Want something a little different? Something you can't find at the local LB. Or perhaps you are looking for a piece that spotlights your curves the way you want. I'd like to introduce you to designer Cinda Shields (or MzCinda as she's known to her followers). I first found Cinda and her Goddess designs over a year ago. This plus size Alabama diva has a "full bodied understanding of the plus size woman". She has been creating plus size fashions for others in sizes 20 thru 32, and beyond, since 2000. One of my personal favourites is the Juliet nightgown. Liking a challenge, she's not afraid to tackle anything from tops to pants, costumes or lingerie and of course dresses galore. I hope you enjoy getting to know this vintage woman of superior design.

Moe: How long have you been sewing?

Cinda Shields: Sewing for me became a passion when my kids were small. Making costumes for school plays led to costumes for the ballet, which led to my entrance into the couture of things. I worked for years in the alteration departments of the finest stores, learning so much about the construction of finery, by fitting. The places I worked carried sizes ranging from 0 thru to an occasional 14. It was like the beautiful things were limited to the small and excluded so many beautiful women. Myself included.

Moe: What made you decide to start selling online?

Cinda Shields: The computer age brought about the steps which brings me to this page. In 1999, the dawn would find me mingling with men and women engaged in a BBW world of our own. Pictures of one's self were a basic requirement, along with scanners and a floppy disk. Naturally, I would showcase my designs and "where'd you get that dress?" followed by some measurement exchanges began a whole new world for me. The women I had been talking to had dreams of velvets and movie star designs.

Moe: Do you remember the first item you sold?

Cinda Shields: A red velvet halter dress with deep plunging cleavage, it has never stopped. I was contacted by Big Beautiful Atlanta in 2000 to meet with its founders and talk about doing a fashion show for a bash. I put together a line of fabulous evening wear and fun sexy clothes.

Moe: How did it feel to see other women walking around wearing your designs?

Cinda Shields: From the moment they slipped them on it has been a love affair; them with the clothing and I with the expression on their faces. I held the magic wand and every Cinderella glowed. What a fabulous addictive feeling! Some saw themselves as beautiful for the first time and wept... and I along with them.

Moe: How would you describe your designs?

Cinda Shields: I have devoted myself to the plus size woman and continue to stay ahead of the times with my designs. I don't look around to see what is popular at the moment but create what is classic and will work best on curves. My styles are feminine and romantic and timeless. My designs are unique; each item is one of a kind, comfortable and adjustable to some degree. Most are washable and all are made with the skills I have acquired from twenty-five years of sewing experience. I also do custom designs and fabulous wedding dresses.

Moe: Where is the best place to learn about your designs?

Cinda Shields: My designs debut on My Yahoo group the curvy chic boutique where I have over 2000 members. I occasionally auction off these items at less than half retail giving everyone an opportunity to add something unique to their wardrobe. I invite you all to join. Since I have begun, so many more have come along to offer much more to the plus size woman. I'm very proud to think I am a designer who led the way.

To learn more about Mz. Cinda's fashions please visit Curvy Chic Boutique.



Do you wear Curvy Chic Fashions? Stop by our forum and let readers of this thread know what you bought and why you love it.