Name: Toy Monique Resides In: Chicago, IL Stats: Height: 5'6" / Size: 18 Online portfolio:www.ToyMonique.com
Tiffany: When did you decide you wanted to be a plus model?
Toy: I had tried modeling as a teen;
however the plus industry hadn't quite formed yet. I remember walking at a
GO-SEE and being told I was too curvy but had a great walk and that I was too
short for high fashion.However,
in the last few years, the plus industry has grown and has very different rules
that allow me to pursue my passions.
Tiffany: Who are your favorite curvy role models? Why?
Toy: My favorite curvy "role
models" are actually actresses!Phylicia Rashad, oh I love her! Her poise, grace and good nature come
across every time you see her. Jill Scott - and not because so many
say I look like her, but because she is able to make her place in this world
being who God called her to be. Finally Taraji P. Henson because she
stepped on the scene in a mighty way and has proven that with hard work, faith
in God and passion, you can achieve victory!
Tiffany: Tell me all about Miss Illinois and
how you became a delegate. How has that experience been?
Toy:As a freelance model, I realized I had to do lots of self promotion!
During my research one day I came across the Miss
Plus America Pageant site and I discovered that I needed to run for my state in order to participate.
The experience has been a joy thus far! I've met some wonderful and inspiring women and sponsors that
support our platform - Beauty & Brains against Breast Cancer.
Tiffany:How is plus modeling different from pageant life?
Toy: Great question! The differences
between plus modeling and pageantry can span many genres. I'd define plus
modeling as more of a career path and pageantry as a social platform for
change. Of course, both have the potential to reach wide audiences. Plus
modeling tends to be more artistic, customized, unique to the model, designer
or theme whereas pageantry is competition based, traditional, specifically
structured and a bit more polished. There are more differences than these, but
the most important thing to note is that they are not the same!
PLUS Model Magazine [ The Pulse of Plus Size Fashion, Beauty, Arts and Modeling ]
PLUS Model Magazine, the premiere virtual magazine celebrating the plus size fashion, beauty, arts and plus size modeling industries, inspires YOU to thrive in your curves, crave contemporary fashion and design your life on your own terms, sans apologies. PLUS Model Magazine brings aspiring and professional plus size models the information and resources needed to have a successful plus size modeling career. And for fashion conscious women with curves, we also report on the best beauty tips as well as plus size clothing companies and designers styling for today's modern plus size women.
