Evocative Vogue

Lust List: Valentine's Day

2012-01-29T11:18:00.000-08:00

Here are some pretties I am dreaming of... All of which would be lovely to wear in a couple of weeks, on Valentine's Day, when I go out with my sweetie.

Source: us.asos.com via Jena on Pinterest

Source: elizaparker.com via Jena on Pinterest

Source: dsw.com via Jena on Pinterest

Source: kiyonna.com via Jena on Pinterest

Source: talbots.com via Jena on Pinterest

Source: kohls.com via Jena on Pinterest

Source: elizaparker.com via Jena on Pinterest

Source: eshakti.com via Jena on Pinterest

Source: talbots.com via Jena on Pinterest

Source: simplybe.com via Jena on Pinterest

Source: eloquii.com via Jena on Pinterest

And, maybe for later in the evening... <3

Source: lanebryant.com via Jena on Pinterest

Source: hipsandcurves.com via Jena on Pinterest

Learning How to Dress Your Shape

2012-01-28T15:06:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I found a fantastic tool on the Evans website. You put in your measurements, it tells you what your figure-type is. Then, it gives you tips on how to dress your figure type.
Totally worth a look if you're not completely sure how to make what you got work. I've stumbled across some of these tactics over-time. But, it would have made it a little easier to figure all of that out in a more timely manner, had I had this handy little calculator.
Check it out.
Oh, and while you're at it, check out the clothes on Evans (they carry sizes 10-28).

TLC to Launch New Show

2012-01-26T18:24:00.000-08:00

TLC has announced that the network will soon have a new show on the schedule... A show that, as far as I can see, sounds like a version of What Not to Wear in which the focus is on that of women size 14 and over.
Frankly, I'm stoked to see this show - which has yet to be named (even if I'll have to catch it online, because I don't have cable). I was an avid fan of What Not to Wear. Stylist and diva extraordinaire, Stacy London, who will also co-host this show- should be my best friend... I mean, she was tough. But, always positive and never snarky (at least not about the person's body). And, she knows fashion and style. She knows how to dress a body to the best of its ability.
The new show will also include the help of a up-and-coming Brooklyn store that specializes in Plus-size fashion and the owners, who as far as I can tell based on what I've read... Seem lovely and passionate.
So, ladies... Be looking forward to some high-fashion inspiration in the 14+ division.
I mean, do you think Stacy London will stand for fish on the collar of anything on the show? No, of course not! And, I welcome it!

AboutCurves.com Hosting Plus Size Model Search

2012-01-24T10:49:00.000-08:00

A company that specializes in plus sized lingerie is hosting an open-call model search. AboutCurves.com put out a press release today, detailing the reasoning behind the model search. Check it out...

I've emailed the company for more information, I'll share it as I get it.

I'm not going to lie, I'm a little heartbroken over this...

2012-01-24T10:33:00.000-08:00

Ok, so Crystal Renn has made a name for herself in recent years as a plus-size model. I adore her. She's gorgeous and thoughtful. And, she was taking the fashion industry by storm at a size 12... There aren't a lot of women that are capable of bringing that kind of positive light to the plus-size side of fashion.
But, recently Renn has taken up hiking and yoga. She claims this is what is causing her to shed weight like crazy. The photo above is the most recent, showing that her once phenomenal curves have been significantly... Reduced?
I'm glad she's getting active and healthy. And, if she's happy with her body, that's also fantastic. Although, seeing as how she did write a book about her struggle with Anorexia... I'm a little concerned for her, as well.
However, it's kind of a sad day when one of the most famous plus models in the world... Is no longer plus.

Plus Size Dating Website Commercial Banned From Airing During Super Bowl

2012-01-20T11:42:00.000-08:00

It's been reported that the above commercial for a plus size dating site called TheBigandtheBeautiful.com that was launched by Whitney Thompson, a past contestant of America's Next Top Model, has been banned from airing during the Super Bowl this year.

Now, I've watched the commercial and I've posted it here for you to see... And, while I think it is a bit salacious, it's no worse than the commercials for AshleyMadison.com that aired last year. This stinks of the same kind of prejudice that disallowed Lane Bryant to air it's lingerie commercial.

But, I want to hear what you all think... Please leave a comment with your thoughts. Do you agree? Disagree? Are you offended by the commercial or its unjust ban?

Octavia Spencer Wins Golden Globe

2012-01-16T11:51:00.000-08:00

photo from Urban Daily

Octavia Spencer, whom some of you might remember from her role in shows like Ugly Betty, won a Golden Globe last night for her performance as Minnie in The Help.

But, Octavia also won on the red carpet last night with that dress. Looking elegant in a pink Tadashi Shoji gown.

The Examiner described the dress as,

"...[Fitting] attractively over her beautiful curves and complemented her mahogany skin. Beaded embellishments on the front bodice along with the V-neckline allowed for a look of sophistication. The dress cinched in just enough to give the actress a lovely waistline and then flowed elegantly down her frame with just a trifle of a train. Spencer looked captivating."

I love that description. It's so... Complimentary?

As it should be. She looked lovely and deserved to win for her role in The Help.

A Victory For Curves

2012-01-14T13:29:00.000-08:00

UK lingerie brand Ann Summers recently launched a contest which featured 'real women,' to be the face of the company in ads for its Valentine's Day campaign.

More than 4,000 women competed and over 30,000 votes we cast. But, Lucy Moore (pictured above) a size 16 beauty recieved 22 percent of the vote. Beating out plenty of straight sized girls for the title.

You can read more about the competition and Lucy, here.

It's so refreshing to read stories like this. <3

Dear Tim Gunn, I Love You. A Lot.

2012-01-14T13:07:00.000-08:00

Time Gunn was recently quoted as saying in a Marie Claire interview,

"In my travels, I've been an advocate for larger women. I've been talking to designers, but only a half-dozen make an effort. Most say, 'I don't want a woman who's a size 10 or 11 wearing my clothes.' Well, shame on you! It's not realistic. We need to address real women with real needs. At Parsons, we had fit models that ranged in size from 2 to 10. We've got to reconceive clothes for all sizes. Sometimes I say, 'I'm going to do a clothing line!' I'd love nothing more to respond to those designers who refuse to address it."

How much do you love him right now? I mean, seriously... He GETS IT!
Why isn't he designing a line? Better yet, why isn't he designing a plus line?
I would be biting and scratching to get at anything he put out... What do you ladies think of this?

A List. Of Decent Plus Fashion.

2012-01-14T08:24:00.000-08:00

Photo from Vogue Size Issue

Ok, I've heard this in more than a few forums:
"Why are there only TWO stores for Plus clothing when 50% of women wear a 14 or larger?"
Well, that's KIND of true.
There are just two stores in the mall. Yes.
Then you have your women's sections in the major department stores. But, they usually include more than one shirt with fish around the collar. And, who the heck wants THAT!?
However, if you're a brave soul and you are armed with your measurements... You too can have a plethora of choices in which to purchase clothing for your womanly curves.
I'm just going to do a bit of a list, with links... Expect reviews at a later date.
But, seriously check out some of these sites. You'll be amazed at how much more you have to choose from.
Many of them do free shipping (both ways) because they are exclusively online.

In no particular order (and if you're lucky some of these do have store fronts in your local mall):

Lane Bryant
Torrid
Old Navy Women's
Kohl's Women's (I specifically like the Daisy Fuentes line)
ASOS Curve
Eliza Parker
Hips and Curves
Simply Be
Maurice's
Deb
MY HABIT (occasionally carries high fashion 14+ choices)
Etsy (there are lots of companies that make custom frocks)
Eloquii (By the Limited)
Roman's
Silhouettes
Cold Water Creek
Talbots
Eddie Bauer
Kiyonna
Ashley Stewart
Jessica London
City Chic
J. Jill
EShakti

This is a short list... There is so much more out there!
Yet, I imagine this list should keep you busy for a little while.
I've shopped at A LOT of these stores. If you have questions about quality or sizing prior to ordering, feel free to contact me and I'll do my best to help.

As Some of You Know...

2012-01-13T11:27:00.000-08:00

As some of you know, but most of you don't, I once applied to be a model for Suicide Girls.

I was accepted. I never went beyond a preliminary photo session, for a number of reasons.

Namely, I was a little embarrassed of what I looked like (Well, that and I was a member of a very strict faith that would not have taken my being a nude model lightly).

Looking back, after having had a baby... I desperately wish my body still looked that good. Not that I don't love my body, it's done some wonderful things for me. It allowed to me carry my daughter for 41 weeks, deliver her safely in to this world, nurse her for 18 months and continue to care for her. Hopefully for years to come.

But, I under appreciated its beauty and strength for many years.

My body has given me pleasure, protected me from pain and generally allowed me to live the life I have enjoyed for almost three decades.

Why I focus on my body's flaws, or at least my self-imposed idea of my body's flaws, and not the life I've been allowed to lead thanks to my body... I don't know.

I assume it's some odd combination of my own insecurities, coupled with media ideals and a heavy dose of perfectionism (handed down to me from several generations of German-OCD women).

However, with a little love and a lot of therapy, I've began to come to terms with the body I've been blessed with. By all accounts, I am a plus sized woman. Even 'skinny Jena' is still plus-sized by fashion standards. But, who cares what number is on the tag of my dress, when my body is capable of so much more than being an ornament for others enjoyment?

I hope that over the coming weeks, months or years... I can help a few more women come to terms with, and be able to love, their own bodies. The media be damned.

However, regardless of what anyone would like to imply, I am not promoting obesity. I am promoting living a healthy life. Being active and eating a diet filled with whole foods and a variety of colors... And then, beyond that, accepting who we are and not constantly putting our bodies down for not fitting a media-driven, consumer-focused ideal that is fueled with loads of starvation and Photoshop.

Let's learn to love ourselves. Love our bodies. And, value the opportunity to be here another day, regardless of size or shape.

Magazine Stands Up For Healthier Models

2012-01-13T11:00:00.000-08:00

I've never heard of this magazine before a couple of days ago. It's called Plus Model Magazine and the article and photos that they went public with a few days ago were a huge inspiration for me to change the focus of this blog, today.

You can see the full spread here. Along with all of the fantastic photos.

It is certainly Evocative Vogue.

Check out both links. I promise you'll be inspired too!

Women in the Music Industry... A Collection of Body Accepting Divas

2012-01-13T10:55:00.001-08:00

A friend of mind from high school, that recognizes my obsession with body acceptance shared this with me on facebook. And, frankly, I love it. It's a fantastic collection of photos and quotes from some major stars in the music industry... All of which are centered around the idea that loving your body is totally cool.

Check it out. It's inspiring.

Change of Focus

2012-01-13T10:36:00.000-08:00

Ok, so as of today the focus of this blog is going to change... Drastically.

Until now, I've written about crafts and family things. Posted photos of projects and babies.

As of today, Evocative Vogue will focus on body acceptance, fashion for women of fuller figures and items in the news that inspire me (and hopefully you) to love yourself.

So, keep your eyes peeled. Feel free to email me at jenanicole@gmail.com with tips or ideas. I'd love to hear them.

But, I think it's become dramatically clear that the media isn't supporting body acceptance... And, to me that says that WE, the people outside the media, should be promoting this valuable lesson. To our friends, to our sisters, to our daughters... And, most importantly, to OURSELVES!

I realize I haven't written in awhile. But, this is going to change in the New Year. Expect to see a lot more of me ranting about body acceptance, healthy lifestyles and fashion for the fuller-figure.

**Above image found here.

ACK!!!

2010-03-30T06:03:00.000-07:00

This comic... PERFECTLY depicts my shopping trip last night. Only, instead of swim suits... think jeans.
I seriously felt like Cathy (Everyone remembers the Cathy comic from the newspaper, right?)...
*sighs* Stay with me, this next part is going to seem a little off topic, but...
I had really high expectations for my pregnancy, labor and delivery, and postpartum experiences. I was under the illusion that I would LOVE pregnancy. I did not. I had the expectation that my labor and delivery would be text book and beautiful. It was not. And, I had the notion I'd be even more beautiful and self confident after Olivia was born, than ever before. Yeah, right.
Why did I have these notions? Because I was under the false pretense that because generations of women before me had it easy, I would too. No one in my family ever told me they hated pregnancy... My Mother was one of those women that thought she was a beautiful goddess of the Earth and that it rained kittens and smiles, through her entire pregnancy with my younger brother. I seriously thought that's how I would feel! No such luck.
Then, I had the strange idea that because generations of women, on both sides of my family, had been able to successfully deliver their children (My mother did have a c/s, but for reasons unlike my own)... That I too would be the strong Amazon woman, who powers through labor with ease and delight, unmedicated of course. HAHAHAHAHAHA. I was seriously delusional. 40 hours of nothing but disappointment, showed me that.
Finally, I REALLY thought I would bounce back easily. That I wouldn't get stretchmarks or weird tumors ... And that I too could expect to lose the weight of pregnancy with ease. Again, I don't know what kind of crazy pills I was taking...
I mean, my Grandmother did walk out of the hospital in the jeans she wore prepregnancy and my Mother did win a 'beauty contest' just a couple of months after my own birth. But, I should have realized my own experience would be unlike theirs... I seem to defy centuries of genetics in relation to childbearing.
So, with almost 5 months of exclusive breastfeeding under my belt, I thought for sure I would have bounced back, even just a little, by now.
And, Spring has sprung and my usual uniform of tights and skirts will soon be far too heavy for the summer months of Indiana and Nebraska. I wanted to pick up a humble Spring wardrobe. Some basics, a pair of straight jeans that I could cuff to the calf when appropriate, a light weight skirt, a few tops and a pair of sandals. Nothing extravagant, really. The very basics, to make it through summer.
I knew I hadn't lost all of the baby weight, but I was really ill prepared for what lie ahead of me at the mall.
When I got pregnant, I was a small 14. Meaning some 14's were big on me and occasionally I could wear a 12. Not a small girl, by any means... But, at my height, reasonable and healthy.
So, I knew I would have to buy a bigger size than that, because nothing in my closet fits... But, I was thinking '16'. Not, tent.
First, I allowed my husband to convince me to try a Runza, instead of getting the Subway sandwich I had planned on (which would have included whole wheat bread, veggie patty, lettuce, tomato and onion)... For those of you that do not know what Runza is, it is hamburger with cabbage and cheese wrapped in dough. Being from Bloomington, IN meant I had NEVER even heard of such a monstrosity until I met my husband. Let alone tried one.
Let's just say that cabbage and grease didn't do anything good for my waistline... and that I should have considered taking Beano with my meal. I only ate half before I started feeling sick and my husband ended up finishing my meal.
We then proceeded to Younkers, which is a lot like a Macy's. I went to some of my old friends, Calvin and Donna... and I picked up a size larger than I would normally buy.
It was simply depressing. We won't even talk about it.
Distressed, I went over to the 'extended sizes' section... And, it is officially clear to me what fashion industry thinks of 'Fat Girls'. There was a shirt, with fish on the collar! FISH! And everything, as far as the eye could see was BRIGHT with HUGE pattern. Really? That's what women of fuller figures have been reduced to? Moomoo's and children's styling?
So, I went to Vanity... which many of my friends suggested. They don't carry the long length I needed... or at least they were fresh out. So, I didn't even try anything on.
Then Gap... They didn't really have the size I wanted in store... So, the sales girl gave me a size smaller to try on for fit. I literally cried in the fitting room. No joke. Why would that sales girl do something so mean to a woman that just had a baby? WHY!?
Finally, I ended up... bruised and broken... in the Torrid store. I've never seen a store like this before. But, I finally figured out where women like this, buy their clothing.
I'm sorry. That link was mean. But, those women really have eluded me, for some time.
HOWEVER, I will hand it to Torrid... This store considers the fact that just because a girl is heavier doesn't mean she no longer cares to look good. Now, my idea of good is a little different. But, my husband did try to convince me (in all seriousness) that booty shorts might be a good idea. So, someone thinks it looks good.
BUT! BUT, they weren't without graces, either. They carried a WIDE (no pun intended) range of types and sizes of jeans. I was impressed. Most were a bit too faddish, for my liking. As I tend to be more of a pencil skirt over mini skirt type. But, it was way better than no sizes or the tents that other stores carried.
And, here's where the Cathy cartoon comes in...
Here's a store all about celebrating the many sizes and shapes of women. A store all about offering variety to a group of women that have been ignored and shunned by the fashion industry. A place where curves are considered the norm... a place where I was not a fat girl. But, rather a place where I was a Reubenesque beauty. And, I was so hung up on a number that I forgot what made me this size...
Practically in tears about being 3 sizes bigger than I was a year ago... My sales girl reminded me that the handsome redhead across the store, holding the most beautiful little girl she'd ever seen, was the cause of this increased number. She asked me if I'd trade those two for a trimmer waistline... and I obviously responded that I wouldn't give them up for anything.
I still felt fat. Don't get me wrong. And, I still went home and cried. But, this morning I woke up with a renewed sense of motivation.
Nothing about my experience bringing Olivia into this world has been easy or pleasant for me, yet... So, I don't know why I assumed losing the baby weight would be, either.
But, I needn't get too down on myself. I didn't see any of those women in that store as being fat pigs... Yet, that's how I viewed myself. How unfair is that?
I didn't buy anything. I think I'll finish THE SHRED (how ominous is that name?), avoid Runza and shop another day.
That's more productive than crying in a fitting room, anyway.

What's in My Makeup Bag?

2010-03-05T04:02:00.000-08:00

I regularly wonder what other women have in their cache of makeup that makes them feel wonderfully beautiful and glowing. I also like to share my own hints, tips and tricks. So, I'm sharing now, my list of must-haves for my makeup bag. This list is what I use to achieve my prettiest, most natural day-look... and the best part? Most of it is made from natural ingredients and it includes two layers of SPF.

1. A good SPF, oil-free moisturizer
2. Mineral SPF foundation and mineral veil
3. All over face color and blush
4. Lash stain
5. Sheer lipstick
6. Rose salve
7. 15x magnification mirror

In addition to these items, I always have a good pair of tweezers on hand. ALWAYS. Because, there is nothing worse (beauty wise) than realizing you have some REALLY LONG, yucky, random hair somewhere obvious... And, let's be honest, when you're pregnant/breastfeeding/human sometimes hairs appear. I really hope I'm not alone on this one.

So, what products do you love? Also, feel free to ask any questions that you might have about the products that I've shared with you here... Although, I may post a few product reviews from this list, at a later date... But, we'll see.