Brooklyn cranked out the curves, y’all! Over the weekend, fierce plus-sized women flooded Club Freeze, a trendy New York lounge, to support one thing…
The brand spankin’ new “dare to wear clubwear” line was created especially for curvy girls by Bad Girls Club godmother Tanisha Thomas and her good friend Bella, founder of PrimBeauty.
And let me tell you, the journey to success for the Bad Girls Club, Celebrity Fit Club, Love Games, Tanisha Gets Married — breathes — and Marriage Boot Camp star was no piece of cake! But giving up wasn’t an option. “When life throws you lemons, throw it back and demand chocolate!” Thomas said.
After some blood, sweat, and tears, edgy cut-out dresses and body cons weren’t the only fruits of their labor. Born out of a clothing line was an inspiring campaign that encourages women to embrace their luscious, ample figures.
“It turned into a big movement on social media — it’s huge!,” Thomas told MadameNoire. So huge, Bella says, that even Plush’s curvaceous model ambassadors are getting recognized by random passersby. The message behind the movement? “Be bold, be you!” Thomas said.
The reality TV star spoke with us to give us the scoop on Plush, a possible, might-be-happening, not-so-sure-yet Orange Is the New Black role, and her upcoming projects.
MadameNoire: What’s your ultimate goal for Plush?
Tanisha Thomas: Originally we were supposed to be a clothing line. Full-on, custom clothing for the curvy, fabulous fashionista. But then it turned into a huge movement on social networks. We want to continue to build that platform. [We want] women to embrace who they are, love who they are, and just let your light shine!
MN: What was the inspiration behind Plush?
TT: There was a lack of variety for plus-sized women and I think that we will fulfill that. We plan on partnering with local designers and giving them the opportunity to showcase their work. I’m all about giving to the community; I want to give the people a chance, just like I was given a chance. People second-guess me and say, “Oh please, she’s not going to help me because [another celebrity] told me that they were going to help me, but they never did.” Yes I am going to help you! I want to help you! I am your fan — you’re my sister and you’re my brother. The plan is that we all make it. Not just me. Let’s all get money, it’s all out there!
MN: You mentioned that you were often rejected by others when it came to your career trajectory. How did you find the strength and determination to keep going and stay on track?
TT: I quit all the time! I quit every day. I think I quit every hour — I think I quit today! But I always get back on track. My thing is, “What is the bigger picture and how can I get there?” I set these goals for myself and no matter how upset I get, no matter how stressful it gets, I am determined to make sure I follow through. Even if I fall flat on my face, it’s important for me to say, “You know what — at least I tried!”
MN: What’s the plus-sized industry like?
TT: The plus-sized world is very catty; they don’t want to support. We’ve reached out to so many people — especially me being who I am, I thought that would be leverage… and it’s hard. It will stress you out, people will tell you, “You’re not gonna do it, you’re not going to make it.” What you need to do is believe and trust your brand, you know what I mean?
