Every morning when we wake up we are the survivor. We are blessed enough to be granted another day, even if that day holds adversity or trauma within its confines. French Philosopher Albert Camus says "The Struggle itself towards the Heights is Enough to fill a man's Heart.. One must imagine Sisyphus Happy" This is one of my favorite quotes because it suggest we understand the value of purpose within motivation towards success. What really drives us day in and day out is up to the individual and my understanding is when we correlate success with better understanding and compassion for all people and factors involved, we show great strength of character. How Blessed and Humble was when Ernest Jackson of MNS Media asked me to participate in the NYFW Fundraiser/Runway show on behalf of Beauty with Pure Purpose, focused on bringing awareness to Cancer and Alopecia survivors, hosted by Hip Hop Legend and Cancer Survivor Roxanne Shante.
MC for the evening and Hip Hop Legend Roxanne Shante pictured with FBM Editor and Chief Mello Evron Andrews
This Blog is dedicated to those who use their legacy to bring solutions in support of those in need.. More specifically I dedicate this blog to Cancer Survivor, CEO and President of Beauty with Pure Purpose, Dana Roberts Ross as well as Fellow Model and Breast Cancer Survivor Suzette Michelle, both women whom have won me over with their light and undying warrior spirit in the fight to stop the loss of another life due to Cancer.
Suzette Michelle in her warrior pose post Breast Cancer photoshoot with @Curvysta @truemodelmgt and @Dougswaim
The Sunday morning of the Beauty with Pure Purpose Fundraiser and Fashion show was serene.. I managed to get up early, do my hair, pack my suitcase with my shapewear shoes and head out the door in good timing listening to some of my favorite tracks on the way downtown. I was syked to be walking for such a great cause at the Metropolitan Pavillion because from what I saw on Google the space just looked amazing and I knew I would get to see some of my model favs Curvy Chic Fitness Charity Lynette, Yum Yum, Ask Mocha and Full Blossom Mello Fellow Face Michelle Hilton and finally get to meet my now mentor, Curvaciously Yours Olga Gonzales-Ramos. Upon arrival I chat it up with my girls and make some new connections with Diva Curvy Cory Quinn (Be on the lookout for my blog about her upcoming calendar... sneak preview shows it to be HOT) and Model/Designer Rhonda Jones Carter. Wig Designer Empryss Heyward was also present showcasing her intricate wigs which she created for this special event and women affected by loss of hair through Chemotherapy and Alopecia. For more information on how you can view and purchase her wigs please visit Beauty with Pure Purpose
Designer Sebastian Threadz was fitting, snipping, synching and tucking their amazing garments to perfection, ensuring their runway portion went off without a hitch. I myself was fitted in an all off the shoulder dress with fringe around the neck and long sleeves with slits down the side.. This Dress Complimented my curves so effortlessly. I felt amazing walking down the runway and as you can see the necks they were-a-breakin!!! Go Me!! ; )
Myself, Nicole Flores, Strutting for Sebastian Threadz of California
Here are some more fabulous looks from the Sebastian Threadz Collection Featured during the Beauty with Pure Purpose Runway and Fashion Benefit. Photos Courtesy of Full Blossom Magazine
Model and CEO of Curvy Chic Fitness Charity Lynette
Super Plus Model and Reality TV Star of Nuvo TV's Curvy Girls, Ivory May
Face of Full Blossom Magazine Runway and Print Model Michelle Hilton
Calendar Girl Runway and print model Curvy Cori Quinn
Reality TV Star and Full Blossom Magazine Cover Girl Robin Kassner
Designer Runway and Print Model Rhonda Jones Carter
Gorgeous Runway Print Model Ask Mocha
Model, Photographer, Radio Personality, Advocate Melinda "YumYum" Bell
There was so much support in the room for us Plus models. As I walked out the looks on everyone's face screamed of joy for us having been a part of the show in support for these causes leaving me with a feeling of genuine appreciation. The phenomenally classy and sophisticated brand Curvezz, who we all know I love soooo much, showed support for the Beauty with Pure Purpose show in their own way having sent me my second look for the night complete with accessories sent all the way from the Netherlands thanks to Designer and Visionary Nancy Herkul and Mica Oh of Peepers of Denmark. I received the dressed that previous Friday right before the Plus night Out Event and Fell in LOVE.. Can't you see why... The material is sound, jewel notes adorn the shoulder and simplicity in detailing found on this dress left me to feel classy and amazingly beautiful while conducting interviews on behalf of Full Blossom Magazine TV
Myself, Nicole Flores, Styled by Nancy Herkul of Curvezz
Upon stepping out in the dress I was immediately greeted by Daily Venus Diva Columnist/ Blogger Curvaciously Yours, Olga Gonzalez- Ramos and it was like I instantly met a sister. Her energy is truly dope I have to say. We got to talk for a brief moment and made a plan to have a more in depth conversation regarding future projects. She is making HUGE Movements when I tell you so I need you ALL to pay attention. I'm so excited for Olga as she will be representing plus models and Latinas during Puerto Rico Plus Week. I am so proud to be a Latina in this industry because we have women like Olga who represent us and fight for us to be seen heard and appreciated.. Love you Girl..
We finally meet!!!
With Photo ops and Interviews Conducted I had the pleasure of speaking with Brilliant Fashion Designer Marco Hall about his striking fashions and his crossover from standard size to plus size. The face of Marco Hall's Brand for the Plus Fashion World is Non Other that Suzette Michele who I mentioned is a cancer survivor earlier and honorary guest of the evening. Marco and I interview segued into my talking with Suzette Michelle.
With tears in her eyes because of all the love and support felt in the room, SURVIVOR Suzette Michelle, who was diagnosed 3/31/2008 with triple negative breast cancer having undergone a double mastectomy, lymph node dissection and reconstruction who now by the grace of God is 6 years cancer free continues to use her Beauty with a Pure Purpose to educate and advocate. She is a woman of God and knows her survival is due to his grace. " I am a professional model, mother of 2 and business woman who loves The Lord and grateful for all that he has done and all he is going to do."
Here are some photos of Suzette Michelle wearing Marco Hall Designs during the Beauty with Pure Purpose Runway Show.. You know a Diva when you see one. Photos Courtesy of Full Blossom Magazine
As a model its one thing to walk in fashion and contribute to the success of a designers line, but to be a part of a greater cause while doing the thing you love most is the greatest feeling. Moving beyond the concept of self in what can be viewed as a self centered and ego driven occupation is a game changer. We all walked out of the Metropolitan Pavilion with pride in having used our Beauty for the Purest of Purpose... Saving Lives
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