PHOTOSThe Curve Report: An Ode to The 65th Annual Emmys—Chic and Glamorous Curvy Edition!
Jan. 28 2015, Updated 2:12 p.m. ET
Hi Curvinistas! I have a very special treat for you this Friday! In the world of fashion there are several events we stylists look forward to. This Sunday is filled with star-gazing and designer duds at the 65th Emmy Awards. While there are several nominees, the variable question of “Who Are You Wearing?” is almost as popular as the phrase "And the Winner Is..."
Over the years, designers have invested as much creation in their red-carpet designs as they do for their seasonal runway collections. Since this is my first time doing a "designer highlight," I thought it was befitting to begin with someone who countlessly graces the red-carpet for awards shows, movie premieres, and even celebrity weddings!
Tadashi Shoji, Japanese-born American fashion designer known for his evening and bridal wear, has a huge celebrity following—not to mention he is a huge supporter of curvy and plus-size women. Shoji’s designs are universally appealing on all body types, but his signature style is very opulent, with lace, tulle, chiffon, and intricate draping. Below is a Curvy Girl Gallery of all my favorite starlets who have donned Tadashi Shoji’s beautiful and classic garments and a Q&A with the amazing designer.
See you next Friday my Curvinistas! Or in a fitting room near YOU!
P.S. My Curvy Footnote: This week Rent the Runway expanded their plus-size repertoire for the glamorous Curivinista! Gone are the days of not knowing what to wear for black tie galas, weddings, date nights, or girls' night out! There are over 40 style options from major red-carpet designers exclusively for the site. Bravo and welcome RTR Plus to the full-figure movement!
Tadashi Shoji
"Elegance is more than just being stylish. A woman who exudes confidence and grace is the epitome of elegance." — Tadashi Shoji
Amber Riley
Amber Riley
DC: "There is something special about a woman when she puts on a gown and a great pair of stilettos. What is your opinion on this?"
TS: "The height of a heel makes your hips look slimmer and a nude pair will give the illusion of legs that go on forever. Black or Nude – you cannot go wrong with either and they will become a staple in any woman’s wardrobe.”
Tadashi Shoji Spring 2014
DC: "Recently, you showed Spring 2014 collection at Lincoln Center in New York City. Can you tell me the inspiration behind the collection?
TS: "'Sweet Liberation.' A feminine, yet powerful woman—but without the power suit."
Christina Hendricks
Christina Hendricks
DC: "What is the best silhouette for a curvy body?"
TS: "Wear a V-neckline dress or blouse. It elongates your neckline by drawing the eye inward and downward to create a slimming effect that will flatter your proportions.”
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Queen Latifah
Queen Latifah
DC: "You are known for your elegant and glamorous designs on the red carpet and also elegant bridal moments. What is your motivation behind providing beautiful fashion to women who are curvy and plus size?"
TS: "I enjoy designing dresses that appeal to both young and old, as well as all shapes and sizes.
No matter what the age or size, a woman wants to feel comfortable while looking elegant and glamorous. I spend many hours ensuring each piece is impeccably tailored and using luxurious linings and stretch fabrics for their comfort and ease.”
Mindy Kaling
Mindy Kaling
DC: "The 65th Annual Emmy Awards is this weekend. Are there any custom Tadashi Shoji sightings that we should be privy too? Just a little inside scoop?"
TS: "You will have to wait and see!"
Tadashi Shoji Spring 2014
DC: "What are the top 5 things every woman with curves should have in her closet?"
TS: "1. Well-fitting undergarments—the right undergarments will provide you with a sleek figure and smooth out imperfections. 2. My luxe jersey draped gowns—most are lined with a jersey material to encourage movement, the fit is never restricting. 3. My ruched mesh cocktail dresses—the length is great for day or night, and the ruched detail flatters curves without sacrificing comfort. 4. A long cardigan is visually slimming. Try a v-neck boyfriend style cardigan worn open, preferably one that hits below the hip is the most flattering and you can add a belt to add to define the waist. Try dark colors, such as chocolate brown, navy, burgundy, and aubergine, which will add richness to your outfit and will offer a refreshing change from the traditional black. 5. A dark colored belt-wrap the belt around the narrowest part of your waist. A belt accentuates the femininity of a woman's body and will give the illusion of a defined waist. Don’t limit yourself to a skinny belt. Try a wide belt—this will be your secret for giving you the most flattering shape.
Octavia Spencer
Octavia Spencer
DC: "Octavia Spencer was your Curvy Muse last awards season. How did this fashion love affair begin?
TS: "Octavia started wearing my designs during The Help press tour in 2011. However, we did not start directly working together until the 2012 award show season. It was a mutual admiration from the start."
Tadashi Shoji Spring 2014
DC: "This year marks your 30th anniversary. Can you summarize how influential designing for women have been in your career?"
TS: "I design to celebrate a woman’s inner strength, to inspire real women, and make them feel confident and beautiful. With the cut of the fabric, the color, the drape of the dress—I have confidence that I can make any woman beautiful. Any size, any nationality, any age. All women are entitled to feel beautiful. Thank you so much for being my muse."
