When I began blogging about Plus Size fashion and posting OOTD photos on Instagram, I really had no idea where it would take me. I started this journey years ago on a dare from my students and friends. In some ways, I have always felt a bit embarrassed when I explain what I’m doing here. I guess the imposter syndrome is strong within me. But more often than not, creating content has empowered me to love myself louder and live my life more authentically. I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with many local makers and a handful of national brands as well. As much as I feel silly, I am also super proud of what I have been able to do.
One of my favorite partnerships I have formed is with the brand Ivy City Co. Ivy City is a woman-owned, Utah based company that sells beautiful dresses for all occasions. They offer every style in sizes XXS-5XL and have matching children’s pieces for many of the dresses. I have felt beautiful and confident in every dress I have purchased and find myself wearing Ivy City to school at least once a week.
This August, was one of my proudest moments as a Plus Size blogger. I was invited to attend Ivy City Co.’s very first runway show! I was absolutely thrilled to be asked to take part in the event and quickly made plans to attend. In many ways, it validated all of the heart and hard work I have poured into creating this space over the last five years. It truly felt like something special.
The fashion show launched Ivy City’s Holiday 2023 Collection. It took place at the Snowpine Lodge, tucked high in the Wasatch Mountains outside of Salt Lake City. (Truly, the perfect cozy setting for a Hallmark Christmas movie!) Upon arrival, I had the chance to mingle with other creators and faces of the brand. It was amazing to connect with people I had only ever met online before and to have others recognize me for my content! There were lots of lovely cruditĆ©s being passed around and there was a Utah soda bar. (I had never had it before and I am hooked… look it up!)
One of the coolest moments for me was meeting Kaycee Stroh, a loyal supporter of the brand, who played Martha in Disney’s High School Musical. She is a body-positive icon and fierce dancer. She was incredibly generous and kind. It was truly an honor to connect with her and sit right behind her during the runway show.
As the temperature began to drop and evening set in, we were treated to a performance by Jon Schmidt from the Piano Guys. The lovely piano music and the gorgeous mountain worked together to make a moment I will never forget. Right after the performance, Tash, Whit, and Madeline, the founders of Ivy City, came out to share stories and exciting news about the brand. This really hyped the crowd up for the magic that was about to begin.
The runway show was electric! The music was pumping, the models were having fun, and the dresses were stunning. I loved the diverse range of models they hired, celebrating a wide range of body types. It felt empowering to see people shaped like me in Ivy City‘s lovely dresses. I truly cannot decide which ones I will invest in for the holiday season!! There were sequins, embroidery, peter pan collars, and pearls calling loudly to me. And… there are JAMMIES in the collection! I am so excited to see everything being rolled out online and having places to wear such lovely things!
As the party came to a close, we were handed swag bags filled with lovely products from many other Utah businesses. I went up to my room, changed into my pj’s, popped on my Ivy City baseball cap, and curled up in my new AMAZING Saranoni blanket with a cup of tea to listen to the company after-party. What an incredibly magical night!
I am such a fan of Ivy City and all the brand stands for. It was truly an honor to be part of this special event and I hope there are more opportunities like this in my future.
Make sure to check out my Instagram where you can always find a code for 15% off an Ivy City purchase for yourself.
Forty Fat and Fabulous 