Real Women - Real Woman of the Month

INTRODUCING - Delaney...September 2010

Congratulations to our Real Woman of the Month, Delaney Howard-Daniells from Highett, VIC.

I caught up with Delaney and asked her a little about herself...

Who is Delaney?

I am a hard working, driven individual and have been married for just over 4 months to an amazing man who loves my curves! I have never in my life been a small woman and to be perfectly honest, I would never want to be. At the age of 20 I had a breast reduction for health reasons, and it was the best thing I have ever done in my life.

What is your dress style?

My dress style is a variety of mixes including vintage to dressy corporate funk.

What's your favourite store to shop in?

I love City Chic and Ripe Maternity for clothing that makes a curvier woman look beautiful and smart no matter what the occasion.

Who is your role model?

I don't believe I have a role model as today's media is all about the ultra slim and wht they call large or big and beautiful is an embarrassment! I believe it doesn't matter what size or shape you are, it's how you feel inside and out and how you ooze confidence to everyone around you. I may be larger than all the famous celebrities out there, but I know my life is definately worth living and enjoying.

What is your view on body image?

I wished when I was younger that I looked like all the other girls at school and on television. I wanted to wear bikinis at the beach, and for boys to like me, but as time passed and I've matured, so has my idea of what is truly beautiful and natural and that I'm a woman through and through with hips, breasts and curves. It would be so amazing to remove the plastic superficial images that people believe are attractive and replace them with real women with different body shapes.

What is your biggest frustration when shopping for clothes?

My biggest frustration is that if you are a bigger figure then unfortunately you must pay a bigger price-tag for garments. I am so ebarrased when I try on a pair of size 16 jeans or tailored pants in a store and they don't fit as the sizings vary so much from store to store.

How do you make the MOST of who you are TODAY?

I make the most of every day by just getting out of bed every morning, turning on the radio and just taking everyday with a grain of sale, it could be my last day, so why would I let anyone else bring me down. YOU can't remove my smile!

Congratulations Delaney... Love your shape!

Janine X

INTRODUCING - Mo...August 2010

Congratulations to our Real Woman of the Month, Mo Davies from Bowraville, NSW.

I caught up with Mo and asked her to share some information about herself...

Who is Mo?

Mo is short for Maureen. I’ve never actually been keen on the full name so when I met my husband thirty-three years ago he called me Mo, and when his family back in the UK called me Mo, I decided it was a new start for me. I got a double Upper Second Class Honours in languages at university in the UK but didn’t had much self-confidence and never actually knew what I wanted to do with myself. I took up secretarial work but was invalided out of the workforce in my thirties with severe repetitive strain injury and got into natural therapies when the medical profession gave up on me. I undertook Reiki training and became a Reiki Master and really was a late-bloomer. It actually led me to become an artist, writer and teacher. If I look back over my life, I never realized I was a good communicator because it seemed so natural. I am a disability pensioner now as I have fibromyalgia and arthritis of the spine, but I consider this a challenge to work with rather than a disability. It’s taught me to slow down, something that used to be quite foreign to my lifestyle! So now I write my own blog and maintain my own website.

I’ve published an e-book and I’m currently writing a full-length book. I love teaching, and, when I’m able, I’ve held courses and workshops in mandala art (art drawn in circles), intuitive art, living your dream, understanding dreams, intuitive Tarot, understanding colours, as well as being an artist. I love to help women open up to their creative abilities and to see their self-confidence blossom. I have worked through a severe lack of self-confidence and self-esteem myself, as well as recurring depression, and now feel confident, secure and very, very happy and content. I never had any maternal urge so chose not to have children. But then I met my husband – we fell in love at first sight – and I lived with him for 27 years until we finally decided to get married in 2004 (bit slow on decision-making!) while we were in the UK. My husband’s daughter, grand-daughters and great-grandkids were over the moon at our decision and created a truly truly wonderful day for us. It was full of so much love, with our family and friends. My step-daughter now calls me “mum” and she’s now my daughter, so I’ve been gifted with a fully-fledged family without the hard yakka!

What is your dress style?

My own! It’s great as you get older because you’ve got the confidence to wear what you like and – dare I say it – what is comfortable! I have a big collection of unusual jackets and scarves which I’ve bought over the years and which I hang on to regardless of any other clothes de-cluttering I do.

Do you have a favourite store?

I buy a lot of clothes from Lotus in the Moonlight on EBay in the US. They have lovely, unique, figure-flattering styles which are good quality. My favourite store at present is the TS14+ store at Coffs Harbour. I love the styles but, best of all, the staff are friendly, very helpful and a pleasure to chat with.

Who is your role model?

It might sound trite, but my role models are the women I’ve taught over the years who have inspired me with their courage, humour and resilience, no matter how tough times have been, or still are, for them. One woman told me that, when things got really hard, she would sit down and tell herself “I’m a fine woman”. I think it should be every woman’s motto!

What is your view on body image?

Sort out what you like, who you are and what your own physique is, and go with your own intuitive choices. Don’t worry what anyone else thinks if you’re comfortable yourself. I believe each person is absolutely unique and needs to be proud of who they are. I’m very critical of the “obesity epidemic” crap around which stigmatizes any person who doesn’t fit a stereotype. I think the terms “obese” and “morbidly obese” are ghastly, derogatory of people and demoralising. We plus-size women are Ruebenesque and curvaceous. I’m all in favour of Intuitive Eating and Health At Every Size, which recognizes the uniqueness of each person and their own, individual needs. You need to be your own size, the one you’re born with not an artificially imposed one, and work out what’s healthy for you.

Has this changed the older you get?

Yes. As I said earlier, I used to suffer from depression and wear heaps of black to “look slim”. I used to be obsessed with being overweight but one day I sat down and worked out I’d had about four years of being quite slim in my whole life, and I only achieved this when I was working flat out each day. Since then I’ve put on and lost weight more times than I can recall and I’ve finally settled for being happy as I am at whatever weight I happen to be because it’s just being me.

What are your thoughts on seeing size 16+ models on the catwalk at Australia's 1st plus-size event next year - Real Women Revolution?

Absolutely wonderful. Inspirational. Long overdue.

What is your biggest frustration in shopping for clothes?

Getting good-quality, reasonably-priced undies which are pretty and sexy. It beats me why manufacturers seem to think that if you’re a luscious size, you don’t want luscious lingerie, you are lumbered with passion-killer bras and knickers. I also get fed up with plus-size clothes in department stores being stashed right at the back, as if they’re slightly ashamed of larger-sized clothing.

How do you make the MOST of who you are TODAY?

I realize how I’m surrounded by so much love from friends, family and a husband who loves me to bits and that’s the best thing ever. I’ve stopped trying to be someone I’m not and I’ve stopped being overly critical and judgmental of myself. I enjoy my creative life, love where I live on the mid-north coast – in a quiet community in the hills but only 20 minutes from the sea – and I guess I’m more at peace with myself than I’ve ever been in my life. Growing older doesn’t mean you lose anything at all – it’s the opposite, you lose all the pressures, stresses and strains, and you gain confidence, pleasure in life and can enjoy what gives heart and soul to your life. You’re only as old as you think you are, so I actually feel younger and more care-free than I ever have done. I’m keeping my brain active with a new project, teaching myself astrology. And I love the phrase: “Onwards and upwards, teacups!”.

Congratulations Mo... Love your shape!

Janine X

INTRODUCING - Tresna...July 2010

Congratulations to our Real Woman of the Month, Tresna McNally from Williamstown, VIC.

I caught up with Tresna and asked her to share some information about herself...

Who is Tresna?

I have had a very full and mixed up life, after a typical and mostly happy and settled childhood I married very young and divorced within just 3 years. I think I realized that I wasn’t just like everyone else and needed to find out who I really was and what I really wanted! I re-embraced my musical childhood and began a 20 year stint in musical theatre, meeting my second husband in the process who I’ve been married to for 22 years. We are best friends before all else and share lots of traits and beliefs, something I think is essential for a successful relationship. After years of trying I had a gorgeous son through IVF who was then born 12 weeks early, so like most things in my life motherhood didn’t come easy! I’m not the stay at home mum type but equally I wanted to spend as much time as possible with my boy so I began a career of mostly working from home in my own businesses. I firstly ran a gift basket business from home, after moving from Sydney to Melbourne 10 years ago I then ran a preschool music business – teaching but only during school hours. After selling that I bought a day spa and another beauty salon, so I run them mostly from home with fantastic staff doing the day to day operations.

Career-wise I believe I’ve had the best of both worlds and highly recommend it! I still enjoy seeing musical theatre and while I sometimes miss the singing, I don’t miss the bitchiness and egos! I reckon I have a great life and pretty much do as I please, with the support of my wonderful family who understand my need for independence.

What is your favourite store or local designers?

I buy a lot of my clothes from TS14 + - I love their quirky designs, very ME, and I also love that I can visit my local store only 5 mins away and know that whatever I see in there I can get to fit me! Being busy I love that their garments are mostly wash and wear and stretch fabrics, while still being far from drab. I get the odd garment from My Size but I pick up anything that is a bit different. I just despair of shopping in ‘normal’ shops and see something I love but that doesn’t go to my size so I steer clear of boutiques.

What is your favourite place to have coffee?

Either on the water at Williamstown near where I live, or in Fitzroy where my salon is!

How do you make the MOST of who you are TODAY?

By accepting myself, flaws and all, making the most of what I do have which is intelligence, drive, personality and a great wardrobe!

Will you be attending Real Women Revolution- Australia's First Plus Size Event in Melbourne next year? and what are your thoughts on this event?

I’d love to yes, I think it will be great fun and an opportunity to access some new designers catering to all sizes

Congratulations Tresna... Love your shape!

Janine X

INTRODUCING - Devon...May/June 2010

Congratulations to our Real Woman of the Month, Devon La Salle from Blackburn, VIC.

I caught up with Devon and asked her to share some information about herself...

Who is Devon?

I’m an American woman that has been living in Australia since 2004. I originally came out here to be with my Aussie husband, but unfortunately that didn’t last. So, I am newly single and enjoying the journey of self discovery. I’ve decided to stay in Melbourne by myself and see where life takes me.

While I work as an administrator and customer service representative, I am a great many more things than just that: I am an artist and a scientist. An actress and a chef. A musician and a counsellor. I have many interests and passions in life, and don’t let what I do for a living define who I am.

I live by a set of morals and rules:

- Always make sure that the ones you love and care about know this, because you never know what’s going to happen. My family and friends mean the world to me, and I am truly blessed to have them in my life.

- Stand up for what is right and what you believe in, even if you’re the only one standing.

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Keep faith that for every bad thing that happens, at least three good things happen in turn. It’s true.

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Try to make the most out of every moment, both good and bad. Carpe diem!

Favorite place to shop?

I don’t get to go out there and shop nearly as much as I’d like to, so I’m usually buying things online. I adore Kiyonna because the fashion is classic, beautiful and age-appropriate for my late-20’s self! I also love searching the US’ eBay website. It’s not filled with great stuff, but I definitely find some excellent pieces on there.

What is your favourite store or local designers?

When I do get a chance to go out and shop somewhere, my favourite store is definitely Dream Diva. They have the cutest dresses! Accessory wise, you can’t beat Ishka. I love pairing classic clothing pieces with ethnic-inspired jewellery, and Ishka has the best selection I’ve ever seen. I love that!

What is your favourite place to eat?

Oh man…Melbourne is THE best place for food! There are so many excellent places in this city. One of my favourites is a little hole-in-the-wall place called the Choix Creperie Café (in Liberty Lane just off Collins Street near Spencer Street). They make the best crepes in the world with an amazing variety of fillings…yummy! For Peking duck, you can’t beat Old Kingdom in Fitzroy. You have to order 24 hours in advance (as you should with real Peking duck) and it’s worth every penny spent!

How do you make the most of today?

I put one foot in front of the other every day and take things as life throws ‘em my way. I don’t take any crap from anyone because it’s not worth spending time and energy grieving over people that don’t bring happiness to my life. Most of all, I don’t get mad at myself anymore for being imperfect. Ladies…we are all human, and part of what makes humans so amazing and complex are the flaws we possess. Making the most of who you are doesn’t mean that you’re going to feel 100% beautiful, smart, sexy or even happy all the time. Sometimes, you feel flat out hideous on all fronts! In these moments, you have a choice: You can either put yourself down and make yourself even more miserable, or you can pull yourself up by the boot strings, say a resounding, “I’ll show you!” to the world and figure out what lesson you need to learn from the card you’ve been dealt that day. Enemies will only try to bring you down, friends will come and go, and family isn’t always readily available to pep you up when you need it. The only person that can love you unconditionally is you.

Congratulations Devon...what a fantastic role model, Love your shape!

Janine X

INTRODUCING - Kylie...April 2010

Congratulations to our Real Woman of the Month, Kylie Mann from Mont Albert, VIC.

I caught up with Kylie and asked her to share some information about herself...

Who is Kylie?

18 months ago I chose to follow a passion – travel!

So after years of caring for others as a nurse, I now work as a travel specialist for an adventure travel company. I get to experience climbing the Great Wall of China, snorkelling in the blue waters of Belize, riding camels to the pyramids in Egypt and catching some rays on the islands off the amazing Croatia coast line just to name a few wonderful experiences.

I have a friend who when she rings always starts the conversation with “where in the world are you?”

Currently single – though I wonder if it’s because I’m hard to keep up with, or maybe it’s because I’d have to give up some of my wardrobe space?!

Though there are 3 special little men in my life – my nephews. They keep track of me on their world globe and have the best show and tell with photo’s and presents from around the world.

As far as my clothes go, I’ve found as I’ve got older I’m more adventuress. There’s everything from hiking boots and cargo pants to evening dress and heels. I believe in wearing what makes me feel beautiful.

Favorite place to shop?

I just love to shop and what better place than Melbourne. As I’ve learnt to love my shape, no shop is safe. I love the hunt; you never know what you’ll find, shoes/jewellery/handbags and clothes.

Any local designers?

To be truthful, I haven’t really found a designer that matches my style and size. But that won't stop me looking!

Favourite coffee place?

Mario’s on Glenferrie Rd Hawthorn – close to home and work. Love that not only great coffee but family run and you can see the friendship and care the staff have for each other.

Best place for a great meal?

Lulo, on Glenferrie Rd (again!)

Wonderful Spanish fare/tapas Restaurant Bar. You can drop by for a great snack or a beautiful meal complimented by a great imported Spanish wine list and staff that have a passion for the food. Also brings back wonderful memories of time spent in Spain.

How do you make the most of today?

Find at least one positive in my day! Love my curves and enjoy life - I have everything to be grateful for, good friends and family, great health and new adventures to experience.

Congratulations Kylie... Love your shape!

Janine X

INTRODUCING - Georgia...March 2010

Congratulations to our Real Woman of the Month, Georgia MacGuire from Sydney, NSW.

I caught up with Georgia and asked her to share some information about herself...

Who is Georgia ?

I'm a social worker and my work involves supporting children within families to grow and develop to their full potential by helping mums and dads be better parents.

I have been labelled as a bit of a cougar as I am lucky enough to be in love iwth a gorgeous young musician who writes me love songs and inspires my creative side. I have two beautiful daughters who constantly make me smile!

I am young at heart and enjoy wearing vibrant and fun fashion. I love eclectic and sexy clothes, dresses, skirts - lots of glam. I also love fun clothes, for me that means wearing t shirts with hello kitty on them paired up with my funky earings made of Lego.

What's your favourite wardrobe item?

My favourite thing in my wardrobe is probably my City Chic black jeans and my black and white polkadot heels.

I secretly wish i was a rock star! I will try anything and everything on because you never know what you might find. If I am looking for something specific, City Chic is usually my first point of call.

Your Favorite Place to have a Tea/Coffee?

Favourite place for a coffee is Donato's in Bourke Street. Melbourne is the only place for a caffeine fix.

Best place to have a great meal?

My favourite food really depends on my mood, I love exotic spices and flavours, I love the Vegie Bar in Brunswick street but if I am looking to spoil myself I go for high tea at somewhere like the Windsor. Eating scones and tiny cakes makes me feel sophisticated and sometimes a girl needs that.

How do you make the most of who you are today?

Life has had it's ups and downs and I have made some poor choices along the way, but I make the most of what I have by trying not to break my own rules. When things get tough I try not to make them worse and I always try to experience what is happening in the moment right in front of me.

My favourite pass times are my art, flirting with men by impressing them with my rugby union knowledge, listening to loud rock music in my zippy little car and playing singstar with my gorgeous boy.

Congratulations Georgia... Love your shape!

Janine X

INTRODUCING - Missy...January 2010

Congratulations to our Real Woman of the Month, Missy Robinson from Brisbane, Qld.

I caught up with Missy and asked her to share some information about herself....

Who is Missy?

I am 30 years old, live in Brisbane with my beautiful best friend and my crazy cat. I own a PR and Marketing agency providing services to clientele in the fashion, entertainment and lifestyle industries. I am also a fashion writer and contributor to some fabulous international online fashion and lifestyle magazines. As well as doing that, I am a freelance fashion stylist and also a Talent Scout and Creative Director for an amazing new Australian Men’s Magazine that launches in April this year. I am blessed to be able to work with a group of extremely talented and creative people that inspire me every day.

I used to be in the army, so although I work in a very “girly” industry I am a bit of a tomboy at heart.

I recently started seeing a wonderful guy after being single for a number of years.

Your Favorite Place to Shop and Why?

Being a stylist I shop at many different places as I have a mixed style I call boho glam. However, 2010 is the Year of Missy and I’m in the process of doing a bit of a reinvention after losing some weight.

Being large busted, finding sexy lingerie that actually holds everything in has been my biggest struggle, but Big Girls Don’t Cry in Fortitude Valley has been a godsend!

As far as clothing goes, I have dabbled in a bit of designing myself so have a few items I got made whilst overseas including shoes.

My advice, don’t follow the trends so much as work with what you have.

Any Local designers you have found?

Being a publicist representing designers, there is some absolutely incredible talent in Brisbane and the Gold Coast, sadly most of them don’t cater to plus size women – in saying that, I think it’s only a matter of time before the tide changes on that!

Your Favorite Place to have a Tea/Coffee?

I’m not a tea or coffee drinker but have an addiction to coca cola…. So anywhere with a great atmosphere where I can have a laugh with my friends is perfect for me!

Best place to have a great meal?

Oxford St, Bulimba is always a winner or down at Broadbeach – some amazing places to eat and drink

How do you make the most of who you are today?

Life hasn’t always been easy for me with the diagnosis of an illness a couple of years ago, but with the love and support from friends and family I’ve got a pretty blessed life. No isn’t a word in my vocabulary and I work hard every day, following my dreams and being the best person I can be.

Congratulations Missy... Love your shape!

Janine X