The Madison Plus point-of-view is unique because it is a true insider’s perspective, formed over time with insight and care. We know what being a plus-size woman is all about – that’s why we can lead the way in terms of educating and encouraging growth in the industry. Our privilege is to dress the woman who doesn’t solely identify herself as “plus size” – she’s a fabulous, stylish woman, regardless of her size, and she wants to be able to access mainstream fashion. We are her curvaceous crusaders!

We know that in order to achieve a better climate and more diversity in this market, it is essential for us to cultivate young designers and fashion-forward designs. We’re working from the ground up to promote change – rather than following the same old tired pattern. Never again should anyone believe that “plus-size” and “fashion” are mutually exclusive concepts.

Here is a selected list of key press and notable events for Madison Plus:

Aimee Cheshire, Owner

Aimee Cheshire was a fashion-obsessed teen – transfixed by trends and high style, she pored over images of the latest designer clothes each season. Her delight in fashion was a major part of her life, and yet it was restricted: A plus-size girl, Cheshire felt cut off from the high-end clothing she so adored. There wasn’t anything like that available in her size, she observed; it seemed like stylish modern designs were just “not for her.”

But her worries didn’t last. Instead, they gave way to a revolutionary idea. Realizing there was a blatant problem – and fueled by genuine empathy for full-figured women – Cheshire began to make a plan to change the relationship between the fashion industry and the plus-size market.

Earning degrees in both psychology and fashion merchandising, and working as a plus-size model and product developer/buyer for a major plus size brand, she gained a sharp understanding of both plus-size women’s issues and the business of fashion.

“I couldn’t find what I needed – it didn’t exist. I had to create it!”

Cheshire’s unique experience gave way to her vision: a website that could stand on its own as a fashion and lifestyle guide for plus-size women – a multifaceted resource, curated shopping hub, and supportive community with a fresh, modern focus. When design director/image and brand consultant Kari Hansbarger entered the picture in 2009, Cheshire’s vision became reality – together they launched the influential blog, “The Dish,” and Madison Plus was born. It would be a groundbreaking moment in the plus-size industry, and an answer to the prayers of countless curvy women who had for too long lived with the daily challenge of finding great clothing made for their bodies.

Kari Hansbarger, Creative Director

Streetwear lover. Coffee drinker. Design & art enthusiast. Yogi. Tattoos. Grunge gone grown-up. Vintage fiend. World traveler. House head. Creative Director. Passionate and insatiable for more.

I have been an industry professional for over 15 years, working in design for both print and interactive media as well as in business strategy development.As an image and brand consultant, I have had many fashion and beauty clients including Estee Lauder, Ideeli, Devi Korell, Miguelina, Ellen Tracy, Trish McEvoy, Liz Claiborne, Victoria’s Secret, Burton Snowboards and American Eagle Outfitters.

As a 13-time “Addy” Winner in the field of graphic design and branding, I have endeavored to bring to Madison Plus elegant and effective solutions to all aspects of brand strategy, information sharing, and visual styling.

I am passionate about bringing empowerment and choice to all women, no matter their shape or size. I feel that every woman deserves to have an enjoyable and fashionable online experience. As a straight size girl in a plus size world, I find that building a community with other women is incredibly rewarding.

Mandy Fierens
Jessica Fleischer
Nefferth Bernadina
Leona Palmer
Catherine Schuller
Amanda Tice

Photography Credits

Ashley Graham Images: Erick Basilio, Ford Artists
Aimee Cheshire Image: Fallon Sinclair, IPM Models
Madison Plus Black & White Bio Images: Lora Jude Dewolfe
Simply Be Lookbook Image: Daniel Martinez