We are still loudly celebrating Black History Month, and there are so many Black plus size influencers who have paved the way in the fashion industry. They deserve their flowers! These beautiful, stylish women have fought to diversify in an industry that has left Black women in the cold. However, they persevered and have done so with style and grace. All these influencers are 40+ years old, fine as heck, and have impeccable style.
We know the rule to never ask a woman her age but trust that all these Black influences are 40 and over. They use their platforms to support, encourage, and revolutionize the fashion industry!
1. Kellie Brown
Kellie Brown’s website, And I Get Dressed, was started as a blog and has grown into a global brand and networking outlet for women everywhere. She aims to highlight style, beauty, travel, and “lifestyle beyond perceived ‘limitations’ of one’s body type or sizes.” As a marketing maven, she has created the #FatAtFashionweek and Fat Icon T-shirts that are becoming increasingly popular. Kellie’s style is youthful and fun and expresses all kinds of moods. Additionally, her Fashion Week street style is beyond swoon-worthy.
2. Ty Alexander
Ty Alexander is a true Renaissance woman. Everything she touches turns to gold. Alexander is the bestseller author of “Things I Wish I Knew Before My Mom Died,” a podcaster and wellness blogger who encourages women to choose gratitude over grief. As a content creator, she has worked with many brands, including Dove, Anthropologie, Cadillac, Estee Lauder, State Farm, Amtrak, and Ulta Beauty — just to name a few. On top of all of that, she’s also a DJ. If you need a new wellness podcast to enjoy, listen to Self Care IRL.
3. Janiese
Jeniese’s style will inspire you to step out of your comfort zone! Whether you’re looking for workwear or the perfect outfit to hang out with the girls, her style has a classic feel with a flare of boldness. She has worked with Lane Bryant and Catherine and has been spotted on Redbrook’s cover. As a true Southerner, she is a huge Alabama football fan and enjoys showing off her game-day fashions. Follow her on Instagram and get inspired.
4. Nikki Free Style
If you consider yourself a fashion girlie, you need to be following Nikki! Her page has everything that any fashionable woman can imagine. There are tips for body confidence, skincare, beauty, where to shop for the perfect bra, and reviews on hair products. Her style is mixed with high-end brands and moderate. She has a great sense of style and an eye for bright colors and bold prints.
5. Marie Denee
When we talk about trendsetting and breaking all the barriers, Marie Denee can’t be left out of the conversation. She has made it her business to be the guiding lifeline of plus size fashion by having the hard conversations and being dedicated to her craft. Marie has put a lot of blood, sweat, and tears into TFC, starting in 2008 when fashion was not nearly as inclusive as it is now.
With age, you become fearless. Fashion becomes an amazing outlet to express yourself and break every rule you were once told you had to follow. These women haven’t let anything stop them from speaking their truths and being the fashion trendsetters of the curvy girl community.
