Ladies, are you ready for the latest 2016 fall trend? Well, this trend was popular in the 70’s and 2000’s and it no surprise we’re about to see it reappear this fall. It’s the bell sleeves tops (features a small bell that starts at the mid-forearm or wrist and can extend anywhere from the knuckles to completely covering your hand). Not sure if any of you Divas have bell sleeves hidden deep within your closet, but it’s time to start digging them out or borrow your mom’s, lol. Today’s bell sleeves are more tailored and does not quite have the attitude of past bell sleeves. Plus, it can take shape in everything from blouses and sweaters to sweatshirts and outerwear, which means it has the potential to dominate multiple categories. Since fall merchandise is just beginning to roll out, the bell sleeves are not everywhere quite yet.  I did visit a few of my favorite plus size stores. I noticed Ashley Stewart, Lane Bryant, Torrid and Avenue had them available. Personally, I’m still debating if I will be purchasing the bell sleeve top trend, but it is definitely making a come back. So, Divas if you do buy into this trend….Rock The Bell, in my LL Cool J voice!


PHOTO COURTESY  OF: ASHLEY STEWART www.ashleystewart.com

Email: jchell@jonesgirlsinc.com
Facebook fan page: Jchell Plus Size Model On Deck
Twitter: @JCHELL73
Instagram: @jchell_model_stylist

I was first acquainted with model Malinda (aka Yum Yum) via Curvz Magazine, she was their February 2014 cover model. Malinda is quite the beauty and has done very well with her modeling career in just a few years. Here is her interview.

Jchell: Where are you from?
Malinda: Oakland, California and Brooklyn, New York
 
Jchell: Where did you attend high school/college?
Malinda: Holy Names Private All Girls High School and Nyack College
 
Jchell: What are some of your main interests and hobbies?
Malinda: Photography, reading, writing, acting, modeling, shopping, meeting cool people, eating good food, walking in the rain, watching movies, dancing, going to the beach, treating myself to manicures and pedicures, and wearing sexy high heel shoes.
 
Jchell: How long have you been modeling?
Malinda: 3 years or so.
 
Jchell: Are you an independent or agency model?
Malinda: I’m with Bicoastal Models in NY.
 
Jchell: What was it like starting out as a model?
Malinda: I still feel like I’m starting out. I would say interesting in meeting new people, fun when I work with creative people, memorable when I’m around other models who I consider my sisters, and frustrating when things don’t go my way. I would like to get to the point where I can say extremely rewarding financially.
 
Jchell: Have you been published in any magazines?
Malinda: Yes. As a photographer, Black Enterprise, Vibe, XXL, Latin Connection, and more.  As a model, Curvz Mag, Full Blossom, Trende Magazine (in Canada), Curvy Connect, Bronze Magazine, Move Over Mag, and Urban Tymes Magazine.
 
Jchell: Besides modeling, have you done any acting?
Malinda: Yes. I was recently featured on the cable show Independent Film Channel in a small documentary series called eMotions.

Jchell: Let's talk about your beauty regimen: How do you keep your hair and skin looking healthy?
Malinda: For skin, I wash everyday, periodically I may use a scrub and when I do I’m extremely gentle. I always moisturize and I also use eye creams. I’m an addict eye cream collector. I have so many, too many. For hair, my hair is natural so I try to wash twice weekly or at least once, condition, oil my hair and scalp and have my hair twisted or braided.
 
Jchell: What are your favorite fashion trends you love?
Malinda: My fashion trend style tends to vary depending on how I feel. I gravitate to colors such as white, hot pink, red, gold, and black, oh don’t forget my leopard prints and neon colors too!  I’m definitely not a conservative girl and I don’t believe just because an item has a designer name on it that it makes you or the item better than others. Sometimes I will buy the trend but won’t wear it when it’s popular. On days where I’m running around doing errands, a good ol’ pair of sweat or leggings will do. For the most part, I do love anything with fringes. I’ve been an avid Adidas sportswear and t-shirt collector for the past 5 years. I absolutely love high heels and boots. I love leggings from solid black to wild patterns. I tend to like sequins, big jewelry, midi dresses, lace dresses, basically anything loud, quirky and flashy. Lol.
 
Jchell: Every girl has a special “can't live without this” in her closet, what's yours?
Malinda: Shoes, purses, bras and panties, fur coats, ripped up jeans, fun t-shirts with sayings, leather gloves, well anything leather, camouflage cargo pants, jean jackets, and anything pink.
 
Jchell: Who is your favorite photographer(s)?
Malinda: Myself, Ellen Von Unwerth, Camilla Akrans, Marc Baptiste, Mario Testino, Gordon Parks, David LaChapelle, and more.

Jchell: Knowing what you know, what advice would you give to other models trying to establish themselves?
Malinda: Practice posing in the mirror, make friends, ask questions, and it’s not the end of the world if you don’t get chosen for a particular casting.
 
Jchell: Is there anything else you would like to add?
Malinda: Love yourself from the inside out, love life, and LAUGH!
 
You can connect with model Malinda on the following social media outlets:

Facebook: MALINDA BELL 
Instagram: YUMDIVAYUM
Twitter: YUMYUMSWORLD
Website: http://yumdivayum.wixsite.com/malindabell
Email: YUMDIVAYUM@YAHOO.COM

​Email: jchell@jonesgirlsinc.com
Facebook fan page: Jchell Plus Size Model On Deck
Twitter: @JCHELL73
Instagram: @jchell_model_stylist

​I found model Sheila via Twitter. A beautiful Latina with a lot of spice. Don’t let her beauty fool you, she is educated and has many talents. I would love to see her gracing the runway for Full Figured Fashion Week. Sheila is definitely a great asset to the plus size model community. Here is her interview.

Jchell: Where are you from?
Sheila: I’m a valley girl. Anyone from South Texas will know what that means. I was born and raised in Brownsville, Texas which is a border town, very rich in Mexican culture. I moved to Austin, TX for school in 2005 and I’ve been here for over 10 years. I love it!

Jchell: Where did you attend high school/college?
Sheila: My high school was Lopez High School. Our mascot was a lobo, which is Spanish for wolf. I’d like to think I have some of that ferocious spirit. I graduated and attended the University of Texas for film school, which may seem far from what I am doing now, but I think that’s where I get my visual aesthetic. As a filmmaker, you have to think about the mise-en-scène, everything within the frame. The same applies to photography. As a model, I feed off the energy of the photographer and collaborate. We think about wardrobe, props, jewelry, location, and all the elements that bring a scene to life.

Jchell: What are some of your main interests and hobbies?
Sheila: I love writing. I think that’s what sets me apart. I blog about my experiences being a plus-size model, positive body image advocate, and fashionista. I am a pretty open book. I guess an unknown fact about me is that I love cooking. My culture is rich with delicious food and I love feeding people. It’s a way of showing how much you love someone, feeding their body and their soul.

Jchell: How long have you been modeling?
Sheila: I did my first photoshoot back in February 2014. I was entering this plus-size modeling competition based in Atlanta, GA. Since then, I have been featured in magazines for publications and became a brand ambassador for Arista Active Wear. It’s a brand that creates active wear from a range of sizes including plus-sizes. It started out with its focus on pole fitness wear. When I joined their new body diversity campaign for their new fantasy line, you can see how the pieces translate well into everyday fashion. I absolutely love the leggings. http://www.artistaactivewear.com/

Jchell: Are you an independent or agency model?
Sheila: I am an independent model. All bookings are done by contacting me via email. I am working on developing a website that encompasses my portfolio and blog. As for being signed with an agency, that’s the next step.

Jchell: What was it like starting out as a model?
Sheila: I feel like it was just yesterday, but so much has happened since then. I was very nervous to put myself out there. And, I have faced rejection. That was the hardest part, getting into a mindset where I would be okay with that. Body positivity helped me deal with rejection. I am still worthy and valuable even if my submission is rejected. It is not a measure of my worth as a model or a woman.

Jchell: Have you been published in any magazines?
Sheila: Yes, I have been featured a few times in Curvy Connect Magazine. I was their cover girl for their February 2016 Boudoir Edition. That photo is one of my favorites. https://issuu.com/curvyconnectmag/docs/ccm_feb16_final

Jchell: Besides modeling, have you done any acting?
Sheila: Does a grade school play count? I would love to venture off into acting. It’s something that I am looking toward and there are opportunities in Austin, TX for that, lots of independent and big budget films are shot here.

Jchell: Let's talk about your beauty regimen: How do you keep your hair and skin looking healthy?
Sheila: I recently got a cute short haircut with bangs. I walked into the salon and literally showed the stylist a picture of Kerry Washington with a similar hair style. She got the point. Since I dye my hair often, my hair can get damaged so I get it trimmed or cut for new growth. I also use keratin based hair products to help smooth out my hair and protect it. As for my skin, I often use Korean beauty products as I find they are less harsh on my skin. 

Jchell: What are your favorite fashion trends you love?
Sheila: I love the whole boho chic look, like a flowy print maxi dress that I can dress up or down. I think pieces like that can translate so well from daytime to nighttime. I also love leggings paired with tunic dresses or t-shirt dresses.

Jchell: Every girl has a special “can't live without this” in her closet, what's yours?
Sheila: It has to be a wrap dress. I just love the way wrap dresses look on my figure. It accentuates my curves in all the right places.

Jchell: Who is your favorite photographer(s)?
Sheila: I would have to say Shellie from Solight Photography. She has taken all my pictures that have been published. She’s based here in Austin, TX and I absolutely love her. I think it’s like a special bond and connection we have. When I work with Shellie, I know I am going to be well taken care of and the pictures will be amazing.

Jchell: Knowing what you know, what advice would you give to other models trying to establish themselves?
Sheila: Start taking pictures. Look for a local professional photographer in your area and look at their portfolio. Use those pictures to build your portfolio, submit into magazines, take to casting calls, and use them on social media. Get your name out there.
Also, be open to working with new people and traveling. I am taking a trip to NYC in mid-September to work with a few different photographers. I have another photoshoot in December for the Project Mermaid Tour in San Diego, CA.
Lastly, be yourself, be authentic. You’re already a beautiful and talented person. If they pick someone else, that’s okay. There are other opportunities around the corner, believe me.

Jchell: Is there anything else you would like to add?
Sheila: To anyone that reads this article and is thinking about modeling, blogging, acting, or even just trying something new, go for it! I struggled with low self-esteem and body image issues at a young age and that carried into my adult hood. I really wish I had discovered body positivity earlier in life, but I am here now and I hope that what I am doing is making a difference. I don’t just take pretty pictures. My goal is for you to see a woman like me, full-figured Latina, and see the celebration of curvy/plus-size bodies, the way they move in the world.
 
You can connect with model Sheila on the following social media outlets:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/curvysheila/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/curvysheila/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/curvy_sheila
Website: https://curvytrend.wordpress.com/
Email: sheilalopezbookings@gmail.com

​Email: jchell@jonesgirlsinc.com
Facebook fan page: Jchell Plus Size Model On Deck
Twitter: @JCHELL73
Instagram: @jchell_model_stylist

I had the opportunity of interviewing model Jalisa. She is a tall beauty with a great attitude. I have also had the pleasure of gracing the runway with her. Jalisa has many talents and I can see all the hard work she puts into modeling. Keep your eyes open because she is definitely a model who is going somewhere. Here is her interview.
 
Jchell: Where are you from?
Jalisa: I’m originally from Conway, AR but I’ve lived in Dallas, TX for 2 years now!
 
Jchell: Where did you attend high school/college?
Jalisa: I attended Conway High School home of the Wampus Cats.
 
Jchell: What are some of your main interests and hobbies?
Jalisa: Some of my main hobbies and interests include scrapbooking, producing and editing my own YouTube vlogs, creating different makeup looks as well as practicing my modeling and acting skills.
 
Jchell: How long have you been modeling?
Jalisa: I’ve been modeling for 3 years.
 
Jchell: Are you an independent or agency model?
Jalisa: I am now an independent model while previously being signed to Model & Talent Incorporation.
 
Jchell: What was it like starting out as a model?
Jalisa: Starting as a model was super exciting! Just having your time to shine and being in the spotlight for the time being was overwhelming but such a compelling experience!
 
Jchell: Have you been published in any magazines?
Jalisa: Yes, so far I’ve been published in one magazine, Fleek Que Mag and now Curvz Mag :).
 
Jchell: Besides modeling, have you done any acting?
Jalisa: I have no acting experience yet, I’m currently attending technique classes and soon attending college for Theatre and Public Communications.
 
Jchell: Let's talk about your beauty regimen: How do you keep your hair and skin looking healthy?
Jalisa: I have a very strategic routine to keep healthy hair and flawless skin. As far as my regimen for my hair, I love protective styles and deep conditioning every two weeks with the Crème of Nature deep conditioner. To keep my skin glowing, I exfoliate with Clean & Clear Blackhead Remover then cleanse with Aveeno Daily Acne Cleanser.
 
Jchell: What are your favorite fashion trends you love?
Jalisa: My favorite fashion trends includes, color blocking. I love being able to put together multiple solids to match a shoe or handbag and stripes will always be in! Whether they're on a dress, skirt or even a cute crop top, I LOVE STRIPES!
 
Jchell: Every girl has a special “can't live without this” in her closet, what's yours?
Jalisa: My ''can’t live without this'' would have to be an oversized tee and leggings. Nothing like throwing on a huge t-shirt and leggings on to make the day much better and comfortable.
 
Jchell: Who is your favorite photographer(s)?
Jalisa: My favorite photographers are, Cateye Photography, Jeremy Anderson Studios, Alise Holloway is only 17 and AMAZING! Tiffany Webster and Sarah Pendley. All these photographers have such a creative eye and unique style!
 
Jchell: Knowing what you know, what advice would you give to other models trying to establish themselves?
Jalisa: No matter how many “NO's” you hear, keep pushing until you hear nothing but all “YES's.”
 
Jchell: Is there anything else you would like to add?
Jalisa: I would like to add, if modeling is just your hobby or your career, always do it with a smile, because someone is always watching!
 
You can connect with model Jalisa on the following social media outlets:

Facebook: BeautyJs Blog
Instagram: Beautiful_mosby
Twitter: Beautiful_mosby
Website: BeautyJs Blog

Email: jchell@jonesgirlsinc.com
Facebook fan page: Jchell Plus Size Model On Deck
Twitter: @JCHELL73
Instagram: @jchell_model_stylist

I had the pleasure of interviewing model Victoria Guerra. Recently her and I participated in a fashion show, Tipping Our Hats. Victoria is beautiful inside and out and very approachable. If she continues to work hard I can see her making great strides in her modeling career and I do hope to work with her again. Here is her interview.
 
Jchell: Where are you from?
Victoria: I am from Fort Worth, TX

Jchell: Where did you attend high school/college?
Victoria: I attended high school in a small town called Crowley, Tx. I am currently attending Tarrant County College.

Jchell: What are some of your main interests and hobbies?
Victoria: My main interests are art, drawing, studying foreign languages, and of course modeling.

Jchell: How long have you been modeling?
Victoria: I have been modeling for two years.

Jchell: What was it like starting out as a model?
Victoria: In the beginning it was difficult to get work and exposure because I didn't have certain connections.

Jchell: Have you been published in any magazines?
Victoria: I am working on submissions as we speak.

Jchell: Are you an independent model or do you model for an agency?
Victoria: I'm an independent model,  I do a lot of work with the House Of Royale in Dallas, TX. Through them I have been given many great opportunities.

Jchell: Besides modeling, have you done any acting?
Victoria: Yes, I have been in two music videos this summer, and I'm about to shoot my third.

Jchell: Who is your favorite photographer(s)?
Victoria: One of my favorite photographers is James Navarro owner and CEO of James Navarro Images. His assistant Angie and himself have made some creative images that are impeccably edited, and wonderfully choreographed. I can see the high level of quality an artist and as a model.

Jchell: Let's talk about your beauty regimen, how do you keep your hair and skin looking healthy?
Victoria: I like to drink a lot of water, Aloe Vera juice, and apple cider vinegar. These help detox your body so you can glow from the inside out. I also like to exfoliate regularly to keep my skin smooth.

Jchell: What are your favorite fashion trends you love?
Victoria: Right now I love anything with a high waist. I love the hourglass shape it can give. I find more people are wearing bold lip color. I appreciate a nice red lip with eyeliner and lashes it's such a classic look!

Jchell: Every girl has a special "can't live without this" in her closet, what's yours?
Victoria: I can not live without my scarves, I have close to 20 so far. I like to get the large sized scarves because they're so
versatile. With my scarves I can make tops, skirts, headwraps, you name it! Whenever I go to the thrift store I stock up.

Jchell: Knowing what you know, what advice would you give to other models trying to establish themselves.
Victoria: You have to stay committed in anything you do, in the beginning it can be difficult but stay focused. And stay true to who you are! In the entertainment/modeling industry you will be challenged physically, emotionally and mentally. You have to be strong and determined!

Jchell: Is there anything else you would like to add?
Victoria: Stay tuned! I'm looking to do great things in the very near future!

You can connect with model Victoria on the following social media outlets:

Facebook:
https://m.facebook.com/Victoria-The-Model-1722761357982318/
Instagram: @artistvguerra
Twitter: n/a

Photographer: Renell Bell
Designer: Keiandrea Daniels of Speechless Clothing

​Email: jchell@jonesgirlsinc.com
Facebook fan page: Jchell Plus Size Model On Deck
Twitter: @JCHELL73
Instagram: @jchell_model_stylist

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