When I heard that the Queen City was going to be hosting its 1st Annual Full Figured Fashion Week, I knew I had to check it out. The event started last Wednesday, but I was only fortunate enough to catch the last piece of the action at the Silhouettes of a Woman fashion show, held at The Blake Hotel on Saturday. Hosted by the comedian Kashauna from Chicago and with performances by Giselle Greyson, the night was full of more than just figures and fashion. The laughter was non-stop and the energy was more like a big family reunion or roast than an actual fashion show, which probably helped since professionally, there were more than a few kinks that needed to be ironed out.
The venue was a great location, but with the horrific lighting, some of the finer garments were not able to be showcased as well as they deserved. The dim light on top of the feedback-filled sound system and a few fashion blunders made the event seem quite amateur-ish, but nothing is going to be perfect right out of the gate. Hopefully next year will be a bit more organized and publicized.
Regardless of the shoddy structure, the heart of the show was more than I expected. Silhouettes of a Woman chose to not only showcase career, casual, and evening wear, but also jewelry and lingerie. This was a well-rounded show, with flattering clothing for every body type and taste. Sponsors included Ashley Stewart, Torrid, Scarlett Plus Size Boutique, EnV New York, Adam and Eve, Fire My Desire, and Big Girls Inc., among others.
Although we were privy to figure-flattering fashion, there was also a bit more skin than I think was necessary. As a big girl myself, I can understand the need to want to feel trendy and sexy in my clothing, instead of feeling like Im wearing a tent. I was thrilled to see so many pieces that accentuated the curves instead of hiding them, but some pieces carried it a bit far. I dont believe that just because you are bigger means that you should cover up, but leggings with the sides cut out and lace mini skirts just dont seem respectable to me. If we are going to celebrate the body, let's put it in its best light, not mock it. There are just some things that people just shouldnt do, and this is not limited to us big girls. Cut-out leggings and lace minis just dont scream fashion to me.
Overall, I was pleased with the diverse trends and styles exhibited in the show. There was everything from clubwear and business casual to loungewear and costumes, and plenty more in between. With this being the first time the fuller figure has been honored with its own week here in the Q.C., a few flaws were to be expected. I only envision this event becoming bigger and better.
Everyone's heard of the Simmons company, whether you realize it or not. Remember those commercials with the bowling ball being dropped onto the mattress? (If not, see below).
It's a shame when a 135-year-old brand files for bankruptcy. Oh wait. The owners are still raking in the dough. What the?
Simmons says it will soon file for bankruptcy protection, as part of an agreement by its current owners to sell the company the seventh time it has been sold in a little more than two decades all after being owned for short periods by a parade of different investment groups, known as private equity firms, which try to buy undervalued companies, mostly with borrowed money.For many of the companys investors, the sale will be a disaster. Its bondholders alone stand to lose more than $575 million. The companys downfall has also devastated employees like Noble Rogers, who worked for 22 years at Simmons, most of that time at a factory outside Atlanta. He is one of 1,000 employees more than one-quarter of the work force laid off last year.
But Thomas H. Lee Partners of Boston has not only escaped unscathed, it has made a profit. The investment firm, which bought Simmons in 2003, has pocketed around $77 million in profit, even as the companys fortunes have declined. THL collected hundreds of millions of dollars from the company in the form of special dividends. It also paid itself millions more in fees, first for buying the company, then for helping run it. Last year, the firm even gave itself a small raise.
Read more here.
Simmons Beautyrest. It's a classic.
Print out this coupon!
Liberal use of percentage signs and the word "off" .. beware!
All BB Dakota 20% off
All Free people 30% off
William Rast jeans $50.00 off
Paige Premium Denim $40.00 off
7 For All Mankind jeans 40% to 50% off
Alpha (jackets & pants) 20% off
Laguna Beach jeans 20% off
ALL Mens Ed Hardy, CA, & Smet 40% to 50% off
Summer clearance rack, up to 80% off
Sale runs through Sunday Oct. 4th
Anyone who knows me knows my two worldly loves are the Arkansas Razorbacks and watches. I love a nice timepiece. I have been known to bargain shop for a $20 pair of jeans, then go out and spend thousands on a watch. (Hey, I didnt say it was smart. I just acknowledged it was so.) I have Rolex, Breitling, Cartier, and Tag Heuer watches; about 15 to be exact. I currently wear a custommade Breitling Bentley 46 mm that I couldve bought a Kia for the price I paid. But I look at it as an investment that I can enjoy. And that watch has made me more money than it cost me. Proof positive that a nice timepiece is an investment in your image. And investing in your image is investing in your future.
My two favorites are the Baltica 52mm, (on the left) and the Baccara (pictured to the right below). Unfortunately, the Baltica is being discontinued after the current inventory is sold out. But the Baccara is going strong. You can purchase the Baccara with either a diamond or plain case. I obviously prefer the diamond case. Though it is flooded with enough ice to cool your sweet tea, it isnt ostentatious or over the top. It can be worn casually, but is the perfect watch to wear on the red carpet or an upscale event. There is a gentlemans and ladies version.
To find out more about Oceanaut go to www.oceanautwatches.com.
William Wilson is a nationally respected mens clothier and image consultant. His clients include professional athletes, CEOs, and corporations. His homepage is www.WilliamtheClothier.com. Follow William on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/theclothier or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/williamtheclothier.
Lipo Laser Update: Four sessions and Ive lost 1 ½ total inches off my stomach and waist. You still should watch what you eat or your results will be reduced significantly. I feel extra room in the waist of my pants now. Read my previous post on Lipo Laser and what it does for you here.
Take 20 percent off everything in the store at Sloan and Step By Sloan. Sale ends Saturday.
1419 East Blvd.
704-338-1400