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As a special needs family celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month is very important to me.

We talk about our culture and traditions and we celebrate all those who have made contributions to the world we live in today and how we will leave our very own footprints for the generations to come.

As we enter a new season I’m excited to be able to share my love for fashion and Hispanic pride with my daughter alongside my friends at Lane Bryant.

A brand that continues to celebrate diversity and inclusion and allows us to be seen regardless of where we come from our size or ability.

Celebrate your individual style with fall’s most beautiful fashion options at Lane Bryant.

Happy Hispanic Heritage Month from our family to yours.

Follow Madeline:
Instagram & TikTok @plusjones
Facebook @MadelineFJones

Photos by LucasPictures

Madeline Jones is a content creator and was personally compensated in agreement with this campaign. All opinions are her own.

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Your Power, Your Breakthrough, An Interview With Cover Model Kathy Rosa…

One of my favorite quotes is:

“Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it.” by  Charles R. Swindoll

When I learned about Kathy’s story this was what came to mind. While we like to think we are in control of our lives so much is actually our reaction and how we power through those challenging moments.

Get To Know Our Cover Model Kathy Rosa…

Can you tell us about yourself… where you are from… anything about your upbringing or family you want to share and your career path

My name is Kathy Rosa born and raised in Queens, New York! Incredibly proud of my culture and nationality-being Dominican. I studied fashion Design at both The Art Institute and the Fashion Institute of Technology AKA FIT. Proud first-generation college graduate!

I come from a very large family, one of seven; family is at the core of everything I do. I take pride in saying that my family came into the United States with nothing and paved the way for their children and their children’s children. I work extremely hard both internally and externally to ensure their great efforts never go in vain. My journey has led me to always live in a state of gratitude. Everything I do… I do it with pure love and joy.

Grateful to the most high to have included me in the right room, at the right time surrounded by the right people. Looking forward to being able to one day pay it forward!

Working in the fashion industry and being plus-size have you seen a shift in the perception of the plus-size customer and what she wants to wear?

I certainly have seen a shift in perception, with more and more companies diversifying and widening their size ranges to finally include larger sizes. I want to walk into any retailer and feel confident that I can make a purchase, without being sequestered to a certain floor/section. We want everything that’s offered to everyone else!

How important is it to have someone who can speak on behalf of the plus-size customer in the rooms where decisions are being made? 

We’re now a major part of the conversation, while previously it felt as if we were eavesdropping. With our seat at the table, it’s crucial that we use our voices to continue promoting change. The same decisions being made for a missy customer won’t necessarily apply to a plus-size woman. Our point of view is crucial!

Let’s talk about your personal fashion aesthetic, what do you love most about the new WynneDenim and the additional pieces within the launch?

Comfort is at the core of my personal aesthetic. I truly believe comfort attributes to confidence in a major way. When you’re comfortable your confidence is illuminated. Then I go in and layer in edge, feminine touches, immerse streetwear, and pieces colors and textures that promote pure joy! WynneDenim exudes comfort. I especially love how they moved and grooved along with me. Made me feel secure, form to my figure, and most importantly no gaping!

Everyone’s confidence journey is personal… has there ever been a time in your life when you faced a challenge and came out on the other side even stronger? 

At age 29 I was diagnosed with stage 4 Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. Eternally grateful to be walking into year four of being in remission. Some may argue that surviving a catastrophic event may be one of the hardest things you’ll ever go through. I now believe that it is the rebuilding after that is the most challenging. Letting go of who you used to be so that the real you can manifest.

Using the same pieces but in a completely different composition. I thank God for choosing me and allowing my continuation on this beautiful earth.  If you’re in your reconstruction season stay the course and bring that fortitude!

Don’t let anyone or anything alter your faith. Spread love and allow your light to illuminate the darkness.

Show them you can keep going…
To My family and Friends, I love you always.

Follow Kathy on Instagram @katrosa29
Follow Kathy on TikTok @kathyana29 [divider]PHOTO CREDITS[/divider]

Cover Model: Kathy Rosa
Photography LucasPictures
Makeup / Hair Glamazon Beauty Cosmetics
Stylist Meghan O’Connor
Production Madeline Jones
Wardrobe Marla Wynne avail at HSN

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Interview With Marla Wynne… Your Power, Your Breakthrough, The October 2022 Issue!

It was during a plus size event in NYC that we met Marla Wynne almost eight years ago. Already an established and successful brand Marla had her sights set on learning about the plus size customer. Marla was not interested in “grading up” and cashing in, she wanted to know “US” the community, the fashion, the people, and how she could celebrate her plus-size customer.

Today Marla Wynne is one of THE top brands at HSN and her plus-size customer base has increased significantly due to her genuine passion to offer clothing that is made with her curves in mind.

Marla has some exciting news to share with you about her launch and where the Marla Wynne empire is headed.

[PMM] We have been following your professional journey for the past 8 years and your passion to reach the plus size customer was not something you HAD to do, it’s something you wanted to do. Can you share your thoughts? [MW] I wanted to reach this customer for two reasons.   First, I wanted an inclusive brand that could address the needs of all women and secondly because in business it seemed foolish to ignore one of the most important segments of the population.  However, as someone who came to this career as a second act I instinctively knew that in order to make apparel for the plus size women correctly, the learning curve would be steep.   

I did my research and quickly realized that Madeline Jones had one of the most distinguished and authoritative voices in the plus industry.   I made it my business to meet her.   Through Maddy, I have learned that it’s not about size, it’s about shape and not just making things bigger as so many manufacturers tend to do. Her remarkable willingness to share her expertise and her passion for inclusivity – heightened my own determination to get it right!

[PMM] We are living in uncertain times and watching how many people (especially women) are following their journey to entrepreneurship. With all your experience and knowledge what are the most important lessons, you have learned?  [MW] While not an easy road to traverse, it is a journey well worth taking.  You must remember that when you start something new, you are going to make mistakes so don’t aim for perfection. I truly believe that if you are not making mistakes, you are not learning. Instead, commit to being a lifelong learner. 

Learn to pivot. 

Accept that you may not be the smartest person in the room. 

Hire people who challenge you. People who question you.  People who are smarter than you and then listen to them.

Make diversity and inclusion a goal.  

Surround yourself with people who are willing to embrace your vision but see the world differently. 

Be fearless and trust your instincts.    

[PMM] We are celebrating the launch of your NEW Denim Launch on HSN later this month. Can you take us through the process and why you think so many of us have a difficult time shopping for denim? Any shopping tips?

[MW] When I started to develop denim, I had no clue how difficult it really was and why it is so hard for most of us to find a pair of jeans that fit right off the bat.   Much of it has to do with the nature of denim itself.   

Denim is a unique product – from the fabric itself to the process of dying denim, to the nuances of shading and fit.   

You’ve all heard about “premium denim” and seen the $200 plus price tags.   So, is it worth it?  Premium denim uses high-quality longer staple length cotton and it is often heavier due to a higher yarn density and the nature of cotton which tends to give while wearing.   I didn’t want that.   I wanted a denim that didn’t stretch out while I was wearing it.  I wanted my denim to fit as good the first minute I slipped into my jeans as they did through many washes and wearings.   I don’t want to “wear it in”.   Like most of you – I just want to put it on and wear it, love it and not pay $200 bucks or more to get it!

I chose a performance denim that is slightly lighter weight and less dense so that it would be comfortable to wear from the get-go.  However, just like premium denim we use longer staple length cotton with a touch of viscose so it feels soft from day one.  

Most mid-priced denim lines use commodity-based denim and as a result fail to achieve what our performance denim offers.  The average fabric stretch in the most common mid-priced denims have a stretch score of 30% with a recovery of 85%.    WYNNEDENIM achieved a 42% stretch score and 92% recovery score, offering the stretch I wanted and working with the natural movements of my body and not bagging out after the endless hours I spend seated in front of my computer.  

If you are a pear or hour glass shaped woman, you know that sometimes denim tends to either be too big at the waist to comfortably accommodate your curves or vice versa.   Look for jeans that cut the waistbands on the bias and, as in the case of WYNNEDENIM, have some sort of smooth elastic at the waist to allow for stretch but prevent gaping—particularly in the back.

So many of us carry weight in the mid-section so look for jeans with some sort of additional technology or attention to detail in that area.   For WYNNEDENIM we have used woven pocketing that goes from the side seam to the zipper with a stitching technique to offer additional smoothness and hold across the tummy.   

You will also notice the “busted” or flat open side seams in premium denim.   While more expensive to do, the flat open side seams also offer a smoother fit.   

After all…. denim really is all about the fit but shouldn’t be so much work.   After testing our denim on over 30 women (sizes 2-24) I am delighted by the responses.  However, maybe I shouldn’t be surprised since WYNNEDENIM has been designed by women, for women!

[PMM] From Television producer to top designer at HSN. What’s next for the Wynne Empire? [MW] My company is currently expanding our brand to include shoes and focusing on the growth of our jewelry, handbags with an eye toward further expanding our home collection and other new classifications.   We are currently available in the US, UK, Canada, Japan and Italy and look forward to increasing our channels of distribution.  

However, what is most exciting to me at this point in my life is helping to launch other new brands with talented young women (and men).    While we have some exciting new high-profile collaborations in the works, my pride and joy is to have had the opportunity of working with Maddy on the launch of “everydayJones by Madeline Jones”.   Maddy has proven to be a much quicker study than I ever was and I know she is going to be an amazing success!   

Visit online at marlawynne.com

Stay tuned for an interview with cover model Kathy Rosa, featuring fashions from Marla Wynne available at HSN

Click to read the interview with our cover model

[divider]PHOTO CREDITS[/divider]

Marla Wynne Campaign Photos
David Urbanke

Cover Photo
Cover Model: Kathy Rosa
Photography LucasPictures
Makeup / Hair Glamazon Beauty Cosmetics
Stylist Meghan O’Connor
Production Madeline Jones
Wardrobe Marla Wynne available at HSN

Partner

Welcome to the June 2022 Bridal Issue of PLUS Model Magazine…

Ivory & Main is New York’s FIRST exclusive curvy bridal shop!

Within four years Curinne and her “family” as she refers to everyone that works at the shop, have made their presence known on social media as well as in real life.

Dress – Alaina by Maggie Sottero / Model @asmiley4ever / Photographer @photographercnyc / Hair @salonkroma / Makeup @jazzedupartistry @makeoverbymanfredi [divider] . [/divider]

If you needed a reason to get on TikTok here is your reason!

Curinne Polizzi and Cassidy Wilkinson are well known as the “Curvy Godmothers” on TikTok and Instagram.  Their videos are “real”, funny, and informative and the chemistry between them is instantly apparent and you just want to hear more from them and anything they have to say.

Follow them on TikTok here

Brides, Booze, and Boobs

For this reason, we are so excited to announce the launch of their podcast ‘Brides, Booze, and Boobs’. The podcast is a once-a-week very candid conversation that ranges from getting married, planning a wedding, dating horror stories, how to know if your fiance is the one, sex, body positivity, etc.

Upcoming Events

Additionally, starting in June, Ivory & Main is also going to be hosting in-store events where they plan on having guest speakers, how to tape your boobs classes, botox parties, etc. Ivory & Main will offer curvy girls bridal, fashion, beauty tips, and more!

Follow on Instagram @ivory_and_main

PLUS Model Magazine will be traveling to Ivory & Main and taking you along with us!

Be sure to subscribe to our free newsletter for future announcements and our in-depth interview with Curinne Polizzi!

Photos @photographercnyc

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After the launch of Gratitude In Style – Season 2, Meaghan and I realized how much kind words and encouragement were needed when we received such incredible support when we shared our own experiences through our hiatus.

Many people wondered how two people who are very different could also be so incredibly aligned and the short answer is we have mutual admiration for one another and enjoy many of the same things, such as FASHION!

Listen or Watch Season 2 of Gratitude In Style

When Lane Bryant launched the ‘Americana Collection’ Meaghan and I sent each other screenshots of our favorite looks and chatted about all the things we would wear on a weekend girls’ trip… and the rest as they say is history.

Check out the Lane Bryant Instagram Stories today (Friday, May 27th) for a special takeover.

Morning at The Beach House

Cacique sleepwear is soft, comfortable, and perfect for those mornings when you want to enjoy breakfast on the deck.

Meaghan O’Connor

Knit Tank & Short PJ Set
[SHOP]

Dream Cloud Bow Thong Espadrille Sandal
[SHOP]

Maddy Jones

Cinched Maxi Sleepshirt
[SHOP]

Dream Cloud Studded Sandal
[SHOP]

AMERICANA 3 PK SCRUNCHIE
[SHOP] [divider] . [/divider]

Girls Just Want To Have Fun

We left “adulting” for another day and took ourselves on a bike ride around this gorgeous beach town.

Meaghan

Convertible Off-The-Shoulder Chambray Fit & Flare Dress
[SHOP]

Dream Cloud Braided Thong Ankle-Strap Sandal
[SHOP]

Maddy

Classic Flutter Off-The-Shoulder Sleeve Top – Americana Tie-Dye
[SHOP]

Soft Slub Short
[SHOP]

Dream Cloud Studded Sandal
[SHOP] [divider] . [/divider]

Nom’ Nom’ Meaghan!

How about a snack under the trees and some selfies?

Meaghan

Sleeveless Pleated Two-Tier Maxi Dress
[SHOP]

Dream Cloud Bow Thong Espadrille Sandal
[SHOP]

Maddy

3/4-Sleeve Off-The-Shoulder Eyelet Dress
[SHOP]

Dream Cloud Ankle-Strap Faux-Wood Wedge
[SHOP]

Wrapped Buckle Straw Belt
[SHOP] [divider] . [/divider]

Beach Please

Nothing better than enjoying the sunset with a friend you’ve made for life.

Meaghan

Underwire Balconette Seersucker Relaxed Swim Tankini Top
[SHOP]

Seersucker Swim Skirt
[SHOP]

Maddy

No-Wire Grommet One-Piece
[SHOP]

Americana Aviator Sunglasses
[SHOP]

Beach Please Floppy Hat
[SHOP] [divider] . [/divider]

Madeline Jones and Meaghan O’Connor were compensated in agreement with Lane Bryant. All opinions are their own.

Partner Lane Bryant

New Year, Fabulous You 2022!

When we began planning 2022 at PLUS Model Magazine we put a lot of thought into the month of January. It’s the first month of the year and it’s the month when the diet industry bombards us with ads and stories about how living in a smaller body will somehow miraculously make your life better.

Each year we try our best to share stories that are inspirational and based on facts and not an industry that makes money from people’s insecurity or lack of self-confidence.

When we met Jessie Diaz-Herrera a few years back she was dancing her way into our hearts with her joyful movement classes. This month we will be sharing our interview with her about “fitness”, wellness, and body positivity. We are not about BEFORE AND AFTERS at PMM… we are here to celebrate the body we are in right here and now without any apologies.

One of the things we love most about Jessie is her style in the athleisure and athletic space so we asked her to share with us her absolute MUST HAVE’S from our partner, Lane Bryant’s LIVI Collection. [divider] . [/divider]

“This is such a comfy set with a fun and bold print.  I love when I can look cool without trying too hard. “

LIVI French Terry Hoodie
Size 10/12 – 26/28
[SHOP]

LIVI French Terry Jogger
Size 10/12 – 26/28
[SHOP] [divider] . [/divider]

“When the temperature is in the ’40s and I want something I can take an easy hike in without feeling confined in a jacket, I would go for a pullover like this one here.”

LIVI Half-Zip Sherpa Pullover
Size 10/12 – 26/28
[SHOP] [divider] . [/divider]

“Ok, so people underestimate how athleisure can really work in non-fitness settings. It’s lightweight and breathable which is exactly what I would need for a day out with my daughter.”

LIVI Cowl-Neck Top
Size 10/12 – 38/40
[SHOP] [divider] . [/divider]

“These are leggings that work great in the fall into winter with their dark floral design. Love the pops of red and purple. Also, the thick band gives AMAZING hold.”

LIVI High-Rise Wicking 7/8 Legging With Pockets
Size 10/12 – 38/40
[SHOP] [divider] . [/divider]

“When people ask me about where to find a good plus size sports bra, I always recommend Livi’s products because of their amazing hold, bold patterns, and durability over time. This bra passed the test.”

LIVI Medium-Impact Seamless No-Wire Sport Bra With Wicking
Size 10/12 – 30/32
[SHOP] [divider] . [/divider]

Photography
René Vega
IG @renevega.co

Follow Our Cover Model
Jessie Diaz-Herrera
Curves With Moves
CurvesWithMoves.com
IG @CurvesWithMoves