We’re introducing a brand new type of article here at fabUplus! Welcome to fabUffiliate Wednesday! We’re so excited to bring you Kelly Robinson. Robinson is a model and influencer. She’s also one of our fabUffiliates!
“I’m Kelly Robinson a plus size curvy fluffy lesbian model residing in the Pittsburgh Pennsylvania area. I’ve been modeling for almost 3 years. I absolutely love the platform it has given me to inspire and motivate other women and men who are different and not the average cookie cutter size to love themselves!” Kelly Robinson
It wasn’t until her late 20s that Robinson was approached by a nurse who worked with her who asked “[Have] you ever thought about modeling?”
“I was In shock no way she was serious.” – Kelly Robinson
However she was. She saw something in Robinson that she was unable to identify herself
“Just about three years later I’ve finally found my passion my niche my happiness and it is watching and feeling myself grow into the strong badass beautiful woman Ive always wanted to be!
In my past it was hard for me to find clothing that fit my body type let alone made me feel sexy or attractive. For years I’ve struggled with my weight, self worth, self esteem, self image, anxiety and some depression.
I’m here to make a statement ruffle feathers and be heard! Plus is equal and I’m ready to show the world exactly what Us plus size women are made of!” – Kelly Robinson
Name: Kelly Robinson fabUplus Magazine: What types of modeling do you do?
Kelly Robinson: I’ve done runway, print & editorial type modeling since I began a few years ago.
fabUplus Magazine: How’d you get started?
Kelly Robinson: A few years ago I was approached by a coworker who saw something in me I didn’t know I had. Three years later I’m motivating my family friends and even strangers to feel sexy & comfortable in your own skin.
fabUplus Magazine: What’s an average work week?
Kelly Robinson: An average a week for me consists of my normal 9-5 as a Certified Nursing Assistant assisting the elderly and sick with activities of daily living. When I’m not on the clock I’m looking up inspiration for photoshoots, networking with clothing boutiques, brands and brushing up on my makeup skills. I’ve realized this industry can get a bit pricey so to cut costs a bit I taught myself how to do full face makeup & contour.
fabUplus Magazine: Describe your personal style. What are some of your signature colors, styles, and accessories?
Kelly Robinson: I’ve always thought of my style as urban chic & classic. Two extremes, I know lol. My looks go from comfy and cute to sexy and fierce. I call it versatility. I love love love A line dresses and floral prints. Anything coral color or even bright neon colors I immediately gravitate to. Gold hoops in my ears, gold necklace (heirloom) a bracelet and cute finger rings are always my go to accessory look.
fabUplus Magazine: What does beauty mean to you?
Kelly Robinson: To me beauty means confidence. If your confident you feel beautiful no matter what! Confidence comes from within, a feeling you have when you are so sure of yourself and no negative outside influences can change that.
fabUplus Magazine: If you could go back in time and give yourself advice as a little girl, what would you tell her?
Kelly Robinson: If I could go back in time I’d tell my younger self not to believe the negative what people say about you, not to believe all the fat jokes made up targeting your full figures size, not to believe all the negative things people said behind your back, it isn’t true. Yea your plus size and your still beautiful!
fabUplus Magazine: What have you seen in fashion regarding diversity and inclusion of late? What still needs to be done?
Kelly Robinson: In regards to diversity and inclusivity within the past decade I’ve seen more and more household brands incorporate plus size fashions. I personally feel the plus size options aren’t made affordable and or are tailored to a certain type of plus size shape. I’m loving the diversity in models I’ve been noticing in fashion shows editorial and print, black or brown. I’m here for it! Although great strides have been made in including plus size EVERYWHERE I know we have a long way to go. Inclusion of plus in print is so vital for our youth to see because I remember not seeing it as a child and thinking I was abnormal.
fabUplus Magazine: For our readers who struggle with being comfortable in their own skin and wearing what they want, what are some practical things you would recommend they do to help them get to the level of confidence you have.
Kelly Robinson: It’s so easy in today’s society to get lost in your thoughts and believe the negative things people say about you. I’ve battled with this myself in the past. I’d say to those individuals, stop listening to those little voices in your head saying your not this or that. Love yourself first! This was such an important concept for me to truly be at peace with me ALL OF ME! To hell with what others think. Wear what you want, wear what makes you happy!
fabUplus Magazine: What are your favorite tips and styling tricks you can share?
Kelly Robinson: My all time favorite go to shopping tip is CLEARANCE first, check the clearance rack for hidden steals and deals. Saving money is one of my hobbies. As far as style, make it true to you, be comfy and confident and own whatever you choose to wear. Fashion is what you make it!
fabUplus Magazine: What can we expect from you next?
Kelly Robinson: Next! Due to the pandemic a lot of things have been rescheduled or pushed back. However there are a few events, photoshoots and award ceremonies Ill be attending soon. I’ve been selected as a nominee for Woman’s Empowerment Conference 2020 in September at the Embassy suites located in Hampton Virginia. Whilst there I’ve set up a photoshoot with Areil King Cury owner of Size Overrated Magazine which is going to be so amazing! I’ve also been selected as a nominee of Ms BBW Universe 2020 award at the Phenomenal Plus Size Diva Awards 2020 located in Vegas Nevada. I’m so grateful and appreciative to just be recognized in this industry because I know it’s much easier to overlook a plus size model rather someone who isn’t.
fabUplus Magazine: How has body image and self-esteem changed over the years?
Kelly Robinson: Over the years it’s been challenging for me to accept myself as a plus size woman, know my worth and find the confidence within myself. As of today my outlook on myself, my body and self esteem has blossomed! The power & strength I feel when walking the runway and posing for photos is out of this world. It’s such a rush!! Ive learned to love myself no matter what and to always put my higher power first!