If you read our piece about British Plus Size Fashion Week a little while ago, you’ll know that we are super excited about seeing some curves on the catwalk in London this weekend. If you didn’t, you can read all about BPSFW here.
We caught up with Remi Ray, plus size champion, and one of the founders of BPSFW. We wanted to know what inspires her in the world of fashion, and how she came to organise one of the first big plus size fashion weekends….
Remi Ray
Thanks so much for taking the time to talk to us Remi. Can you tell us what inspired you to enter the world of fashion?
I’ve been into fashion since the age of 13, when I first started street trading with my Aunt. She showed me the ropes of wholesale buying, and once I understood it I fell in love with it! From then I started to purchase clothing at wholesale cost, and selling them on for a profit. That was 12 years ago now, I’m now 25.
You studied at the London College of Fashion; did you feel that plus size women were represented during your studies?
I felt there was a lack of representation, as there haven’t been that many women before me who have been great advocates for the plus-size community. However, in the last few years we have seen a wave of great interaction from plus-size bloggers, magazines like my business partner Rianne’s mag Evolve, retailers and even mainstream designers creating or considering plus-size products. I think this shows there is a great niche in the market and we are starting to tap into it.
How did the idea for British Plus Size Fashion Week come about?
Well there already are many plus-size fashion weeks happening around the world, but London has never really had a major plus-size event. Especially not one that covers all aspects of a plus-size persons fashion concern.s We hope that this will be achieved through our weekend. Plus-size women are able to learn the basic of styling via their body shapes, they can get rid of the old clothes at the bottom of their wardrobes that will never work for them, express their opinion about changes in the industry and watch real women that represent who they are walk down the catwalk.
What are you hoping BPSFW will achieve? Will it become an annual event?
To inspire plus-size women and personally, for me, I would like to inspire the younger generations that have ever felt like crying in a fitting room because clothing on the high street don’t fit them and caused them to lose their confidence. We hope that with the support of plus-size women from the UK and Europe we will be able to run the event annually, I am a young entrepreneur but I understand that it can not survive without the support of the plus-size community.
Who is your favourite plus-size fashion designer at the moment?
Monif C is one my favourite plus-size designers. Her designs are amazing, but what is most inspiring is her story. I’m looking forward to hopefully meeting her one day.
Why should people come along to BPSFW?
Because it has been created for plus-size women to hopefully enhance, educated and empower our community. It will also allow us all to see some amazing fashions by some new and established designers – a great fun day will be had by all!
Do you have any fashion tips for curvy girls who want to keep on top of new and emerging fashions?
Do your research on the new trends coming in for the seasons and see what works for your body shape. Always have great undergarments, buy correct sizes and work with your curves not against them.
Who inspires you in the world of fashion?
I’m inspired by Lavin, Marc Jacob, Chloé, Diane von Furstenberg, Tibi, Holly Fulton and so many more. When I launch my Remi Ray contemporary brand this year, you will see the seamless styles that inspire me.
A big thank you to Remi Ray, we’re sure the BPSFW will be a big hit!
You can find out more and buy BPSFW tickets here, or visit www.remiray.com to find out more about the lady herself!
Original article: Curves on the Catwalk #MeetThe……BPSFW Founder
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