Erica Faye Watson Talks Body Confidence and How She is Breaking The Rules!
PMM sat down with Erica Faye Watson, one of the dynamic women in Avenue’s “Show Your Confidence Campaign“.
We would like to encourage everyone to participate in this display of confidence. Show us what you’ve got! Tag your IG photo with #yourconfidenceisshowing and share what confidence means to you!
[divider] . [/divider]Can you tell us a little about yourself?
I’m a comedian, actress, writer and director from the Southside of Chicago. That’s who I am in REAL life. But, in my imaginary world, in my head, I am a stripper named Miss Poundcakes!
You have been in the entertainment and plus size industry for a long time. What significant positive changes have you seen in the industry?
I’m excited about all of the diversity and inclusivity that is happening in the entertainment and plus size industry. Visibility is so important, and I’m happy that we are seeing more diverse bodies and complexions not only in front of the camera and on the runway, but also behind the scenes. I also think it is beautiful that there is a big spark in the number of women of color that are making their entrepreneurial dreams come true in these industries. Black and Latino women are creating business empires in the entertainment world and the plus community, and that makes me so proud.
We’ve spoken about being part of Avenue’s Confidence Series and what it means to us specifically. Can you share what this moment means to you?
It’s hard to be confident in a world that constantly creates messaging that says bigger bodies are not worthy of love. So this Confidence Series by the Avenue is revolutionary, especially since I cannot think of another instance where a brand has used a woman like me in a national fashion campaign. I proudly wear a size 26/28, but we never see women my size celebrated in a major way. Using a woman like me to represent confidence is groundbreaking. Actually, it’s “RULEbreaking”. I am a woman who does not follow rules, and I am happy that the Avenue has embraced me and by doing so, given other women like me the permission to break the rules as well and break the mold of what is considered to be beautiful.
Let’s chat FASHION, we often see you wearing Avenue… can you tell us about your personal fashion aesthetic and what you are loving about the direction Avenue is taking in the fashion space?
I’m a “ride or die” fan of the Avenue. I like to look stylish and on trend, but I also value comfort. That’s why I love the Avenue. Also, their jeans are awesome!
I have many sides to my personal fashion aesthetic. Sometimes I’m laid back, other times I’m cute & flirty. But then when it’s time for Miss Poundcakes to come out, I love to be sexy and edgy. Luckily I can find all of those looks at the Avenue.
What tips do you have for those working on building a brand or trying to take their career to the next level?
First thing you must do is take a real honest look at yourself, and embrace who you are… flaws and all. You must take ownership of your strengths and weaknesses and make them work for you. Don’t try to be someone else. Be authentically you, and sit back and watch the world bask in your glory! Also keep a team of folks around you, that you can trust who will uplift you and support you. Lastly, treat everyone you meet with respect and make sure that you only align yourself with people that will respect you too! Stay focused and be true to yourself… and your brand will grow for sure.
Do you have a favorite quote?
I have 2!
“You’ve got to learn to leave the table when love’s no longer being served.” – Nina Simone
“Even if it makes others uncomfortable, I will love who I am.” -Janelle Monáe
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For more about what’s happening with Erica, visit online at ericafayewatson.com
[divider] . [/divider]Remember to Join the celebration…
Tag your IG photo with #yourconfidenceisshowing and share what confidence means to you!