Former Plus Model Crystal Renn Backpedals By Deborah Friedman (Oct 4, 2011)

Last week there was much chatter about Crystal Renn’s newly slim shape as Zac Posen’s date at the Met. Reactions ranged from betrayal to glowing admiration. Renn said, “I think that by placing a title on my head, which is ‘plus-size,’ and then the picture that these people have created in their mind about what plus-size actually is, I’ve basically failed you just with that. Because I couldn’t possibly live up to that, and at this point in my life I would have to actually have another eating disorder to live up to that expectation. I had anorexia ultimately because someone else set the standard for me and I wanted to follow it. And if I followed what the public wanted from me or what the media wants from me [to be plus-size], I’d be doing the same thing.” >>View Complete Article Here

Very Little Sex with Big Body Issues By Deborah Friedman (Sep 1, 2011)

The plus size community anxiously anticipated the premiere of TLC’s “Big Sexy” after having had our hopes dashed by Fox’s ill-fated “More To Love”. Maybe this time the show’s producers will strike the right chord by dispelling myths behind big women, but first the powers that be need to reconcile their own fat prejudices by assuming a TV audience won’t embrace “Big Sexy” unless “they portray them as insecure, love-starved rejects” as the Dallas Observer blogger Elaine Liner wrote. >>View Complete Article Here

A New Plus Size Fan Base By Deborah Friedman (Jul 16, 2011)

For years I thought men were attracted to me in spite of my size not because of it. The denial began when my mother would say to my teenage date, “She’s so beautiful-maybe you can convince her to lose weight”. Acute humiliation aside, I felt she’d exposed a hidden flaw. Maybe he was so enthralled with my personality, he’d barely notice my size. The reality was I wasn’t getting any special dispensation. Obviously my dates liked a fuller figure. >>View Complete Article Here

Our Right to Bare Arms By Deborah Friedman (May 27, 2011)

The plus size world is a much better place for having lived through 25 years of Oprah. How we’ll miss her! Oprah’s vulnerability and her willingness to share gave us insight into our own struggles with weight and self-esteem. But with all that great success and self-awareness, she still lamented about her fat arms. “Now I know why the royals wave the way they do,” she said during one of her “aha moments”. All those years wasted when she could have controlled those flying wings! >>View Complete Article Here

Media Diet Survival and Why Diets Don’t Work By Deborah Friedman (Apr 25, 2011)

It’s already that time of year when I begin to think of the beach. Will I suit up or will I be relegated to Morticia Adams status avoiding the sun as if it was an allergy? The dreaded diet dilemma creeps into my psyche as I envision the warm season deprived of pistachio ice cream. I begin to reflect on a friend’s commentary on his drinking. “I’ve never craved a cocktail as much as when I saw Ray Milland in The Lost Weekend. That movie made me want to drink even more. I literally ran out of that movie theater in a desperate search for a bar”, he said. >>View Complete Article Here

Plus Size Lingerie Report from the ILS Spring 2011 Show By Deborah Friedman (Apr 1, 2011)

I always look forward to my yearly trip to Las Vegas where I meet friends from Los Angeles and we get to compare notes about the new collections. Attendance was up from the previous year and while I skipped the fashion show due to its lack of plus size representation last year, I saw evidence of continued interest in the plus size market. >>View Complete Article Here

How To Shop for Plus Size Lingerie By Deborah Friedman (Feb 9, 2011)

When choosing plus size lingerie, it's advisable to evaluate your figure type. If you are looking for the best shape to compliment all figure types, select an a-line or trapeze shape. Straight styles emphasize hips and may be better suited for customers who have smaller hips. The best lingerie styles have adjustable shoulder straps, lacing, or hook and eye closures. >>View Complete Article Here

Sophisticated Valentine's Day By Ruth Fonseca (Feb 8, 2011)

With Valentine's Day's just a week away we are all trying to find the perfect lingerie for the night. If you like the sophisticated look go for rich colors, chic details and classic cuts. >>View Complete Article Here

Guest Post: Valentine’s Day 2011 Plus Size Trends By Marie Denee (Feb 8, 2011)

With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, (less than one week away- but who is counting?) scouting out that perfect lingerie look can be as daunting as finding a great pair of jeans- BUT not anymore! Today, we have resources and options to choose from! >>View Complete Article Here

In the pink for Valentine’s day (Feb 2, 2011)

I see red everywhere for Valentine’s day. What about pink? Pink is sexy. Pink is hot. Pink is feminine. You’ve done red every year – time for change. Let’s talk pink! >>View Complete Article Here

Plus Size Model Deborah Friedman Talks about the Modeling Industry (and Lingerie!) (Dec 8, 2010)

Plus plus size fashion is making some strides in the industry with more brands recognizing the size 12 and over crowd and the blogosphere crying out for better size diversity. I sure know how it feels to be a plus size girl trying to be fashionable in an atmosphere that isn’t always very accommodating. But what about plus size models? What is the industry like?

To give me (and the rest of us some insight) is Deborah Friedman. She’s a former plus size model and the owner of Plus Size Plum, a plus size lingerie line. She talks about what got her into plus size modeling, her advice to aspiring models, as well as some advice on shopping for lingerie (just in time for the holidays!) >>View Complete Article Here

Lingerie for Plum Tomatoes (Jul 28, 2009)

Plussizeplum.com is an online plus size lingerie boutique for the full figured beauty. featuring sexy and figure flattering styles. The web site is the brainchild of Deborah Friedman, a former plus-sized model who helped pioneer the plus-size modeling industry in New York. Just to goes to show, tomatoes are awesome in all sizes. >>View Complete Article Here

Plus-size lingerie for cocktails and beyond By Samantha Thompson Smith, Staff Writer (Nov 24, 2008)

Deborah Friedman is proving that she's serious about changing the plus-size clothing market. >>View Complete Article Here

Plus Size Plum Debuts Exclusive Plus Size Lingerie By Glen L Johnson in Lingerie (Nov 13, 2008)

One of the things that I love about the Internet is the amount of plus size lingerie that is available. The downside is that a lot of websites have the same styles and merchandise. I always like to showcase merchants that go out on a limb and produce exclusive pieces. Deborah Friedman the owner of plus size Plum brought to my attention an exclusive piece to her website and it is my pleasure to pass it on to you guys. >>View Complete Article Here

Pretty pieces in plus sizes By Samantha Thompson Smith, Staff Writer (Sep 10, 2008)

Deborah Friedman is like so many women in the fashion business these days. When she couldn't find what she wanted in stores, she decided to sell it herself. In June, Friedman opened Plussizeplum.com, a Durham-based Web site selling better lingerie for larger women.

Friedman, a former fit model and fashion writer, says she's not surprised by the traffic already coming to the site. The plus-size market is ripe for new retailers, especially those selling better quality merchandise that's not always easy to find in Triangle stores.

"I just found that people who are in the business, they don't really understand what the customers are looking for," she says. "This site was a result of my frustration."

Friedman said she has "cherry-picked" the best of what's on the market. She's a picky shopper herself, she says, so her merchandise has to be soft and well-made, something she knows that plus-size women appreciate." >>View Complete Article Here

Deborah Friedman Interview By Meieli Sawyer (Aug 23, 2008)

Q: How did Plus Size Plum start?

A: "After all these years of being plus size, I feel like I know what works and what doesn't. And, I also know what feels best. I like luxury and I want lingerie to feel luxurious, soft, sensual.

Plus Size Plum is [...] the result of my experiences in high end retail- at Tiffany's (NY)and Hammacher Schlemmer. My years in the garment industry as a plus size Rep (Delphis Designs, Club De France, Judith and Co.) and Merchandiser (Fresh Ideas)." >>View Complete Article Here

Look No Further for Flirty Plus Panties By Meieli Sawyer, About.com Guide to Plus-Size Fashion (Aug 23, 2008)

I just love delicate plus lingerie-- why isn't there more of it out there? We don't all want to wear cotton briefs 24/7, and that's why there are pairs like these to make us look and feel more confident. Talk about a great hipster cut and ruffles to boot! These can-can pants are perfection, and come complete with a heart pattern and decorative bows. >>View Complete Article Here

Large and Lovely Site By M. E. Wood, BellaOnline's Large & Lovely Editor (Jul 1, 2008)

Former Plus Size Model Deborah Friedman has gone from feeling pretty in front of the camera to making other plus size women feel pretty in their unmentionables. "Our plus size lingerie is designed to celebrate your beautiful curves and accentuate all those assets." Deborah started Plus Size Plum in 2007 with the hopes of helping more plus size women celebrate their curves and potential through sexy lingerie. Her goal is to provide "fresh, updated styles, great quality and outstanding service". And in case you're wondering the adorable name refers to "the sweet, sexy plum in all of us". >>View Complete Article Here

Plus Size Plum Opens Online Offering High-End Plus Size Lingerie (Jul 1, 2008)

Plus Size Plum launched its website based on the concept that plus size women desire a high-end shopping experience similar to a European-style boutique. The company's goal is to offer trendy styles that can be worn in or out of the bedroom.

Plus Size Plum's owner, Deborah Friedman carefully selected styles drawn from the Paris and New York runways. As a former plus size model with a garment industry background, she chose only the softest fabrics with lycra, support, lift and perfect fit.

With competitive prices, personalized service and a beautiful gift wrap presentation, Plussizeplum.com creates the ultimate online shopping event for the sexy, stylish BBW." >>View Complete Article Here

Jennifer Hudson on Vogue (Feb 24, 2008)

Weight continued to be an issue in March when Vogue put plus-size singer/actress Jennifer Hudson on the cover of what many consider to be the fashion industry bible, known for its slim cover models.

"Her image on the cover of Vogue is really a positive step for the plus-size woman," said Deborah Friedman, owner of the women's plus-size lingerie Web site, www.Plussizeplum.com, which is based in Durham. "Just by having her presence on the cover, it's expressing the fact that just because you are plus-size doesn't mean you're not into high fashion."

It also sent a message to clothing manufacturers and retailers, she said.

"If you put us up front and center and promote us in the slightest, you've built enough momentum to create a loyal following," Friedman said. "Plus-size women have never been treated well by retailers and department stores or by the public at large. That's why the retailers who are willing to market to them are more successful."

The magazine was part of a larger trend in 2007 of bigger women being recognized for something other than their size.For instance, America Ferrera won a Golden Globe in 2007 for her role as the plump assistant at a fashion magazine in ABC's "Ugly Betty," and Chandra Wilson, a healthy-sized actress, was nominated for an Emmy for her role on ABC's "Grey's Anatomy."

'The Hills' look is here By Samantha Thompson Smith, Staff Writer (Feb 24, 2008)

If you have missed getting your fix lately of Lauren Conrad and all the drama on the "The Hills," head over to Gena Chandler in Raleigh's North Hills. >>View Complete Article Here

Valentine's Day Offers Plus Size Lingerie that is Retro-romantic By Guest Author, Deborah Friedman (Feb 1, 2008)

Sexy plus size lingerie is inspired by the fashions of the 60s, 70s and 80s for Valentine's Day, 2008. Plus Size Plum chose its new look, a fuchsia babydoll with black ribbon sash because it's reminiscent of Claudia Cardinale, the smoldering Italian 60's sex kitten. From my days in the plus size garment business in Los Angeles in the 80s, I recall fuchsia as being the most popular hue for casting warmth against a variety of skin tones. When I saw Cameron Diaz wearing a fuchsia gown with a large, chunky turquoise necklace this year, I saw this as a sign of its comeback. Fuchsia is creating a new legion of fans dazzled by those flattering pinks and evoking a sense of joy for those who wear it." >>View Complete Article Here

Sexy Undies. . . and a New Blog?! By Meili (Nov 15, 2007)

I really recommend that you check out these new holiday lingerie pieces over at one of my favorite lingerie sources, Plus Size Plum. It's a little naughty, very luxurious, and just what we need when the temperatures start to drop.

I was also pretty excited to see that Deborah Friedman of Plus Size Plum also has a new blog to record her announcements and interesting plus size insights! I really recommend checking in from time to time to see what's going on. Right now, I love this post about Self-Esteem for Plus-Size women. >>View Complete Article Here

PRETTIER AND PRETTIER (Aug 28, 2007)

Plus size clothing is becoming big business (terrible pun intended). Which is good! For too many years there were too few choices for ladies of a certain size who wanted to look stylish and sexy. One of the companies leading the market in providing quality apparel is Plus Size Plum." >>View Complete Article Here

Lingerie for Men, Women: sexy with curve (Aug 28, 2007)

Lo sociological studies say, wear sexy lingerie, it all'autostima. But although these days is so much talk of revaluation of real women, those with curves, have you ever tried to find in stores specializing coordinated plus sizes?

The result is that if you are so fortunate to find some head available without the committed appalled at your request, looking as plague, rather than sexy lingerie models will be offered contenitivi that even your grandmother retro judge, and that women have very little.

For all the plus size, by women who want generous curves enhance its appeal with 'intimate seductive, the website plussizeplum.com offers a vast collection where the baby doll, the guêpière, the tanga, but also the more hot and transgressive, are calibrated to the abundant forms.

Hello thin! >>View Complete Article Here

Dangerous Curves (Aug 28, 2007)

Lingerie for women. Body stockings, baby dolls: everything that I need to feel sensual or to address an important appointment. The fashion for sizes over 44 becomes trendy. Finalmente! At last! >>View Complete Article Here

Plus Size Plum Review By Meieli Sawyer (Jul 29, 2007)

Plus Size Plum Review: Size Worthy

Sizing at Plus Size Plum is very generous, and that's great for those of us with larger busts and midsections who may not be the perfect hourglass shape. Don't let that stop you: babydolls in soft chiffon dannce around your midsection but still show off the tiniest glimpse.

Quality
Plus Size Plum lingerie is fun and inexpensive, and most likely will be used on special occasions. Given my experience with Plus Size Plum, I’d say that it will hold up well with expected use and handwashing, as you would do with all undergarments. >>View Complete Article Here

New Plus-Size Lingerie Shop By Meieli Sawyer (Jul 29, 2007)

"My discovery of the weekend came about when I was looking for some new summery lingerie. Plus Size Plum has sizes up to 6X and stocks all the lingerie based on European designs. I love all the daring colors, deep v-necks and lots of layered lace. Plus Size Plum reminds me of another Frederick's of Hollywood, but with targeted pieces just for the plus-size customer." >>View Complete Article Here

10 Plus-Size Holiday Gifts By Meieli Sawyer (Jul 29, 2007)

Do you need to find gifts under $30 for a plus-size female and you don't know where to start looking? Check out these 10 gift selections to get you started. >>View Complete Article Here

Plus Size Plum: There's a New Lingerie Source in Town (Jul 29, 2007)

Plus Size Plum, a new lingerie source, has opened for business. They offer the usual lingerie fare - babydolls and thigh highs, with sizing up to 28W. Pricing ranges from $30 - $100, and there are a few cute innovations in lingerie, and bonus, their plus models are actually plus sized." >>View Complete Article Here