Ruby's Blog

Review of Heart of HAute Dresses

1/13/2015

All Images by Pinup Perfection Photography MUAH Stela Licina

I recently had the pleasure of collaborating with Heart of Haute, a vintage reproduction line based out of California. I have been a fan of Heart of Haute (formerly Heartbreaker) for a long time, so I was so thrilled to have the opportunity to shoot for, and work with them!
From their website, www.heartofhaute.com:

Teresa and Amanda Becker are a mother daughter team that found their niche in the vintage inspired fashion market, through what was initially a home based business in 2005. They call it Heart of Haute and it is making its own history...Heart of Haute offers great items like Swing Dresses, Sexy Wiggle Dresses and classy Mod and Mid-Century styles. Our items are inspired by 50's and 60's fashion, pinup girls, rockabilly and vintage fashion culture.

When I received my package from Heart of Haute, I was thrilled to open it and find 3 gorgeous dresses and a bolero. My first overall impression of the dresses were that they were unique, well made, and looked like they would be extremely flattering on my curvy body. These gals sure do know how to make dresses to suit ALL body types. In fact, they have just launched a new plus size line, that goes up to size 4x!

Here are my individual reviews of all three dresses (and the bolero)

The Monique Dress

This fantastic dress is a great item for work or play. The bateau neckline keeps you covered, but the bare arms allow you to stay cool in the summer (and in the fall or winter you can pair it with a bolero or cardigan to keep the chill at bay). The fabric is light and breezy, but the linen tends to wrinkle easily. Its nothing a steam or iron wont fix in a jiff however. The tie at the waist adds a little extra something to the look (you could always swap the tie out for a belt too, to change up the look). The skirt has a slight flare, and it hits right at the knee for a perfect, polished look. The 50's/60's feel of this dress is so adorable and flattering. It not only comes in this gorgeous red colour, but in a variety of colours and prints. I also own it in one of the most popular prints, "peacock royale" and i always get SO many compliments when I wear either of them.

The Milan Dress

This dress is the PERFECT 50's housewife dress. The first thing I did when I put it on, was spin around. The circle skirt is so full, but light. You can wear it with a crinoline to give it some extra volume, but I don't even think it needs it! It comes with a matching belt, but I found on me (as a curvy gal), since the belt had no adjustable notches, it just kept slipping apart and off. I swap the belt for one of my own when I wear it out. It looks really striking with a bright red belt! The belt it comes with would probably be great for a slimmer girl but it was the tinyist bit too small for me, so unfortunately didn't work. It in no way ruined the dress for me though, as this cut is just SO flattering. The neckline is sassy yet subtle. This is my go-to black dress. It works for work, play, dinners with family, running errands, date night....everything! It can be worn both casually or formally. The length hits just below the knee to give it a more elegant feel.

The Aimee Dress (and Betty Bolero)

    This adorable polka dotted dress is a great addition to any vintage/reproduction collection. Who doesn't love a good polka dot dress? The sweetheart neckline and cap sleeves make for an adorable look, that is subtle and not as revealing as halter style tops. It also includes a matching belt which highlights the natural waist beautifully.
    The dress features a full A-line skirt, back zipper, and darts from waist to bust for that perfect fit. This dress also comes in a wide variety of colours and prints...all with a matching belt. All the Aimee dresses are easy to accessorize and wear. Made of 100% cotton, the material is light, soft, and comfortable.
    The bolero is the perfect edition to this dress. It ties at the neck, and creates a lovely retro silhouette, while keeping your arms and shoulders warm. Its light material is just perfect for cool summer nights, or keeping that spring chill at bay. The soft cotton is not too hot and not too cool....just right.

For more information on these, or any other Heart of Haute dresses, please visit their website at:
www.heartofhaute.com

I am so thrilled to be working with this amazing company, and I cannot wait to shoot more gorgeous dresses for them in the future.

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Happy New Year! 2014, a year in review

1/1/2015

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Photo by Pinup Perfection Photography

Happy New Year everyone! I hope you all had a wonderful 2014, and I hope 2015 is amazing as well! This past year was an eventful one for me. Lots of highs, a few lows, lots of growth and learning, and above all...FUN!

I started shooting with Coquette Lingerie at the beginning of 2014, and have worked with them 4 times this year. I just adore this company, and cannot wait to get back to work with them again. I also shot for such amazing brands as Cherry Velvet, Deadly Couture, Rowena, MayMac, Heart of Haute, Lindy Bop, Glitter Paradise, Orchard Corset and more. I am so thankful for all the opportunities 2014 brought my way and cannot wait to see what opportunities will present them selves in 2015.

I also traveled for work and pleasure a lot. I was able to fly to Toronto three times this year, went to Vegas, not only for the International Lingerie Show, but also for my first time at Viva Las Vegas, where I met so many amazing people, and had so much fun.

    I also traveled to Seattle, Portland, Spokane, and California, shooting along the way, having fun, and meeting friends new and old.
    I had stage kitty duties at multiple burlesque shows, which is always loads of fun!
    I was published 35 times, including 5 covers, and I cannot wait for future publications in the coming year!

I left my day job to pursue my modeling full time. It was a big leap, and was scary, emotional, and exciting all at the same time. I started my own magazine, focusing on body positivity, self love, and finding beauty in our unique qualities. It has proven to be a lot of work, but it is a labor of love. I love being able to put my thoughts and ideas out into the world. Beauty Mark Magazines second issue will be released in February, and I only hope it is just as well received as the first issue. I have very high hopes for the magazine and am so thankful for all the love and support it has received thus far.

I was apart of Valt 2014, for the 3rd year in a row, and rocked the runway for Carolyn Bruce Designs, Shiverz Designs, and K.O-ME designs. It is always such a fun event to be apart of, and I cannot wait for Valt 2015!

2014 was not all good. My remaining grandparents declining health meant moving them all into care homes. It is so hard to see people whom I love going through Cancer, Dementia, broken bones due to age and falls etc. Its been hard to watch their houses, which I grew up playing in, be cleaned out and put up for sale. I know they are where they need to be and they are safe, but that was not a fun part of 2014.

    In 2015, I'm looking forward to more travel, photo shoots, runway shows, publications, love and fun! I look forward to seeing where my career takes me, both in modeling, and the magazine. I have a few other projects that I plan on releasing in 2015 which I am really excited about!

    Thank YOU all for your wonderful love and support throughout the past year. I know that I wouldn't be where I am without the amazing support I receive from my followers and I am SO grateful for that.

    I hope 2015 is an amazing year for all of you, filled with everything you need. Here's to another year filled with love, fun, passion, and laughter.

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Ruby's Favorite Holiday Recipes

12/22/2014

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Many of you know, that before I was a model, I used to be a chef! Although I don't do it professionally anymore, cooking is still a big passion of mine! Every year, around the holidays, i do loads of cooking and baking. I always get asked about the recipes, so I thought I would post them here for your enjoyment! If you try any of my recipes, I would love to hear about it!!!

Enjoy! And a very happy holidays to you and your loved ones! xoxox

Red Velvet Crinkly Cookies

These ooey gooey babies are crunchy on the outside, and soft on the inside. With red and white coloring, they are perfect for Christmas (although I would eat them any time of year)

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 2 hours, 40 minutes

Yield: About 30 cookies

Ingredients

3 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder*
2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp baking soda
3/4 tsp salt
3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 1/3 cups granulated sugar
3 large eggs
1 Tbsp milk or buttermilk
1 1/2 tsp vanilla bean paste or vanilla
2 tsp lemon juice
5 tsp red food coloring
1 cup white chocolate chips
1 cup powdered sugar

Directions

In a mixing bowl whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda and salt for 30 seconds, set aside. In the bowl of an electric stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, whip butter and granulated sugar until pale and fluffy. Mix in eggs 1 at a time, blending until combined after each addition. Mix in milk, vanilla bean paste, lemon juice and red food coloring. With mixer set on low speed, slowly add in dry ingredients and mix just until combined. Stir in white chocolate chips. Cover bowl with plastic wrap and chill 2 hours or until firm enough to shape into balls.
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Pour powdered sugar into a bowl. Remove dough from refrigerator, scoop dough out and with buttered hands, shape into medium balls (about 2 1/2 Tbsp each). Roll cookie dough balls into powdered sugar and evenly coat. Transfer to Silpat or parchment paper lined baking sheets and flatten slightly, then bake in preheated oven 13 - 14 minutes. Allow to rest on cookie sheet several minutes then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Store in an airtight container.
*If you want them a little more chocolatey you can replace 2 - 3 Tbsp of the flour with 2 - 3 additional Tbsp of cocoa powder.

ANtipasto

Who doesn't love eating the anitpasto at a holiday party? I make loads of this every year, and wrapped up with a box of artisan crackers, and a serving knife, it makes a great gift!

3 bottles ketchup
1 qt. onions
1 qt. mushrooms
1 qt. cauliflower
1 qt. peppers (red and green mixed)
2 plants leeks
1 lg. bunch celery
2 lg. carrots
1 qt. sweet pickles or cucumbers
1 qt. white vinegar
1 qt. green olives
1 can black olives
1 can artichokes
2 sm. cans sardines
1/2 lb. anchovies
2 tbsp. salt
1 strong hot pepper (small size)
1/2 qt. string beans
2 cans tuna fish
1 qt. cooking oil
1/2 c. sugar

Clean, wash and drain all vegetables. Chop mushrooms, celery, carrots, pickles, cauliflower, peppers and leeks.Put all liquid: ketchup, vinegar and oil into a large pan and bring to boil. When it boils, put in the cauliflower, celery, leek, carrots, onions and beans and cook until tender. Then add the peppers, hot pepper, mushrooms, olives, pickles, salt and sugar. Keep everything mixed and let everything cook until tender. Now chop sardines and tuna into one inch pieces. Cut the anchovies in pieces. Put them in the rest of the mixture and let all boil for about 40 minutes. Then can in hot jars and seal tightly. P.S. Whatever you like best, throw in an extra handful... especially mushrooms! Yum!

Mulled Wine

4 cups apple cider
1 (750-ml) bottle red wine, such as Cabernet Sauvignon
1 (375-ml) bottle of brandy
1/4 cup honey
2 cinnamon sticks
1 orange, zested and juiced
4 whole cloves
3 star anise
4 oranges, peeled, for garnish

Combine the cider, wine, brandy, honey, cinnamon sticks, zest, juice, cloves and star anise in a large saucepan, bring to a boil and simmer over low heat for 10 minutes. Pour into mugs, add an orange peel to each and serve.

Photos by Stina Rae Photography

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Review Of Orchard Corsets

12/4/2014

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Photos by MaryBeth Lafferty and Michael Diaz

    When I first came across Orchard Corset, I was very intrigued. I had heard such amazing things about the quality and shape, as well as the design of these gorgeous corsets. I had heard that they could be worn both over and under clothes, and as well as be used for waist training. I couldn't wait to try out some of their gorgeous designs for myself!

   When my sponsorship arrangement was made with Orchard Corset, not only was I thrilled with the company, the lovely people, and the customer service, but also with the corsets! They were stunning. The fabrics, the cut, the sturdy fabric and lacing, and the quality steel boning. The shape they gave when wearing them was SO flattering. Some corsets feel cheap. The boning bends and ends up poking you and not really giving you all that much shape or support, but these were not like that at all. They really cinched me in, gave a gorgeous shape, and were beautiful to wear.

    The styles they sent me were the CS-345 (underbust, black cotton, steel boned), the CS-426 (beautiful blue brocade, long lined, steel boned), the CS-301 (waspie, satin newsprint, steel boned) and the CS-201 (underbust waspie, mesh, steel boned). All of these styles gave a different shape and silhouette, but all are equally as supportive and stunning, as lingerie, over clothes, or as shapewear underneath clothes. I guess it all depends on the look you are going for! No matter what, you are sure to find just what you are looking for! And the best part is, the Orchard Corset customer service is always available to answer questions and help you find the perfect corset for you and your needs!

Photos by Pinup Perfection, Marybeth Lafferty, brutally Beautiful, and Stina Rae Photography

    I have gotten SO much use out of all of my amazing Orchard Corsets, and cannot stress enough the quality of them. I get so many compliments on them whenever I wear them. Not only do they make gorgeous corsets, but their customer service is simply exceptional. Its always such a bonus when a company not only makes quality products, but is run by amazing people as well.
    Their website is easy to navigate, their prices are excellent for such quality, and they even have amazing tutorials on such things as sizing and waist training. So for anyone who has never worn a corset, or has questions, this is a great place to start!
    I cannot wait to add to my Orchard Corset collection!
For details on ordering your own corset, visit
www.orchardcorset.com or facebook.com/orchardcorset

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Review of Coquette Lingerie Babydoll and Bustier

11/30/2014

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We all know by now how much I adore Coquette Lingerie. Not only are they an amazing Canadian company, they are also one of the largest lingerie exporters in the world. They have been in business for 35 + years (I was fortunate enough to be at their anniversary party in Las Vegas last March), and the company is run by some of the loveliest people Ive ever had the chance to meet. Whenever I have the opportunity to fly to Toronto to shoot their Diva collection, I just know I am in for an amazing time, will be treated fantastically, and will be able to model some gorgeous lingerie designs. I started working with Coquette just about a year ago, have been to Toronto 3 times and vegas once, and cannot wait to go back next and continue to work with this amazing company.

Not only do I shoot for their catalog, but I am blessed to be sponsored by them. The last shipment I recieved from them, was for my 2015 calendar (which you can purchase here: www.magcloud.com/browse/issue/830387 and I was SO thrilled with the items sent to me, I wanted to write a little review on them, so you might be able to see why I am so passionate about this amazing company, and their beautiful lingerie.

Style 1379X Babydoll and G-string.
Photo by Stina Rae Photography

I was SO excited when I opened the package to see this stunner. I had tried this on at the International Lingerie Show in Las Vegas where I worked the Coquette Booth, and I just loved it! The cut is SO flattering, and the velvet black scallops on top of the sheer blue is so striking. The lace bra, underwire top is delicate, yet still supportive. It featured a hook and eye closure with a keyhole at the back which is very flattering, and also a matching G-string in the same blue stretch mesh, and black velvet accents. The plus size style has been modified with extra hook and eye closure, and added length, for a flattering, more supportive fit.

I felt so sexy wearing this piece. It is flattering in all the right ways, and the unique style and colours are something that I hadn't seen many places before! I highly recommend this babydoll for anyone looking for something sexy, yet unique.

Style 1421X Bustier
Photo by Lanaya Flavelle

This gorgeous bustier felt like I was wearing a fine piece of Parisian lingerie. The style in itself reminded me of France. Perhaps it was in the small details of the crochet trims, the velvet waist band, and the bonding not only in the torso, but around the hips. The power mesh, while sexy and transparent, also was fantastic for amazing shape to keep those curves in check.

The underwire on the bra is very supportive, and although I have quite a large bust, had no problem "containing the girls" . Besides the gorgeous detailing, one of my favorite features of this piece is the detachabele garters AND straps. It makes the piece wearable in more than one way, and the plus size version has widened straps and garters for extra support. The back closes with adjustable hook and eye closure to ensure you get just the right fit.

Ive gotten SO much use out of this piece. I have worn it already in multiple photo shoots and it always receives so many compliments. It is so sexy, but still classy, and gives amazing shape without being too binding. And really isn't that what every girl (and guy) wants in a piece of lingerie?

photos by Pinup Perfection Photography and Stina Rae Photography

A big thank you to Coquette for all of the amazing opportunities (and lingerie), and I look forward to working with them again soon!

For more information on Coquette Lingerie, and to find a retailer near you...visit www.coquette.com

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Raw Beauty Talks. My experience with Raw. No Makeup, No Photoshop, no filters, no editing.

7/28/2014

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In March, I was delighted to be a part of a RAW photo shoot. I had heard of this amazing movement, and had seen girls posting no makeup selfies. On a day to day basis, I don't actually wear very much makeup, but for work, and shoots, its a WHOLE other story. To be honest, as excited as I was to be apart of such an important project...I was a little nervous. No makeup, no filters, no photo-shop? As a professional model, those are some scary words.

RAW's mission is to "Help women find a deeper level of confidence, self love, and acceptance, so we can shift our focus from the superficial to the accomplishing the unimaginable"

        I walked up to Vancouver Urban Winery, where my photo shoot was to take place, and as soon as I met Erin, the founder, and Chris, the photographer, I instantly felt more at ease. Before we started the shoot, we all sat down and chatted a bit about what beauty means to us, the struggles we've all been through with our appearance, confidence, and self image, as well as our histories. It helped to get to know each other, and I found out WHY Erin decided to start this amazing project! (for more information on that, please check out the RAW website, link below).
    Also at the shoot was Natalie Langston from Novus TV. My shoot (as well as her own) was filmed for a local television station. Natalie was a delight to talk to as well, and doing the shoot with someone else, helped put my mind at ease. We were both girls that were used to being made up for work, and we had the same anxieties and fears about being in front of the camera with absolutely no makeup, and completely vulnerable.
    When it was time to step in from of the camera, my nerves went through the roof. I tried to think of all the reasons why this project is so amazing, and how happy I was to be a part of it, and suddenly, my fear went away. Chris and I worked together extremely well.   He made me laugh, we had fun, and after the first few snaps, I completely forgot that I had no makeup on (in fact, it didn't even matter), and I just eased into the shoot, feeling happy, laughing, and above all, feeling beautiful.
    The shoot was short (only about half an hour), but when it was over, I felt AMAZING! For as nervous as I was the night before, I felt so free and liberated. I let my TRUE beauty shine through on this shoot, which is something I had never been able to do before. This wasn't just about my hair and makeup and the clothes I was wearing. This truly was RAW.

I got home that morning, and was on a cloud. I felt so free...so happy...to honored to be part of such an amazing movement. My boyfriend and I talked about my experience for a few hours, which led to a conversation between us about beauty standards for both women AND men. Later that evening, my parents came over for dinner and the whole family had a conversation about beauty standards. It was amazing to hear different opinions, share my own, and discover some new ideas. And isn't that the whole hope of RAW, to start a conversation?

A few weeks later, my interview questions were sent to me. It forced to to dig even DEEPER! It took me a few days to think of my responses, and critically think of what I wanted to say, what I wanted to put out into the world.

To say being involved with RAW was an amazing experience is an understatement. I have always believed in true beauty, body positivity and loving ourselves, but being a part of RAW forced me to think harder about what inner beauty REALLY means.

Read my in depth RAW interview here

Visit the Raw Website: www.rawbeautytalks.com to read the other inspiring interview, and learn how to get involved.

Photos by Chris Thorne Photography

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FranBlass Plus Size Lingerie Review

3/11/2014

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I was happy to receive some wonderful treats from FranBlass plus size lingerie a few weeks ago. www.lingerieforplussize.com. I received some amazing pieces from them, including this gorgeous red corset (photo above). The steel boning held me in, and gave me a great shape. The red satin was so soft and vibrant, and, the black sash across the waist gave it the wow factor for me. I really loved wearing it. Perfect for Valentines day, or any day really. I could wear it for a saucy occasion at home, or with jeans for a night on the town!

They also sent me this adorable black bustle skirt by leg avenue (pictured above), which I ADORE! It is SO cute and looks adorable paired with any corset. Short lace in the front, and layers upon layers of tulle at the back. Such a flattering look, with a burlesque flare.

I also received a few pairs of thigh high stocking, which were so cute! I am very picky about thigh highs. I hate the ones that are lined with silicone or elastic to stay up on their own...they always make my legs look like overstuffed sausages. These were nothing like that! They require a garter to stay up (which is preferred as far as I'm concerned). I received a pair of lace top fish nets (pictured with the bustle above), a white polka-dot pair (below), and a black pair with adorable heart detailing on the back. They all fit like a dream, and added some extra sass to my outfits.

Lastly, i was sent an adorable red babydoll, with matching full back underwear, and heart detailing on the chest. It was very free fitting, which was great, as it would fit a range of sizes. The bust didn't have much support, but for this specific lingerie piece, it wasn't necessary. I found, if I wanted a bit more support, I would simply wear a red bra underneath! It was perfect for valentines day, and made me feel adorable, sexy, sultry, and beautiful.

Thank you to FranBlass plus size lingerie for the adorable treats, and I hope to work with you again soon!!!

photos by Blimey Studios, Jeff Kew Photography, Frankie Panky, and Louis Li

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Review of Coquette Holiday Chemise

2/24/2014

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I was thrilled when my fabulous sponsor Coquette sent me this gorgeous Chemise from their Holiday Collection, just in time for Valentines Day!

At first what struck me was the gorgeous raspberry colour. Then I turned it over and noticed the gorgeous corseted detailing all up a very sheer back. SO sexy.

It is a really gorgeous piece. Microfiber and metallic lace, with padded underwire cups, and adjustable straps, which gave for a great shape. The contrasting ribbon runs through gorgeous lace detailing and matched the contrasting back lace up panel. Then the front has a cute little bow with rhinestone detailing and attached garters. Interesting that there were only two garters at the front of the chemise and none at the back. That made it a little hard to keep my stockings up and in place, but when I turned around and looked in the mirror, I can see why they didn't put them in the back. The elastic in the bottom, made it so snug in the back (in a GREAT way) and was VERY flattering. If it had garters in the back, I don't think it would have had that same shape.

All in all this chemise was gorgeous, and I felt SO beautiful and comfortable in it. It moved with my body easily, and the colours with my hair just popped.

I am also very excited to announce that I will be flying to Toronto this month to shoot the Holiday line with Coquette! I am SO honored and excited to have this amazing opportunity, and I can't wait to share the experience with all of you.

Photos: Blimey Studios and Jeff Kew

www.coquette.com for more information on where to purchase

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Reflecting on 2013 and Looking Forward to 2014

1/5/2014

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HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!!! I wanted to take some time to reflect on this past year, and also let you know some of the amazing things I have planned in 2014!

Although my modeling career started quite a few years ago, 2013 was my most successful year to date. I started my facebook fanpage, and it has grown nearly 25,000 strong! I modeled for such amazing labels as Cherry Velvet Plus, Deadly Couture, Coquette and more.

I also walked for VALT - Vancouver Alternative Fashion Week(end) for the second time, and walked for amazing designers Skye Davies, Maggie Fu, Boring Sidney Hats, and Carolyne Bruce Designs. It was such an honor to be a plus size model, on the runway, at such a diverse, wonderful event.

I starred in the first 3 episodes of my very own web series "Retro Recipes with Ruby Roxx", and I'm hoping to film and release more episodes by spring this year!

I was published in 40 magazines including 2 covers! I was thrilled to be a part of such publications as Retro Lovely, Atomic Bombshells, Delicious Dolls, American Classic, Pinup Perfection Magazine, and many many more!

I was signed on as a represented model with Bonerattle Talent. I feel SO fortunate to be part of such a wonderful, diverse, supportive team, that represents amazing models, talented bands, and sassy burlesque artists.

I was asked to be apart of the documentary "A Perfect 14", which exposes the fascinating world of plus size modeling. It is the first documentary of its kind, and I am so excited to be a part of it!

I was asked to be stage kitten for some amazing local, and international burlesque events! Both Beerlesque in Vancouver, and Pasties and Paddles in Spokane WA.

I met and worked with some wonderful, amazing, and talented people this year. I shot with some new, fantastic photographers, as well as some of my favorites from years past. I made a lot of wonderful new friends.

I learned a lot about others, as well as myself. I had a lot of pleasure in learning lessons. I also learned some hard lessons. I dealt with my own insecurities, as well as the insecurities of others. I dealt with some people taking their insecurities out on me. I was forced to learn that not everyone is as wonderful as you make them out in your mind. Therefore, I learned to make sure I'm doing what makes ME happy, and not putting others happiness above my own.

I dealt with the death of my beloved Oma. Through that hard time, I discovered who was truly there for me, and who had their own agenda. I received such an overwhelming amount of support that I am forever grateful for.

I hoped that in 2013, I would inspire women and people to believe in themselves. Like anyone else, I have insecurities, however I try to embrace my flaws, as they are what makes me different. I hope I helped inspire people to do this as well. Beauty is not a dress size but more in how you feel about yourself and your confidence. All women are beautiful no matter what dress size. We need to support each other, not bring each other down. I tried very much to do this in 2013 and hope to do so even more in 2014.

I am so thankful for the wonderful year I had in 2013 and I cannot wait to see what 2014 brings!!

I already have some amazing things planned! I will be making a trip to Viva Las Vegas in April where I will be shooting with some amazing photographers, as well as doing a signing and meeting of my fans at the MayMac Booth at the Car Show!

I will be helping to host a Pinup work shop in Spokane WA in May, where I will not only be judging a local pinup pageant, but I will also be speaking on body confidence, posing, and working your curves!

I will be working with many more designers including Glitter Paradise, and MayMac Designs.

I will be taking a 3 week tour of Oregon and California in July where I hope to shoot A LOT. If you are interested in working together, please send me a message!

I hope to be published just as many times as in 2013, and hopefully more! I already have a few publications out, including a "model in the spotlight" feature in Pin-up America Magazine, which you can find on news stands now. I also have a few covers already in the works!

I signed up for Zumba and Swing Dance lessons! I hope to be more active this year! I also gave notice at my day job recently so I can devote more time to my passion for modeling, and doing what I truly love and makes me happy.

Above all, I hope to continue to meet more wonderful people, make connections, and continue to inspire those around me and be inspired.

Thank you so much to everyone that made my 2013 all that it was, and here's to a wonderful 2014!

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Coquette Holiday Collection Review

12/23/2013

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I have been a fan of Coquette lingerie for a while now. They have a wide variety of styles, costumes, lingerie, colors, themes, and sizes. No matter what kind of shoot I was planning, I always looked through coquette's collection first to see what they had.

I was thrilled when I received an email from Coquette asking to be one of my sponsors! I wear Coquette quite frequently anyways, so I jumped on the opportunity to wear even more of their gorgeous lingerie.

I was shipped 2 pieces from their 2013 Holiday Collection, which I recently shot with Aparte Photography. I wanted to take some time to tell you about these gorgeous products and how you can get your hands on them as well!

First off, I was thrilled when I opened my package from Coquette and saw this gorgeous red damask corset. The red satin is a gorgeous deep jewel tone, and the velvet damask print really pops. Not only that, but the velvet waist band, I thought was ideal for highlighting my waist and curves. It has a lace up back and hook and eye closure at the front (I suppose with the hook and eye closure it technically is classified as a bustier). The boning, although not steel, was still strong and gave me an amazing shape.
One of the things I hate about corsets or bustiers, if you tend to get a more affordable version, they are great for one or two uses, but after that, the boning starts to pop out of the top or bottom and pokes you! After my shoot, where I was bending this way and that, I did a quick look at the seams and nothing was coming loose or starting to poke through!
It also came with 6 detachable velvet garters. I love being able to customize the look with the garters. Having them detachable even gives you the option of wearing the corset with jeans or a skirt for a night out! It also came with detachable straps! I chose to wear the straps for my shoot, but even without them, I still had a lot of hold and support.

For more information on this corset and how to order your own, please visit www.coquette.com Item link: Corset 3578X

The next item I took out of my delivery from Coquette was this adorable purple, sequined, Santa babydoll, with matching G-string! The color was SO vibrant, and what girl wouldn't love to be Santa's little helper in this sequined, feathered, sheer little number.

The babydoll has lined, sequined push-up molded under-wire cups with feathered trim and a mesh skirt. It also features an adorable velvet belt with a rhinestone buckle that would make Ms. Clause jealous! The bottom has a sequin trimmed hem which adds a very cute detail. It has hook & eye closure with keyhole detailing, and adjustable velvet straps. The plus size version has been modified for curvier girls with widened straps, extra hook & eyes for added support and has been lengthened for a more flattering fit, and let me tell you, it was VERY flattering. I felt so beautiful and flirty wearing this adorable piece. It also includes a matching sequin G-string that would make anyone's Christmas. I wish the G-string had a little bit more coverage at the front, but that was more for my personal preference. It still fit beautifully, and the sequins were lined and hemmed perfectly so there was no uncomfortableness of scratchy sequins in a sensitive area.

One of the problems I normally have with sequined and feathered things, is the LOSS of said sequins and feathers. I wore this piece for over an hour, posing this way and that, and I never lost a single sequin or fluff of feather! The fit was also perfect and very flattering. I normally don't wear padded, push up bras as I am already an F cup, so I don't need anymore help. I was a little concerned that the cups would be a bit too much, but the padding was just light enough to give a lovely shape and support without being over the top.