CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE: THE FULL FIGURED INDUSTRY AWARDS UNVEILS DAZZLING WINNERS
On the glamorous evening of November 4th, the spotlight was on the talented individuals who redefine standards and celebrate inclusivity in the fashion and entertainment industry. The Jamaica Performing Arts Center played host to The Full Figured Industry Awards, where the crème de la crème of the full-figured community gathered to honor and celebrate excellence.
Best Boutique: Ivory & Main takes home the Trophy
The prestigious title of Best Boutique was awarded to Ivory & Main, a brand that has consistently embraced and celebrated full-figured fashion. Known for their dedication to quality, and style, Ivory & Main has the curvy girls covered from bridal to events and beyond. Ivory & Main sets a high standard for boutique excellence in the industry.
Content Creator of The Year: Sandra Negron's Triumph
Sandra Negron emerged victorious as the Content Creator of the Year, a testament to her impactful contributions to the representation of full-figured beauty in the digital sphere. Through her creativity and dedication, Negron has become a trailblazer, shaping the narrative and empowering individuals around the world. Sandra Negron aka La Pecosa Preciosa (The Precious Freckle Face), is a native New Yorker, born and raised in Spanish Harlem aka El Barrio. Sandra has been in the plus fashion industry for a long time sharing her photos, reviews and experiences. She is one of the most sought out content creators and bloggers in our industry.
Sandra Negron – Photo Credit - Madeline Jones @plusjones
Emerging Plus and Big & Tall Models: Ashley Walker and Cameron Boyd Shine
Acknowledging the rising stars in the industry, Ashley Walker and Cameron Boyd were named Outstanding Emerging Plus Model and Outstanding Emerging Big and Tall Model, respectively. These promising models showcase not only beauty but also the potential to reshape the landscape of the plus fashion industry.
(left) Ashley Walker – Photo Credit - Alfred Beverly @charissolutionsphotography
(right) Cameron Boyland – Photo Credit - Tony Li @thetonyliproject
Entertainer of The Year: Elle Baez Lights Up the Stage
Elle Baez won the Entertainer of the Year Award, captivating audiences with her charisma and talent. Her ability to command the stage and inspire through entertainment has solidified her place as a force to be reckoned with in the industry.
Elle Baez – Photo Credit - Bonnie Nichoalds @bonnienichoalds
Ageless Beauty: Phyllis Spencer, the Outstanding Silver Fox
Phyllis Spencer took home the trophy in the Outstanding Silver Fox category. Phyllis is not only a model, she is a dancer, actor and fitness trainer. Recognizing her timeless beauty and contribution to breaking age-related stereotypes in the industry, Phyllis’ grace and elegance serve as an inspiration to talented individuals of all ages.
Masters of Craft: Melissa Mercedes, Zakiyah Caldwell, Sharonda Grandberry, and Naisha Yolande
The Outstanding Designer award this year went to Melissa Mercedes, whose innovative designs continue to redefine fashion standards. Melissa has created designs for many celebrities worldwide. Zakiyah Caldwell once again took home the trophy for Outstanding Photographer. This is Zakiyah’s third win in this category. Sharonda Grandberry of Pink Throne Styles is a three-time nominee for this category. But this year claimed her well-deserved win and took home the trophy for Outstanding Stylist. Naisha Yolande was acknowledged as the Outstanding Makeup Artist, each contributing their unique talents to the full-figured aesthetic.
(left to right) Melissa Mercedes – Photo Credit - Justin Truong @justint.photos
Naisha Yolande – Photo Credit - Timothy Ellis @_jdte
Sharonda Grandberry – Photo Credit - Charles Beason Photography @charles_beason
Zakiyah Caldwell - Photo Credit - @kiacaldwellphoto
Icons in Their Own Right: Carmina Suzanne, Bruce Sturgell, Kyle Andrew
Carmina Suzanne, international plus model and professional opera singer took home the trophy for Outstanding Plus Model. And Kyle Andrew, international commercial model and actor snagged the trophy for Outstanding Big & Tall Model. Both of these hard working models effortlessly embody the essence of beauty and confidence. Bruce Sturgell, recognized as the Outstanding Blogger, continues to shape conversations around body positivity and self-love.
(left) Bruce Sturgell – Photo Credit - Bruce Sturgell @iybga
(right) Carmina Suzanne – Photo Credit - Gary Glaser of Glaser Studios @glaserstudios
Capturing Voices: The Big Fat Gay Podcast Wins Outstanding Podcast
The Big Fat Gay Podcast took home the trophy for Outstanding Podcast, showcasing its commitment to fostering meaningful conversations and providing a platform for diverse voices within the full-figured community.
As the curtains closed on The Full Figured Industry Awards, the winners and nominees left an indelible mark on the industry, reinforcing the importance of representation, diversity, inclusivity, and self-expression. This night of glamour and recognition served as a reminder that the full-figured community is not only present but thriving, with talents that continue to push boundaries and redefine standards.
Congratulations once again to all of the 2024 winners.
