I got a chance to speak with Deborah Friedman of Plus Size Plum, who let me in on how she became interested in lingerie and how her shop has evolved.
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).”
Q: Tell me a little bit about plus-size modeling. Did it influence Plus Size Plum in any way?
A: Plus Size Plum is also the result of my time as a plus size model (Pat Swift's Plus Model Agency, NY) for Gloria Vanderbilt, Alfred Angelo, Saks and Roaman's and as a fit model for Renee Tener of Outlander.
Q: How has Plus Size Plum evolved?
A: “People in the plus-size industry have been very supportive. They’re supportive of my efforts. Plus Size Plum has been a real work in progress. […] Years of learning how to dress, how to become comfortable in [my] own skin.”
Q: What goals do you have for Plus Size Plum?
A: “When I sell something, it’s because it’s great. I believe in it. […]My goal is to get a private label with Tia Lyn […] The direction that I’d like to go in is knitwear. I love knits. I’d love to combine great styles and tailored knits. Down the road, I’d also like to do loungewear.”
Q: What advice do you have for plus-size women out there?
A: “I think that clothes really do make the woman. If you’re put together, you’re well-groomed, you won’t hear comments about your size. It shows that you care. If you’re down in the dumps, and you get dressed up, it can do wonders for your mood.
I don’t want to oversell you. You need to walk out and feel fabulous!”
“The plus-size woman is looking for something clean, classic, and sexy. […] I’d like to bridge that gap.”
Head to Plus Size Plum to check out Deborah Friedman's careful selections of soft lingerie, including camisoles, panties, teddies, and more.
