Curves, Confidence & Couture - An Inside Look at the FFIAs
The Full Figured Industry Awards (FFIAs) in an annual ceremony founded and produced by the amazing Tawana Blassingame. The prestigious ceremony of awards and distinguished recognition honors the craftsmanship and commitment to excellence across various platforms spanning the full-figured industry.
Taking place at the Jamaica Performing Arts Center, guests graced the red carpet, had the opportunity to take photos by, were greeted by friendly faces as they checked in, then walked to their seats where the DJ played the hottest mix until the show started.
The hosts Maddy Jones and Reggie-Reg May were jovial and kept the crowd going. The highlight for me were the acceptance speeches. I previously met Tawana briefly over dinner and shared my story and the reason I started Shapely. I couldn’t get through it without crying which is often the case when people ask how Shapely came to be. Often times I feel alone in my experience. When my emotional pain manifests itself physically, I feel extra and even at times too emotional.
On this night, as the honorees and award recipients delivered their acceptance speeches, I no longer felt alone. I felt heard, validated, and felt like in some strange way — I found a community I could silently share my struggles with. I believe that some things don’t have to be said to be understood. Many of us looked at each other and a simple head nod, smile or gesture let the other person know their story was received without uttering a single word.
The fearless style gave “We’ve Arrived!” I loved that some did not mind sharing the brand or designer that they were wearing. I received a true insiders look at high to low-end styles and both slayed. Some of my favorite looks were from Target and others were custom. I definitely had fashion envy. All in all, the FFIAs was a night to remember. I would like to thank Tawana for putting together an amazing award ceremony and Heidy who graciously extended the invite.
Next year’s date is November 8, 2023 for which Shapely will be in the building. To learn more about the FFIAs, visit their website. You can also learn more about Queen Size Magazine here. Want to see more of our favorite looks? Check them out below.
Special thanks to Heidy Jantzen for extending the invite to the Shapely team.
