You can describe her as a fashion blogger, editor, contributor and advocate, but at the end of the day, she’s a girly girl who loves fashion. Nicolette Mason is one of the most sought after plus size fashion advocates in the industry, and with an impressive resume which includes fashion writer/editor for Marie Claire, Vogue Italia, Refinery29 and her own very popular blog, Nicolettemason.com, this young trend-setter is sure to make it all the way to the top!
Maddy: How did you become interested in blogging?
Nicolette: I started my blog while I was working in a corporate environment and wanted a creative outlet that was entirely my own vision. At first, I focused on design and contemporary art, and it grew organically to be about my life and style!
Maddy: You have a very unique sense of style, how would you describe it?
Nicolette: I’m incredibly and unabashedly feminine, but I also have an edgy side that I try to balance with my girly-ness. If it has bows, ruffles or sparkles, I love it. If it has spikes, leather or metal accents, I love that too!
Maddy: I identify with your freedom of self-expression and allowing yourself to be who you are. How did you develop this level of self-confidence?
Nicolette: I’ve always stood out or been different in one way or another. Growing up, I was the tallest in my class (until everyone hit puberty and either caught up or outgrew me!), always been bigger, and was the very artsy type. When you stick out, you can either use it to your advantage, or try to camouflage yourself; I opted for the former, and it seems to be working for me!
Maddy: It’s not always easy as a plus size woman in terms of clothing options, and when you are not an hour glass figure, people can be all thumbs. Tell us your thoughts about fashion and dressing for your shape.
Nicolette: To be completely honest, I’m not generally concerned with dressing to flatter my figure. I’m a fashion girl, and regardless of my shape, I want to wear what I like! Oversized tops may not be the most “flattering” on me, but I LOVE the way they look, and I much rather be excited by my wardrobe and fashion than feel limited or confined to wearing what flatters me.
Maddy: Who are your favorite brands and designers right now?
Nicolette: I have to say, while I’m probably ASOS Curve’s most dedicated and loyal customer, I’m in LOVE with what Carmakoma and Damn You Alexis are doing. There’s tons in the way of work wear and club wear in the plus market, but both Damn You Alexis and Carmakoma are making high quality, fashion forward collections that are 100% on par with other contemporary designers – in all sizes. They don’t design according to the “rules” of full figured fashion, and I find that so empowering.
Maddy: You are the NEW Big Girl in a Skinny World. What do you hope to achieve in this position?
Nicolette: Can I first say that the team at Marie Claire is incredible?! The editors are so passionate about the plus market, and TRULY care about the success of the column; it’s so amazing to see it all in action. I’m so thankful to be part of the magazine now and in a position to help promote some of my favorite and most inspiring brands, designers, and emerging talent in the plus fashion industry. It’s incredible how many new companies approach me on a daily basis; I feel a huge responsibility and urgency to help make sure women have access to those companies!
Enjoy the entire interview HERE!