always end up with me crying, because I could not fit into the regular teenage sizes. So my mum sent me to this course, where I learned about healthy nutrition and the benefits of working out. I started eating healthy, lost 20 pounds and have been around the same weight ever since. And the key factor is moderation, really. My mum always used to say ‘too much’ is not good for you, except for too much love.

In the end, a good model is a good model, no matter what your size is.

PHAT MAGAZINE: You seem to be very proud of your body and curves Peeky. Have you always felt confident and secure with your body?

If so why?

PEEKY: No. I have felt miserable about my body throughout my whole teenage years. I just felt like I needed to look like those Victoria Secret models, not taking in consideration that I am just heavier built than these girls, so that it really is not an option for me to be that skinny. Being a plus model has helped me alot with accepting my body. And besides that: why are we so focused on the external body? In the end, a healthy body is a good body, that is what I have really learned by seeing all these people around me dealing with terrible diseases. I feel very blessed that my body is in such a healthy condition today, and pray that it may keep in that condition for hopefully many more years to come.

PHAT MAGAZINE: Being a model with so much amazing work to back your name,we would love to know what your favorite two shoots were and why?

PEEKY: The campaign that I did for Marina Rinaldi was great. They flew me in business class from New York to Paris, so that already was quite decadent because believe me, we models usually fly economy. I was working with this top team, and I remember we shot it so quick. And the great lunch that we had was amazing. I am glad us plus models can eat, because I would be so grumpy if I could not eat whatever I wanted lol.

The other one was shooting for Vogue Paris! The end result turned out to be quite anonymous unfortunately, because I was shot nude with these extravagant watches, but just being able to say that you have been in such an important fashion magazine made it worth it :) PHAT MAGAZINE: If you are like most women fashion rules your world. What is your favorite ready to wear clothing line right now and who is your go to designer when you are looking to dress up?

Fashion rules my world, for sure! But I have to say: I am not so much into designer clothing. I am more of a high street clothing brands kind of girl.

Asos.com is great, half of my wardrobe came from there. Online shopping rocks! No lines, no mess, no unflattering fitting room lights. I get a kick out of looking like a million dollars, but not spending that on your clothing. Saves you money you can spend on something like travelling, which expanses your horizon. I prefer life experiences over materialism. Things do not matter that much to me.

PHAT MAGAZINE: Thank you so much Peeky for taking the time to talk to us. We wish you more success in the future.

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A true fashion lover finds inspiration everywhere from designer boutiques,department stores, the runway & even thrift stores!

Our June/July issue will show you that curvy swimwear does not have to be dull and boring.

As a curvy women you own the right to be edgy, bold and most of all, beautiful.

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Photographed Le’TiciaF. Styled by: Le’TiciaF. PHAT MAGAZINE 00

Charles Albert Necklace 2,500.00 swimsuiteforall.com fit and flare bathing suite $100.00

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Beauty Note: When creating a bold/fun colorful makeup look,besure not to over do it ladies. If your doing a bold eye keep your lip color soft/nude.

Colorful flower longitude suit $78 can be found at swimsuite forall.com, B-flyy creations orbit necklace $220.00,hand made purple flower earrings $100.00, citichic2311-Neon green square stone bangle $25,Turquoise square stone bangle $25 each.

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swimsuiteforall.com bathingsuite, B-flyy creations custom necklace $200.00 Studio Beats leather shoe boots $165.00

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Beauty Note: Create a bold eye simply by using a splash of color under your eye.

Check out www.sugarpillshop.com for highly pigmented eye shadows.

Swimsuites for all swimwear $85.00 Charles Albert Necklace $ 2,500.00 Charles Albert Bracelet $ 500.00

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Chitichic2311 small black metal Australian crystal bracelet $50.00, Butterfly necklace $75.00 Silver Swarovski crystal Large Bracelet $75.00 West Wood custom sandal boot $200.00

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swimsuiteforall.com bathingsuite fit Bflyy Creations custom necklace $200.00 Stylist: Le’TiciaF. Hair/Makeup: Le’TiciaF. Assistant Stylist: Lauren Harris Assistant Makeup: Drea Lace Asstaint Makeup: Ashley Assistant Photog: Britney Jackson Model: Nicole Dilley Special Thanks: Swimsuiteforall.com, Charles Albert and citichic2311, B flyy Creations, Retoucher: Jelena

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