Queen Size Magazine May 2017 Issue

ARTICLE TITLE | BY AUTHOR

1

MAY 2017 ISSUE

MAKING QUEEN SIZE MOVES

COVER STORY: THE AVENUE LAUNCHES LORALETTE

LA-FINA PHILLIPS SHARES HER STORY OF LIVING WITH LUPUS

BEHIND THE LENS SPOTLIGHT

EL ANDERSON

+

Fashion + Lifestyle

SPRING INTO BEAUTY SEE WHAT’S TRENDING IN FASHION MODEL SPOTLIGHT JANELLE SIMMONS TEISHA THOMAS JOYCELYN WAY MAY 2017 ISSUE

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|

2

“If you love what you do stick with it, but do it right!”

Photography | PDrew Photography Pants, Shirt and Boots | The Avenue Duster | Ashley Stewart

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|MAY 2017 ISSUE

ARTICLE TITLE | BY AUTHOR MAKING QUEEN SIZE MOVES

FROM THE EDITOR Tawana Blassingame Founder & Editor in Chief

Welcome to the May 2017 issue of Queen Size Magazine. Fashion is in the air and it is very refreshing. We are absolutely loving the evolution of plus fashion. And speaking of evolving, guess who just recently released a new brand? If you’ve gotten this far then I am sure you already saw the cover! Congratulations to the Avenue on the release of Loralette, their new brand for the youthful buyer. You can check out some of their pieces inside this issue.

We also shed some light on some recent fashion trends that hit the stores.

Each month we pack our pages with tips, ticks, trends and inspiring stories. We certainly hope you like what we gave you this month.

We would love to hear your feedback. Email us at queensizemagazine@gmail. com and let us know what you like, don’t like and/or want to see in future issues.

We value your opinion.

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| MAY 2017 ISSUE

3

4

MAKING QUEEN SIZE MOVES

MASTHEAD TAWANA BLASSINGAME CEO/Editor In Chief PHILIP DREW Executive Director & Director of Photography DOUG SWAIM Director of Photography for the DMV area ELVIRA ANDERSON Photographer DANA HALL Photographer MEESHA ANN Fashion Editor JACKIE PAYTES Fashion Blogger CRYSTAL CARMEN Beauty Editor LAWANDA SANYANG Beauty Blogger LA-FINA PHILLIPS Creative Stylist TANAYA JOHNSON Makeup Artist ANDREA BLASSINGAME Makeup Artist EYANI COUTURE House Designer

Photographer | Francesco Benson Stylist | Keith T. Pollick

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|MAY 2017 ISSUE

FLAVORS OF FULLNESS House Designer

CONTENTS FEATURED STORY

28

LORALETTE.COM, THE AVENUE’S LITTLE SISTER

By QSM

HEALTH AND FITNESS

06

LIVING WITH LUPUS - LA-FINA PHILLIPS

By QSM

BEAUTY&FASHION

12 SPRING INTO BEAUTY

By CRYSTAL CARMEN

14 TRENDING SHOES

MODEL SPOTLIGHTS

MAY 2017 ISSUE

5

22

16

By MEESHA ANN

16 LET’S PATCH IT UP

By MEESHA ANN

BUSINESS

22

MODEL SPOTLIGHT JANELLE SIMMONS

32 38

By QSM

34

MODEL SPOTLIGHT TEISHA THOMAS

By QSM

THE LENS SPOTLIGHT 38 BEHIND EL ANDERSON PHOTOGRAPHY

By QSM

SPOTLIGHT 42 MODEL JOYCELYN WAY

By QSM

34 38 18 42

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| MAY 2017 ISSUE

HEALTH AND FITNESS

6

La-Fina Living with Lupus It was about 3 years ago when I woke up and my left arm was in severe pain, the pain was so bad, I thought that I had broken it while I was sleeping. I also noticed that I had red rashes on my chest and neck and I didn’t know how it happened. I continued to go back and forth to my primary doctor for about a year and a half, and all of my blood tests kept coming back normal. I would get dizzy from time to time and experience periods of hot flashes in addition to the other unexplained symptoms I was having. I got to a point where I had no energy to do anything, and some mornings I would wake up so stiff and in pain that I would literally pray and go back to sleep because It literally hurt to move. Although I was going through this hardship, whenever I did have the energy and strength I would use it pursue my dream as a model at that time. My first experience on the runway was April 15, 2015 during the Ms. Theresa Miss Full Figured USA 2015 pageant where I won the rising star award.

Immediately after the pageant I opened my own boutique “La Beautique”. La Beautique started off as a shapewear company where I consulted and helped women achieve the desired look they wanted while wearing their clothes.

Photography|Nestle Snipes MUA| Crystal Carmen, Pink Stiletto Cosmetics Model/Designer and Stylist | Ms. La of La’Beautique Designs | La’Beautique Accessories |”Simple Elegance” Collection of La’Beautique

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|MAY 2017 ISSUE

In August of 2015 I had to undergo an emergency abdominal surgery which triggered a lupus flare up unbeknownst to me. After that I was in and out of the hospital for 6 months battling lupus in addition to having two more surgeries on my abdomen, one being open surgery.

LA-FINA PHILLIPS LIVING WITH LUPUS | QSM

Phillips

7

WHAT IS LUPUS Lupus Foundation of AmericaFebruary 24, 2017 Resource Content

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disease that can damage any part of the body (skin, joints, and/ or organs). ”Chronic” means that the signs and symptoms tend to last longer than six weeks and often for many years.

During that 6-month period I no longer want to pursue modeling or anything in that matter. I only wanted to see the next day. I went completely off the radar. One woman in particular noticed my absence, which was surprising to me I have never met this individual prior to my medical situation. Her name is Andrene Ladydoves Williams, founder and CEO of UBM. Andrene called and sent me messages about twice a week inquiring about my recovery. While doing so she helped convince me to get back to pursuing my dreams in the fashion industry. January 2016 I was back to work as a case manager and I started pursuing my career in fashion; by this time I decided that I no longer wanted to be a model; I wanted to be involved in the creative aspect of it, I wanted to paint the full picture. Knowing I can fall ill at any time I wanted to achieve as much as possible while my body allowed me to. I started volunteering at different shoots as a stylist, my true passion as well as designing and selling clothing from my boutique.

Since then I have obtained the position of assistance production/model coordinator for UBM FASHION WEEK2017. I am the cover stylist for Ms. Tawana Blassingame’s Queen Size Magazine. I am a stylist/ creative director for Full Blossom Magazine and creative director for Idare Magazine. I have been published as a model, designer, stylist, and writer all within a year’s time since being hospitalized. I have good days and I have some bad days but both days I thank God for the blessing of seeing both. Lupus is a battle I refuse to lose. As long as I am able bodied to continue my passion that is exactly what will be done.

In lupus, something goes wrong with the immune system, which is the part of the body that fights off viruses, bacteria, and germs (”foreign invaders,” like the flu). Normally our immune systems produce proteins called ”antibodies” which protect the body from these invaders. ”Autoimmunity” means your immune system cannot tell the difference between these foreign invaders and your body’s healthy tissues (”auto” means ”self”). As a result, it creates autoantibodies that attack and destroy healthy tissue.

These autoantibodies cause inflammation, pain, and damage in various parts of the body.

Five important facts about lupus that you should know: • Lupus is not contagious, not even through sexual contact. You cannot ”catch” lupus from someone or ”give” lupus to someone.

• • Lupus can range from mild to life-threatening and should always be treated by a doctor. With good medical care, most people with lupus can lead a full life.

• More than 16,000 new cases of lupus are reported annually across the country.

• • Our research estimates that at least 1.5 million Americans have lupus. The actual number may be higher; however, there have been no largescale studies to show the actual number of people in the U.S. living with lupus.

• • Women of color are two to three times more likely to develop lupus than Caucasians.

• • People of all races and ethnic groups can develop lupus.

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| MAY 2017 ISSUE

HEALTH AND FITNESS

8

La-Fina Phillips

Photography|Nestle Snipes MUA| Crystal Carmen, Pink Stiletto Cosmetics Model/Designer and Stylist | Ms. La of La’Beautique Designs | La’Beautique Accessories |”Simple Elegance” Collection of La’Beautique

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|MAY 2017 ISSUE

LA-FINA PHILLIPS LIVING WITH LUPUS | QSM

9

”You are not your illness and your illness is not you”

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| MAY 2017 ISSUE

HEALTH AND FITNESS

10

QSM: What an incredible story! I don’t know half of your struggles, but I commend you for never giving up. Tell us about the moment you were first diagnosed with Lupus. Did you know what it was and/or the effects it would have on you?

La-Fina: I was officially diagnosed 2.5 years ago. I wasn’t surprised because I have been researching my symptoms for a while. When it comes to diagnosing someone with diseases you have to reach a certain level and also have certain markers to officially make that diagnose. For a while I had the symptoms but nothing negative showed up in my bloodwork. I was just relieved that they can finally officially diagnosed me so I can move forward with trying to control it.

QSM: Are you the only person in your family with Lupus?

La-Fina: I have recently found out that I have a few family members that also have lupus on my father’s side.

QSM: What do your flare ups consist of?

La-Fina: My flare ups consist of severe fatigue, fever, muscle and bone aches and dizziness.

QSM: How has life changed since your diagnosis?

La-Fina: My life has changed drastically since the diagnoses.

After originally being diagnosed I was very depressed and discouraged; I really didn’t want to pursue anything. I just wanted to get through each day. But with my family and friend’s support I realized that I could not stop working towards my dreams. Even though I was now sick I still had a very important job to do and that was to be a mother and role model for my daughter. I vowed whenever I wasn’t sick or whenever my body was able I would maximize on that time to do what I needed to do. Lupus is not the same for everyone; every case is different to each individual. I must say Lupus actually motivated me to work aggressively to achieve my goals. You don’t know what type of day you will have until you wake up and because of that reason I would set goals and exceed them so when, and if a flare up does happen I will still be on or close to my achievements.

QSM: What are some of the biggest challenges you face on those bad days?

La-Fina: The biggest challenges I face on bad days is wanting to still go about my day as normal but being physically unable to do so. Going from being busy the moment I wake up to the time I go to sleep, to then not being able to even move my body is torture on a whole different level. I still have duties to perform and not being able to do them really bothers me.

QSM: What are some common misunderstandings about lupus?

La-Fina: The biggest misunderstanding about lupus in my opinion is that lupus doesn’t have a general face. You can’t look at someone a say oh yeah she has lupus or any other chronic disease. With Lupus you can be down one day and feel fine the next day and because of that reason people don’t consider lupus a serious illness. A lot of individuals suffer from lupus in silence also for this reason.

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|MAY 2017 ISSUE

QSM: Do you ever sit and ask “why me”?

La-Fina: No I learned from a very young age that things are going to happen good or bad as long as you are alive. It’s the way you deal with things that are going to help you elevate to the next level. I’m a very spiritual being; I believe everything happens for a reason. Reasons we may or may not know of but ultimately the goal is to complete the journey in which your life is intended.

QSM: How do you balance the demands of living with a chronic illness with your passion for helping others?

La-Fina: I do what I can do even when I don’t feel my best. I’m always working, even on my bad days I muster up the strength to work from my laptop or phone. I hold phone conferences and consultations as well as do a lot of research on different designers and stylists that are in the industry. These things help me serve my clients better. I don’t know how much time God gave me and I want to maximize every second given.

QSM: What words of encouragement can you offer to other people that have Lupus?

La-Fina: I want to tell everyone that is fighting lupus or any other battle that no matter what, don’t give up on what has been laid on your heart to do. Your illness is not who you are.

Everyday awaken is a day worth fighting for. Excel at all your goals so there can never be a chance of shortcomings. You are not your illness and your illness is not you.

QSM: I have to say that I am honored to know you, let alone have on my team. Not because you have Lupus, but because of your drive and dedication to your craft. In addition to you being a creative stylist, and having your own boutique, what else is in the horizon for you?

La-Fina: I have just recently become the creative director for Editor in Chief Jose Pagan’s I-DARE Magazine in addition to designing and fashion consulting. I also assist in fashion show productions.

QSM: As a stylist on set, what exactly do you offer?

La-Fina: As a stylist on set I offer my ability to put together creative and unique looks original to each individual client as well as assisting and coaching the client through the shoot as needed in regards to posing and creativity.

QSM: Continued blessings to you and thank you for sharing your story. Please provide people with your social media info and your boutique info as well?

La-Fina: My FB is La-Fina Phillips, Instagram is @la_thestylist and my official La’Beautique website will be up and running within a few weeks.

LA-FINA PHILLIPS LIVING WITH LUPUS | QSM

11

”Everyday awaken is a day worth fighting for”

Photography|Nestle Snipes MUA| Crystal Carmen, Pink Stiletto Cosmetics Model/Designer and Stylist | Ms. La of La’Beautique Designs | La’Beautique Accessories |”Simple Elegance” Collection of La’Beautique

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| MAY 2017 ISSUE

BEAUTY AND FASHION

12

BEHIND THE GLAM

By CRYSTAL CARMEN

SPRING INTO BEAUTY

THE JUST FLUSHED BLUSH

DONT' SWEAT IT

ALL ABOUT THAT FACE

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|MAY 2017 ISSUE

ARTICLE TITLE | BY AUTHOR

13

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| MAY 2017 ISSUE

BEAUTY AND FASHION

14

#ThoseShoes #EMBROIDERED PATCHES

#FLORAL PRINT

#METALLICS

All shoes can be found at Charlotte Russe WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|MAY 2017 ISSUE

TRENDING SHOES | BY MEESHA ANN

15

It’s Trending

by Meesha Ann

Have you been keeping up with Queen Size Magazine’s monthly fashion trends? This month we take a closer look at the world of shoes.

1. I serve you a platter of metal plates. Gold, silver, bronze – flats, heels and/or sneaker.

2. Pamper your look with feather slippers and flats.

4. Still trending are those acrylic heels and clear shoes 3. April shower brings May floral print shoes. Just in time for spring!

4. Put all those May flowers on those shoes. Embroidery patches are trending on shoes too!

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| MAY 2017 ISSUE

BEAUTY AND FASHION

16

Let’s Patch It Up Photography | Dana Hall, D. Marie Photography MUA | Andrea Blassingame Models left to right | Tanisha Cadet, Meesha Ann, Serenity, Dorcha Channer

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|MAY 2017 ISSUE

LET’S PATCH IT UP | MEESHA ANN

17

I just love comeback fashion!! Embroidery patchwork is making its debut for spring/summer 2017. If you’re a seventies baby, you’re probably familiar with overhauls with decorative number, letters, pictures and/or symbols strategically placed all over those denims. For the eighties babies, you may associate this trend with the Ed Harder larger embroidery artwork.

Whichever, era you were born in – It’s trending now! This trend combine the best of the seventies and the eighties which gives us the millennium twist of embroidery patch work. You can find these on any piece of clothing and it still looks hot. From that casual day wear to that sexy dress!

We love to see our readers trending! Post those embroidery patchwork outfit. Don’t forget to use our #queensizemagazine!

Until next time stay Fabulous! xoxoxox Meesh Ann WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| MAY 2017 ISSUE

18

BEAUTY AND FASHION

Photography | Dana Hall, D. Marie Photography MUA | Andrea Blassingame Model | Meesha Ann

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|MAY 2017 ISSUE

PATCH IT UP | MEESHA ANN

19

Photography | Dana Hall, D. Marie Photography MUA | Andrea Blassingame Model | Tanisha Cadet

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| MAY 2017 ISSUE

20

BEAUTY AND FASHION

Photography | Dana Hall, D. Marie Photography MUA | Andrea Blassingame Model | Serenity

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|MAY 2017 ISSUE

PATCH IT UP | MEESHA ANN

21

Photography | Dana Hall, D. Marie Photography MUA | Andrea Blassingame Model | Dorcha Channer

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| MAY 2017 ISSUE

BUSINESS

22

”We may not understand God’s plan now...but eventually we will.

He is the author of our life. Everything happens for a reason”.-Author Unknown.

Photography by | PDrew Photography Jumpsuit |Ashley Stewart Shoes | DSW Accessories | Heiress House Makeup: Janelle Simmons Hair: Amber ”Ms. Hair” Johnson

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|MAY 2017 ISSUE

MODEL SPOTLIGHT| JANELLE SIMMONS

23

Janelle Simmons

Photography by | Pdrew Photography MUA | Janelle Simmons - Hair |Amber ”Ms. Hair” Johnson Black Dress| JC Penny - Shoes | Rack Room Shoes - Accessories | Torrid

Janelle, also known as ”Dr. J” (she has a doctorate in Higher Education and Adult Learning) was born in Brooklyn and has Trinidadian roots. She is the youngest of four children and is now living in Raleigh/Durham, NC. Growing up, Janelle was the quiet type but was heavily involved in clubs and organizations. In January 2016 at the suggestion of her sorority sister, Janelle decided to pursue modeling. She was starting a new life after working in the higher education arena for fifteen years and decided it was time to step out of her comfort zone and try something different.

Janelle began as a model and brand ambassador for Moni B Cosmetics, and quickly began catching eyes with only a few shoots and local fashion shows. In March 2017, Janelle was awarded the Beauty and Barbers United (BBU) Award for Model of the Year-Plus Size. She was genuinely surprised as she is new to the industry but honored that her work has not gone unnoticed.

Janelle is not only a model, but a pageant queen. Again, at the suggestion of a couple of friends, she decided to enter the world of pageantry in 2016. Janelle competed in the Ms. Full-Figured NC pageant, where she placed 1st Runner Up in the plus category, crowned Ms. Photogenic, and was awarded Ms. Social Media and Rising Star. In April, Janelle will be competing in the Ms. Full-Figured USA pageant in the Exquisite category (ages 40+).

In her spare time, Janelle likes to travel, listen to music, and spend time with friends, family, and her sorority sisters. Janelle is excited to see what lies ahead in the plus size modeling industry. Her personal goals as a model is to represent a major brand, participate in fashion shows across the country, and to show women that regardless of age and stage in life you can achieve your goals.

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| MAY 2017 ISSUE

24

BUSINESS

Photography by | PDrew Photography Jumpsuit |Ashley Stewart Shoes | DSW Accessories | Heiress House Makeup: Janelle Simmons Hair: Amber ”Ms. Hair” Johnson

QSM: I know you said that you wanted to do something different, but why modeling?

Janelle: My friends and family have been telling me for years that I should consider modeling. Due to unexpected changes in my life at the time, I figured it wouldn’t hurt to give it a shot. I never expected things to take off.

QSM: What is the difference between pageantry and modeling?

Janelle: Pageantry requires lots of smiling (smiling until your cheeks hurt) and walking in a pageant is different than walking on the runway. When I started pageantry and was at my first rehearsal, I was told pageantry was different and had to modify my walk. And also, not give ”face”. It was definitely an adjustment.

QSM: Give me your thoughts on the term plus size. Some people look at it as a derogatory label while others see the positivity in it; what say you?

Janelle: I prefer the term plus size as opposed to fat. Fat to me is more derogatory because of how it’s been used over the years.

Plus size is more of a ”professional” description (if that makes any

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|MAY 2017 ISSUE

sense); that works for modeling, however I use the term full figured more.

QSM: If your daughter came to you and said she wanted to get into modeling what advice would you offer her? And would you support it?

Janelle: I would definitely support her; however she would still need to pursue an education and have a plan B and C. In this day and age, it’s essential to be multifaceted. You’ll go farther. It also makes life more interesting.

QSM: What would you like to see change in our industry?

Janelle: More major brands catering to full figured women and men such as Gucci, Versace, etc.

QSM: How far do you see yourself going in the industry?

Janelle: That’s a very good question. I will go as far as God allows.

He is the source of my strength and continues to bless me in amazing ways. You have definitely not seen the last of me.

MODEL SPOTLIGHT| JANELLE SIMMONS

25

BLACK DRESS

Photography by | Pdrew Photography MUA | Janelle Simmons Hair | Amber ”Ms. Hair” Johnson Black Dress| JC Penny Shoes | Rack Room Shoes Accessories | Torrid

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| MAY 2017 ISSUE

26

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|MAY 2017 ISSUE

ARTICLE TITLE | BY AUTHOR

27

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| MAY 2017 ISSUE

BUSINESS

28

The Avenue launches a new brand

LORALETTE.COM The Avenue has just launched its new plus size brand call Loralette. The brand was created for curvy young ladies between the ages of 25-35 and range from sizes 14-24. The Avenue has been committed to dressing plus size women since 1987 so I guess we can say that Loralette is the little sister. We all know that the average size for women and young ladies are now in the double digits so why not create a wardrobe to fit us all.

Curvy girls have learned to accept who they are; this is evident all over social media. More and more curvy girls are modeling their curves either for fun or as a profession; and they are having fun doing so. The brand tagline “Let Me Be Me” was created from the energy of these young women. And Loralette is taking this opportunity to appeal to them; the young shopper. The brand offers styles such as off the shoulder tops, destructive denim, bodysuits, sexy bralettes and much more. And judging by what we’ve been seeing from our younger curvy girls, I would say that Loralette’s got it right. I’m glad to see that Avenue was paying attention.

The #letmebeme campaign kicked off into high gear with many young curvy shoppers voicing their desires to be accepted for who they are; and of course the social media world quickly joined in on the fun.

When asked why Loralette was created Liz Williams CEO said “we saw a void in the market that we knew we could fill if we represented this age group for who they really are, she looks for fashion that looks great for her curvy body at affordable prices”.

In addition to Loralette.com, the all-new ecommerce website, the styles will be available in select Avenue Stores including Woodbridge/Iselin, NJ, Centereach Mall, NY, Clinton Valley, MI, Plaza at Chapel Hill, OH, Ladera Shopping Center, CA Lakewood Sq, CA and San Leandro, CA. Loralette is a brand owned by the third largest national plus size retailer, Avenue Stores, LLC. Today Avenue has nearly 300 stores across the US.

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|MAY 2017 ISSUE

WWW.LORALETTE.COM | BY QSM

29

Photographer | Francesco Benson Stylist | Keith T. Pollick

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| MAY 2017 ISSUE

BUSINESS

30

Photographer | Francesco Benson Stylist | Keith T. Pollick

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|MAY 2017 ISSUE

WWW.LORALETTE.COM | BY QSM

31

Photographer | Francesco Benson Stylist | Keith T. Pollick

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| MAY 2017 ISSUE

32

BUSINESS

Photographer | Francesco Benson Stylist | Keith T. Pollick

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|MAY 2017 ISSUE

WWW.LORALETTE.COM | BY QSM

33

Photographer | Francesco Benson Stylist | Keith T. Pollick

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| MAY 2017 ISSUE

34

BUSINESS “There is nothing more rare, nor more beautiful, than a woman being unapologetically herself; comfortable in her perfect imperfection. To me, that is the true essence of beauty.”

STEVE MARABOLI

Photography by | PDrew Photography MUA | Andrea Blassingame Hair | Renee at Natural Taste Salon Sweater and Top |Lane Bryant Jeans | Dress Barn Shoes | Macy’s Accessories | Macy’s

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|MAY 2017 ISSUE

MODEL SPOTLIGHT | TEISHA THOMAS

35

Teisha Thomas

Photography by | Pdrew Photography - MUA | Andrea Blassingame - Hair | Renee at Natural Taste Salon Jacket and Jeans | Dress Barn - Shirt | Rainbow Stores - Shoes | Dress Barn

Teisha Monique is a PROUD petite plus size model that is determined to defy the odds and the standards that currently dictate beauty. She is a mother, a rising leader in her teaching profession, and a Naturally Loc’d and Curvaceously Loaded™ beauty. She resides in her hometown of Springfield MA., but is known to travel when the opportunity presents itself. Teisha has been published in Full Blossom Magazine and Skorch Magazine. She is currently a Queen Size Magazine house model.

She has participated in fashions shows across the Tri-State area. Model diversity is a top priority for Teisha and she plans on pushing the industry limitations on diversity by making locs “commercial”. Her goal is to redefine beauty by releasing the grip that the current guidelines have and changing the lens to move the modeling world forward without restraints or restrictions.

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| MAY 2017 ISSUE

BUSINESS

36 QSM: Tell me a little about yourself growing up.

Teisha: Ever since I can remember, learning to accept the shape of my body has been a struggle. Whenever I went school shopping I found myself in the plus size section of Fashion Bug wondering if this section could ever evolve enough for me to be cool or reflective of a teen’s needs for fashion. For a brief period, I found myself sporting men’s clothing and going for the baggy look to draw all attention away from the shape of my body. I forced myself to get involved in sports as a way of getting some sort of physical activity with the hopes of slimming down. Outside of always having to prove myself on the court or on the field, I vividly remember the discomfort that I had with my body and the fact that the uniforms didn’t go past an xl and required shorts that were too short (in my opinion). Squeezing into either uniform truly didn’t help me in the realm of self-esteem. I was always aware of how I was positioned and never able to fully focus on the game at hand. I began to feel inspired as a plus sized teen when I finally started to see glimpses of myself in the media via divas such as Queen Latifah, Monique, and Sharon Quinn. They were the breath of fresh air that I had been waiting for. They sparked the idea that I could be beautiful and confident too and that message was long overdue.

QSM: Why did you become a model?

Teisha: While in my teenage years I was selected by a Boston talent agency John Casablanca. Every other weekend my family and I went to Casablanca’s for modeling lessons, acting lessons, and makeup tutorials.

I loved every minute of it. Unfortunately, my family’s inability to continue to invest in the program and in the photo shoots made the dream of “making it” become unattainable and unrealistic. At that point I just stopped trying. I realized it wasn’t just talent but what you could invest in yourself and at that time I was too young to own the financial responsibilities associated, so I moved on and buried myself into academia. I became a teacher and a mother and I left modeling behind.

In so many ways modeling found me and I have since been determined to give it my all. I have always been told that I was very photogenic and that I should think about plus size modeling but without really seeing models that looked like me (size, height, and hair), I still had my reservations. Until Shane Suban, photographer and former student, and Leandra Rivera, a truly gifted makeup artist and former plus model, pushed me to see something I had never seen in myself at

our first shoot together. I booked a birthday shoot to treat myself and after seeing the results of the shoot, I believed that now was the time to make my efforts in fulfilling my goal of becoming a model. I entered the Plus Model 411 contest by the late Joy Ashley and was runner up. I then submitted my photo to Honor My Curves on Instagram and was selected and featured in Skorch Magazine. From there I continued to test shoot with photographers and submit my photos to magazines that serviced the plus community. My photos have inspired Pose Magazine to create a model call on their website and Full Blossom Magazine to create the Naturally You and the Epitome of Sexy sections to their publication. Just when I found my rhythm I had to put it all on pause to pursue my Master’s degree and to become a mom for the second time. For a year, I sat and watched my cohort of models take off and soar; so many of them are now household names/faces. Now it is time for me to go after my goal of branding myself so that my name, face, and work is well known in the industry. I understand the commitment and investment that it takes and I am willing to do the work. My personal goals as a model is to become signed with an agency that is truly all about being diverse. I want to continue to show my students and my children that hard work, discipline, and networking go hand in hand when making steps closer to your dreams. I want to show my children that you can balance life in a way where wants and needs are realistically attainable.

rule but I want to challenge that theory and be the outlier in such a set of numbers.

I want to be the model that defies each standard and sets new ones. I want to push agencies, retailers, clients, and designers to look outside of the rigid standards to see that beauty defies any ism that you try to trap it in. I am longing to see true diversity instead of the same look dipped in different shades skin and wrapped in Malaysian hair bundles.

I want them to take a chance on me and other models who are truly diverse.

I have been through a lot in my life and being a teacher and a mom I am always thinking about the needs of others before the needs of myself. This year I vowed to put myself back on the pedestal. I promised myself that I would put all the energy I had into making my modeling career and actuality. When I answered Queen Size Magazine’s call for new house models, I put myself out there and hoped that winning would be a sign that I am moving in the right direction. I had just received the unedited shots from a recent photo shoot and I appreciated the fact that Queen Size Magazine had a knack for choosing models that are truly diverse and I wanted to be a part of such a movement. I was beyond thrilled when I was selected and I am looking forward to working with Queen Size in many future endeavors.

I have been to a few model intensives and boot camps where I have been lucky enough to speak to people in the industry who are in the hierarchy of the plus world and unfortunately, I have yet to be embraced with my locs. I have been told that a model’s look should always be reflective of the client’s needs and customer base and that my locs would never be accepted into mainstream advertising or brands. I was also told that locs are unprofessional and would never be high fashion or commercial, so I would need to invest in wigs or cut it off to even consider “making it” in this industry. Although I understand that a model is a muse and should be open to changing like a chameleon; ever since that first moment of rejection, I wanted to prove that CEO wrong.

I believe that retailers should reflect their audience base and women with natural hair styles are a part of it and should be able to see ourselves in this movement that we spend a great deal on constructing.

In this industry, there are so many guidelines that have become almost lawlike. Numbers

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|MAY 2017 ISSUE

Photography by | PDrew Photography MUA | Andrea Blassingame Hair | Renee at Natural Taste Salon Sweater and Top |Lane Bryant Jeans | Dress Barn Shoes | Macy’s Accessories | Macy’s

MODEL SPOTLIGHT | TEISHA THOMAS

37

Photography by | Pdrew Photography MUA | Andrea Blassingame Hair | Renee at Natural Taste Salon Jacket and Jeans | Dress Barn Shirt | Rainbow Stores Shoes | Dress Barn

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| MAY 2017 ISSUE

38

BEHIND

THE LENS

EL ANDERSON Images are drawings of light. And light is all around us, why not let El Anderson Photography, capture your light? There’s nothing like looking back and reminiscing.

El has been a photographer for more than fifteen years; she specializes in capturing the essence of her clients. Her portfolio extends from amazing studio work, professional portraiture, and working with SwagHer Magazine, Cr8tions Magazine, Queen Size Magazine and BYF (Beyond Your Frame Magazine. To say the least she has also done celebrity photography, event photography, product photography, R&B and Hip Hop Photography, Children Family and much more. Realizing her dreams to become a photographer early on, El attended classes and graduated from the New York Institute of Photography. Through an Entrepreneurship program, El was able to build her dream from idea to conception and that is when El Anderson Photography was born. It’s a good thing when you find your niche in life and capturing someone’s character through photography is what she lives for. Capturing great and memorable moments is the best feeling for a photographer. The response of a smile, a chuckle or a happy tear tells me her that she has done something great for the person on the opposite side of the lens.

Through precise work ethics and determination, she has been able to achieve her dreams.

“There is no elevator to success, you must take the stairs” and through every flight I climb, it builds me to a better person, a better woman, a better photographer”.

Check out her work and www.elvanderson@gmail.com “I am not a Billionaire but I’m wealthy in friendship, family, success and love. With over 17 years of experience I don’t merely take a photo but I capture the essence of who you really are”.

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|MAY 2017 ISSUE

BUSINESS

BEHIND THE LENS| EL ANDERSON

39

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| MAY 2017 ISSUE

BUSINESS

El Anderson Photography

40

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|MAY 2017 ISSUE

ARTICLE TOUSSAINT JESSICA TITLE | BY AUTHOR | BY QSM

41

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| MAY 2017 ISSUE

42

BUSINESS

”Even Broken Crayons Still Color” ~Author unknown

Photography by | Pdrew Photography MUA| Bridgette Green of noflawsmakeup Hair | Wayne Withers of soulstylz Blazer, Pants and Belt | Torrid Tank Top | Ashley Stewart Shoes | Nine West Earrings | Avenue

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|MAY 2017 ISSUE

MODEL SPOTLIGHT|JOYCELYN WAY

43

Joycelyn Way

HEAD SHOT Photography by | Pdrew Photography - MUA| Bridgette Green of noflawsmakeup - Hair | Wayne Withers of soulstylz Blazer, Pants and Belt | Torrid - Tank Top | Ashley Stewart- Shoes | Nine West - Earrings | Avenue Purple Dress | MyFeel (amazon.com) - Handbag |Kate Spade - Shoes | Sam Edelman - Accessories | Aldo

Joycelyn Way is a plus size model out of Philadelphia, PA. She is known to many of her friends and family as Joy. Growing up as a teenager in the church she was not permitted to wear clothes that showed or defined her curves. From her teenage years she has always been plus size, she was forced to wear oversized clothes that covered up any imagination to the eyes. When she became an adult she promised to wear the clothes that made her feel beautiful without caring what others felt.

She dressed in clothing that was catching to her own eyes while sometimes appearing offensive to society’s eyes.

Modeling became a secret desire as she continuously received positive feedback from fellow curvy girls about how they felt encouraged to wear things that they would never wear by viewing her pictures. Her confidence spoke to them through social media encouraging them to also be confident. With a background in social work and now a current behavioral specialist, her passion has always been to help and encourage family units as a whole. In her current position as a Behavioral Specialist she assists parents and educators in appropriate behavior modification for children presenting with mental health diagnosis and behavioral difficulties.

As a plus size model she hopes to transfer that same skill set to assist women and girls who struggle with negative self-image and lack of confidence.

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| MAY 2017 ISSUE

44

BUSINESS

QSM: If you were asked to create a short job description for modeling what would it be?

Joycelyn: Models should be well prepared at all times. Being prepared means being able to present up to date photos including but not limited to head shots, full body shots and/ or comp cards. Models should be able to identify their strengths and weaknesses. Models must be able to identify their platforms. Models should be prepared for continued education via, runway intensives, boot camps and mentorship continuously perfecting their craft.

QSM: Why do you think that so many plus size women have self esteem issues?

Joycelyn: I think because they are not taught that beauty is from within at an early age. In the early years they allow the boys they like and ”the cool girls” to dictate how they should look and what’s acceptable. So they live their life trying to keep up with ”what’s in” instead of learning what they like and developing SELF. QSM: Give me your thoughts on the term plus size. Some people look at it as a derogatory label while others see the positivity in it; what say you?

Joycelyn: I view myself as ”an addition to what you’re used too.” I take pride in the distinction. I have always been more than normal, never average. So Plus Size is not only befitting to my size but to my personality ”in addition too”.

QSM: If your daughter came to you and said she wanted to get into modeling what advice would you offer her? And would you support it?

Joycelyn: Wish I had a daughter to share this with. However, I’m blessed with two boys. But if I had a daughter I would definitely support her in a dream of modeling. My advice would be to pay attention, there is a lesson in everything.

Always ask questions, so that you’re clear on what you’re involved in and clear on what the expectations are. Don’t take rejection personal. Learn from every opportunity.

QSM: What would you like to see change in our industry?

Joycelyn: More extended sized faced models. I am a 26/28 and I don’t see too many of that size as Face Models for Brands...

QSM: How far do you see yourself going in the industry? And where do you see yourself as a model in five years?

Joycelyn: I see myself taking the time to learn more about the industry as a whole. Becoming well educated about the influencers. Continuing to Build my portfolio and perfecting my craft. Within 5 years. I would like to see myself representing the smaller percent of the plus spectrum. Also empowering and encouraging the percent of extended size Queens helping them to feel unforgotten.

Photography by | PDrew Photography MUA| Bridgette Green of noflawsmakeup Hair | Wayne Withers of soulstylz Purple Dress | MyFeel (amazon.com) Handbag |Kate Spade Shoes | Sam Edelman Accessories | Aldo

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|MAY 2017 ISSUE

MODEL SPOTLIGHT|JOYCELYN WAY

45

Photography by | Pdrew Photography MUA| Bridgette Green of noflawsmakeup Hair | Wayne Withers of soulstylz Blazer, Pants and Belt | Torrid Tank Top | Ashley Stewart Shoes | Nine West Earrings | Avenue

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| MAY 2017 ISSUE

46

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|MAY 2017 ISSUE

BUSINESS

ARTICLE TITLE | BY AUTHOR

47

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM| MAY 2017 ISSUE

MMAAKKI INNGG QQUUEEEENN SSI IZZEE MMOOVVEESS APRIL 2017 ISSUE APRIL 2017 ISSUE

48

Cover Cover Model Model

SERENITY SERENITY

Fashion Fashion ++ Lifestyle Lifestyle

SPEAKSON ON SPEAKS BEINGAN AN BEING AUTISMMOM MOM AUTISM ENTREPRENEUR ENTREPRENEUR SPOTLIGHT SPOTLIGHT JESSICATOUSSAINT TOUSSAINT JESSICA DESIGNER DESIGNER SPOTLIGHT SPOTLIGHT PRETTYINC. INC. BBPRETTY

CURLYHAIR HAIR CURLY CARE CARE MEALPREPS; PREPS; MEAL IT’SNOT NOTJUST JUST IT’S FORDIETING DIETING FOR

+

WWW.QUEENSIZEMAGAZINE.COM|MAY 2017 ISSUE

MODELSPOTLIGHT SPOTLIGHT MODEL MALLORYRICHARDSON RICHARDSON MALLORY DAMARISRUIZ RUIZ DAMARIS