Transformation: my frenemy the scale

  

This is me every morning now. 

Don’t get obsessed with your weight, it’s just a number, it doesn’t mean anything. It’s all about how your clothes fit, and how you feel (I call BS on this).

I hate that I have made this an everyday routine, but truth be told… it’s what keeps me in check. Lately it’s also been torture… I keep teetering between 185 and 187 pounds. I need to lose another 10 pounds to reach my goal. The last 10 pounds seems to be impossible. Although I have noticed my body shape looks different, and I am a smaller size now than I was three months ago, not seeing any numbers go down can become discouraging.

It’s almost like I’ve lost my drive, and have found a new comfort zone. It’s the same comfort zone I found at a higher weight. I keep telling myself I need to amp up my workouts and be careful with what I’m eating. I keep treating myself and congratulating myself on my efforts thus far. I deserve a reward right? 

I am terrified of gaining the weight back and feeling like a failure. All that effort and all the sacrifices I made… Can you imagine? It’s quite common for people to gain back their weight, but my ultimate goal is to keep it off, and not necessarily keep losing. That’s a challenge on its own.

I’ve been feeling a little bit down lately, and I feel like I need to get this off my chest. Thank you to my friends who keep encouraging me. 

Are you going through similar a phase in your life? Do you have any questions? Please leave your comments below! Let’s chat!

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Ottawa’s Nordstrom Gala: A grand old time

Last night’s Ottawa Nordstrom Gala was a blur. A magical combination of gourmand canapés neatly stacked in rows on little carts, tiny cans of sparkling bubbly, a killer upbeat band, friendly smiles around and a magical feast of fashion.
Everyone came dressed in their best.

Personally, it was a bit of a sensory overload, but I managed to take it all in. My secret is going stag. I was happy to bump into my friends from Ottawa Life Magazine (seen below on the Step and Repeat). I made a point to say hello to fashion mavens Erica Wark, Christopher Massardo and Alyssa Beltempo. I had an absolute blast to say the least. Lots of friendly faces and close friends to catch up with.

I didn’t do much shopping, but I did spend lots of time (and $) at the Laura Mercier counter with Melody Iafelice who was representing the brand. Apparently, my choice of bright pink/purple lipstick made quite the impression on everyone (#trendsetter hahaha).

I wore a navy knee length tutu (purchased on Amazon.com) paired with a knit graphic tee from Forever21+ with “Champagne S’il Vous PlaÎt” written across the top. It was quite appropriate for the evening and very well received. I got many lovely compliments, someone even kindly told me that I reminded her of Sarah Jessica Parker… um… Success!

I wore a simple pony tail because I am a mom and had no time to get ready. I opted to focus on makeup and a killer lip instead. It worked in my favour 😉

In my travels through the department store I spotted a plus size section that I hope to dissect at a later date. First, I need more sensible footwear and second, I need a clear head… no alcohol beyond this point!! What can I say, I love champagne!

I didn’t take too many pics, I was really just soaking it all in. I encourage you to do the same and explore the wonderful worlds of shoes, cosmetics and bags!

Thank you Nordstrom for an exquisite event! The bar has been raised. Bravo!

Chantal Sarkisian Plus Size fashion Blog Ottawa Nordstrom Gala Mode XLusive

Chantal Sarkisian Plus Size fashion Blog Ottawa Nordstrom Gala Mode XLusiveChantal Sarkisian Plus Size fashion Blog Ottawa Nordstrom Gala Mode XLusiveNordstrom Ottawa Life Magazine Chantal Sarkisian Fashion Blog Mode XLusive 2 Nordstrom Ottawa Life Magazine Chantal Sarkisian Fashion Blog Mode XLusiveChantal Sarkisian Plus Size fashion Blog Ottawa Nordstrom Gala Mode XLusiveChantal Sarkisian Plus Size fashion Blog Ottawa Nordstrom Gala Mode XLusiveChantal Sarkisian Plus Size fashion Blog Ottawa Nordstrom Gala Mode XLusive

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Famous Plus Size Fashion Models in the Media

Georgina Burke Torrid 2016 Plus Size fashion model Rebel Wilson
Georgina Burke for Torrid 2016 Rebel Wilson Collection

Georgina Burke Torrid 2016 Plus Size fashion model Swimwear bathingsuit model
Georgina Burke for Torrid 2016 Swimwear line




After the convoluted debacle of Calvin Klein’s new plus size model, I decided to curate some of the most talked about and famous Plus Size Model photos in the media.

Who are my favourite plus size fashion models?

My favourite plus size models include Georgina Burke, Ashley Graham, Barbie Ferreira, Tara Lynn, Tess Holliday, Nadia Aboulhosn and Tanesha Awasthi.

Who are my favourite plus size bloggers?

That’s easy! Lately, it’s getting harder and harder to distinguish models from influencers and bloggers. Many of plus size models started their careers as plus size bloggers, like Nadia Aboulhosn and Tanesha Awasthi. I love seeing them work as influencers and models for major retail brands, it makes the clothing more accessible. Some of my favourite plus-size bloggers include Nicolette Mason, GabiFresh, Candice Huffine, and Katia from Lapiz of Luxury.

Let’s start with Barbie Ferreira who is taking over the curvy fashion scene and proving to be an inspirational role model to young girls.


calvin-klein-underwear-plus-size
Calvin Klein’s new “Plus Size” model. She is a size 10.
Tara Lynn PLus size model
Tara Lynn is a very famous Plus Size Model known for confidently showing skin in a very elegant way.
Victoria secret and Dove campaign
A classic comparison of Victoria Secret Angels vs Real Women
perfect+body+ victoria secret
Another classic comparasson of Victoria Secret Angels vs Real Women
Elle Magazien Justine Legault
Justine Legault Plus Size Model
ashleygraham_plussize
Ashley Graham Plus Size Model
tess-holliday Famous Plus size model in the media
Tess Holliday (Munster)- First size 22 model to be signed.
popular plus size model lulu bonfils
Lulu Bonfils

I don’t like to think too much into these things. I am just focused on working with my body type and finding outfits that look good on me. Good luck on your plus size fashion journey and do make sure you share your secrets!

xox Chantsy


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