Changing the Way We Look (and Feel)

If you've grown used to the way our blogs look, and they feel a bit threadbare, don't despair. We are integrating the blog straight into the website, and that means stripping out a bunch of froufrou, doodads and geegaws that will just get in your way over there.

By integrating the blog, the forum and the rest of the tools straight into the site, we can take the next step toward releasing a fully integrated Plus Size community for the New Normal Woman. If that's you, we hope you'll feel welcomed and right at home!

RealityPlus Clothing Company to the Rescue!

New Normal Women, take heart. Sisters, hear my cries of joy -- we have a kindred spirit riding to our rescue, at the helm of RealityPlus Clothing Company, LLC, bringing fashionable apparel specifically designed for the plus sized woman, not just 'scaled up' from a size 3 model's specifications. The paint is barely drying on the walls of their new brick-and-mortar place, but the website is up, running perfectly and looking as well tuned as a brand new Coach shoulder bag.


You may have read last week's post about RealityPlus Clothing Company, LLC, a brand new establishment completely dedicated to the fashion challenges of the New Normal Woman.

Yesterday (11/18/2007), I had the opportunity to interview Beth Anne Herrin, Founder and CEO of RealityPlus Clothing Company.

Frustrated by the lack of clothing choices for plus size women like herself, Beth Anne Herrin is doing something about it. Starting in October, the Cincinnati-based fashion designer, who has worked for several well-known labels, will offer a line of high-quality, affordable clothing for the plus size market through her new RealityPlus Clothing Company, LLC. [excerpt: RealityPlus Clothing Company Press Release 20 October 2007]

PSW: How long has RealityPlus Clothing been open?
Beth Anne:
In my mind a lifetime...in reality, only about 4 weeks. Our web site went live October 14th.

PSW: Exciting! Where is the store itself, for those who may want to visit?
Beth Anne:
Well...we were originally set up to be internet only. But with heavy customer response, we are opening our first store the day after Thanksgiving @ 339 W. Bensen Street in Cincinnati, Ohio. The store will be unique because the design studios will be right on the premises, so customers will be able to see how fashion happens from "idea to aisle" and will be invited to provide feedback on the spot!

PSW: I can see Project Runway fans inundating you instantly!
Beth Anne:
I hope they do come! I believe this customer has a voice that has been silenced for far too long!

PSW: Sounds like a completely fresh approach. Can we order custom items on the spot for later fitting?
Beth Anne:
Not right now, but hopefully in the future. We will have access to top notch alterations specialists in case someone needs adjustments on their purchase.


PSW: How did RealityPlus Clothing come into existence? Mind telling us something about your own background?
Beth Anne:
Sure! Fashion has been in me for a long time. When I was very young, my dad recognized my love of art, and replaced my lined coloring books with blank sketch pads! I entered University of Cincinnati Design College (DAAP) in 1976, and have been working in the fashion industry ever since! RealityPlus Clothing was born from a personal need. I have been a plus size consumer all my life, and while designing beautiful clothes for smaller size women, I just wanted to be able to wear some of the wonderful things made in sizes 0-12!! And....I was tired of being exiled to the "basement" in other department stores!

(Read the complete interview...)

Stumbling Over Diamonds: RealityPlus Clothing Company

Ever had one of those days where you're just ambling along the side roads, minding your own business, and suddenly trip over the biggest diamond you've ever seen? No? Well, it happened to me today.

Allow me to introduce you to RealityPlus Clothing Company, LLC. Not only am I going to introduce you, but I'm going to hop up and down until you go check out this precious gem.


The first thing you will notice is that this is a company that understands plus size women, our specific fit and style needs, our yearning for truly fashion conscious design, and our desire for fabrics that don't look like they used to be someone's tropical-flower kitchen curtains.

Stay tuned for the upcoming interview with Beth Ann Herrin, founder of RealityPlus Clothing Company. Let's find out more about this marvelous person and the breath-taking fashion and apparel contributions she is providing to our perfectly shaped world.