THE TRENDSETTER

Sara Ramirez is considered a curvy chick in the industry compared to the “slimmer”women that she stands next to. If you don’t know who Sara Ramirez is click here for some background info. I love this dress it shows off all the right features and I adore the pleats. This is a must have for any shape or size women.

Truly Curvaceous

I was given the honor of interviewing one of today’s upcoming plus size model. I’ve posted her picture several times on The trendsetter. First, I would like to thank Jamil for taking time out busy schedule to do this interview and Nyprdiva for the hook up.

TC: Where are you from?
Jamil: I’m originally from south Jersey, and now I live in Philly.

TC: Age?
Jamil: 27

TC: What age did you decide that you wanted to be a model?
Jamil: When I was younger, I had aspirations to be in the spotlight as a model, actress or singer. I never thought those dreams would materialize though. I didn’t start modeling until I was 24.

TC: Who has influenced and inspired you?
Jamil: The women in my family like my great-grandmother and my mother were perfect examples of strong, independent and intelligent women. I learned early on that I should strive for greatness in whatever I set out to do.

TC: Who are you modeling for right now?
Jamil: Right now I’m modeling for Levi/Dockers, and I have a couple of fit modeling clients. I also have a few magazine projects coming up and you can check me out on the Torrid and Hips & Curves websites.

TC: What is an average day like for you?
Jamil: If I’m not working, I’m going to castings, and I do fit and showroom work the most often. So on an average day I usually have one assignment that can last between 1 and 4 hours. The job normally starts in the morning so I have to get up early to travel into the city and arrive “model ready” with my hair and makeup done. Once I’m there, they don’t waste any time, and I start trying on clothing. While I’m there trying on all these different pieces, there are people there noting how it looks on me and asking me questions about the fit and feel. They also take pictures from different angles. Sometimes I have to model the outfit in front of a group of people. Usually these people are within the company or they are representatives from outside stores possibly interested in acquiring the items to sell. I stand there and smile and turn while someone describes what I’m wearing. And after all that my day is done. I know, grueling work right?

TC: What is the hardest part of being a plus size model?
Jamil: To me, it’s the traveling. I love seeing and experiencing new places. However the bus, trains and planes can be taxing at times.

TC: What changes do you think should be made pertaining to plus size
fashion?
Jamil: The state of the industry right now has an underlying theme that being plus-size is some sort of handicap or an afterthought. I don’t think this will change until plus size models are incorporated just as often as our thinner counterparts in major runway shows and fashion editorials.

TC: What other aspirations do you have?
Jamil: I’m aiming for continued success as a model and I’m pursuing acting as well.

TC: Who’s your favorite designer?
Jamil: My favorite lines are Roberto Cavalli, Gucci & Baby Phat.

TC: What’s your favorite article of clothing or accessory right now?
Jamil: My gold strappy sandals

TC: Where do you see the fashion industry in the next 5 years?
Jamil: I think we will see more womanly figures represented and stick figures won’t be considered the ideal anymore.

TC: Where can people get more information about you?
Jamil: They can visit www.jamilkali.com or www.myspace.com/jamilkali

TC: Is there anything that you would like to add?
Jamil: Those out there who want to see changes in the fashion industry need to take action. They can learn how by visiting www.walkthecatwalk.com

I would like to wish Jamil nothing but success, she’s doing us curvy girls justice.

Truly Curvaceous