Exclusive Interview with Winning Solid Cover Model Nicole Sturdivant

How many years have you been modeling in the plus size community?
The whole world is a stage and everybody plays a part in it.In retrospect as a stylish woman  I have been representing for the curvaceous woman my whole adult life. Formerly not understanding the thunder in my thighs,when I realized that being curvaceous was a beautiful thing not a curse. That is when I took modeling up as a profession in 2009. Now I embrace the power of my curves.

What sparked your interest in Plus Size Modeling?

I am a new up and coming designer and I love the way my models look in my clothes. At my first fashion show there were not enough plus size models to fit my outfits so I was thrust on the runway and I fell in love. The rest was history.

You have submitted several photos to our contest, what made you give the contest a chance?

I wanted to take a chance and try something new. Since winning this contest I am very excited about what future contest may hold.

Do you consider yourself and activist in the plus size community or just a model?
I do consider myself an activist especially as a plus size designer.

If yes how do you activate for the plus size community?

There needs to be more variety catering to all sizes of plus size women and that's what I want my Nikkivante line to do. As my line grows I would like to use a variety of different models ranging in size,shape, height, and color. I believe the modeling world is very rigid with their standards even in plus size modeling, some people say you have to be over a certain height I am only 5ft 3 and I model very well at my height and size and there is also a clothes market that needs to be tapped into that hasn't especially for plus petite models. I could talk forever about this topic its one dear to my heart...

What were the highlights of your modeling career for 2009?

 I met my photographer Chappa and joined his appreciation of thick women movement.Where his pictures let me see me in a different light. I realized that God made no mistakes when he made me. Everything from my legs to my waist are the size they are supposed to be. And that is the day I truly fell in love with me.

What's next for you in 2010?

I am launching my clothing line June 2010 so be on the look out for Nikkivante this summer. I have already launched my NVN-me tee shirt line. People can purchase them at www.NikkiVante.com. I would also like to do more modeling. My contact information is on the website as well for modeling engagements.

In your experience of modeling what advise would you give to other plus size models?

 I find that allot of plus size women take photos with the mentality that less clothing is better. I would like them to know you can be sexy fully clothed and its actually even harder. I would also say don't give up there are going to be more opportunities opening up especially with new plus size designers coming out.