November 2011
WELCOME
Thank you for taking the time to read our publi-
cation. The month of October was amazing
with many projects currently in place for us. A
Clothes Mind would not have been able to
come this far without our faithful supporters.
We are truly humbled and grateful for all that
you do. To our models and our dedicated
staff, we could not have done this without you.
You are the motivation for us to do great things
and our inspiration to achieve the unthinkable.
This month’s publication will take you through “OUR” exhilarating journey of Who’s that Girl?
with the very beautiful Taylor Porter and check out our interview with the Curvy Fashionista Ma-
rie Leggette in the A Diva’s Reel series for women empowerment. A Clothes Mind showcased
its fashions from both the Margaux Kouture & Solace clothing lines in the Love Your Body Day
Fashion Show on Saturday Oct 22nd, 2011. You can check out ACM fashions at the end of
CBS’ “The Insider where Meghan McCain hosted the event given by Chenese Lewis by clicking
here.
h This month , our very own Anna Margaux can be found in the Holiday Fierce section of Plus
Model Magazine’s November issue. We will also begin to debut our newest clothing line entitled
Solace, “The Euphoric Collection very soon.
Please keep in contact with us and find out what we’re doing on Facebook, Twitter, Linked In
and our very own ACM News Blog.
Thanks Again,
Anna & Desi
Contents The Beautiful Taylor Porter
talks with us in Who’s that Girl?
Details on pages 12-21
Connect
With
Us! Page 22-25
ACM Speaks with
the Curvy Fashionista,
“Marie Denee”
Details on pages 26-29
Taylor Porter
Model
1. When did you realize you wanted to become a fashion model and why?
I can honestly say that I never really had aspirations of becoming a model, until after
my first photo shoot. Because of my look and my height, people would always tell
me that I needed to pursue a career in the field; however, I always shunned the
idea. I wanted to be a lawyer and that was that. Not that long ago, I posed in some
shots for a friends portfolio. The process was smooth, the results were great, and then
I realized that modeling could actually help me reach my goal of attending law
school.
2. Tell us where you’re from and what brought you here?
I am actually a California native, born and raised in Los Angeles until I was sixteen.
My family relocated to North Carolina where I completed high school, did a short
stint at a local college, and then moved back to Los Angeles. I met great people
in North Carolina, had some wonderful experiences, but California is my home.
Opportunities are endless here and if you have the determination and the work
ethic…. You cannot help but to succeed here.
3. What are some of your hobbies?
Lately… lots of naps! Only kidding. With work and school, it’s been hard to focus
on my hobbies but when I do have free time I enjoy watching movies and working
on my accessory line-Carolfornia. A girlfriend of mine turned me on to beading
and I absolutely love it. I am working on a crazy charm necklace, so I have been
visiting random boutique’s and antique flea markets looking for the perfect addi-
tions.
4. What does the words “beauty” and “fashion” mean to you?
To me, beauty is more of an internal description. I know some gorgeous people on
the surface, but their ethics and morals are out of whack. Fashion, is something
wonderful. Fashion is where one can let what’s on the inside show! It may be rain-
ing and gloomy outside, but if I am happy, I am throwing on a bright yellow shirt!
This is just how I express myself. I do believe that you can tell a lot from a person’s
sense of style.
5. How do you keep yourself updated with the latest trends in the Fashion industry?
I can’t say that I purposely keep myself updated on fashions latest trends. Living in
LA helps, because I get to see so many styles on a daily basis, but typically I just
wear what I like. I’m simple. Give me a nice pair of jeans, a nice top, and some
bad shoes. Someone signed me up for a subscription to W magazine, and that
was a huge mistake! I don’t think there is one item advertised in that magazine
that I don’t like, month after month. I typically try and find less expensive but com-
parable pieces.
6. If you could pick 3 fashion must-haves that every woman should own, what would
they be?
Every woman should own a great pair of jeans. A pair that fits your body like a glove,
holding you in at the right places! I love jeans because you can dress them up or dress
them down. Next, a white cotton shirt. I love A crisp, white shirt. I feel that they make
you look so polished. Great jeans, your white shirt, and a killer pair of pumps and a
great handbag. This says sexy yet sophisticated.
7. Are there any models which inspire you and why?
I am a huge fan of Iman. I read something about how she used to do her own
make up for her shoots. She did this because at the time a lot of makeup artists
were using foundations with heavy orange and red undertones on woman of col-
or. I can relate and orange foundation is a pet peeve of mine. I too prefer doing
my own make up. I recommend checking out The Beauty of Color: The Ultimate
Beauty Guide for Skin of Color by Iman. I learned a lot from this book.
8. What are some of your favorite clothing stores/catalogs/websites?
This is a tough one, because I don’t discriminate when it comes to shopping. LOL. I
might pick something up at Target or Neiman Marcus. I have only one requirement-
I have to love whatever I buy.
Nordstrom is my go-to store, especially for shoes and especially during their Anni-
versary sale. I am a size 16 tall and I have good luck with New York & Co., I buy al-
most all my slacks from them. I also enjoy Ann Taylor & Ann Taylor LOFT. Forever 21
carries a plus line now and I have had good luck with some of their stuff as
well. Also, Anna Margaux, not only is her line diverse in sizing, her designs are
too. She has something for every woman.
9. What can we expect for you in the future?
I am diligently working towards finishing my education so hopefully I can be
seen soon is someone’s courtroom! I also hope to find a little more time to finish up
some of my jewelry pieces. I have great stuff. Some simple, some elegant, and
some super funky. I want to create something for everyone- especially in terms of
pricing.
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Fan Us
@ www.lookbook.nu/aclothesmind
1. What inspired you to become a
fashion writer?
I actually stumbled into it! I have al-
ways enjoyed writing, but I never
thought that my path would have led
me into blogging and writing as a ca-
reer!
2. Which tools do you turn to most
when updating yourself with the latest
fashion trends?
I am always online, on the computer
and internet perusing the latest trend
reports, look books, and fashion blogs
to keep an eye on the latest! A lot of
times I get sent emails
and announcements that keep me up
to date and I attend quite a few
events!
3. Mention some of the negative aspects of our industry and what we should do to
make them better?
Every industry has its opportunities. There could always be more coverage of the plus
size community. I also think that as a whole, the plus size community has a far ways to
go in terms of business models, designers, and retailers. I could not pinpoint out one
specific issue- as there are quite a few but that does not make them independent of
any other niche within the fashion community... you know what I mean?
Marie Denee is the Curvy Fashionista
4. When identifying top talent from a pool of aspiring designers what do search for when
evaluating their pieces and which personal attributes do you feel they need to possess to
increase their success rate in our industry?
I look for a defined style aesthetic, innovation, and quality. Do they deliver something that
we have not seen before? Do they have a business platform that will support their brand?
Website, social media presence? All of these in some sort of fashion are indicators! If you are
a business or trying to start one up, if you do not present yourself as such or have contact
information, how are we to receive you and support? I also think that there has to be a dis-
tinct voice and accessibility. Just because you make it does not mean they will come... SO
for the new designers, do not be afraid to reach out and engage!
5. Marie, you have done many great things this year, tell us about some of the projects
and events you have worked on or been a part of this year?
Ohhh... let's see! LOL At the beginning of the year, I worked on a social media campaign
with Chevy as their Fashion Cruzearati. I am part of the production team for Full Figured
Fashion Week, and we held our 3rd FFFWeek in NY! In August, I was sent to Las Vegas for
WWD MAGIC tradeshow! That was amazing! Most recently, I launched my eBook, Keeping it
Curvy.Confident.Chic!
6. Please share with our readers about your upcoming E book?
It just launched on Tuesday, November 8th and it is a little guide that serves as an intro into
the plus size fashion world! Kind of like a precursor to shopping! I talk about the ins and outs,
the designers, the denim, and everything in between! The goal is to help prepare you to go
shopping with confidence!
7. Are you working on any additional projects?
I have a few! You will have to stay tuned! I am working on my 3rd year celebration in De-
cember and the party in January!
8. You have made a meaningful contribution to the full figured industry. Your presence
and support is unparalleled, with the knowledge you have gained, what advice would you
give to a full figured woman who may be interested in a career as a model or fashion de-
signer?
Well, thank you so much for the recognition! I am extremely grateful for that! I think one of
the most important pieces you can remember is to handle your business. Do your research,
Well, thank you so much for the recognition! I am extremely grateful for that! I think one of
the most important pieces you can remember is to handle your business. Do your re-
search, protect your intellectual property, and stay humble! There are so many people
who have been in the game who have paved the way for us to be here! Research, re-
search, and research- this is for models and designers alike! you do not want to be called
out because you did not do your research and end up stepping on the wrong toes, get-
ting into business with a shady character, or ripping off a design or brand!
9. 2011 is coming to a close and has been filled with ground breaking events and un-
forgettable moments, name three of your treasured memories so far this year and tell us
why they are ones you will cherish?
There are so many! I cannot name just three, but I can say that I have been extremely
blessed with the amazing women and supporters around me!
10. What can we expect for you in the future and where can our readers find you on the
web?
You know what? I am not even sure I know what to expect from and for me! LOL, I think I
will continue to grow and expand as a brand, and connect with amazing women who
are doing their thing! If I can help someone, reach someone, inspire one person to chase
their dreams... I have already succeeded! I am truly grateful!!! You can find me at
Thecurvyfashionista.net and at www.curvyconfidentchic.com!
Thank you for taking the time to read this publication. If you have a suggestion or comment, We want to
hear from you!! Click on the image below to send us an email.
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