Health 211 Pg 12
Style Guide The “NeNe Leakes” Look
Size is Sexy Party Tennessee Fashion Show
2010 Mrs. Dianna D. Donahue-Mitchell Nicole Sturdivant
Submit Professional Headshot & Full body Photos With contact information to Solid.magazine@gmail.com
BE SURE TO VISIT OUR SITE FOR MORE INFORMATION
www.solidwomensmag.com
“Sophisticated, Official, Luscious, Incomparable, Diva’s”
4.
Master Head Contributing Editors and Staff
6.
Featured Contents In this issue
8.
Pageant Queen Ms. Full Figured & Stylish 2010
10.
Fitness 101 Walk it Out: How can walking be fun?
12.
Health 211 Eczema: Natural Treatment
14.
Celeb Inspired Style The “NeNe Leakes” Look
16.
Solid Cover Model Nicole Sturdivant
18.
Runway 311 Upcoming Events Size is Sexy Party Tennessee Fashion show Katwalk Katerers Fashion Show
www.solidwomensmag.com
Ms. Full Figured
Ms. Full Figured & Stylish 2010 Mrs. Dianna D. Donahue-Mitchell By: Kimbie Akins munity during my reign; the “style” part cannot be truly established within a person until they have developed their confidence. With that, I plan to reach out to the plussize community to encourage and build confidence within them, with emphasizes on the young woman. Plus-size women have the advantage of experiencing life longer than younger women, and therefore have developed personal techniques with dealing with how the world perceives them. A young woman, just beginning to experience life, may not be as fortunate; this is where I can help
& Stylish 2010 What is your role as Ms. Full Figured & Stylish? My role is to represent and reflect what it is to be a confident, full-figured woman by exhibiting strength, beauty, maturity, style, and intelligence to the entire plus-size community. I believe my role is to also stand with the thousands of other plus-size women that desire to be taken seriously in the fashion industry, but being that this is my first official experience formally representing this community, I am welcoming opportunities to learn how to properly carry the title of “Ms. Full Figured & Stylish”. What are you going to do with your title Ms. Full Figured & Stylish? Ultimately I feel my purpose is to assist in building confidence in the plus-size com-
Do you consider yourself a plus size community advocate? Yes, I do consider myself a plus-size community advocate… my size and stature leaves me with no choice, but not only am I an advocate for the plus-size community, I am an advocate for the community of women that are 5’10” and taller, as well. This community tends to be overlooked and underestimated in a greater capacity than the plus-size industry, especially the plus-size, tall woman. How will you advocate for the industry of full figured women as Ms. Full Figured & Stylish? I am going to use this title to show the fashion industry that it is okay for plus-size women to be apart of their creative thought processes; we are here and we will buy their clothing. I plan to let the world see that we look good in clothing that is not covered in big flowers, geometric shapes, and iron-on graffiti and that we do appreciate accessories made for us. I will advocate for the young plus-size woman, as well. The current plus-size industry tends to more focus on the plus-size woman and the plus-size young woman’s individuality and style is not considered as much; this must change!
www.kurvykuties.com
When do you pass on your crown? August 20, 2011 How do you feel about passing on your crown? When that day comes, I believe it will be a bittersweet moment; I will be very excited and celebrate my predecessor’s success but I will also be sad that my reign is over. What are your plans after you pass on your crown? My plan is to continue to be an advocate for the plus size and tall women’s communities; I don’t think that will ever cease. I also plan to continue to be me, full-figured and stylish
Can Walking be interesting & fun?
Plant a garden, water, and weed it several times a week. This is incredible exercise, and will give you all sorts of great healthy food – and flowers too.
Walk, and Window shop around the mall. Or walk in a circle of local stores in your area.
Did you know: If you walked at a steady speed of 3 mph non-stop day, and evening it would take you a whole year to walk around the equator; a distance of 25,000 miles.
If you live in the suburb, drive to the city and walk in a more populated area like the most popular street (Ex: NYC - 125th St. walk from 1st Ave to Broadway).
Search Google for trails near you, there are most likely some in your area your are not aware of.
When the weather is in poor condition, walk around an indoor shopping centre like a local flea market and burn about 119 calories.
Start a group in your community with your neighbors, and walk around the community together. Others will see you’ll hanging together having fun, and want to join in to walk around the neighborhood too.
Yes! Here are a few ways to make walking fun, and interesting.
Mix it up a little. Walk for 60 seconds, then speed walk for 60 seconds, then jog for 60 seconds. Then, go back to walking normally, and repeat the cycle over again. Did you know: The average human walks the equivalent of three and a half times around the entire earth in a lifetime.
When walking alone; use a music player, and some head phones. Listen to music you would dance to, it will help you feel like walking is not a chore
Great walking songs: These Boots Are Made for Walkin' by Nancy Sinatra DJ got us fallin in love by Usher Sexy Back by Justin Timberlake Lets get it started by Black Eyed Peas
How Walking Benefits you: Walking reduces stress, calms your nerves, and makes you feel confident Did you know: There are 1,760 yards in a mile, and the average stride is just under 1 yard. Walking with friends can be a joyous experience. When walking in a group together you will discover how much fun walking can be, and how fast the time goes by with gossip Did you know: Timothy Seaman won USA Indoor 5,000 Meter Walk (1.3miles) in 19:54.36 in 1998 and in 2010 is runner -up in the USA Outdoor 20km in 1hr33min10sec21miliseconds Walking Improves your overall health, by strengthening your heart, conditioning your bones, and working your muscles Did you know: Your body uses 200 muscles to walk Walking is also a great way of getting your weight under control. It is good to walk after a meal, to burn calories Did you know: walking moderately for a half an hour will burn about 112 calories Walking can improves your mood and help with psych disorders like depression, anxiety, paranoia, and more. Did you know: To obtain the best
level of physical activity daily, the recommendation is that we walk 10,000 steps per day. The average person only walks 3,000 to 5,000 steps per day. Walking also improves confidence, health risk, stamina, and increases overall life expectancy. Did you know: cooking for half an hour will burn 85 calories. That does not include nibbling & tasting while you cook. Remember we sweat in a hot kitchen. Good time to have on shape wear. Get a personal trainer, you can Google personal trainers in your area that are knowledgeable about diet, nutrition, and exercise. Personal trainers are great motivators, and weight control coaches. They are Certified in this field of expertise, and are also qualified to encourage; and uplift your spirits about exercise.
Eczema Natural Treatments, Diet and Nutrition
By Dr. Robert Galarwicz ND
To this date, no laboratory test can reliably diagnose eczema, although some people will register positive to tests designed to diagnose allergies. These include tests like skin injections, patch or scratch tests. There is a blood test available that measures levels of antibodies (immune system cells) to suspected allergies. Diagnosis is usually made by the location or appearance of the rash. Natural & Alternative Treatments For Eczema
What Exactly is Eczema? Eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis, is an inflammation of the skin that is usually itchy and very dry. The condition is frequently caused by some form of an allergy, which may include foods or inhalants. Description of Eczema Atopic dermatitis or eczema is sometimes described as the itch that rashes. The scratching of the inflamed areas may very well start the rash in some people. The skin of those affected by eczema is extremely dry, because of excessive loss of moisture. Severe situations of it can cause the affected areas to form thick plaques (patches of overgrown skin that rises), develop serous (watery) exudates, or sometimes become infected. These areas of the body that are affected by eczema or atopic dermatitis usually vary with age. Children who are five years old or younger are more likely to have eczema, but it can occur at any age. It can be mild and come and go, or chronic. Toddlers commonly experience it on their face and other areas of the head. Their stomach, arms and legs may also become involved. Older children commonly have the worst parts on their inner wrists and elbows, backs of knees, and ankles. What Causes Eczema And What Are The Symptoms Genetics play a role in who will get eczema or other allergies. There is approximately a 50–80% chance that a child of two parents with allergies will also develop some form of eczema. The genetic predisposition of the individual, combined with early exposure to strong antigens, will determine whether the person will develop allergies. Aside from a predisposition to eczema, increased use of soapy detergents and baby wipes is probably responsible for higher incidence of childhood eczema as well as allergies to food, nutritional deficiencies, bowel permeability and toxins. The usual sign of eczema is an itchy, red rash. The persons age determines what regions are most likely affected but exceptions do occur. How to Diagnose Eczema
The basis of natural and alternative treatments for eczema are keeping the skin clean, moist, avoiding irritants and known allergens. If the skin becomes infected further more aggressive actions are needed. Conventional thoughts have been that minimal bathing of the person with eczema is ideal. The belief was that bathing would break down the natural oil on the surface of the skin and cause more drying. Research in the last few years has shown that soaks are hydrating to the dry skin that eczema produces. There are many different types of soaks and some can make your particular situation worse. I have helped many people with eczema if you are in need of assistance feel free to call me. Environmental factors can give some relief for many people with eczema. Animal dander and cigarette smoke are triggers. Keeping these out of the home, clothing and bedding should be 100% soft cotton, and laundered in a natural detergent with no perfumes. Clothes should be loose fit to prevent inflammation from rubbing. Wash the bedding in hot water that will help to kill any dust mites. Running laundry through a double rinse cycle will help to remove any vestiges of detergent. Avoid the use of fabric softener or dryer sheets as these are frequently scented and may be an inflammatory. Drying bedding or clothes outdoors should be avoided, because potential allergens are likely to cling to them. Mattresses and pillowcase can be covered by special casings that microscopic dust mites can’t infest. Under normal conditions mites cause no problem, but they can be a major trigger for the person with asthma or eczema. Temperature extremes can make eczema worse, so heating and cooling should be used when appropriate and adding humidity when needed. People with eczema tend to have an abnormal regulation of body temperature, and sometimes feel warmer or colder than other people. Sweating will frequently irritate eczema. Room temperature should be adjusted so the person is comfortable. Air conditioning is the best option for cooling the home. Air conditioning should be used instead of open windows and also to cool the car. Electrostatic filters and vent covers can be used to remove irritants from the air that are in the house. These should be frequently changed or cleaned.
In the person’s room, items that collect dust such as carpeting, curtains and stuffed animals are best to avoid. Cleaning the room for dust should be done regularly when the person is not in the room. HEPA filter units and vacuums with built-in HEPA filters remove a very high percentage of pollen and dust from the environment.
Hypnotherapy/Hypnosis has the ability to improve eczema through using the power of suggestion to reduce itching. Since damage to the skin is done by scratching, which can irritate, or cause, the rash, any measure that reduces scratching can be beneficial. Nutritional Supplements For Eczema
Simple mechanical measures will reduce the amount of scratching caused by eczema. Keep fingernails short and use a nail file which will produce a smoother nail edge. It is particularly difficult to keep children with eczema from scratching, but using clothing with maximum skin coverage will help to protect the skin. Socks or mittens can be used to cover the hands at night to reduce the effects of scratching. In addition to the skin care and environmental measures to relieve eczema, there are some complementary therapies that may prove helpful. Dietary Modification Eczema can be triggered by allergies. Majority of children with eczema have food allergies, according to research. A holistic, alternative medicine doctor should be consulted to determine whether allergies are an issue. Once the trigger for the allergy has been identified, avoidance of the allergen can lead to significant improvement. However, common food allergens (e.g., cows’ milk, egg, wheat, soy, and nuts) are sometimes the cause of eczema in adults. A diversity of substances have been shown to trigger eczema reactions in sensitive individuals. Eliminating these substances has similarly been shown to improve eczema. Meditation Meditation instructors help people with eczema to achieve and maintain a relaxed state of positive concentration. This can be done individually with proper training. Even ten minutes of practice per day can produce beneficial results for eczema Studies have shown eczema to be one of the conditions that is improved by this technique. Herbal therapy Herbal therapies can be useful for skin conditions. Among the herbs most often recommended are: Calendula (Calendula officinalis) ointment, for antiinflammatory and antiseptic properties. Chickweed (Stellaria media) ointment, to soothe itching. Evening Primrose Oil (Oenograceae) topically to relieve itching, and internally to supplement fatty acids. There are individual differences in the effectiveness of the topical treatments. When the condition is chronic, guidance from a holistic health care professional should be consulted before attempting self-treatment. Hypnotherapy/Hypnosis
There are several nutrients and natural treatments that can prove helpful for treating eczema. Oral doses of evening primrose oil which contains gammalinolenic acid have been shown to significantly reduce itching. Fish oil has also been shown to improve eczema, at an approximate dose of 1.8 g per day. Vitamin C, as ester-c, can affect both skin healing and inflammation. Vitamin E is very useful, with many studies supporting it. Expected Results There is no known cure for eczema, although most people will experience significant improvement with diet, nutrition and natural treatments. As many as 75% of those who have eczema in childhood will go on to have other allergenic problems such as asthma, food allergies, and hay fever. Daily care of the skin and avoiding known triggers will control majority of eczema cases. Prevention of Eczema One very important thing a mother can do to for her child to avoid getting eczema, is to breastfeed. It is optimal for the baby to have breast milk for at least six months, especially when there is a family history of eczema or other allergies. If breastfeeding is not an option, a hypoallergenic formula (non soy) should be used if there is a family history of allergies. Consult a natural health care provider for help with determining the best type. The person with eczema can decrease flare-ups by avoiding known triggers and following the skin care program outlined above. It’s important to continue to follow guidelines for a daily emollient routine (moistening skin twice daily) even when skin is under control to prevent flare-ups. CALL 201.618.3534 TO DISCUSS NATURAL TREATMENTS FOR ECZEMA.
The “NeNe Leakes” Look
COVER MODEL 2010 Spring CONTEST WINNER Nicole Sturdivant Solid Women’s Magazine Exclusive Interview How many years have you been modeling in the plus size community? The whole world is a stage and everybody plays a part in it. In retrospect as a stylish woman I have been representing for the curvaceous woman my whole adult life. Formerly not understanding the thunder in my thighs, when I realized that being curvaceous was a beautiful thing not a curse. That is when I took modeling up as a profession in 2009. Now I embrace the power of my curves. That was very poetic, What sparked your interest in Plus Size Modeling? I am a new up and coming designer and I love the way my models look in my clothes. At my first fashion show there were not enough plus size models to fit my outfits so I was thrust on the runway and I fell in love. The rest was history. You have submitted several photos to our contest, what made you give the contest a chance? I wanted to take a chance and try something new. Since winning this contest I am very excited about what future contest may hold. We are excited to feature you as well. Do you consider yourself an activist in the plus size community or just a model? I do consider myself an activist especially as a plus size designer.
models. I could talk forever about this topic its one dear to my heart... What were the highlights of your modeling career for 2009? When I met my photographer Chappa, and joined his appreciation of thick women movement. Where his pictures let me see me in a different light. I realized that God made no mistakes when he made me. Everything from my legs to my waist are the size they are supposed to be. And that is the day I truly fell in love with me. What's next for you this year? I am launching my clothing line June 2010 so be on the look out for Nikkivante this summer. I have already launched my NVN-me tee shirt line. People can purchase them at www.NikkiVante.com. I would also like to do more modeling. My contact information is on the website as well for modeling engagements. In your experience of modeling what advise would you give to aspiring plus size models? I find that allot of plus size women take photos with the mentality that less clothing is better. I would like them to know you can be sexy fully clothed and its actually even harder. I would also say don't give up there are going to be more opportunities opening up especially with new plus size designers coming out.
Thank You Nicole for Gracing our Cover. As a Designer, how do you advocate for the We wish you the best and can’t wait to give plus size community? There needs to be more our readers a sneak peak of NikkiVante so variety catering to all sizes of plus size women please keep up posted on when you unveil and that's what I want my Nikkivante line to the collection and your next Fashion Show. do. As my line grows I would like to use a variety of different models ranging in size, shape, Ladies to submit your photos for Solid height, and color. I believe the modeling world Women’s Magazine Cover Model Contest is very rigid with their standards even in plus Please send 4 photos (1. Head to toe, 2. Head size modeling, some people say you have to be Shot, Head to Mid Section, Head to Knee) over a certain height I am only 5ft 3 and I Must be Professional Photos with your Phomodel very well at my height and size and tographers information to there is also a clothes market that needs to be solid.magazine@gmail.com tapped into that hasn't especially for plus petite
Upcoming Events & Model Calls
Nov. 6– Dec. 4, 2010 Project Curve Appeal Open House: The Curvy Revolution: Feb. 18-20, 2011
Size is Sexy By Keya Shareece
The Size is Sexy party was out of this world. Of all the fashion shows, parties, and pageants I have attended, this event was a serious “step your game up” red carpet affair. Size is Sexy was truly defined. There was not one unsexy plus sized woman in the entire building. It was so hot, the class reunion held next door dropped in to scope out the beauty. True Shero’s bought to you by True Curves reviled their latest photos for their next calendar, and I must say ladies; it’s the most creative plus size calendar I have seen period,on this side of the industry. “True Sheros is a race of super powered women from the planet Curva”. To find out more about True Sheroes click here at www.truesheroes.com If you plan to attend a Size Is Sexy event, be sure to “Step Your Game All The Way Up” & Get Fancy! “Hair done, Nails done, Everything did”, and make absolute sure your size is sexy when you walk through the door. Definitely the “It” party in the ATL! Fella’s looking for the hottest plus size women in the ATL attend a Size is Sexy Event you won’t regret it and please don’t be intimidated by the sexiness because the curves here get crazy. I was reluctant to meet the powerhouse behind Size is Sexy, and founder John a.k.a (Mr. Size is Sexy) behind the scenes John and I discussed his vision of size is sexy. John exclaimed “ Size is sexy is a centralizing the plus size world the main idea is to come to size is sexy portal as a one stop shop for the plus size industry.” John started the Size is sexy movement in Philly, and is now expanding down the east coast to Georgia; where he appointed Chyna as the ATL division Director. Chyna seen in the third picture to the left, wearing a pretty purple strapless dress; and John seen in the second picture on the left in a nice tailored suit, came together with Yolanda Zellous of Zelly O Productions, IGIGI, Plush Boutique, Swimsuits for all, Emperess Lingerie, and Designs by Yuliya Raquel to present how sexy size is. I left that event wanting to see the type of confidence displayed there at every plus size event around the world.
Tennessee 2010 Summer/Fall Fashion Show Preview by: Tanesha Jackson
For this to be a first fashion show for photographer and coordinator, Charlisha; she surely showed everyone that professionalism and effort can go a long way. Charlisha and her team were very professional and put together! The show was amazing. Designers in this show included Designs from Designs by Caroline, Vintage Rose, Dean of Fashion, Hip and Hooks Accessories, Honey Pies and much more… The show was hosted by the wonderful Plus Sized Diva Ms.Arekah, also known as a triple threat. Her clothing was provided by Curvaceous Boutique, Jewelry by Pathera De Sol, and Shoes by Calvin Klein. Ms. Arekah;s Second look was by Nakimuli/Tennille McMillian –NYC and her shoes by Nine West. Since I modeled in the show ,I was able to get first hand as to how it really went. The show started on time and everything was done right. Opening with a dance number set the tone for the nights events. Mrs. Carolyn designs are custom made with each client in mind. She makes clothing for all sized women in mind. Quote from Mrs. Caroline: “Whatever I dream is what creates. From elegant dresses to casual wear I can make it happen.”. The next designer was Maggie Dandridge: The name says it all! She has been making move in Memphis since 2006. Maggie Dandridge started out making clothing for standard size women. Now she is branching out into the plus size market and I was blessed with the opportunity to wear two pieces from her collection. With her attention to color and an eye for success there isn’t anything she can’t do. Following the next designer was Ashley Dean’s (Dean of Fashion) Her collection is known for taking risks and showing everyone that you can be beautiful and sexy at the same time. With her in house models representing her line to the fullest, not only is she changing the game but becoming a force to be dealt with. Also I wanted to mention Hip and Hooks by Ms. Loretta being a fellow curvy girl as well she is very humble, sweet, and considerate. I was very blessed to rock her earrings in the show. Much love to all the designers and models that were in the show. I was very blessed to rock her earrings in the show!
KatWalk Katerers Fashion Show Katwalk Katerers had their Diver-City All Shapes All Sizes Fashion Show. One of the big NYC summer fashion showcases. Below are the summer/fall must have’s of the show. Left to right, The white collar button down dress belted in black, worn by (Plus Model Jemsika) wearing En V New York by JustRaymona, The striped white and black off the shoulder tube dress worn by (Plus Model Geralyn B) wearing Sam Randolph, and The black 80’s off the shoulder milinium rock dress worn by (Plus Model Dhylles W.) also in Sam Randolph. The show was a blast and the fashion for plus size is coming out the box. Ladies these are must have dresses for your next affair click the photos to find out if there are anymore in stock.
Health 211 Pg 12
Style Guide The “NeNe Leakes” Look
Size is Sexy Party Tennessee Fashion Show Safiya
2010 Mrs. Dianna D. Donahue-Mitchell