Plus-size trend causes Full Figured Fashion Week to grow

Prominent plus-size models like Crystal Renn walking designers' runways, magazines and campaigns featuring more realistically-sized women, and a more democratic approach in fashion in general have turned New York's Full Figured Fashion Week into a great success.

According to fashion blog The Cut, the second edition of the Manhattan-based event, which wrapped up June 19, had 35 sponsors this year, compared to seven in 2009, while shows boasted up to 300 spectators.

In addition to the ongoing plus-size debate, there were also a few 'celebrities' - including America's Next Top Model voluptuous winner Whitney Thompson and ex- Project Runway contestant Qristyl Frazier - who participated in the event, further increasing its popularity.

And apparently, the fashion week did not only convince the usual plus-size advocates. The Cut 's Amy Odell wrote: "It's a shame Full Figured Fashion Week has to be so separate from New York's main Fashion Week. It's also too bad the main Fashion Week doesn't have model competitions or fun award ceremonies and a vibe that's not life-or-death."

The schedule of the Full Figured Fashion Week is a veritable treasure trove of little-known, fashion-forward (yet affordable) plus-size brands. Here is a selection of participating labels and where to shop them:

Qristyl Frazier - http://www.qristylfrazierdesigns.com
Lotis - http://www.lotisclothing.com
Pure Energy - http://www.pureenergyclothing.com
Just my Size - available at Walmart, more info at http://jmsstyle.com
Kiyonna - http://www.kiyonna.com
La'Dan's Closet - http://www.la-danscloset.com/store
Monif C. - http://www.monifc.com
Igigi - http://www.igigi.com