Interesting story on CNN by Breeanna Hare.

Could it be?

Is 2010 the year for plus size models to get more work and continue the trend of placing plus size models in editorial campaigns-or- is it the same old cycle that we have seen before with a burst of activity that slowly fades away to be resurrected at a later time for the cycle to start again?

I am encouraged that there has been a number of recent high fashion editorial campaigns from V Magazine, Glamour, and Germany’s Brigitte Magazines with plus size models featured along side high fashion, Size 0 models or with models who represent women of all shapes and sizes.

Will it be enough to keep the momentum moving forward?

We know that the plus size models like Crystal Renn can hold their own against their straight-sized counterparts? Now, will the fashion industry and the public allow it, no…demand that it happens?  Finally.

Hmmmn. Remains to be seen.

More as it happens. Jodell

In this month’s podcast scheduled for Wednesday, January 13, 2009 at 3:00-3:45 p.m. EST. Black Cat Plus Radio will feature Sarah Maria, body image expert and Author of “Love Your Body, Love Your Life.”

Listeners can log onto the show live at on Wedensday, January 13, at 3:00 p.m. EST.  Shows are also archived for easy access.

Sarah Maria, a reknown body-image expert who helps people love their bodies no matter how they look, shows people how to discover the beauty that is already inside of them, right now, in this moment. Once people lconnect with this beauty, they will discover that anything is possible - that they can create a body and a life that they truly love. Sarah Maria’s mission is to create a world where every person sees the beauty in themselves and in others. Sarah Maria has trained with well-known teachers and physicians, including Deepak Chopra, Dr. David Simon, Wayne Dyer, and Jack Canfield, among others. Her work has been endorsed by Deepak Chopra, Dr. David Simon, and NY Times best-selling author Marci Shimoff, as well as many other notable physicians, psychologists, and educators. Before writing her first book, she received a law degree from Stanford and a Master’s degree in international affairs from Columbia University.

Well, we are past the July 4 holiday and the Summer Season ‘09 is underway.  Trends that we thought were going to be strong have proved us correct.  While some reports in the media make you believe that shopping is a scandalous activity and splurging is an unspeakable crime, we believe that shopping is a necessity and material treat. And, in these times, I don’t know about you, but a little shopping therapy can do ya’ good!

The hottest looks of the summer: Plus size fashionistas are goin’ back to basics.  Roll up your straight leg jeans and wear them in a boyfriend jean style or as a new length for a capri pant.  Check out our NYDJ Stone Rivet Capris in Black. Are you in the 89% of those women who see jeans in their future?  The Stone Rivet Capris are chic and for many, can be worn from work to play.

These jeans are perfect as they offer uniqueness with cute detailing.  Pair your jeans with our second summer trend: Cute tops. From patterns to solids we have the tops to pair with your going back to basics summer style.    We cannot sing the praises enough about our tops from Sienna Rose. We are proud to offer these fabulous patterns and styles.  Try Sweet Tea from Sienna Rose. Great colors and styles with a hint of lace and a great topper for your capris.

Feminine and flirty details are in this season. Small ruffles that follow the lines of the garment elongates the body and gives a slim-fitting silhouette, like this Vivienne Cinch Dress from Kiyonna are perfect for plus size women.

How about  trendy plus size active wear that you can take from yoga to running errands to travel? Pick pieces that are made of out of a breathable, stretch, loose-fitting fabrics like cotton and lycra blends and are not too tight or bulky.  Check out our offerings from Neon Buddha.  We adore their pullovers, jackets tees, and pants. Check out this Neon Buddha Passport pullover in dry chili.

Love the styles and colors that can take us right into Fall ‘09  Have a great summer. Here’s to the red, white and blue!  More as it happens,  Jodell

Here’s to one of my New Year’s wishes! For 2009, let’s hope we see more of plus size models like Miami native Crystal Renn and Brazilian Fluvia Lacerda! Crystal Renn is a size 14. Crystal has been featured in French, Italian, and American issues of Vogue and walked the Paris runway modeling creations from Jean-Paul Gaultier. Crystal says, “I accept this is who I am. I love that I can model at this size and it’s fabulous.” Fluvia has modeled for Igigi and been featured in Figure Magazine. Here’s to both Crystal and Fluvia who inspire me to be the best I can be and who represent plus size beauty so well.

Plus size Model Fluvia Lacerda

Plus size model Nancy Hayssen

“Happy with who I am and where I am at!” The battle cry for the ages! That sentiment expressed so well by plus size model Nancy Hayssen who bares it all to make a statement as a response to anti-anorexia billboards that shocked the fashion world. Her point and the title of her book: You Can Be Sexy at any Size! We wholeheartedly agree.

Natalie Laughlin 1st Plus Size Model

I love the model Natalie Laughlin’s message. Natalie is the face of Anne Klein II and Liz Claiborne and has her own Billboard on Times Square for Mode Magazine. She promotes the concept that size is no longer an issue. She says, “It is all about style and not about size.” Here is a plus size model making a difference in fashion and how people view plus size women.

“Beat the Stylist” plus-size challenge

What? One of the criticisms for curvy women? Never seen a wrap dress that is flattering? How about one of the wrap dresses from Kiyonna. The difference? A wrap dress that wraps at the thigh which elongates the silhouette and flatters the figure! Kiyonna’s wrap dresses are the best wrap dresses on the market. Not comfortable in a wrap? Try a dress which cinches in at the waist to create or accent curves.

Just a couple of real quick things. A bit of this and that this week. Tells you where my mind is at!

Quick shameless product plug here! But we are excited to have our Kristine Accessories back in stock!

Finally!! We have our new shipment of the infamous flat wallets back on our site! Fun colors in turquoise, hot pink, and lime and the staple colors of beige, black and the metallics! Check them out when you get a sec. Why do we love them? They are flat and do not take up a lot of room at all in your purse and you would not believe all of the stuff that you can get in them. And while you are at it, from Kristine–check out the square bangle bracelets, stackable and a different twist on a favorite accessory.

In other news, we are getting ready to finalize our fall buying plan! Can’t wait for you to see what we have in “store” no pun intended here :) for you for Fall!

Want a hint or two? What will you see? It is official that Floral prints, natural shades and black will be strong this Fall and separates, especially jackets and blouses, will be key pieces. We’re working on it!

Speaking of separates? Take inventory now to see what what can transition easily from spring to summer to fall. I love reading my surveys and I recently read that tops out-number bottoms in women’s closets by a 3 to 1 margin. Does your closet reflect those stats? Mine does. I also have had jackets that I have had around for years that I still wear. How about you?

Our best sellers this week have been Fenini, Kaktus, and once again the awesome Kiyonna line.

For those of you who have inquired about our next modeling contest? We are working on it! Expect to find details on our home page at the end of June 08 for our fall campaign.

In the meantime, we have a contest going on. Sign up now on BlackCatPlus.com and we will email you a $20 off coupon good towards any full price item worth $40 or more that we have on our site!! We love our customers!! And want YOU as one of our preferred customers!!

Jodell

There are actually 15…but we will discuss the trends in blocks of five to make it easier. Get a note pad!

As we have mentioned before, it is florals and bold graphics are still going strong! This season, designers have offered bouquets to color your favorite dress, skirt, or top. It is an explosion of florals. Check out our Garden Party category as we are adding new items each week.

Not to be outdone, bold graphics join the light and dark for a look that cannot go wrong! Take a look at the newest additions to our art deco category. You’ll find pieces that you’ll want to add to your wardrobe.

Patent Leather makes a big comeback! Remember, when Easter meant a time for shiny Mary Janes? Now is the time to go and get patent leather shoes. Pair your new shoes with our Uddini Black Patent Handbag. And while you are at it, did you know that grey is the new black? Especially in accessories. Take a look at our Uddini Pewter Handbag. Hint: This is a color you will be able to take into fall!

And bangles…pile ‘em on!! The more the better!! Like potato chips–ok, the low fat kind, :) you cannot stop at one!
More to come! Jodell