What led you to begin Fro Plus Fashion?
It started out as a creative outlet for me to share the different ways I would style my kinky textured natural hair. As time went on, I started to get into plus size fashion. I quickly noticed through the content I consumed on social media and other forms of media that both the natural hair and plus size fashion communities didn’t necessarily have a lot of women that looked like me at the time. I wanted to be a part of that change I wanted to see so I rebranded my blog and social media platforms from LuvMika (which says nothing about the content I create) to Fro Plus Fashion.
The looks you share are always so unique and eye-catching. How do you go about developing your personal style?
I gain inspiration from fellow style bloggers (straight and plus size), looks I see in magazines, and my own eye for putting things together. I’m also an avid thrifter, so I thrift pieces that are currently on trend and unique for a fraction of the price. I can’t quite define what my style is because I don’t necessarily want to box myself into one particular aesthetic. For me it’s all about how I want to express myself and where I’m going.
You’re in a rush getting ready for a night on the town. What are some go-to items you pull out of your closet?
Skinny jeans are a staple in my closet, so I would definitely start out with that. Then I would dress it up with a fancy statement top. Off the shoulder tops, mesh bodysuits, or romantic wrap tops are all options I would rock up top. I like to keep my feet comfy in low-block heels, or classic sneakers like the Superstar Adidas I just bought (obsessed with them).
As a mother, you may know what it’s like to sometimes forget to put yourself first. How do you make an effort to ensure that you always look and feel your best?
I feel my best when I look my best. As a mother, I’ve created a routine in the morning that allows me to take my time getting dressed and made up the way I want to versus a mad dash for whatever I can grab so we’re not late for work and school. I’m also happy when I’m on a roll with putting out content on Fro Plus Fashion. It really is a passion and doesn’t feel like work to me so I love it. I also enjoy going to the movies, taking care of my houseplants, and relaxing at home.
I know how impactful it can be able to see someone who looks like you that is wearing brands you support, with a body type, and hair that looks just like yours. It’s a feeling of inclusion and validation that you aren’t alone, you are beautiful, and you can do everything you want to do with style.
How do you hope to inspire women who are looking to embrace their natural curves and curls?
I hope to inspire women through my articles on style, hair, and beauty and also through the images I create with my photographer, Andre Howard. I know how impactful it can be able to see someone who looks like you that is wearing brands you support, with a body type, and hair that looks just like yours. It’s a feeling of inclusion and validation that you aren’t alone, you are beautiful, and you can do everything you want to do with style. It’s a feeling that women who look like me don’t get to experience often when they look at the posters of models while shopping, flipping through popular magazines, or are scrolling through social media.
Stay Connected with Fro Plus Fashion:
YouTube: Froplusfashion
Instagram: @froplusfashion
Facebook: @froplusfashion
Twitter: @froplusfashion
Rashida A. Marshall is the creator of AFIYA Magazine, a digital health and lifestyle publication for Black women. This creative venture grew out of her love for learning, teaching, and sharing valuable wellness information to help improve the quality of life. Rashida is also a Pilates and dance instructor specializing in women’s health.