Living Plus Size Beautiful-

More Pictures from Nationals

2011-07-17T21:52:00.001-07:00

Chassie & National Director Jera Lynn

National Queen of Queens

Shortly after being crowned LIFETIME Ambassador

Getting ready for opening number

Me LIFETIME Ambassador & Shannon Queen of Queens

Today's American Woman National Pageant Results

2011-07-17T20:44:00.000-07:00

Group Photo by Studio Primetime

July 15 & 16 2011 some of the most beautiful women in the United States came to Atlanta, Georgia to compete in the National Today's American Woman Pageant.

These women Competed in the following Three categories of competition:

Interview (50%)

Fashion Fun Wear (25%)

Evening Wear (25%)

Today's American Woman National Pageant Winners

Today's American Woman Pageant Winners

Teen- Brianna Gander

Miss- Jessica Herndon

Mrs- Jacquetta Taborn-Moses

Classy Mrs. Debbie Orner

Classy Ms- Dawn Moyer

Ms. Plus- - Bunny Scoggins

QUEEN OF QUEENS- HIGH POINT WINNER-

Shannon Denean

National Divisional Ambassadors

Teen- Lara Hagberg

Miss- Meghan Elayne Little

Mrs- Stephanie Drayton

Mrs- Laural Ann Bunn

Classy Ms. Kendra Nielson

Miss Congenality- Bunny Scoggins

Kathleen Tracy Gunn Community Service Award- Stephanie Drayton

People's Choice- Cover Girl Award- Stephanie Drayton

Photogentic Award- Jessica Herndon

Juce Bugehiem was crowned National over all Ambassador for 2011

Chassie Deitz-Selouane was crowned LIFETIME Ambassador

Thanks to Afif & Sara Cherif from Studioprimetime for providing wonderful video and photography services!

Here are some photos from the weekend

Teen Nc- Lara Hagberg and National Ambassador Chassie Deitz-Selouane

Queens @ Cocktail Party- All were National winners- from left to right

Miss- Jessica Herndon

Teen Ambassador- Lara Hagberg

Mrs- Jacquetta Tayborn-Moses

Standing- Shannon Duncan- Queen of Queens

Queen of Queens Winner and Miss Winner

National LIFETIME Ambassador Chassie Deitz-Selouane &

Plus Winner the beautiful Bunny Scoggins

More Photos from My Studio D Photo Shoot

2011-06-27T05:08:00.001-07:00

Join Us to Celebrate The National Today's American Woman Pageant in Beautiful Atlanta Georgia.

2011-06-26T21:53:00.000-07:00

We Hope you can join us Saturday July 15, 2011 at 1pm at Atlanta Airport Hilton 1031 Virginia Avenue Atlanta, GA 30354 for The National Today's American Woman Pageant! You can purchase tickets online http://todaysamericanwomanpageant-efbevent.eventbrite.com/

Sneek Peak of my Photo Shoot-

2011-06-26T14:26:00.001-07:00

Me & My Bestie the Dr. cutting up outside

Me in my Glee Costume.

Proud to Be National Mrs. Plus Ambassador for the Today's American Woman Pageant

Today's American Woman Pageant

2011-02-24T22:29:00.000-08:00

TODAY’S AMERICAN WOMAN PAGEANT

My name is Chassie Virginia Deitz-Selouane. I am the National Today's American Woman Mrs. Plus Ambassador and I would like to invite you to Join us in our AMAZING inaugural year!

Today’s American Woman is the pageant whose national Platform is Volunteerism with a Passion, which allows each queen to serve the platform of her heart and life's experience!

OUR NATIONAL PAGEANT WILL BE IN ANNAPOLIS MD JULY 14-17TH 2011 AT THE DOUBLETREE HOTEL

Today's American Woman Pageant provides a wonderful way for women of all ages, cultures and sizes to celebrate the positive attitude that makes our country strong! This pageant system is designed to help you showcase your individual personality, build confidence, gain greater social awareness and give back to your community. Today's American Woman Pageant offers these opportunities, as well as a sisterhood and much more! AN OVERALL WINNER AND CASH PRIZE HAS BEEN ADDED TO COMPETITION! OVERALL WINNER WILL RECIEVE $500.00 CASH IN ADDITION TO ADDITIONAL AMAZING PRIZES. (contract conditions apply)

Our Age Divisions range from Teen and Miss to Ms. and Mrs. Contestants. We have special Divisions for Petite and Plus Size ladies too! The Pageant is open to all eligible applicants, welcoming newcomers to join and see how wonderful pageantry can be!

Teen Division Ages 13 to 17

Miss Division Ages 18 to 25

Ms Division Ages 26 to 35

Classy Ages 35 to 49

Elite Ages 50 up

Mrs. Division Ages 21 to 35

Classy Mrs. Ages 35 to 49

Elite Mrs. Ages 50 up

We have Petite and Plus Divisions in each age group as well

AN OVERALL WINNER AND A CASH PRIZE HAS BEEN ADDED TO PAGEANT!

CALL NATIONAL OFFICE FOR DETAILS!

ELIGIBILITY:

Must be a naturally born female and a citizen of the United States.

Must be of good health and moral character.

Must agree, that you will abide by all the rules and regulations governing that pageant.

Must agree that if you win a national Today's American Woman title, you will not participate in any other pageants during the time you hold any of these titles, unless authorized in writing by Today's American Woman National Office.

Must be willing to release, unconditionally and forever, any claim against Today's American Woman Pageants, directors, partners, employees, agents and assigns, which they may have by virtue of their participation in Today's American Woman Pageant, or by any use of their name, likeness, voice, and/or biography in connection with Today's American Woman Pageant, including use in promotional and advertising material.

Must understand and agree that all issues as to eligibility shall be determined by Today's American Woman Pageants, and they must agree to abide by that determination both as to themselves and other applicants.

AREAS OF COMPETITION:

Areas of Competition and Special Awards

50% Interview This will be done in the "Round Robin" style.

25% Glamorous Wear This is the opportunity to show the Glamour and Style in every "American Woman".

25% Evening Wear Let your light shine onstage with grace and elegance in your evening gown. You will be escorted by America's Service Men!

Opening Number Outfits will be chosen by the National Office at least 90 days before the National Pageant. You may be responsible for some or all of cost of opening number outfits.

Judging will be based on individual beauty, poise, personality, ability to promote their personal platform with success, stage presence, originality of style. Interview is a major part of the scoring. Your ability to speak well and promote your platform is a big plus. A woman's size is not a factor in any category. We are looking for a "well rounded" contestant to win our titles. THERE WILL BE MANY AWARDS SUCH AS SERVICE AWARDS, PHOTOGENIC, OVERALL QUEEN, EVENING WEAR, INTERVIEW HIGHEST SCORE, BEST GLAMOROUS WEAR, AND MORE!

PAGEANT FEES:

STATE TITLE HOLDER FEE $50.00 off state fees until April 1, 2011!!

$250.00 (Includes Crown, Sash and Prizes!)

When you enter and you are awarded a "State Title", the $250.00 is due within 30 days of the offer of the Title.

SPONSORSHIP FEES FOR NATIONALS

The balance for Nationals, which is discounted to $300.00 is not due until June 1st, 2011.

We do ask our queens to get sponsors for this and we help guide you in doing so.

My motto is "a good queen is a working queen"!

*NO REFUNDS ON ANY FEES...NO EXCEPTIONS!

CONTACT JERA LYNN ANDERS NATIONAL DIRECTOR

Pageant Office : 864-905-4623

Email: scpageants@hotmail.com

http://www.todaysamericanwomanpageant.com

Make sure to say that Chassie referred you.

Today's American Woman Pageant Mrs. Plus Ambassador

2011-01-31T22:16:00.001-08:00

Chassie is so honored to announce that she was Chosen by the Today’s American Woman Pageant and crowned The National Mrs Plus Ambassador 2011 for the Pageant. Chassie is excited to use her crown as a megaphone to promote her Platform of “Beauty does not come in a Size,” Promoting positive self-esteem in America’s Youth.” As a motivational speaker she has had the opportunity to travel into numerous classrooms and venues through the country encouraging children and teens that true beauty begins within each individual. Chassie is known for always urging everyone she meets to remember the Truth found in her favorite quote “ It is Beauty that captures your Attention, however It is Personality that leaves the Impression!”

She is excited to be a part of the Today's American Woman Pageant which promotes and encompasses volunteerism and celebrating the spirit of our country!

If this sounds like an organization that interests you then Today’s American Woman Pageant is for you!

Pageant Special- If you enter and pay fees in full by the End of April you will only have to pay a $250 National Entry fee- This fee Includes State Title, Crown and National Pageant Entry.

Fat Hate, Size-ism and Marie Claire Magazine

2010-10-29T17:43:00.000-07:00

Fat Hate is a horrible thing and being a sizest is a form of discrimination and bigotry. In case you haven't read the Marie Claire Article , here it is:
http://www.marieclaire.com/sex-love/dating-blog/overweight-couples-on-television

Now I have not blogged in a while but I really feel the need to speak out on this issue.

I think perhaps the most disturbing part of the article here is this quote from the Marie Claire article below

"To be brutally honest, even in real life, I find it aesthetically displeasing to watch a very, very fat person simply walk across a room — just like I'd find it distressing if I saw a very drunk person stumbling across a bar or a heroin addict slumping in a chair "

.... It is narrow minded bigoted views put out by the media such as this that make young people that has created such an epidemic of poor self esteem problems in America's youth.

As many of you know I am a Plus Size Model and Actress and former National Beauty Queen; However, I am what by definition is considered Morbid Obese.

During my time as a National Plus Size Pageant Queen have had the opportunity to visit classrooms speaking to students about self acceptance and positive self-esteem. My Platform has always been "Beauty does not come in a Size", Promoting Positive Self-Esteem in America's Youth.

I have found through my travels into Classrooms throughout the United States that Poor Self Image is a major issue that abounds in our Young Society. I believe that promoting diversity and education are the keys to making our Children successful as the future leaders of our Country. I strongly believe that if a child discovers his or her true beauty at an early age, he or she will live much happier, productive and successful lives. My titles opened so many doors for me and gave me the opportunity to address this serious issue that is affecting so many of our children. Being a Plus Size Beauty Queen has allowed me to walk into classrooms with my crown and sash- looking very different from the "beauty queen" they are used to seeing in the media, and immediately they begin asking questions- These questions allows a wonderful transition and introduction to discussing differences between people and how the media’s perception of Beauty is not the only definition of Beauty. It is important for children to be comfortable in their own skin, and the media giving us these unrealistic images to attain to that begins to brainwash American Children at a very early age.

I have spent the past 10 years of my life fighting the common misconception of beauty and to educate Children that Beauty is not defined by Size or any other factor. Articles such as this make me wish I had been around to talk to the author of this article as a child.

No human being is completely happy with their appearance. If you ask anyone (including those that the media portray as beautiful) I bet they would tell you there is something they would like to change about their body. This is a normal feeling that everyone or every shape and size feels at some point; however the key is making peace with yourself and knowing while there are some things you would like to change about yourself, these things do not define who you are. True Beauty is determined by Actions and interactions with others. Just to be ascetically pleasing does not make a person beautiful.

If you also read the comment the author writes in her apology on the website she states:

"To that point (and on a more personal level), a few commenter’s and one of my friends mentioned that my extreme reaction might have grown out of my own body issues, my history as an anorexic, and my life-long obsession with being thin."

After reading this I feel so bad for the author of the Marie Claire article. I wish I was older or had the opportunity to speak to Maura Kelly when she was a little girl. I wish I had the opportunity to let her know that she was beautiful no matter what her issues were with her body, before she became so bitter, resentful and hateful. Before she felt the need to use her position as a journalist to become to bully and spread hate against those so different from the media’s perception of beauty.

The other ironic factor here is that we live in a country where 52% of all people could be considered Plus Size. This means that we are allowing a minority percentage control images in the media. Isn’t it about time that the American majorities represented?

I think People of all shapes; sizes and backgrounds should be on television.

Why shouldn’t shows like “Mike and Molly” be on the air? Why shouldn’t “normal” people be on TV?

If there were more shows like this it would help redefine the standards of “beauty” and perhaps help teach our children that beauty comes in all shapes, sizes and color.

In order to stop hate, discrimination and bigotry like this article we need shows like “Mike and Molly”. If there were a more even source of plus size role models, standard size and more diverse backgrounds, religion, race, and sexual orientations then perhaps children in America would have less self esteem problems.

The media has recently been full of children who have taken their own lives because of bullying, bigotry, and self esteem and self acceptance issues.

I am so disappointed, appalled, and shocked in the irresponsibility Marie Claire and Hearst Publications has shown allowing an article such as this to be published. Especially with the recent events that have been in the media revolving the multiple deaths of young teens that committed suicide because they were faced hate and bigotry. While many of these teen had reasons other than weight, it is believed that views in regards to their situations were very similar to the harsh views expressed in this article.

For all the Teenagers who are reading this please know that you must first believe in yourself and love yourself before you can ever expect anyone else to do so. Be confident and believe in your strengths, always know that what may seem to make you different to others really is what makes you beautiful and unique.

It does not matter what economic class you belong to or what size, shape, gender, religion, sexual orientation. Embrace your uniqueness and understand that YOU control your destiny.

On a personal note I would like to Thank Ms. Kelly for writing her article because if she had not taken the time to write such a biased, bigoted article then a dialogue over the misconceptions that the media presents might not ever been opened on such a large level.

And much like Pandora’s Box once opened the topic has been released and cannot be stuffed back in the box. It is up to us as a majority to speak up and let America know that we will not be content to remain in the background as second class citizens and we want our chance to be in the spotlight too.

The following is a list of Hearst Magazines just for reference:

· Cosmopolitan >>

· Country Living >>

· Esquire >>

· Food Network Magazine >>

· Good Housekeeping >>

· House Beautiful >>

· Harper's Bazaar >>

· Marie Claire >>

· O, The Oprah Magazine >>

· Popular Mechanics >>

· Redbook >>

· Seventeen >>

· Town&Country >>

· Veranda >>

Chassie is a finalist in the One Stop Plus $1500 Emme Fashion Show on Facebook

2010-09-13T13:13:00.000-07:00

Chassie was chosen as a Finalist in the One Stop Plus

http"//www.onestopplus.com Facebook Contest.

To Vote You much go to the link below- First
you have to be a fan of One Stop Plus! So go and become a Fan.... Then
go to My picture and Click Like.... Those are the rules and I would
appreciate your vote!!
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=5523812&id=19093002230&ref=fbx_album&fbid=432880477230

Thank You for all your support

Plus Size Models Featured in an Hungarian Fashion Magazine

2010-09-06T01:50:00.001-07:00

http://www.femina.hu/sztar/a_vilag_legkoverebb_szepsegkiralynoi_akikert_megorulnek_a_ferfiak

When Translated this is a very flattering article about Plus Size Models and their contributions to the Plus Size industry.

Gabourey Sidibe and Mo'nique at the Oscars

2010-03-07T17:17:00.000-08:00

Mo'nique looks absolutely stunning with her husband!! I love this blue gown she chose. The flow of the gown is simply classic and stunning! This gown hugs her curves in all the right places!

Gabourey Sidibe arrives at the oscars! She looks beautiful- But I just am not feeling this dress' flow-Perhaps if the dress was a tad shorter or Maybe I need to see it at a different angle.. there is something just a smidge off about this look. I think I wish she would have went with something more young- the gown just reminds me something an older person would have worn... but Gabourey looks beautiful all the same!

Curvy Girls are representing at the 2010 Oscars

Kimberlee Edwards Photo Shoot

2010-03-06T12:36:00.000-08:00

Here a few of the pictures from my Kimberlee Edwards Photo shoot!

It was simultaneous with the Reminiscing Moments Shoot but I had a fantastic time and got some great photos from both photographers!

Who wore it Best.... Jennifer Hudson is Rocking her Curves on the Red Carpet!!!!!!!!!

2010-02-10T08:28:00.000-08:00

Jennifer Hudson is one of my Faves! A curvy girl who has made her way in the non curvy entertainment industry! J-Hud is now apparently making her way on the red carpet this season making a splash! She has shown up on several Who Wore it best list lately- I think she looks fabulous No matter what she wears! But here are a few examples of Jennifer outshining other starlets with her fabulous curves!!!

I want to hear your comments! Who wore it best in your opinion? Jennifer gets my vote hands down :)

Zoe Saldana in RM by Roland Mouret silver Niobe gown and Jennifer Hudson in RM by Roland Mouret Black Niobe gown. Hands down Jennifer's Curves win this one!

Blake Lively and Jennifer Hudson both wearing a new Victoria Beckam (aka Posh Spice) dress from the Spring 2010 collection. Jennifer looks fantastic. Jennifer shows us how a little black dress should look in this dress!!!

Airlines make passengers Pay for Two Seats!!!!!!!!!!!

2010-02-07T21:15:00.000-08:00

http://news.yahoo.com/s/airfarewatchdog/20100129/tr_airfarewatchdog/4248663xml
I posted the article in its entirety below in case a problem with this link occurs

The above link is to an article by David Landsel and it is in reference to policies that require Plus Size Passengers to pay for TWO seats on a plane. Please take the time to read this article!

I find this completely horrific. Apparently this article discusses how several airlines have developed "new rules for transporting “customers of size.”

Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, Air France and several others now have policies that state that Customers who were unable to confine themselves to one seat would be required to buy a second, should the crew be unable to reseat them.

I am utterly appalled that policies such as this exists- One would not make someone with a wheelchair purchase an extra ticket for their chair- In many cases obesity is not a choice of an individual.This article states that airlines think "customers of size" should plan ahead and purchase the seat next to them. To me it just seems that airlines are trying to make a quick dollar by charging for an empty seat by exploiting a person who has a weakness or what some could even say is a disability.

I guarantee you interview any person of size and they would be able to name numerous ways that he or she has attempted weight loss in the past. Obesity is not a condition someone wakes up one day as says " Wow I think I'm going to be Fat!" In many cases Obesity is a genetic condition. While we need to work to become more healthy- being skinny does not always mean healthy. Curvy people can be healthy too!

Size acceptance is definitely something that needs to be addressed in the United States. It is simply unacceptable that 51% of Americans are "plus size" and yet we are allowing a minority to set policies that are simply promoting a prejudice against people of size!!!!!!

This policy of these airlines is absolutely unfair that if were placed against individuals other than those of size would be considered discrimination!

Please read the article below and leave comments on what you think of this article and ideas on how we can combat these unfair policies!

**********************************************************************************
original article

More airlines make large passengers buy two seats

By David Landsel

Airfarewatchdog.com

You're paying to check your belongings, so why should other people's excess baggage get a free ride?

Thats the question being asked by a growing number of travelers. As airlines look for new ways to boost revenue, fees for checked bags are on the rise; so is scrutiny of overweight customers whose baggage is built in.

Its a touchy subject, Airfarewatchdog.com has found, and one that airlines have been happy to avoid discussing, where possible. As late as 2008, United Airlines wouldnt even address the matter with us.

But an outcry among passengers, tired of their seatmates taking up more than their fair share of jealously-guarded seat space, is said to have played a role in the airlines new rules for transporting “customers of size.” Where a terse “we have no policy” was once the standard response, United adopted new regulations in 2009. Customers who were unable to confine themselves to one seat would be required to buy a second, should the crew be unable to reseat them.

Its a policy thats becoming increasingly commonplace.

To many, the idea seems simple enough – if you cant fit into one seat, you should probably consider buying two.

Its not simple at all. Canadas government takes a dim view of the matter. In late 2008, the countrys Supreme Court upheld a ruling that prohibited airlines from charging the disabled or “obese” for a second seat, affecting Canadian flyers Air Canada and WestJet.

Here in the United States, some airlines with upfront policies have spent their fair share of time in the courts. Southwest has long been famously transparent about its second seat rule, the one that United and many other airlines have emulated. The company has been sued more than once by disgruntled passengers.

“On the lawsuits, all have ruled on the side of Southwest,” spokesperson Whitney Eichinger points out.

Southwests policy is that those who cannot fit in one seat must buy two.

“If the flight goes out with empty seats, Southwest will refund the cost of the additional seat,” Eichinger said.

Other airlines have had their share of legal trouble in this area.

In the past, Air France warned passengers with what they referred to as “high body mass” not to expect to be seated if they have not purchased an extra seat. This is a warning that many airlines, even those who officially have tried to downplay any official policy, have long given to travelers.

Some travelers, however, dont see the need. That, or the airline and the passenger disagree over what constitutes “need.” An Air France passenger traveling from New Delhi to Paris in 2006 sitting in a single seat was stopped by employees, who wrapped packing tape around him in public to prove that he was too fat. Citing humiliation, he sued, and won.

At the time, the airline had a program in place that offered passengers a second seat at a 25 percent discount, tax-free. It was a move that the airline had hoped would encourage customers to make arrangements in advance.

Last week, Air France made an update to the policy, bringing it more in line with Southwests policy, which has been around for decades. According to Air France spokesperson Karen Gillo, the second seat purchase is still optional. Now, however, the cost will be reimbursed if the flight is not fully booked.

“Its a way to encourage individuals to pre-plan to ensure their own comfort and safety; it allows them to travel with less stress,” she said.

Gillo stated that “for the mass majority of the cases, the flights arent fully booked” and passengers will be reimbursed.

Air France isnt the only one making tweaks these days. JetBlue spokesman Mateo Lleras said the airline is currently working to refine its policy.

Currently, Lleras said, the airline does its best to accommodate customers free of charge. It will charge if it has to, but says that it approaches the matter on a “case by case basis.”

“We understand this is a sensitive issue,” he said. “Every time we can accommodate a customer we will.”

New Portfolio shots

2010-02-04T20:30:00.000-08:00

Since I am vowing to keep up with my Blog a little better in this new year- I thought I would share some new portfolio shots from my Reminiscing Moments Shot with you :)

All My Love to You-

Chassie

All photos were done by www.ReminiscingMoments.com

Tips for all of you aspiring Plus Size Models out there!!

2010-02-03T20:12:00.000-08:00

Greetings Plus Size Divas!

I am sorry for the lapse in my blogging lately! The past few monthsI have been booked solid but I am back and ready to blog.

I am always being asked by people everywhere " Chassie I think I could model....How Do I get started in the Plus Size Modeling Industry?"

Well I have complied a list of advice that aspiring Plus Size Models Need to Know!!!

#1 Get used to hearing the word NO!

To be in the Entertainment Industry you have to have a thick skin. I can guarantee you that you will be told No more than yes when you first enter the industry. Especially if you are over the standard "plus size"(a size 10-18). I am as industry lovingly likes to call "super plus". There are companies that use over a size 24 but they are few and far between and you have to market yourself. Because a few companies out there will take the chance on you! So remember NEVER GIVE UP! Keep going on auditions, because eventually you will book a job!!

#2 Keep your eyes open for scams! Real Agencies do not charge up front money! Rule of thumb you should never have to pay in order to work! In a traditional job you would never think to pay someone for the privilege to work for them. This is the same in the entertainment industry. A real agency will charge a commission on the jobs you are booked for. If you are asked to pay a fee to join an agency or to be reviewed by an agent--- BEWARE.... This could be a scam! Always research an agency before signing anything!!! A respectable agent can always be researched by checking with the BBB or your state's attorney general's office for complaints on file!

Although you should never PAY someone to work- You should keep your eyes open for resume builders. Feel free to barter your services. For example offer to model for a photographer in order to receive print copies for your portfolio- or participate in a fashion show that will allow you to keep the clothes that you model. Deals like this not only give you experience for your resume but you are also getting something in return for your time.

#3 Build your portfolio and always keep a current head shot. In the entertainment industry getting called for an audition or booking a job could be the difference between a Good head shot and a Fantastic head shot. Keep a running portfolio of your photographs in case an agent or client requests to see examples of your work.

#4 No matter what you are told or tried to be sold- You do not have to spend a fortune on head shots. Seek out a respectable photographer who is willing to give you a release on your photo's and digital copies. The digital copies make all of the difference. This will allow you to make copies of your head shots whenever you need reprints. Just as models need to build their own portfolios- so do photographers. With a little research you should be able to find respectable photographers in your area looking to build on their portfolio. Often if you sign a release allowing the use of your photographs for their business they will discount your photography session.

*If you are in the Raleigh Durham area a great photographer that I recommend is Autumn Harrison from Reminiscing Moments Photography. Her Website is http://www.reminiscingmoments.com/ and she does discounted rates for those who are on a budget. She is running a special for a 30-40 min photo shoot with digital copies of your session for $50.00. *

#5 Make sure that the photo you are using represents the real you. Make sure it is not too glamorized or airbrushed. You never want to show up at a photo shoot or an audition and NOT look like the person the client hired. Natural sells! Less is More for head shots. Avoid heavy jewelry and heavy makeup as well. As a model it is your job to sell the garment or the product- The client will make you look how they want you to look.

#6 Most of all marketing yourself and networking will get you a long long way!

Get exposure where you can. Networking can occur anywhere! I actually started out in plus size pageants. By participating in pageants you have the opportunity to not only win some awesome prizes but if you win a local, state or national title you have that title for an entire year. You are the face of that pageant and the exposure on the marketing materials is a fantastic opportunity that can be extremely helpful to launching your career.

Pageantry opened many doors for me in the industry. After winning my first state pageant my local newspaper did an article on me and listed my contact information I received many requests to model for local companies and thus my plus size modeling career was born.

Plus Size Pageants can also be a great way to gain runway experience that will lead to other fashion opportunities.

#7 Ultimately being a model sounds like a lot of fun and excitement but the most important thing Aspiring Models need to know that modeling is VERY HARD WORK! You have to be committed to learning how to pose, walk, and show off garments. After all this is a fashion model's main job is to present the clothing so it can be sold.

I hope that this helps all of you Aspiring Plus Size Models out there!!!!

But no matter what happens remember To Live Plus Size Beautiful!!!!

Massage for the Cure at Massage Envy

2009-09-15T20:26:00.000-07:00

Greetings Living Plus Size Beautiful And Thimbler Readers!!

Now I know our blog is usually for fashion but fellow Plus Size Divas and Dudes to look good you have to feel good! And well Have a I got a tip for you!!

Stress is a part of our lives, we are always stressing about something work, family, what clothes to wear (lol) .... Sometimes the world seems to pile up on us and we need to get away and have a moment to release all the tension of the weight of the world on our shoulders.

If we were rich and famous we would probably pack up and head to the spa..... But who can afford that type of luxury???? Normally I would say Not I.... but my darling blog followers do I have a fabulous treat for you!!!

Wouldn't you love to go and have a massage without the expensive $$$ spa prices?

Well Plus Size Divas and Dudes Read On......

"Thimbler Plus Size Diva Outside of Massage Envy"

I have found a fabulous place called Massage Envy!

I asked the ladies at Massage Envy- Falls Pointe in Raleigh- if I could Blog about my experience and They were very enthusatic about me sharing this with all of you my readers. So Here is a little about Massage Envy directly from their website:

Massage Envy has a Great Massage for Every Body

Massage therapy relaxes muscles, easing and soothing your aches and pains. It rejuvenates-- restoring balance to our body and being, making us better for all the things life throws our way. Massage Envy believes every body deserves a great customized massage, so we've made relaxation convenient.

Well this sounded perfect for me since as you know this Plus Size Diva is all about Customized things...( Remember I'm devoted to my Customized Thimbler Jeans) So Of course I would be all over a "customized massage" treatment!

So I decided to check them out....

Now darling Plus Size Divas and Dudes here is the best PART!!!

Can You believe this??? A introductory price of $49.00 for a full hour massage.. They also have a wellness program and for $59.00 a month you can join and recieve One Free massage a month and any additional massage past your free one is only $39.00!!!

So Darling Readers You have to check out Massage Envy- There are locations Nationwide but if you are in the Raleigh Durham Area Please Check out the

Massage Envy

9660 Falls of Neuse Rd Suite 167

Raleigh, NC 27615

To make an appointment call (919) 847-3633

Let them know that You saw this on www.Thimbler.com Blog or Living Plus Size Beautiful Blog from Chassie the Plus Size Thimbler Diva!!

Until Next time hope you have a chance to grab some relaxation..... Check out your Customized Massage Today!!!

Your in Fabulous Fashion-

Chassie

Chassie in her Custom Thimbler Jeans at Massage Envy Waiting for her Custom Massage

P.S. Thanks to Kara, Stephanie and my massage therapist Elizabeth!!

On September 15, 2009 I was one of thousands of people who participated in the Nationwide Massage for the Cure that took place at nearly 600 Massage Envy clinics across the country!! The goal was to raise $500,000 dollars nationwide (so far they have raised $800,000 dollars) for the Susan G Komen foundation, by offering $10 of each session going to Breast Cancer Research. So they are also a fabulous socially conscious company dedicated to helping the community!

Thimbler has Beautiful Dresses

2009-07-18T22:13:00.000-07:00

Although Thimbler doesn't have plus size dresses available yet... (I'm sure they are coming, the Thimbler Designers are hard at work daily creating beautiful creations!) The designers at Thimbler for the straight sizes have created some gorgeous dresses that are drool worthy and I had to take the time to talk about the Fabulous Dresses available at Thimbler.
I know I normally only discuss the plus size fashions here at Thimbler, but I am hoping that if I -- as the resident plus size diva -- blog about the straight size dresses then maybe the designers here will take my hint and create a few for us plus size gals too!!!

But for you straight size Thimbler girls, there are plenty of gorgeous options to choose from, whether it's anything from sundresses to evening gowns! Simply lovely! I am amazed by the talent our Thimbler designers always show!

So here are some of my favorite Thimbler dresses in the straight sizes that I would LOVE to see in plus sizes!!! Leave some comments, stylish plus size girls: What dresses would you like to see in the Plus Size Fashions?

Until Next Time-

Your Thimbler Plus Size Fashion Diva,

Chassie

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="126" caption="Blue Chiffon Dress 100 % Silk "][/caption]

This dress is super cute and could transition easily from office to a night out with a few accessories-

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="219" caption="Domo Kimono 70's vintage"][/caption]

This dress is so vintage that I simply love love love it- you could wear it as a casual dress or put on a pair of stilettos and throw your hair up in some decorated chopstix for a very chic look. I want this dress! It is different and unique! This dress screams plus size diva Chassie!

[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="119" caption="Gorgeous Red Silk Chiffon Dress"][/caption]

This is a beautiful gorgeous silk evening gown that would be perfectly flattering for the plus size figure. Simply gorgeous!

Tips For Flattering Your Figure from The Plus Size Thimbler Diva!! What Every Plus Size Girl Should Know!

2009-06-30T07:47:00.000-07:00

Tips for flattering your figure-

1. A Great Fit is a MUST! Tailored clothing that are fit is the number on way to make you look Great. Always remember you wear your clothing, don't let your clothes wear your.

this is an example of a what Great fit should look like. This is Thimbler's Dress Slacks

2. Use Illusion to draw attention away from troublesome areas of the body. Small details on clothing can help to give the appearance of a smaller waist, longer legs, smaller or larger bust etc all depending on the the detail and the problem you are trying to conceal.

Thimbler Crossover Blouse Custom-cut, White

3. Choose Fabrics that are compatible with your life style and enviroment.Basically If you live in Miami you probably shouldn't pick wool sweaters and if you Live in Ancorage you probably should pick a halter top :)

4. Perhaps the most Important rule of all is Be Comfortable. Do not buy clothing that wil pinch you, or bind you, or that you will have to loose a few more inches to get into. With all honestly this is just a waste of perfectly good money. The number one rule to looking Fabulous is Feeling Fabulous and you will never Feel Fabulous if you are worrying about when you get to take off what you are wearing.

Best Wishes-
Your Plus Size Thimbler Diva-
Chassie

You Call This Fat????

2009-06-15T19:01:00.000-07:00

I know this is a little dated but I saw this online and thought it might provide some thought provoking discussion! I can not believe that anyone would consider this fat! When I look at this picture I think wow that is a gorgeous woman at the beach for the day- It is so sad that we as a nation are so obsessed with the "weight" That we Throw pictures around and call people "fat"! I mean come on!

Tyra speaking out is so important she is a wonderful role model for young women everywhere- after her bathing suit pictures she made a point to do shows and to speak out that Size acceptance is important- My biggest passion is Promoting Positive Self Esteem in our Youth. So Many Children have poor self image and poor self worth, and most of this comes directly from the media. I think it is so important for more celebrities to speakout about Self Esteem/Self Image and Size Issues.
So while I applaude Tyra for speaking out about her own experiences I do feel in someways it is a little odd. I mean after she is the creator and producer of Modern America's Next Top Model a show that idolizes the "thin" High Fashion Chic look. After all out of all cycles only one Winner was a plus model Whitney Thompson and she was a whopping size 10!! Many girls in America (my self included) would kill to be a size 18/20 much less a size 10! Many debate if a size 10 is really plus size? Feel free to weigh in (no pun intended) on this subject?? I want to hear what defines Plus Size?? Do you think Whitney is Plus Size?? Below is her picture-

Gorgeous "Couture You Can Afford"

2009-06-10T19:05:00.000-07:00

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Do you have champange taste on a beer budget? Do you like clothes that are fit but just can't afford the tailor bill? Are you a Plus Size Petite or Plus Size Tall?
Well Now Thanks to Thimbler.com you can have the High fashion fit of Couture clothing. Thimbler offers you "Couture you can afford"! At Thimbler You can get custom made couture clothing made to YOUR MEASUREMENTS-

Free Lip Balm Giveaway from Burts Bees!!!

2009-06-03T18:45:00.000-07:00

If you like Free Stuff Burt’s Bees, the environmentally friendly lotion and cosmetics company, is giving away free tubes of lip balm! Burt’s Bees is giving away 25,000 Beeswax Lip Balms total, but you need to be on the site at the right time to be one of that day’s lucky 1,000. Try to win your own free lip balm from Burt’s Bees!

Thimber Announces- Gorgeous Custom Made Jeans for Gorgeous Women-

2009-05-19T20:29:00.000-07:00

Okay so for a very long time Plus Size Clothing was not in the least bit fashionable for a young person-All of the clothing you could find would look like something your Grandmother would have worn. While being a Grandmother is a wonderful thing if you are Plus Size and twenty something the very last thing you want to do is look like your Grandmother-

Well the good news is that over the past few years this trend has been changing!!! There are many companies out there dedicated to bringing you gorgeous, trendy plus size clothing that rival what we see on the glossy pages of all the fashion magazines-

I think one of the hardest to find items for a Plus Size Woman is that ellusive perfect pair of perfect fitting blue jeans- Well Thimbler.com has solved this problem with Custom Made Blue Jeans- Below are pictures of the Custom Fit Jeans that I promise you will make you forget about any other jean company out there-
These are the most stylish and best fitting jeans I have ever owned- but then again they were made to my exact measurements- You too can have the Luxury of Custom Made Quality clothing for a couple of dollars more than store bought jeans-

Custom Designer Jeans Straight Leg Indigo Blue
You can truly customize this jean the way you want at waist, around the hip and thigh. High enough and hugs your curves in the back that it won't gap. Fitted at the hip and thigh to shape your body while being ultra comfortable. Nipped at the knee and bottom to give a straight leg appearance while not being baggy.

Hidden adjustable waist inside each side of waistband. While allow up to 3" tighten or loosen, you can tell it's there.
Premium ring spun cotton with some spandex to give just the right amount of stretch.
Have limited standard sizes in stock. Free hemming.
We custom cut and sew a pair uniquely for you in 5 days. Yes, at the same price and the same Thimbler guarantee - we will fix it, replace it for free.

Living Plus Size Beautiful

2009-05-14T12:19:00.000-07:00

I read somewhere a while ago that something like fifty eight percent of the American population is over-weight or what politically correct people like to call ‘plus-size’. If this is true then why do we allow the minority forty two percent of the people to control the media, and our minds with ‘what’ the common conception of beautiful is? I think that beauty is a concept that supersedes just a physical aspect. The media starts to brainwash us as Americans at an early age. Let’s take for instance a gal who is blond, five foot nine weighs 120 lbs a perfect size 4, and looks like Barbie, compare her to some one like me. I am a brunette, five foot three and a half, (and just for the record the half does count) and weigh in around 325 lbs. Now if you were to ask the media who was beautiful, the choice would be obvious. Or would it? In my opinion, I think that size has absolutely nothing to do with being beautiful. Too often we base beauty upon outward appearances; However, True beauty begins on the inside. It doesn’t matter if you are a size 4 or a size 34, the most important thing is that you become happy with whom you are inside and know that you are beautiful. I know that I am beautiful both inside and out and I love helping other people discover the beauty that lies with in them. Each and Every individual is special and beautiful in his or her own way and this is what my Blog Living Plus Size Beautiful Is about in a nutshell!!
In this blog I plan to discuss Plus Size Fashion, Events, Celebrities, Politics, and anything else related to Living Life Plus Size Beautiful!!

I am excited about the opportunity to write this blog- I honestly can not take the credit for coming up with the idea for the blog. I have had the opportunity to model for several plus size companies over the years. The most recent company to hire me as A Feature Plus Size Model is an up and coming Customised Clothing Company called Thimbler.com. (Thimbler makes the most amazing Customized Plus Size jeans.. but that is another blog entry)
Thimbler.com is a creative fashion community made up of shoppers, designers, and producers. Our online marketplace brings everyone together. Whether you visit Thimbler to buy, sell, or create, you customize your Thimbler experience to fit you – you can even customize your clothes for any size, shape, or style.
While speaking with the owner of the Company Charles regarding his vision of the company he said he loved my outlook on life and asked me if I would consider writing a blog for the Plus Size Community to be linked to Thimbler- So Thanks to Charles the Concept of Living Plus Size Beautiful Was born!!!!!

May you always remember the truth found in my favorite quote
"It is your beauty that captures the attention, but it is your personality that makes the impression."

Unitl Next Time-
Chassie