[image]
[title]Sandee Joseph, the plus-size fashion blogger behind CurvEnvy, proves she’s one of the most stylish New Yorkers with her bold, figure-flattering looks. The college health-insurance coordinator shops for trendy pieces at NYC stores such as Buffalo Exchange, Beacon’s Closet and Pixie Market, and enjoys being pampered at Spa Castle.
Sandee Joseph, 31, college health-insurance coordinator and plus-size fashion blogger (curvenvy.com), Harlem
Her personal style: “It’s classic and überfeminine with a dash of trend and a sprinkle of vintage. I love the juxtaposition of hard and soft, and adding an unexpected throwback element. My style is almost like writing an essay: Makeup and hair are the introduction, my wardrobe is the body, and my shoes are the conclusion. Hopefully the story I tell makes people want to read more.”
Her inspiration: “I came up with my motto, ‘style is not just for the skinny,’ which I wholeheartedly believe. It carries me through each outfit selection. I defy the notion that a plus-size body cannot be fashionable or on-trend. Ultimately, my mood inspires my style. You know the saying ‘life is a stage’? Well, I like to think of my wardrobe as the costume closet. I can change my ‘character’ with each outfit—it’s just a matter of who I want to be on that given morning.”
Favorite stores: “I do the majority of my shopping online—my two all-time favorite sites are Asos (asos.com) and Boohoo (boohoo.com)—but in NYC, Buffalo Exchange (locations throughout the city; visit buffaloexchange.com) is my go-to for current and past trends at way-below-retail prices. Customers are able to buy, sell and trade clothing, shoes and accessories from brands such as Michael Kors, Alice + Olivia, BCBG and Tom Ford. It’s the only store where you’ll find a $12 pair of American Apparel leggings next to $40 Rag & Bone jeans on the same rack. I always manage to find great treasures at thrift-store chain Beacon’s Closet (88 North 11th St between Berry St and Wythe Ave, Williamsburg, Brooklyn; 718-486-0816 • 92 Fifth Ave at Warren St, Park Slope, Brooklyn; 718-230-1630 • 10 W 13th St between Fifth and Sixth Aves, 917-261-4863 • beaconscloset.com). Although it carries current items, there’s a nice amount of one-of-a kind pieces—my best find was a vintage Longchamps duffel bag in mint condition for under $15. And I like Pixie Market (100 Stanton St at Ludlow St; 212-253-0953, pixiemarket.com). For a while, I never knew an actual store existed—I only purchased online. The clothing is inexpensive and current, so I like to get key trend pieces there.”
Favorite salons: “I adore Spa Castle (131-10 11th Ave at 131st St, College Point, Queens; 718-939-6300, nyspacastle.com). It’s like a little therapeutic water world complete with massages, manis and pedis. When I don’t feel like traveling that far, I opt for Pinky’s Salon (312 Columbus Ave between 74th and 75th Sts, 212-787-0390) for a relaxing manicure and pedicure.”
Her signature accessory: “My Honora (honora.com) oversize pearl earrings. I wear them practically every day—they just go with everything.”
How she describes New York style: “Eclectic. It’s a myriad of so many styles: trendy, vintage, urban, classic—you name it. You never know what you’ll spot. I think that’s why it’s one of the meccas of true street style.”
How her style has evolved: “Working in academia for the past few years, I’ve transitioned from run-of-the mill slacks and button-ups to midi dresses, short skirts, multicolor heels and neon accessories. The older I get, the more daring my style becomes, and I’m lucky enough to have a lax dress code. Anything risqué can always be covered up with a blazer or oversize scarf. ”
Follow Cristina Velocci on Twitter: @cvelocci