Life Of A Fashion Drama Queen

Are you one of those people who are always complaining? Do you think about your life and start questioning decisions you've made and how, if you would have gone down a different path you would be in a "better" place? Well I can be one of "those types" of people at times.


As an adult I'm realizing how truly blessed my life has been and I am constantly reminded everyday due to the field I work in. Whether it's a 16 year old female talking about being sexually abused by her mother’s boyfriend, a 15 year old boy being bullied because he is gay, a 13 year old female who is pregnant and has been kicked out of her home and has nowhere to go, hearing these types of REAL LIFE situations put my life in perspective and I start to THANK GOD instead of complaining.

I hear some of my friends complain because they aren't making enough money, or complain because they have to save for a new designer bag.. don't get me wrong I LOVE designer bags just as much as the next girl and I too complain about wanting more BUT I started thinking about the young people who say, they don’t have food, or family, or a roof over their head, or the ones who do not have a choice of wearing a red or black sweater. It's sad and it breaks my heart.

I try my best to donate time to those less fortunate than me and I've made it a yearly tradition 5 years ago to serve Thanksgiving Dinner to the homeless. Seeing how excited and appreciative these people are does something to my soul. Some of them are elderly without any family and some of them are homeless and have not had a hot meal in months. No human being should have to look through the garbage for food. I mean REALLY ?????

Volunteering/giving back is something that is needed for more reasons than one. Whether you donate canned foods to your local soup kitchen/pantry, donate clothes to a shelter, volunteer at a local hospital for the ill/elderly or just do something kind for someone; believe it or not you WILL be making a difference in that persons life.

I encourage every single one of you to GIVE BACK.. just think about it.. what if one day you lost EVERYTHING ???  Some people have the misconception all homeless people are substance abuse addicts, and they choose this lifestyle. What people don't talk about is the Wall Street broker who lost his job after 9/11 and couldn't afford to pay his rent, had no one to turn to, therefore became homeless, and is trying to get by living in a shelter trying to participate in life. This person never imagined going to a soup kitchen for Thanksgiving Dinner and now he does.

Bottom line... Be grateful and don't take you life for granted. Give Back!!!


2 Corinthians 9:7

Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.




Stay Pretty & Blessed,
Tee Tee

As we all know Versace for H&M made its debut in the United States last week. From fashion shows, to events for celebs and the elite, everyone was buzzing about this line.

The anticipation was everything from positive to controversial. There was some "alleged" talk the Versace line for H&M was only going up to size 12. Normally H&M will sell their clothing up to a size 14 and in some stores a size 16. For whatever reason Ms. Versace did not want to make the clothes above a certain size.

It was also expressed when asked to use " real women" as models Ms. Donatella Versace refused and only wanted to use slimmer models. As a plus size consumer should I have been offended ? Maybe.. but I decided to stand on line the night before the launch along with hundreds of others anyway.

15th in line and its only 10:30pm.. I've already looked at my watch 3xs. As I sit in my chair bundled up feeling the NYC wind and that chilling air at 40 degrees; I think to myself... " I really do love fashion". I couldn't believe I was standing in line for clothes that may not even fit. I got up from my chair and looked at the window which displayed the reason why I was there. A gorgeous small black leather bag with stones that sparkled quickly reminded me. I returned to my chair and began chatting with some really cool people I met making the line behind me.

During my eleven hour "experience" I did different things to make the time go by. The H&M staff was nice enough to hand out mini cupcakes and hot chocolate which helped me stay warm, I also laughed and joked with random strangers, and enjoyed a couple who was on line dancing Salsa to stay warm. I tried to get some sleep but let's be serious this is New York. I love my city but strange people start popping up more often on the streets after 12am. Let's leave it at that! *smile*

The sun begins to rise, traffic begins to get a little busier , and the streets begin to flood with new yorkers speed walking. I realize I am about an hour away from getting my hands on whatever I can find. The first group of 20 were given red wrist bands. We had 15 minutes to shop.

5, 4, 3, 2, 1, the doors open and the first group (mixed of women and men, young and old) ran towards the escalator screaming and shouting with excitement. The employees were also clapping and shouting as if we had just won the lottery.

Half hour later this is what I was able to purchase







The picture of the black jersey dress with gold nail heads does not do it justice. This dress has so much sparkle I can't wait to pair with tights, ankle booties, lots of gold chains and a rocker jacket. This dress is a size 10 and NO WAY is that my size but THANK GOD FOR JERSEY MATERIAL!!! hahaha

The leggings and skirt are also a size 10 and I was surprised when they leggings fit perfectly. I expected them to roll off since this is not my size but they actually look nice. NOW THE SKIRT - UGH!!! I will admit the skirt does not fit and I knew it wouldn't when I purchased it, however, a true fashionista can look at a piece and get creative with it. Whether its adding extra material, or adding an extra button or zipper some where with out taking away from the look you loved in the first place. I plan to take the skirt to a tailor down in SoHo where my family have been doing business for years. I will be adding some extra material to the waist part of the skirt so it is able to button.

Some may ask " Is it that serious? ". For me ? YES!!!

This was definitely a fun experience and can't wait to do it again!


Stay Pretty,
Tee Tee

I loved putting together this look. I'm a HUGE fan of animal print so thankfully you can incorporate it into any outfit to give your look a little something extra.

NOTE: Beware of the "overkill". This is when you have leopard shoes, bag and scarf. You want to look chic not cheap.


Stay Pretty,
Tee Tee

FALL/WINTER FAVORITES:





Lincoln Park After Dark by OPI (oldie but a goodie)



Cocktail Bling by Essie. This has definitely replaced Chinchilly by Essie. LOVE THIS!!

ALL SEASON FAV: Big Apple Red by OPI







ALL SEASON FAV: Blanc by Essie. This works perfectly as a "winter white polish".



This metallic polish can be found at Sephora's. This polish creates a stunning 3D nail art design, and  has definitely replaced the Crackle trend. *thank GOD*

Summer Time Dress up:


Sally Hansen Salon Effect Real Nail Polish Strips in Kitty Kitty, ring finger is Pink Parka by Essie






Lilacism by Essie




Sally Hansen Salon Effects Real Nail Polish Strips in Wild Child, ring finger is Pink Parka by Essie



NOTE: Keep in mind that I am only sharing MY favorite colors and when I like to wear them. In my opinion there are no rules when it comes to dressing your nails. As long as you feel comfortable and you reflect your own style that's what's going to give you confidence to pull it off.


Stay Pretty,
Tee Tee

Summer is officially over folks!!! Friday, September 23rd to be exact! We are all pretty much in the middle of  putting away our Summer clothes and getting excited about Fall. I don't know about you but they're are so many trends I'm excited about but this season. Just to name a few... denim shirts, platform oxford booties, over the knee boots, flats, flare jeans, anything animal print, and color block shoes/outfits.  They all have me giddy and looking forward to playing dress up.

I've put together some of  " Tee Tee's Fall Must Haves" I hope you enjoy it!!

(1. True Religion Denim Shirt, 2. Jeffrey Campbell Lita Bootie, 3. Kristen Blake's Plus Size Faux Fur Vest sold @ Nordstrom 4. Leatherett​e Panel Ankle Pants sold @ Forever 21+, 5. Sam Edelman Alexander Sneaker in Leopard , 6. Calvin Klein Flare Jeans sold @ Macys , 7. ASOS Curve 60's Swing Dress, 8. Jeffrey Campbell Distressed Boots, 9. Boyfriend Blazer sold @ Forever 21+, 10. Color Solid Tights sold @ Forever 21+ , 11. Steve Madden Shoe Clips) 

Fashion Tips:

1. Pair the ASOS dress with a pair of bright color solid tights and there you have the color blocking trend.

2. Add  the Steve Madden Shoe Clips to any boot/shoe/pump and it will automatically update your look.

Stay Pretty,
Tee Tee

Those of you following and/or reading my blog know that I've kept things pretty light. I've talked about fashion and I've given you a peek into the window of my life. I was having a discussion with a friend of mine about a eating disorder that may be developing in her life right now. She's struggling with a lot of different things and by speaking to her, it took me back to a place where I once was and I decided to write about it. I, just like everyone else, have had my fair share of drama. Over the past year, I've dealt with family/friend issues, work-related drama, and CHANGE. I think CHANGE was and still is one of the problems I'm still learning how to handle. When things are the same for so long it's sometimes difficult to adapt.  For such a long time I would cope with stress, or being angry/happy by eating. Hi, my name is Tanysha Rodriguez and I'm an emotional eater (EE). When life gets tough, or problems arise some people turn to substance abuse, they physically mistreat their bodies, they get depressed and some do what I do which is eat. The first time I recognized that I was an EE I was reading an article on-line. It talked about eating when you're not hungry, eating when you're emotional/sad, and/or eating when you feel everything is perfect. Regardless of how I felt, or what's going on in my life I would OVER EAT! I'll admit to trying yo-yo diets, diet pills, and everything you can think of to lose weight. I've put my body through certain things that were not healthy all just to drop a few sizes. I would lose 20 pounds and then gain 10.  One thing I  never did through out this weight loss joureny was take the time to explore the underlying issue of why I over eat. I never asked myself "Why am I losing and then gaining weight ?". Why does buying my favorite ice cream sound so appealing when things aren't going my way ? As a full time crisis counselor I am well aware of all the indicators that point to having an eating disorder and 3 years ago I  realized that I struggle with food the way a drug addict battles his/her addiction to drugs.  It's simple- Food is my coping mechanism. These days I try my best to cope with problems in a more positive way. But just like a drug addict I have my good days and bad days. I've created a list which is posted below that works for me. In no way shape or form am I saying that this list will work for EVERYONE, but what I am saying is using one of this techniques will help alleviate some of the stress you're feeling. I do encourage anyone battling an eating disorder to seek professional help, especially if you feel things are out of control.


10 healthy ways to cope with LIFE:
1. Share your feelings by either talking to a close family member or friend.

2. Do something you enjoy. (examples, going for a walk, reading a good book, watching a funny movie, play with a pet, listen and dance to music, take a bubble bath)

3. Take care of yourself. Try your best to get 8 hours of sleep, make a list of positive affirmations and post that list some where visible, skip the alcohol ( if you are feeling down alcohol will only enhance that) expose yourself to sunlight (take a walk during the day and just enjoy the moment even though it may be difficult) , manage your stress (yoga, meditation * even if u sit still in silence for 15 minutes it will help clear your head*)

4. Recognize your triggers. It's important to know what triggers you to feeling down, depressed, overwhelmed... Write those triggers down and then choose one of the coping mechanisms on this list to get through that moment.
tip: Once you realize what triggers you to feeling down you can try to avoid them or come up with a plan on how you can be less effected by them.

5. Exercise and try to eat healthy. Even if you commit to 20 minutes, this will help lessen the stress you're under. Your heart is stimulated which changes your energy. Try working out with a partner if you feel that will help.

6. Emotionally connect with yourself and maintain positivity. * There will be times when you are down, angry, alone, scared and this may trigger depression and negative thoughts. Try to talk yourself down, think positive, remind yourself of all the good things you have going on)

7. Do something nice for yourself. Treat yourself to a pair of shoes, a new blouse, a manicure. This will help out with your self esteem and confidence which can turn into something positive.

tip: Don't overspend, be smart but still treat yourself to something nice and affordable. It could even be your favorite dessert.

8. Volunteer. Giving back is a positive way of spending your time and it makes you feel good.

9. Start a journal. In your journal express yourself freely (this book will be for your eyes only). If you do not know where to start, or what to write, start with " I am feeling........ because......." be open and honest with yourself. If you are- your hands will go as your heart opens up.

10. Work on your spirituality. Whether that's church, or prayer, or meditating. You inner soul needs peace and setting time aside for that improves your overall attitude.



Stay Pretty,
Tee Tee

This years FFFweek was from June 15th - 18th and events were held on each day/evening. Not all events were for everyone some were by invite only. This years events included networking/social gatherings for industry big wigs, a shopping soiree where you were escorted and taken to high end designer boutiques around NYC, a sample sale at The Pennsylvania Hotel, panel discussions on empowering the curvy community and upcoming fashion trends, the Sunset Cruise, photo shoots, and of course the FFFweek Finale Fashion Show held at the Marriot Marquis in NYC's Times Square. The only events I can speak about are the ones I attended which were the Sunset Cruise,  a panel discussion and of course the Finale Fashion Show.

This year I was part of the FFFweek Social Media Team, that basically meant promoting via social networks. I was able to tweet and post on Facebook.. YES how convenient!! haha. I loved it!! As much as I love socializing and networking on social networks I always make it a priority to volunteer every year. There's something about giving back and doing something because you truly feel it in your heart to do so... can't really explain it.  There's nothing more rewarding than that. For the first time during FFFweek, I was a volunteer at one of the panel discussions. It was called "Young Curvy and Empowered". The panelist included everything from plus size models, youth activist, and a Emmy award winning writer. The whole message behind this discussion was to speak to teens regarding the lifestyle they live and how it effects their future. The panelist shared their stories, some coming from abusive families/relationships, some having self-esteem issues because of their weight, or because of how they looked. They all had a story to tell and the audience including myself was very moved. The young ladies that attended were so impressed and so motivated because they were actually able to speak to women who looked exactly like them, or women who have been in the same or similar situation, they no longer felt alone and helpless. Watching and listening to what took place that day was so heartfelt it brought me to tears. I was reminded how grateful and blessed I am to have had the childhood I did growing up. It also made me realize that no matter what you go through in life you ALWAYS have options to make your life better. Every woman who spoke to the young people were a living testimony to that. They even motivated me!! For some many years I've wanted to transition into another career besides counseling/mental health but because of my age and my own insecurities I put my dreams and aspirations on hold. After attending this event I left feeling "Young Curvy and Empowered".

The All White Sunset Cruise was a blast!!!! DJ  Laa Choc, a female DJ, was on the 1's and 2's and had everyone on that boat JAMMIN!! Dancing, food, everyone sexy in their all white, what else can you ask for. Everyone from models, to agents, to CEO's and editors of magazines was in attendance. You wouldn't be able to tell who's who since the dance floor was packed and the energy was amazing! My date for the night was one of my best friends so thankfully my anxiety wasn't on level 10 from going alone. We mingled, ate and danced the evening away.

The Finale Fashion Show was soooooo exciting!!!! 13 Designers show cased upcoming fashion lines and the models WORKED that runaway. Being a part of this experience caused me to step out of my comfort zone and begin a new journey. A journey I was afraid to go on and now have the confidence to ATTEMPT something I've dreamed about. Even if I fail I finally have the courage to try and that's HUGE for me.

Hopefully I will see some of you who are reading this next year at FFFweek 2012. For now I've posted some pictures of this amazing movement.


Stay Pretty,
Tee Tee

I had to split this blog post into several parts. There's so much to write about and I want to make sure I cover as much as I can. Here is  Part 1; which is just to give you a little background on  how I was introduced to FFFweek.

One day a few years ago I was out shopping and a woman approached me asking if I was a plus-sized model. I will admit I gave her the " excuse me" look for more reasons than one. My thoughts were " the nerve of this woman to call me plus-size". Forget the fact that she said the word "MODEL". All I heard was "FAT". The woman took notice to my expression and she quickly apologized if she had offended me. She explained she was giving me a compliment and continued talking. I had this sarcastic grin as she spoke so proudly and passionate  about this industry I didn't know existed. Plus-size models, young, old, all races, fashion shows just for us "curvy girls"...... I thought..wow there's all these fabulous events going on for plus size women and I'm not a part of it. If anyone knows me, they know that I love to be part of EVERYTHING!!! My mom always tells me "tu quieres estar como el arroz blanco" ... translation : "I want to be like white rice".. haha it sounds better in Spanish but it basically means white rice is everywhere and so am I!

Now back to my story- My feelings of being annoyed at this woman quickly transcended into something positive. I was so grateful to her for sharing the news of a movement that was in progress. What movement you ask..... THE PLUS SIZE MOVEMENT!!! After doing some on line research I came across a woman who was starting to change the way the fashion industry looked and treated the curvy girl consumer, her name is Gwen DeVoe. Ms. DeVoe started The Plus Size Academy in NYC which is like a training bootcamp for aspiring plus size models. Her career includes everything from being a motivational speaker to being the Founder and CEO of DeVoe Signature Events (DSE), an event production and management company for plus size affairs. She is also the founder and producer of FFFweek. Her mission is clear, empower women of all sizes, to increase the amount of full figured models on fashion runways and demand fashion retailers to stop ignoring the needs of the curvy consumer. I wanted to be involved so I got in touch with Ms. DeVoe after finding out she was looking for volunteers to assist with casting calls. One thing led to another and I found myself ALL IN!!! I volunteered at The Plus Size Academy for a year and left to explore more of the fashion/entertainment industry. Even though I began getting into different projects I still followed up with Ms. DeVoe and kept myself informed on what was happening in the plus size industry.

Its now 2011 and this movement is still growing strong. When high end designers such as Roberto Cavalli,  Michael Kors, Chanel, and  Yves Saint Laurent  begin designing clothes for us curvy girls it says a lot. Noise was made and designers listened!!! Don't mistake my message... just because plus size women are able to buy a Robert Cavalli skirt in a size 18 it doesn't mean the fight is over. Plus Size women shouldn't have to be limited in where they shop just because the fashion industry has a problem with anyone over a size 12.  But because we live in a society where beauty is often seen  as a size 6  FFFweek was created to change that. If there was ever a moment when a curvy female, young or old felt insecure, ugly, lacking a sense of style, or even so frustrated at not being able to find a sexy dress in your size; attending Full Figured Fashion Week would immediately change your mind.   From panel discussions on positive self body image, to empowering the young and curvy, networking social gatherings, to a fashion show which debuts plus size designers. How could you not be excited about this ??

Hopefully I've informed those reading this blog, especially my curvy ladies, that there is an industry that embraces curves. So whether you're thinking about modeling, styling or anything else in the fashion industry, never let anyone tell you " you're to big to.........". Be confident and go for it!!


FFFweek Part 2 coming soon!!!

Stay Pretty
Tee Tee

Born and raised in the South Bronx to a Dominican father and a Puerto-Rican mother has made me the woman I am today. From my fathers work ethics, to my mom’s housewife, traditional, “keep the family together” attitude; I’ve learned so much on what I want and don’t want out of life. I grew up with a mother who began cooking her habichuelas (beans) at 12’o clock in the afternoon so they would be ready to eat by 6pm. Canned beans ? NEVER!! This woman prides herself on cooking from scratch for her husband and children. My father, who along with his sister ran and still run the family business.
Thank God business has been good and it’s helped my family maintain a comfortable lifestyle.

This was a life I wanted for myself when I got older. Family dinners every Sunday at my grandmothers house in Harlem is a memory I will treasure for ever. The small apartment in Grant Projects was filled with the smell of arroz con habichulas, tostones con ajo and empanadas  (my favorite meal). You could also hear what would have appeared to be 100 different voices, from aunts, uncles, cousins and grandparents all talking loud like a typical puerto-rican family. In all actuality there would be about 10-15 of us in that house every weekend yet it seemed like a lot more. Like every other family, we have ups and downs from addictions to illness, my family has been through it all. Yet at the end of the day my family is everything to me.

My upbringing has influenced my personality, my savvy fashion style and my love for a city with so much culture. I’ve learned to never ever judge anyone by their situation. Although growing up, I will admit to being very meticulous in who I hung out with. Needless to say I rolled with the prettiest chicks in school. Lol. Okay- so we didn’t always have the best fashion sense but it worked back then! ha!

Attending middle school and junior high school in Spanish Harlem introduced me to a whole other world. I would walk up one block and hear the voice of Tito Puentes, a great Latin Jazz and Mambo musician, then walk up the next block and hear the hip hop flows of the infamous duo Rob Base and DJ E-Z. I loved wearing leggings and L.A Gears and then switching it up to leg warmers, acid wash jeans and a bright sweater. This is when I fell in love with fashion. From wearing lace gloves like Madonna, to banana clips in my hair like Lisa Lisa from Lisa Lisa and the Cult Jam. Fashion in the late 80’s to early 90’s was an era of different trends. You had the “grunge look”.. this basically consisted of not washing your hair so you can get that "greasy look" and literally throwing on big baggy jeans and a t-shirt. Ahh but fashion back then also had the likings of us ‘girly girls” rocking a pair of thigh-high socks with floral dresses. Oh the memories!! *smiling"

Fast forwarding to 2011 I love and adore my city and its fashion style more than ever. I will admit being a plus size woman who LOVES fashion is sometimes a challenge. I’m hoping this online blog shares the good, the bad and the ugly truth about issues affecting women especially us curvy chicks, affordable fashion, new and upcoming fashion trends, positive imagery and  the “How to” on becoming a better YOU!

Hope you all enjoy this journey with me.

xoxo
Tee Tee