Never Forget The Old When You're Ringing In The New

Happy (Almost) New Year! Aren't you excited the world didn't end?

While we are all busy making NYE resolutions, and vowing to never do some things again, I think it's important to take time to realize all the things that have helped bring you to yet another New Years Eve day. There's a journey every year and even the bad, the horrible times you went through, are the reason you're making new decisions right now.

So! With that being said, below are the 12 things that I am promising to bring into my New Year. Some are fashion related, some are not. I hope they help you with your revelations and resolutions in being a better you in 2013:

1. Remember- All those bad things that happened to you this year, they happened and guess what? They're not the worst things that will ever happen to you. Again, the things of this year are NOT worst things that will ever happen to you. The worst thing, would be to not have an opportunity to try and do better and since the Mayans were wrong about the world ending, you have a chance in 2013 to do better because you now know better. 
2. Party Nails- There's something fun about not matching and making a fashion statement with arguably your smallest accessory, and this trend won't cost you an arm and a leg ;) 
3. OWN IT - Something so simple that has stuck with me ever since I've heard it! YOU are the only person who can do what YOU do, so do it! Unfortunately this goes for both good and bad things, but if you have the balls to say or do something bold then you better take credit for it. 
4. Peplum - It's frilly and compliments all shapes! It's moved from skirts to jackets, pants, shorts, and dresses. Peplum is the new LBD.       
5. Just Keep Swimming - Dorie had some wise words from 'Finding Nemo' but it's true. Also similar to #3, you cannot do anything but move forward in life. When an obstacle does come into your life, time doesn't stop and you can't either. In time, you may find the answer on how to conquer your problem anyway!
6. High, High Heels - you saw the return of the platform this year right? You either go High or go Low, and I for one, am not a fan of the Kitten Heel. 
7. Believe in a Higher Power- I respect all Religions and Spiritual Beliefs in the world, but the one thing that truly helped me this year was the understanding that there is a Power greater than myself guiding me with the will to accomplish some pretty hefty goals I set for myself in 2012.
8. Sequins -  No explanation needed.                                           
9. GO TO THE GYM - No really. You know all the talk: "your metabolism slows down when you get older blah blah blah", and all that might be true. But I feel better when I know I did something healthy for myself (I also feel better that I went for a run while eating a LARGE #1 from McDonalds). Just do it, the hour will go faster than you think.
10. Wedge Kicks - Let's just all embrace the fact the we live in the new age 80s, and pumped up kicks are here to stay.                                 
11. Value Your Friends & Family - I don't know what I would do without the awesome support and honesty of all my loved ones, and I think you guys can say the same for yours. 
12. Collars - Peter Pan was onto something, and I'm especially happy since I make them myself! Besides, looking dapper never hurt anyone.

and one more for good luck:

Obviously Number 13  would be my Curves, and yours! It has been an amazing year for me on this blog, and it's because of all of you! I am so glad to write and have readers like you that love to read so thank you for being loyal visitors, and embrace your curves in the New Year because they're apart of you.

Have a glass of bubbly tonight, and I'll see you in 2013 ;)

-TLW

Photo Credit: Pinterest, Evolution Revolution , Christian Louboutin, ASOS, Style Blazer, SodaHead, Castle Blog

If You Love Scandal, Here's Why

I'm happy for many reasons this Thursday, mainly because it's Scandal Thursday and Shonda Rhimes OWNS the night. Plus, the Scandal writers and ABC PR are geniuses because I really have no words.

Seriously!

If you follow me on Twitter you know I live tweet the CRAP out of this show; but there's a reason. Her name is Shonda Rhimes.

The OWN Network just did a Next Chapter on the entire Scandal Show and Ms. Rhimes herself, but here are the main reasons I love her:

• She was born in Chicago, IL (whoop whoop!)
• She was named one of Time Magazines "People Who Help Shape The World" in 2007
• She's the first Female & African American writer to have 4 highly rated primetime shows on a major television network (Grey's Anatomy, Private Practice, Off The Map, and Scandal) 
• She's also one of the first Female & African American television creators to cast a fellow African American Female in a leading role on network television; a role that has not been in filled in over 30 years.

If you don't feel inspired after reading that, then I don't know what to tell you. Break down those walls, Shonda.

As a viewer, I feel personally connected to her eloquent writing because all the scenarios (minus the shooter in the hospital, surviving a plane crash, or erasing all the evidence of a crime at Pope & Assoc), are pretty mirrored to everyday life. She creates these humanized symbols of anguish, happy, sad, struggle and determination through her casting, and the magic we see as fans on tv absolutely starts with the words on her pages. 

I don't know at all what it's like to create a tv show with the world watching, talking, and reacting. I do know that I embrace her all her ideas, regardless of the untimely deaths of my favorite characters. On top of that, Shonda writes for the fans. Every tweet, Facebook post, any opinion of the, Shonda reads and bases a handful of her story lines around them. 

Editor's note: I realize this isn't a fashion post in the least, but it is a post about a woman with a vision and the tools to make sh*t happen. I think that's something that we can all embrace. So with all that being said, watch Scandal tonight and live tweet it since she's reading! Let her know you support her craft.

You go, girl!

-TLW!

Photo Credit: GetClue.com, UPI.com

Signed, Sealed, Delivered: He's Ours

Spoiler Alert: Barack Hussein Obama II

"We are not as divided as our politics suggest" - The Nation's 44th President

*Please Note: This post was written at 11:39 AM on November 6, 2012; that's how much faith I had in our nation and President Obama.

As an African American, Citizen of the United States of America, a Woman, a resident of Hyde Park, and a 24 year old, I couldn't be more proud of our President and the effect he's had on a generation of Millennials who want their opinion to matter. Take that Grandma's/Grandpa's of the world: we may be spoiled with technology, but we sure know how to vote.

This year I was more tight lipped about my choice for President and all the conversations surrounding the election. Not because I was embarrassed of my love for the President (isn't he dreamy?), but my choice is my own and not up for debate or criticism with anyone who disagrees with me. I'm also not on the bandwagon to hate anyone who voted for Mitt Romney. That's stupid; it's not my place to judge you or think anything less of you because your educational or economic background is different than my own.

I'm not here to get too political, fact check the debates and statements by either candidates, or address the "Celebrity President" we've come to know for the last 4 years. Although I will say, the man is a genius. If it weren't for his media tour on Jay Leno, The View, The Ryan Seacrest Show, 106 & Park and more, I don't think very many 18+ year olds would feel a connection to The Obama's, and truthfully his desire to appeal to my crowd makes me even prouder to be a young American.  I'm here for my neighbor, a man, a father, a leader who genuinely cares about the progression of a nation [regardless of color], an advocate for health care and coverage for those with preexisting health conditions, the 'crazy' idea that Women have the right to choose what goes on inside their own bodies, and the idea that the LGBT community has the right to love and be loved in the world. I'm here for President Obama, our leader of the Free World.

Thank you, Mr. President, for bringing me back to blogging.

If you are as elated as I am at the outcome of the election, feel free to show your pride with the memorabilia below. Erika Pena, I will get these earrings as soon as you make more!

Doe Barack Yo Body Tee

FUN Artists Obama Pop Art Tee

Victory Kneel Obama Tee

Obama Earrings by Erika Pena

Obama Outline Tee

Obama Forward Tee

Hope Over Division Tee

Last but not least...

-TLW

Fall Uniform: The Lightweight Jacket

It’s an odd time of year; we know Summer has left the building, but it’s not time to break out the Parkas yet. For us commuters we can’t freeze our you-know-whats off on the bus stop, and I am not a fan of sweating on a packed train car. So what am I supposed to wear? Enter: The Lightweight Jacket.

Thanks, Puma!

It's sleek, easy to pack away if the temperature spikes, and in most cases this thing is water repellent. However, the Lightweight Jacket is a cautionary tale because: its name gives it away! This piece light, and more of a Fashion statement. I only scream say this because you cannot wear a tank top or a mini skirt and expect a warm, cozy feeling. Dress appropriately folks!

As always, here are my tips on styling the Jacket:

• Ignore the color and go with your gut. I generally use this rule for shopping overall, but since this piece of Outerwear isn't designed to go with your outfits, avoid buying something that accommodates your entire wardrobe. It will be frustrating to do so, and you might miss out on a great find.
• Drawstrings and Belts are key! Unfortunately, all Outerwear adds unnecessary bulk but that doesn't mean you have to loose your shape. You can pick Outerwear with drawstrings or a belt to battle the budge, or you can add one from your own closet! Like this:

• My favorite length of Outerwear is above or below the hip. Like I said, the jacket adds the wrong kind of poof, and it's easy to get lost in a large piece of Nylon or other Lightweight fabrics. Jackets that hit above the hipbone highlight your hips, and below accentuates the natural curve from your waistline down. Either way you go, these lengths are pluses for us Curvy girls. ;)

Last but not least, the transition from this season to Winter is a short one and your coats shouldn't break the bank. Below are my picks for Lightweight Jackets all under $100. Let me know what you think & check out a new feature on the blog, "Curvy News":

Merona® Quilted Jacket

Worthington® Single-Breasted Mod Coat 

Belted Zip Cape Coat

a.n.a® Quilted Faux Leather Jacket

ELLE™ Faux-Leather Jacket

In Other Curvy News...

• "We're surrounded by absolutely unrealistic ideas of beauty because girls in photos are, well, not real. They're the result of a hairstylist, a makeup artist, a manicurist, a personal stylist, a tailor, good lighting, correct angles....And to get that one photo that makes the cut, sometimes a thousand or more need to be taken. So, look at pictures of celebrities for artistic inspiration ... but don't think for a second that you should look like them. Because nobody does, not even them." Love who you are!

                        *Lauren Conrad from her new book 'Beauty' Via She's In Color

• Lady Gaga joins the Body Revolution! The pop superstar says: "My boyfriend prefers me curvier. When I eat I am healthy and not so worried about my looks, I'm happy. Happier than I've ever been." She was born this way! Via Daily Mail & @AlexandaMariaE
  
  
  

Thanks for visiting :)

Until next time, 

-TLW

Christina Aguilera & Her Curvlosophy

.....And we're back ;) Now let's get to business:

Recently at the 2012 ALMA Awards, the controversial Grammy winner & The Voice coach, Ms. Christina Aguilera, put her backside forward in a rather form fitting frock:

If you got it, flaunt it!

According to the Huff Post:

The "Voice" star and singer poured herself into a skin-tight black Michael Kors slit gown at Sunday night's NCLR ALMA awards, a ceremony held to honor Latino newsmakers. Her curves, which she's been showing off in a LOT of sexy black frocks lately, reminded us of Kim Kardashian another famous figure-flaunter.

Aguilera, 31, also showed off a pair of Louboutins, Neil Lane jewelry and her new ombre hair, pulling her purple and pink-dipped locks into a low ponytail to receive her NCLR Special Achievement Award.

Is this the start of a fresh new look for the singer? After all, Aguilera's cover for her new "Your Body" single oozed sex appeal, with Aguilera appearing nearly nude save for some pink gauze. And maybe it's about time: "The challenge I’ve always had is being too thin," Aguilera recently told Lucky magazine, "so I love that now I have a booty, and obviously I love showing my cleavage...” 

...And boy does she ever:

Still from "F*ck Your Body" Music Video

We've talked about her before, Curvy girls. I know Christina Aguilera gets a lot of heat for her weight and wardrobe choices, but do you agree with her Curvlosophy?

Photo Credit: Huffington Post

Let me know what you think & check out the teaser from her new single below!

In Other Curvy News:

Adele is reportedly in talks to partner up with Burberry on a plus-size collection, reports British Vogue. [NY Mag Online] 

Melissa McCarthy is "getting closer" to launching her Plus Size clothing line [Popstyle]

-TLW

You're Beautiful -- It's True!

Just thought you should know. ;)

Happy Thursday!

-TLW

We Curvy Girls Hold Sage Wisdom...In Our Hips!

Can you believe the title? Neither can I! This is no hoax, Curvy Nation, this little known fact is true. According to the CBS News Report,

As CBS News correspondent Susan McGinnis reported on The Early Show Tuesday, the study shows women with fuller, "hourglass" figures seem to be smarter, and give birth to brighter children.

The research, published this week in the journal "Evolution and Human Behavior," indicates hips don't lie. In effect, says the study of some 16,000 women, the smaller your waist and bigger your hips, the smarter you are.

Say What!

And, McGinnis points out, there's a formula: Divide waist circumference by hip circumference. The lower the result, the better.

For instance, notes McGinnis, Jennifer Lopez's waist measures 26 inches, her hips, 39 -- for a waist-to-hip ratio of .66. The less curvy Keira Knightley's waist is 25 inches, and her hips, 33, for a ratio of .76.

The researchers say it has to do with omega-3 fatty acids, which gather around fuller hips and thighs, and are important for the growth of the brain during pregnancy. The curvier the hips, the higher the level of omega-3s.

It may also explain other studies that show men prefer women with a low waist-to-hip ratio.

Not only that but, according to the research, women with smaller waists and larger hips live longer!

If all of this isn't a reason to celebrate Curvyness, then I don't know what is! What's even better about this tidbit of information Ladies, you can always win a battle of wits with your significant other, because you can't argue with science! ;-)

Happy Tuesday!

-TLW


Photo Credit: Rolling Views 

I Support All Things Curvy!

The headline says it all if you didn't get that message from my blog before ;)


Today I stumbled upon the Kardashian's Sears new campaign for the Kardashian Kollection, which this time is all about you. 


Kourtney, Khloe, and The Future Mrs. West are rolling out with a plus size Denim extension of their brand at Sears. To commemorate the launch they are asking you to strut your stuff and be the face of the campaign to be featured in the full line Ads (which is actually pretty cool).


Details here: 

The winner will receive:

• Round trip coach air transportation for one (1) to Los Angeles
• One (1) night lodging in LA
• A professional photo shoot for Kardashian Kurves
• A photograph from the shoot will appear in an advertisement for the Kardashian Kurves denim line

To enter click the really hard to find big blue link at the bottom of the page and let me know if you win! I would love to see my Curvy nation represented in a stylish campaign, exclusively at Sears. ;)

-TLW

Photo Credit: Celebuzz.com

A Curvy Girl Takeover: Wedding Season!

One of my readers (Brittany) came to me with a request I couldn't turn down. Like the title says it's Wedding season and whether you are a Bridesmaid or guest, you will need a formal frock to dress for the occasion. Brittany asked: 

I'm going to a wedding and I need your help finding a dress! I'm 5'10 and my measurements are 32-27-39, so I have to be cautious that I'm not showing too much skin. I'm not a fan of high necks because I'd like to look modest up top. Something flowy but fitted, in pinks, teals, yellows, and corals. Summer colors.

First of all Ms. Brittany: you go girl!  This isn't a problem, this curvature is a girls dream (as are all our Curves, but I digress)! You have come to the right place. Like most formal events, finding the perfect dress for any shape and size can be a time suck. You have to find something appropriate, something that fits your body not too snug or too big, and something you feel most like yourself in. Oy! The 'joys' of being a woman.

Here are my tips for Fancy Fashions for a Curvy Girl:

• Rule #1: This rule contradicts everything I believe in shopping & Curvy-dom, but it's a must in Formal/Wedding Wear. Do NOT have an idea of a dress silhouette (yes, you're going to be at the mall for a while). It's good to have a general look or color scheme in mind, but every Strapless, Mermaid, and Halter gown is cut differently. There are some silhouettes made for Curvy Girls (cue: Midi's Are Not Your Mom's Work Attire & Slick Splits), but you will get discouraged quickly if you stick to one category, and miss out on great styles that can compliment you just as well! 

• Know your measurements (Kudos to Brittany!). If you are online shopping, you'll have to look at a size chart (avoiding buying two sizes if possible because shipping/return costs are not on our side). Don't forget to add an inch! We're going for classy-- not skin tight, Girls ;)

• Don't be afraid of color - any color! I know it's Summer and you're supposed to be bright, but 'Fall' colors are actually a part of the year round uniform. Maroon, Navy, & Black are classic and they aren't going anywhere, so you might as well embrace them-- even when the sun is out.

• Cutouts are your friend! As on trend as they are, Cutouts are a Curvy Girl's saving grace. They give you the opportunity to show some more skin in more appropriate ways (i.e. back, sides, or shoulder peek-a-boos), while still having a modest length and neckline.

• Last but not least - know what's in your Lingerie repertoire. Refinery 29 did a great piece on 5 Tricky Dresses And What To Wear Under Them. Strapless bras are a solution, but there are many more!

My dear Brittany, here are my picks for you:

Monique Lhuillier Bridesmaids Lace Illusion Sheath Dress

Monique Lhuillier Bridesmaid Ruched Cationic Chiffon Dress

Maggy London One Shoulder Matte Jersey Dress

Hybrid Dress with Side Zip Feature in Midi Length

JS Collections Dress

BCBGeneration One Shoulder Layered Pleated Dress

For more of my pics see Brittany's Pinterest board, and if you have any other Formal events this summer, this Curvy Consultant is here to help you :)

Glad to be back Curvy Girls!

-TLW