Anna Scholz came State-side to share her Fall 2010 line, we were so honored that they asked us to join to get a preview. She had both her White label and her diffusion line The Black Label, both were just fantastic. Her White label was so on trend with patterned leggings, printed dresses, Mongolian fur jackets, and so much more. Her Black label, looked just as lux with a more economically chic price tag, the fall Black Line featured fabulous motorcycle jackets, printed maxi dresses, and tunics!

What I most enjoyed about Anna’s designs is her attention to detail, she knows the exact places were women need a pleat, some ruching, draping..etc  She accounted for “back-fat” when she adds pleats to the back of the dress, she knows how to make a tummy disappear with simple draping. Anna proves that high-end fashion is possible for plus women all it takes is a little more attention to details, know-how and passion.

I had the opportunity to try on whatever I wanted from her Fall line, and loved all of the outfits. It was the first time that I fit into a sample size!!

MP friends, Lisa of the Beauty Plus Power blog and Melissa of The Fat Apple blog, also attended the event and tried on some great looks!  Above is a picture of Anna Scholz, and Erica at the conclusion of this very successful event!

www.annascholz.com

Congrats to Grace St. John for the great editorial and we are looking forward to seeing even more of her!

Would you try this makeup look?

Sao Paulo Plus Size Fashion Week recently showed the Yara Howe line down the runway  The line was received very well and brought about some coversation on why Sao Paulo has a Plus Size Fashion Week.  The organizer of FWPS, Andrea Boschin readily defends himself: “This is not condoning obesity. We have a huge health concern. All models have physical exams today. We are here precisely to combat the prejudice that plump are careless, who are not healthy. ”

PSFW had 10 brands in total that showed for the plus size market.  We are happy to see that Sao Paulo is stepping up to the plate in showing plus size fashion!

What do you think of the looks from the Yara Howe show?

I love this dress from Sydney’s Closet called “Simply Sublime”. The sweetheart neckline and banana yellow color reminds me of Kate Hudson’s dress (below) in “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days”, but made plus size friendly!  The pleated skirt is designed to hide the waist and tummy bulge. The neckline and beading on the bodice and straps help to keep the eye up and the focus on you! The dress is available in banana and fushia.

Would you wear this dress to the prom?

Sao Paulo, Brazil showed a catwalk of plus size models for their fashion week called Mega Polo Moda. The models showed trends for the Autumn/Winter 2010 season which included the safari trend though animal prints and neutral colors as well as a silhouette focus to leggings and tunics.

What do you think of this fashion show straight from Brazil?

See more videos on modelinia.com

A big congratulations to HipsandCurves.com for being picked by InStyle Magazine as the Best Of The Web for plus size lingerie!

InStyle Magazine said, “An outstanding selection – from pretty and demure lace tap pants to downright hot garters and bustiers. For a quick fix, click on the What’s New tab to find the latest pieces.”

In honor of their big award, we picked some of our favorite items from the site! Enjoy!

Daisy Embroidered Basque

 
Lace Trim Camisole and Boy Short

Angelina Cami Tap Set

Molded Underwire Bra with Push-Up

Rose Bandless Underwire Bra

Where is your favorite place to shop for lingerie?

Model and wife of Andy Roddick, Brooklyn Decker, just posted a pic on her tweeter account of herself, model Alessandra Ambrosio, and plus model Crystal Renn. Decker accompanied the pic with the following tweet: “With @angelalessandra and Crystal Renn giving our best work faces ”.

Here at MP we are so excited to see what kind of collaboration these 3 beautiful models are working on! Fingers crossed for some more amazing pictures of Crystal!

The 2010 Oscar’s brought out the hottest celebrities who stayed out late to celebrate their accomplishments at the after parties. The two hottest after parties were Elton Johns’ after party and Vanity Fair’s.

My two favorite celebrity looks from the after parties was Christina Hendricks and Jennifer Hudson. They both looked phenomenal!

More fun images of the after-parties with celebrity dress changes!

What was your favorite celebrity look from the Oscars?

More at popsugar.com and justjared.com.

Evans – Sequin Cross Back Top
Torrid – Dark Wash Skinny Jeans
Torrid – Barcelona Gladiator Heel
Shopbop – Elizabeth and James Feather Ring
Shopbop – Noir Jewelry Pyramis Double Knuckle Ring

Macys – INC Short Sleeve Tee with Printed Necklace
Macys – INC Faux Leather Leggings
Torrid – Black Crinkle Aunika Heel
Shopbop – Report Signature Mundy Draped Platform Pumps
Shop – Made Her Think Knuckle Buster Ring

One of our favorite model friends, Sage Salzer, took some time out of her very hectic work schedule to do an interview with Madison Plus! Check out her interview below!

You have had an interesting background in modeling as you have done both straight size and plus size modeling. How did you get started in straight size modeling?

My aunt told me about a modeling contest and that she thought I should send pictures to enter. At the time, I had just finished junior high and was leaving for a family vacation. I quickly found some photos that were taken at a party a couple of months earlier and mailed them in. I ended up being one of the 5 finalist in the contest which was sponsored by LA Model Management (NY Model Management is their NY office). Myself and the other finalist went on the Good Day LA morning news show. Heinz Holba, the owner of the agency, announced that I was the winner live on the air. The prize was a contract with the agency and a trip to Paris. It was a lot of fun!

How did you progress to plus size modeling?

During college I was approached by a photographer named Walter Chin. He took some photos and suggested plus-size modeling. I didn’t feel good about myself or how I looked at the time. My thinking was that if I was going to model again, it was going to be as a straight size model. At the time I bought the bill of goods the fashion industry was selling! It wasn’t until years later, looking at Mode magazine each month, that I started feeling beautiful as the bigger woman that I am. Now I’ve overcome a lot of my own prejudice about definitions of beauty being directly tied to body size. Those editorials looked like they could have been in the pages of Vogue or Elle magazine! For the first time, I started spending more money on clothes. I remember going to Saks and buying the most beautiful designer outfits. That was the time when I started to really get back into fashion. This is one of the reasons that I think it’s so extremely important that the mainstream fashion magazines feature curvier models in their fashion pages! I remember what a serious impact it had on my life! The only larger woman that I remember being in the media was Rosanne Barre. Do you remember how she dressed in her sitcom?

Ultimately, it was when Wilhelmina LA opened their ‘plus-size’ division, that I started back up. I was one of the first models on their roster. There is only 2 of us still modeling from that original group of models.

What are the biggest differences between straight size modeling vs. plus size modeling?

There are definitely less castings for plus size models, but this can also be a good thing because I think it’s safe to say there are more ‘direct bookings’ in the plus-size industry. I know a lot of straight size models who, if they’re not working, will go on multiple castings a day, five days a week, and still not book anything. That would have to be exhausting both physically and spiritually. As a model, the plus-size industry is also better because, generally speaking, there’s so much more longevity in it. I think plus-size catalogue customers, for example, get comfortable with seeing a certain face and are more loyal for whatever reason. Unlike ever before in the history of this business, the average career span of a straight size model has totally shrank. There are a lot of contributing factors for this. Some working straight size models may not even last one season anymore.

Can you tell Madison Plus fans what a typical work day is like for you?

As a model, it’s rare to know what your schedule will look like more than a couple of days out. Clients can call your agency to put you “on hold”, this is when they have not committed to book you, but are reserving the right to do so for a possible day project. There may be four different clients holding for one day’s work. It’s prioritized by the order they ask for the hold. It can get tricky when holds are coming in through more than one agency, but this is common. And it’s not uncommon to find out you’re working the next day at 6 pm the evening before. The business is very last minute by nature. When you’re first starting out as a model in NYC, I think it’s important to live right in the heart of the city. If you get a call asking if you can “be here now” whether it’s a casting or a job it really gives you an advantage over the competition. My typical weeks are spent working for Catherines, Fashion Bug, and Kohl’s and their web counterparts. Over the holidays, I had a cute TJ Maxx commercial airing and I have a Kellogg’s Special K cereal print ad out now. As a model, it’s important to pick up new clients in hopes that they will become regular clients.

What was your favorite shoot?

One of my favorite shoots was with Adler, a German client, on a beach in Africa. It was just so visually stunning! I really like doing commercials though as they can feel more challenging than print modeling. I’ve done at least 8 now.

What is your personal style like?

In terms of personal style, I like to mix it up. I’m careful not to dress just according to trends, but like to wear what’s flattering on my body. I love color around the face. If it’s my first time working for a client and all the clothes that are on my rack to model are only in black and white, I may be concerned whether or not I’ll be asked back. I would think nearly everyone’s features ‘pop’ more with color near their face- whether it’s a blouse, sweater, scarf or a big necklace. Since I’m a not petite, I tend to wear bigger jewelry because it’s more in proportion with my body. If it wasn’t for spending so many years working as a model, I don’t think I would have ever learned exactly how clothes are suppose to fit your body. As consumers, I think we are so accustom to ill fitting clothes that most of us don’t even know how clothes are really suppose to fit us!! I cannot stress how important it is to find a good tailor!!

Could you share some of your favorite trends for spring/summer and where you plan to shop for them at?

I love a great fitting pair of jeans! Unfortunately, it can be a lot more difficult to shop for them though. Last week at a job, a client gave me a pair of Torrid jeans I’m crazy about! I’m also really liking Svoboda jeans right now. Awhile ago I packed up all of my non-tapered jeans and put them in storage. To brush up on trends and get inspired, I like to watch the runway shows you can find on Style.com. At the top of my shopping list I would really like to find the perfect motorcycle jacket. Whenever I’m in Los Angeles, I do my best to stop in to one of my favorite clothing stores called Masse. Designer Melissa Masse uses really nice quality fabrics and her clothing have a really sweet sensibility that’s tempered by an east coast sophistication.

The plus size industry has been getting a lot of press recently, what do you think the future holds?

I couldn’t be more pleased to be seeing all the press!! I’m not sure what the future holds, but I know I’m going to do everything I can to keep the conversation alive. The heart of the problem is the size of samples on the runway.

You were recently attended a panel debate talking about the recent concern of sample sizes and model sizes in the fashion industry. What are your thoughts on this?

There’s a lot of finger pointing taking place as to whose responsible for size zero and double zero samples as the industry standard. The fashion designers, magazine editors, casting directors, and modeling agencies all blame one another for dictating this trend. While it’s interesting to examine the perfect storm that’s left us in this position, the most important thing is that people act to set a positive example. The trouble is that there’s millions and millions of dollars at stake and everyone is afraid to take the risk of resizing the sample size especially in this kind of economic climate. I really hope an editor-in-chief at one of the top fashion magazines will ask a designer to create some larger sample sizes for an editorial in their magazine. I think this would be a very powerful statement and would get the ball rolling like nothing else towards enlarging sample sizes. Let’s face it, magazines like Vogue, dictate what is in style. In the meantime, at the grassroots level, designers featuring larger sized models on their runways is key. After all, it is from these shows that magazine editors get inspired!!

What advice do you give to the aspiring models out there?

If you really believe this is the career for you, don’t take no for an answer. I remember hearing how Lauren Hutton, who went on to become a top international model, went into Ford a ton of times with all different colored hair until they gave her a contract. On the other hand, if you’re 5′2″ don’t knock your head against a wall. The reality is that you do have to be a certain height, even though we’re making headway on that as well.

Is there something else you are excited about you would like to share with MP fans?

Yes, I would like to mention that I’m on the national board of advisors for ‘Hardy Girls Healthy Women’, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the health and well being of girls and women. I’m looking forward to presenting awards at their ‘Girls Rock’ weekend this April in Maine.

Also, the plus-size division of Wilhelmina, which was recently renamed “W Curve”, has come together to create “Curves For Change”.  One of the events we’re planning is a 5K Run/Walk that will take place this fall in NYC.  All proceeds from this will go to charity.

Always….

Do what you say you’re going to do. My dad always taught me that if you don’t have your word, you don’t have anything. The modeling business is ruled by the same principals as being successful in any other business. Simple things like being on time, answering your phone when you can, and returning calls promptly go along way.

Never…

If you’ve been booked from your comp card or portfolio (the client didn’t see you in person at a casting, etc), never show up to a job with a new hair color or with a dramatic weight change. You want to look like your comp card and portfolio. While it sounds like common sense, I’ve seen it happen. More than once I’ve gotten a call from the agency to hurry to a job to replace a model whose shown up looking dramatically different than expected.

Thank you Sage!

Images provided by Wilhelmina.

Visit Sage’s website and Facebook page to find out more about her.

My favorite was by far Sandy Powell (below), Oscar winner for costume design on The Young Victoria. I know I went off the grid with this one, but she has style! Her dress has a beautiful print with a daring back with a deep-v,  and a perfectly placed feather broach!

Kate Winslet
Maggie Gyllenhaal
Helen Mirren

Kristin Stewart
Vera Farmiga
Anna Kendrick

Carey Mulligan
Sandra Bullock
Penelope Cruz

Jennifer Lopez
Mariah Carey
Nicole Richie

Monique
Queen Latifah
Gabby Sidibe

Gabby’s dress fit her to a T, love the draping over her arms. Who said designing a dress for a plus girl was impossible! Thank you Marchesa by showing other designers that it is possible!

Congratulations to all the nominees, winners and fashion stand-outs!

Who wore your favorite look?

I love The Lynna dress (below) from Sydney’s Closet. This dress is inspired by the red dress Sara Ramirez wore to the 2007 Golden Globes award (above). This flattering dress has an A-line with a sweetheart neckline and ruched bodice. The empire waist highlights your shape in the perfect way and the matching shawl adds a little mystery.

Check back everyday this week for more plus size prom dresses!

What do you think of this Sara Ramirez inspired prom dress?

Check back Monday morning when we post our red carpet picks from the 2010 Oscars!

Jasmine Elder, the creative mind behind one of our fav indie designer lines for plus sizes, Jibri, has just released pictures of her Spring 2010 line! The pictures and dresses look amazing!

The pink dress reminds me of one of the chic dresses that Victoria Beckham would wear but in plus sizes! I also love how Jamine addressed the asymmetrical trend we are seeing for Spring 2010 perfectly with her yellow dress. The hourglass shapes that are created with the sashes and belts are also very flattering!

Congrats to Jasmine of Jibri for a great line!

What is your favorite plus size indie designer?

Double Silk Cowl Maxi Dress
Crepe Wrap Maxi Dress
Digital Jersey Sleeveless Maxi Dress

Print Silk Georgette Pleat Maxi Dress
Silk Georgette Pleat Maxi Dress
Double Silk Border Maxi Dress

Which one is your favorite?

I was thrilled when Aimee Cheshire, dear friend and brilliant fashionista, asked me to contribute to Madison Plus, her latest venture into the plus-sized fashion world. As the owner of Mental Kitchen®, a nutrition consulting practice based in New York City, I love to dish about healthy eating, and I’m excited to share some of my tips, tricks, and recipes with the many fans of Madison Plus.

I have several recipes that I entertain with throughout the year. The first is a roasted eggplant dip that’s so flavorful and gorgeous your guests won’t even know they’re eating something ridiculously healthy. Made with tomatoes, peppers, fresh herbs, and only a tablespoon of olive oil, a light dish like this leaves plenty of room for dessert.

This recipe, as featured in Self magazine, is loaded with nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, and can also be served as a side dish to fish or lamb dishes. Click here for the recipe.

My other favorite is a ricotta and herb spread previously featured in Real Simple magazine. Ricotta cheese has less fat than hard cheeses and other dip bases, such as sour cream and cream cheese, and has more bone-building calcium. Click here for the recipe.

Visit Caroline’s website Mental Kitchen.

We are proud to say that we have been nominated as a Finalist for the Reader’s Choice Award for best shopping service!

Voting will begin on julib.com today, Wednesday, March 3rd, and will go to April 16th. You will need to register with julib.com to vote for us. Directions to vote are below:

1. Once you register, click on the juli b style awards link on the side navigation (above “gloss”)
2. A new page will open and you’ll click on the “Fashion” category
3. Madison Plus is under “Shopping Service 2010”
4. From there they will verify your email and vote

Please help up win and cast your vote! We appreciate your support!

Buy It!
TARINA TARANTINO Conditioning Lip Sheen

Delias – Courtney Bomber

We have been seeing the nautical look all over the runway and it’s going to be a huge trend for spring! You can easily get this look by updating your wardrobe with a few key pieces. A crested blazer is a timeless classic that can be easily paired with jeans and a white button up shirt for a, “My yacht or yours?” look.

The absolute staple for this trend is the striped tee. We are seeing tons of celebrities, such as Eva Mendes and Sienna Miller, already sporting this look. It is the easiest piece to pull off and a very affordable update!

For denim, the nautical trend is all about white denim and lighter weight chambray options. The chambray dress is cute yet sexy for a day by the water.

For Accessories, stick to some gold pieces that will help your tan glow and add extra polish to your look.

Shop the Nautical Look!

Macys – Alfani Long Sleeve Pintucked Stretch Shirt
Macys – Lauren by Ralph Lauren Crested Blazer
Torrid – Stretch Rinse Skinny Jean
Lane Bryant – Layered Scarf

Torrid – White Skinny Jeans
Dorothy Perkins – Boyfriend T-shirt
Dorothy Perkins – Anchor Vest Top
Lane Bryant – Stripped Tee

Shopbop – Marc by Marc Jacobs Aviator Sunglasses
Shopbop – KORS – Michael Kors Elodie Multi Band Sandals
Macys – Love Squared Strapless Chambray Dress
Shopbop– Milly Baubles Necklace
Shopbop – Michael Kors Gold Watch
Lane Bryant – Halter Swimdress

Do you like this trend? How will you adopt the look?

We are so excited to announce that the winner of Tyra’s Fiercely Real Model Search winner is Sheridan Watson.  Watson is 17 years old, a size 14, and from New Jersey.  Watson won a 3 year contract with Wilhemina and will be in Seventeen Magazine.

Hey girls –  I’m Carina, a Plus Size model from Cologne, Germany.

When I go to castings I usually do not know what to wear. It has to be something comfortable but also something that’s fashionable, and allows me to stand out.

Most of the time I am very disappointed that almost every shop in Cologne doesn’t have the newest trends but just up to size 10. Therefore, I was even more surprised when I stopped by H&M and found the same trends in the BiB section.

I totally love the jeans and stripes combo. You can wear it casual to your castings and to go shopping with your friends and in the evening you can spice it up with high heels and a rivet belt.

Do you like Carina’s look? Shop it Now!

Dorothy Perkins – Gold Button Top
Dorothy Perkins – Stripe Ladder Scarf
Torrid – Skinny Jean
Zappos – Juicy Couture “Andy” Flat

Would you like to be a city style correspondent? Email us at info@madisonplus.com.

Christina Hendricks is one of our favorite curvacious celebrities. Hendricks’ curves help to enhance the classic Little Black Dress (The LBD) to perfection!

What do you think of her in the LBD? Check out our LBD Issue and shop the MP stylists top picks!