Work That Body!

Hey Curvy Girls!

We will be back in full swing this week with blog posts that I am sure you will love :) Hint: think Clothes, Kollections, and Bells that are ringing!

Until then, here are some truths that I think we could all use a dose of today:

-TLW

Kelly Cutrone's Do's & Don'ts From The Summer WIll Shock You

It's Thursday, which means 1 more day 'til the weekend (we made it!), and 5 more days until Independence Day. While we're in the thick of Summer Style and some of us in 101 degree heat, what better way to find the perfect holiday outfit than tips for this Haute weather.

PR Maven and overall Fashion Genius, Kelly Cutrone, stopped to chat with Marlo Thomas for her "Do's and Don'ts" this Summer. 25 pro's and faux - pas made her list. Check out my top 4 - do you agree with Kelly?

"Do wear all of the wonderful 1920's and 1930's clothes that are out now. This trending style is a nod to Gatsby and Fitzgerald. Think sleek and silky in bias cut gowns, bejeweled multi chain necklaces and headbands, wide leg trousers and drop waist dresses"

"Do not wear neon. Not this season, not next, not ever. Accessories are the only exception to this rule."

Don't spend over $15 on flip flops. EVER.

"Do celebrate your curves with a vintage inspired bikini. Can you say 'Hello, Annette Funicello!?'"

Photo Credit: Huffington Post

-TLW

Skinny Girls Vs Curvy Girls: Is This Really A Fight?

I recently discovered an article written by Sabrina Crockett : Why Is It Suddenly Cool To Hate On Skinny Girls? and let me just say, it is not.

It isn't and never will be.

The message I will continue to reiterate on The Last Word, is that this is a forum to celebrate Curvy women like myself and all my readers. The beauty in this also, is that there isn't room to hate. By celebrating our Curves and the things that individualize us and no longer place all Curvy women in a category with negative connotations, is not the opportunity to put down those who do not identify with us. I believe Ms. Crockett agrees. In her article she states:

..and I could not support her belief more. Plainly speaking, this isn't a "the oppressed becomes the oppressor" situation. Being Curvy in society is about a trend in loving yourself more and appreciating the value within, but at it's core it is indeed a trend. It is our responsibility to love ourselves, not society's, and if they turn on the drop of the dime not only do we look foolish by ridiculing others, but we are also continuing to be disrespectful to our fellow Woman. We're all Women here!

Nope!

Sabrina even goes on to talk about this meme, that I am sure a few of us have favortited on Twitter or repinned on Pinterest:

And in the context of this article, I discovered how unfortunate this message is. Sabrina goes on to talk about the weight battle some Skinny girls may face in devotion to their own perfect body image, and the celebration of curves could hinder their own self appreciation. Curvy women, I know this is not what we are about.

I went on a rant say all this to say I will continue to celebrate my Curves every chance I get, but I will not do it at the expense of someone else's well being. And neither should you! I think Sabrina agrees with me because:

-The Last Word

Photo Credit: Why Is It Suddenly Cool To Hate On Skinny Girls? 

Tracy Clifford Addresses Us Curvy Girls

Greetings to all of my Curvy women!

Remember this interview I had with Tracy Clifford?:

Well as promised, and a much needed Monday treat, I present to you Part 2 with Ms. Clifford. Here, you'll see how us Curvy Girls fit into the Styling universe and the best practices in organizing our wardrobes/accessory approaches, and the highlights of one exquisite career in Fashion.

Do you feel certain body types are easier to dress or do you look for designs based on clientele needs?
TC: I definitely base my clothing selection and styling on the individual client and their needs. That is the only way to do it! Your client has to feel confident and comfortable. I would be lying if I did not admit that certain body types are easier to dress than others. When I have to get things made and bring tailors in, the process definitely becomes more complicated and expensive. However, I find dressing a more challenging figure to be the most rewarding. When I make people look and feel great there is nothing more satisfying.


Everyone has their closet staples. What are yours?
TC: My #1 closet staple is definitely a cardigan. They provide warmth, arm coverage and most importantly allow me to wear s/l dresses and tops year round. I am also a boot girl. I love to pair boots with my dresses, skinny jeans and leggings.

Where do you begin styling? Do you start with accessories or wardrobe?
TC: There is nothing worse than having different parts of the outfit compete with each other [We agree!]. I always have my clients show me the most critical piece to their outfit and work around it. If that piece is a dress, I showcase the dress and accessorize accordingly. On the other hand, if it is an avant-garde shoe or bag we put together an outfit based around that piece. For instance, a printed or beaded dress needs a simple shoe and bag. A colorful bag or shoe needs to befriend simple clothing.

What is the most paramount moment of your styling career?
TC: There have been many amazing moments throughout my career. Probably the most important one came when I was the full time buyer for Marissa Collections. The store owner, who is to this day my mentor, allowed me to go to Paris by myself. This meant that I was completely responsible for the store and it's merchandise. When I realized my eye and talent had been fully recognized, I knew I was on my way. That experience is what has given me the drive and confidence to found Tracy Clifford Style.

How would you categorize yourself? (Curvy vs "not Curvy") - The best part of the interview!
TC: I would not categorize myself. I am unique and prefer to be that way. You will never see me modeling in a showroom or walking down a runway, but I accentuate my physical assets and express my personality through my love of fashion. I don't believe fashion is about waify models strutting down the runway. It is about passion, style an self expression.  

Do you see what I see? Self expression of individuality is beaming all throughout my interview with Tracy Clifford - as well it should! There aren't any guidelines in Fashion in how to make you feel like YOU. You have to know what works for yourself and an exercise that any way you can.

Ms. Clifford, it has been a pleasure to speak with you and get perspective on true style, from a hometown expert. For more about Tracy please visit her website (link above) and follow her on Twitter : @TCliffordStyle !

-TLW!

Photo Credit: Chictopia, Ebay Images, Inhabitat.com, Go Outfitters Blog

I Want To Hear From My Curvy Gals!

I've had a great time here at The Last Word. I have been connecting with many of you, and I hope readers get as much empowerment from my posts as I do writing them. Embracing Curvy here on this blog has even helped me escape my own hip hugging insecurities, and I am so happy to have a medium to do so!

That being said, I know you have seen all these posts:

There's No Fear in Fashion - Just Ask Fran Fine!

So I Watched The Golden Globes- Now What?

Just For Kicks: Hi Tops!

Jeans For My Big Ol' Butt

Midi's Are NOT Your Mom's Work Attire!

..but I want you all to know this blog is about you too! I want to know what Curvy obstacles you think you may have to we can blaze through them together.

Email me at the blog's official email: The Last Word
Follow me: @AriannaAKG
& add me on Google Reader!

I can't wait to hear from you all & remember: Curvy Girls have The Last Word.


-TLW

"What's So Big About A Size 6?"

Yesterday, Khloe Kardashian Odom was a guest on The Ellen Show to talk about her recent Cosmo cover, "Kimye", and her achievements in teaming up with Sears. Once more, I am not fueling the Kardashian train, but I do love their style (see Give Kredit Where Kredit Is Due) including her outfit below:

Khloe is wearing Kardashian Kollection 'Road to Nowhere' jacket (in stores May 2012), and Kardashian Kollection Button Front Blouse

Odom says she was honored, and surprised in the request to perform Cover Girl duties because she is ridiculed for her weight; she in fact says, "I think you sent this [offer] to the wrong sister". Nevertheless Khloe showed off her Curves because "she doesn't have to be a size 0 to be on the cover". Preach!

Watch the clip below to see Mrs. Odom's beaming self esteem and pride about her sexy:

I am 100% behind Khloe's brand of self respect. She is gorgeous with a great personality to match, but in a forever battle with the media when compared to her sisters. I also empathize with Khloe - because I'm her size! I'm a size 6/8 and 5'8" and there isn't one thing I would change about my physique. Three words Khlo': You - Go- Girl. For more information on Mrs. Odom, check out the new issue of Cosmopolitan Magazine on new stands now.

She's sexy and she knows it!

-TLW


Media Credit: The Ellen Show YouTube Channel, Kim Kardashian Official Website

*Just a side note: Thank you ALL for reading! It is a joy to write things that I hope bear some meaning with you and I am so grateful for your weekly visits! Curvy girls rock ;)

There's No Fear in Fashion - Just Ask Fran Fine!

So originally this was 2 posts but I combined it into one, since I saw both of my messages had the same theme :)

As I aim to empower us Women of all shapes, sizes, and colors by embracing the beauty in ourselves, I also want you readers to feel a sense of confidence; to be proud of what you wear and how you wear it. I know I typically do a lot of posts about clothes that aren't "normal wear" - but that is kind of my point. I think everyone should define the normal from their own wardrobes! There may be a dress code where you go, but I have never heard of a "Style Code" and believe me if there was one, I would be breaking it everyday. There is a time and place for every frock but that doesn't mean you can't express who you are from inside your closet. One woman I think embodies this ideology truly, is my ultimate style icon, Ms. Fran Fine:

Wasn't TV so much better back then?

I know some of you are thinking I'm crazy!! Some of you may think The Nanny was loud, brash, and her outfits were downright tacky, but that is exactly why I love her! Fran was fearless in every sense of the word. On top of the fact that in any given episode she had at least 5 wardrobe changes that alternated different jewelry, shoes, and hairpieces (NOTE: embrace faux hair - that's a blog post for later), Fran wore what she pleased to where she pleased and she wasn't sorry about it! That is a TRUE Fashionista. 

Work, Fran!

Fran welcomed the challenge of defying the "Style Quo" and from the looks of these images, she had a blast in doing so. That is why I am so eager to bring you all posts and outfit combinations that you may not normally see. It's fun to push the limits, but more importantly to push yourselves. There's so much untapped individuality in Fashion and there is definitely a difference in the way you & I wear this seasons pieces. 

The woman was not without her suits!

With all that said, I'm sure the question is 'how am I supposed to do this?' 'It's great to be fearless, but when?' And 'where am I ever going to wear a snack inspired dress like the one above?'  That's what I'm here for :)

Here are some rules in breaking the rules:

1. People will stare. I don't say this to be cocky, or encourage you to be, it's just the truth. If you push the limits it will both intrigue and confuse people. Either way you will gain some onlookers in your bravery of Couture. Accept it now! It's just a silent compliment ;)
2. Don't let your clothes be your leash. What I mean is this: it was almost 80 degrees in the past couple of weeks and I wore my fair share of leather. It doesn't matter the season at times, just have a little fun! Some of your clothes are too cute to be confined to one season! Remember those sleeveless turtlenecks?
3. Treat the Movie Theatre, Mall, Club, and Grocery Store the same. I don't encourage you to wear party dresses everywhere (but if you do I won't stop you!); but like I said before there isn't a dress code to the general public. You are expressing yourself in everything you wear and just because you wear heels to the Supermarket, does not mean you are out of place. The Nanny sure pulled it off!
4. You will still be in season! Fashion moves in cycles, and each year there is an expansion of a similar idea (i.e. first came Cargo pants, now Cargo skinnies). Wear the clothes you love to wear because chances are you will still mesh in the overall theme, but with your own twist!

No outfit suggestions today! I dare you all to delve into your own closets to find something FAB to stand out in. I know I did:

OOTD: H&M Floppy Hat, BB Dakota Fur Vest, Wilsons Leather Blazer , Vintage Pearls

Inspired by The Nanny!

-TLW!

Media Credit: Google Images, YouTube, FanPop.com, FashionForJojo.com

Beauty Spotlight: Kaela Humphries

Happy Weekend!! As we are all winding down our Fridays I thought it would be cool to share this tidbit of news. Recently, the gorgeous Kaela Humphries announced she would be the newest addition to Ford Models, Ford + Division.

Isn't she lovely?

I know most of you probably know Kaela for being related to ex-Mr. Kardashian, but what I really wanted to convey to my readers are the divine words the media has used to describe Kaela.
People Magazine reports:

"'[Ford is] excited at the prospect of bringing this beautiful, engaging young woman to markets worldwide,' the agency said in a release. “A true size 16-18, Kaela will be in a league of her own." - People: Kaela Humphries Signs To Ford

Wow! Aside from the accolades, to some fashion girls, Kaela has already made her mark walking during New York Fashion Week in the Richie Rich Show. Kaela was also a former Wilhelmina model, and appeared in the CW Show "Remodeled".
 
I say all this to remind you all that beauty knows no shape or size! While in the press it does identify that Kaela is a Plus Size Model, the emphasis is on her stunning beauty and  glamourizing talent. In fact one of her former colleagues had this to say:

"'Remodeled's Paul Fisher in said January, 'Kaela, they call her a plus-size model. I don't even know what this word plus means. She's normal. She's perfect. She's beautiful. They should call our models skinny people. The whole thing is wrong. It's backwards. It doesn't matter if she weighs 160, 180 -- it's completely irrelevant.'"-Zap2it.com

Preach! Industry standards: eat your heart out.

Photo Credit: People.com, Wetpaint.com


Happy Friday
-TLW!

Trendy Tops? How Rude!

It's just another Manic Monday over here at The Last Word, and while it is almost over I thought I would bring something to your attention.

I am sure you all have seen this commercial for Trendy Top:

There are many things wrong in this commercial, especially from a Marketing perspective (i.e. The purpose of this product is null when you can still see the top of the jeans on a model wearing Trendy Top), but my biggest problem is that this commercial is offensive! "So that belly isn't sticking out all around?" and "Put a stop to that muffin top?" Trendy Top, if I even thought I needed your product you have just called me FAT in so many ways! On top of that, you claim to be "hip", but you clearly don't know how to navigate your way around the construction of a garment. Our midsections show when a top is cut too short, and there is always a bulge around jeans that are made too tight at the waistline. You are not solving these "problems" created by our shapes!

While my rant is officially over (for now), I for one could not be more over Fatty Trendy Top and their lackluster colors. Seriously, if you are offering this to women why does it only come in four colors? We are versatile creatures. However, that doesn't mean that their idea is completely insane. Layering is key and the utility of this garment is used is actually not a bad thought. So what is a Fashion Girl to do? She is to do it herself :)

This project isn't hard at all. All you'll need is scissors, and for your advanced folks, maybe some sewing tape.

1. Buy a close fitting tank made of Spandex, Jersey, or Stretch Knit.
2. Cut it in half.

You're done! *If you want to make your edges finished you can buy Sewing Tape and use the instructions from the video below, or you can let them fray for an Edgy look to your new accessory. 

And have some fun with these tops:

ASOS Tank Top With Floral Pleated Corset Insert

Hard Tail 'Asana' Racerback Tank

Hard Tail Long Tank

Crystal Knit Tank

FREECITY Life Nature Love Water Tank

Like I said in my first post, this is going to be a hub to celebrate the beautiful shapes and sizes of ALL Women. Trendy Top and products like it, are banking off of insecurities or planting seeds for them, and use words to insinuate negative ideas while trying to sell a product. Have some fun with these printed tops and and love every single part of your body.


-TLW

V-Day: Let's Do It For The Girls!

Hello my Sweets, and Happy February! It is officially the second month of 2012 and also the month of LOVE. For those of you who celebrate, it is also the kick off of Black History Month and I know I will be paying homage to my Icons, including Ms. Sarah Breedlove. Look her up ;)

As you all know I am all about Women/Self Empowerment on this blog, and when it comes to celebrating Valentine's Day, I am no different. A tradition I have started with my girlfriends is to go out for Valentine's Day Dinner. Whether you have a special someone in your life or not, I think it's important to celebrate all the Love in your heart.

See what I mean?

With that being said- this post is dedicated for a night out with the girls! A time to be sexy, flirty, and fun. I put together 4 themed outfits below that would be a V-Day treat:

Outfit #1: Rock It Out (Click on photo to enlarge)

With this 'fit, I had the edgy girl in mind. Someone who will play up the theme, but add a twist. You can't go wrong with classic colors in the pants, the spiked shoes will put you in a category of your own, and the Hi-Lo top goes perfect with the V-Day celebrations. Hi-Low tops show off your front and cover your back. It's flattering and most importantly draws more attention to them hemline, than the hip line.

Top: Mink Pink - The Bad Romance Cape Shirt

Pants: Tripp NYC - The Split Pant

Shoes: Sole Boutique - The Cenobite Shoe in Black

Outfit#2: The Sweetheart (click on photo to enlarge)

For the more demure celebrator, I thought this dress would be a funky update to the LBD. It has a natural waist and hints of sexy with the Mesh, and it also gives the illusion of a Mini. The Peep Toe Pump add a POC (pop of color) and - it's colorblocked!


Dress: Final Stretch Navy Blue Dress
Shoes: My Delicious Rainer Coral Multi Color Block Platform Heels

Outfit #3: Pink Me (click on photo to enlarge)

 Platforms are one of the best things to come back from those Disco Days. They make you look taller, and your legs look longer, so for this outfit I started with the shoes. I love the color and they are suede sandals a.k.a year round shoes! The mini is Denim and the chiffon top takes it to the perfect level of dressy for a night out.

Top: Lace Pocket Blouse - Berry
Skirt: Chipper Zipper Denim Skirt
Shoes: Jeffrey Campbell Dressen Purple Fuchsia & Red Suede Sandals

Outfit #4: Candy Stripe (click on photo to enlarge)

With this outfit, I wanted to do something very traditional to Valentine's Day. Not only is Red the hot color of the season, high waisted shorts are also here to stay. PS- High Waisted anything is great! It's the same idea from the Natural Waist and give you that sexy hourglass shape. Couple them with the ankle strap platforms, and sheer striped shirt, you can easily turn this into a 'Pin Up' girl glamfest.

Top: Malt Shop Memories Striped Pink Top
Shorts: Button Up Tap Shorts
Shoes: Sole Boutique The Eye Doll Shoe in Red

For accessories, I am a firm believer in Bling. Anything that sparkles will perfect these frocks. 

So start shopping! V-Day, or D-Day is next weekend, Ladies. Dress up in Love ;)


-TLW!

"Beautiful Super Size Voluptuousness"

One of my good friends and faithful readers, @ChiStyleMaven, pointed me in the direction of an article I had to post. Melissa McCarthy, scene stealer of the hit movie 'Bridesmaids' and star of 'Mike and Molly' on CBS, was interviewed by none other, than legendary André Leon Talley at the 2012 SAG Awards.

Melissa McCarthy in Badgley Mischka

 
My favorite part about this interview, other than her comedic forte, are the praises of her beauty. Ms. McCarthy has always dressed in a way that beams "Cinderella at the ball" and we should all adapt her sense of self worth, and confidence. Read below:

ALT: What makes a curvaceous lady like you decide to wear navy blue from Badgley Mischka?
MM: I've been wanting to wear like, a dark blue, and something a little drapier, and I said 'What about a little bit of a cowl neck?' And they said, 'Why not?'
ALT:  You know what's great about you is because of your beautiful super-size and voluptuousness, you cover it up and yet you expose a beautiful inner self-esteem, and I love that.
MM: Well, thanks! I love fashion, so it doesn't stop at ten.
ALT: It doesn't stop! It doesn't stop at ten! I'm not exactly a two myself, so it doesn't stop with us, because we love to eat! Right?
MM: Takin' a turn somewhere!
ALT: No, I don't want to take a turn. I really admire you.

Photo & Interview Credit: MTV.com, NYMag.com

Fashion never stops - be who you are. Love it and show it off!

-TLW

"I Love My Body"

Happy Tuesday!
I just had to take a moment to post this. I have, like most girls, been insecure about my body. It was a fight and a discomfort that took years to overcome, but I have never been happier when I look in the mirror. Of course there are things that I can change - we are creatures of nature things always change. But for the most part I love me and I love my curves (if I haven't drilled that into your heads enough), and you should too! I may not always agree with Christina Aguilera's style choices, but her self mantra is one that I will always stand behind. Below is an excerpt from Ms. Aguilera's new Marie Claire interview, and besides her voice and The Voice, she is an astouding advocate of loving yourself:

Source: Marie Claire

"'I've been through my highs, I've been through my lows; I've been through the gamut of all things in this business. Being too thin. Being bigger. I've been criticized for being on both sides of the scale. It's noise I block out automatically. I love my body. My boyfriend loooves my body. My son is healthy and happy, so that's all that matters to me.'

Unlike a lot of Hollywood's size-00 denizens, who obsess with near-OCD fervor over every calorie, Aguilera claims she has never been more at peace with her figure. 'I have certain physical features that I favor over others. We all have our areas,' she says. 'When I worked on Burlesque, I lost so much weight that I was too skinny. I don't weigh myself — it's all about how I feel in my clothes. What looks good on one person might not look good on another body type. I happen to be very confident in my own skin. It takes time to get to that place, but it's all about embracing yourself and your body.' " - Marie Claire

You can read more of her interview with the link below, but take some time today and kiss the mirror. You deserve it!

Christina Aguilera: Drop Dead Diva

Until next time!

-TLW

Let's Revisit This

I just want to reiterate something as I find my voice with this blog and you guys as my readers. I am ALL about appreciating your size. I think being voluptuous is sexy and we make magic when we add volume and shape to any dress, top, pant, or jacket.

The post I wrote yesterday celebrated that, but also put the spotlight on a recently curvy Christina Aguilera. While she has been battling weight problems through a portion of her career and most recently an ongoing battle with foe Kelly Osbourne (Kelly Osbourne calls Christina Aguilera Fat) I do not think she’s unattractive. In fact I think as Christina Aguilera belted in her 2002 hit , she is “Beautiful”, and will probably be mentioned at some point on this blog. HOWEVER, I did want to use this time to point out that this particular image of the Latina singer is what I want all Curvy women to stay away from.

I think beauty is overshadowed when women try so hard to flatter themselves in the clothes that are trendy just because everyone else wears them. That is so boring! Standing out is what makes fashion, Fashion. I think the beauty of being Curvy is embracing it and having fun with all types of print, fabrics, shapes, and sizes. Pouring yourself into something like this is less flattering to you, and an injustice to yourself.

I’m not going to further analyze what’s wrong in the 2011 AMA pics of Xtina, I think we all have formed some opinion of them anyway.  The bottom line again is this: you are doing a disservice to yourself and your body, when you hide the real beauty inside an ill fitted piece of clothing. Be proud of, and show off tastefully everything that you are working with. I sure am.

In the immortal words of Grammy Winner Christina Aguilera:

Ciao Bella.

TLW