The plus size community deserves more than moments. We deserve spaces created intentionally for us, like THICKCON 2026.

Spaces where fashion isn’t an afterthought. Where confidence isn’t something we have to explain. Where entrepreneurs, creators, designers, influencers and everyday women come together knowing they belong.

That’s exactly why we’re excited to announce that The Curvy Fashionista is an official media partner for THICKCON.

This October, one of the Southeast’s boldest celebrations of plus size confidence, culture and community returns to Atlanta, and if you’ve been looking for an excuse to gather with your people, consider this your sign.

According to organizers, THICKCON returns Saturday, October 17, 2026, at the Westside Cultural Arts Center in Atlanta, bringing together entrepreneurs, influencers, designers, fashion leaders and changemakers from around the country for a full day centered on visibility, inspiration and empowerment.

Why We’re Excited

At The Curvy Fashionista, we’ve always believed that representation doesn’t happen by accident.

It happens because people build platforms.

They create events.

They open doors.

They create opportunities for community to gather.

THICKCON 2026 is doing exactly that.

As conversations around authentic representation continue to evolve, events like this remind us that there is still incredible value in being in the same room with people who understand your experiences. Whether you’re coming to network, discover brands, hear inspiring conversations or simply celebrate yourself, THICKCON 2026 is creating space for all of it.

Honoring Two Community Trailblazers

One of this year’s highlights is the recognition of two women whose work has left an undeniable mark on our community.

Gwen DeVoe, founder of Full Figured Fashion Week, will be honored for more than two decades of creating opportunities for plus size designers, models and fashion professionals while helping reshape conversations around visibility and inclusion.

Joining her is Nzinga Imani, actress, entrepreneur and empowerment advocate, whose work continues to encourage women to embrace their authentic selves through leadership and purpose driven influence.

It’s hard to imagine two women who better represent what this community continues to build.

What You Can Expect

THICKCON 2026 isn’t just another fashion event.

Attendees can expect:

• Fashion presentations featuring designers and brands from across the country
• Inspiring panel discussions
• Networking opportunities
• Vendor experiences
• Special recognitions
• Live entertainment, including a performance from Arleisha Marshall
• Additional surprise guests still to be announced

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, creator, fashion lover or simply someone looking for an empowering weekend, there will be plenty of opportunities to connect with women who are doing incredible things.

Why Events Like THICKCON Matter

One thing we’ve learned over the years is that online community is powerful.

But in person community?

That’s where friendships begin.

That’s where collaborations happen.

That’s where you realize you’re far from alone.

Our community deserves experiences that celebrate us without apology, and every event that invests in plus size women helps strengthen the ecosystem we’ve all worked so hard to build.

That’s why we’re proud to support THICKCON 2026 as an official media partner.

Ready to join the celebration? Visit THICKCON.com to learn more and purchase your tickets.

Join Us in Atlanta

If you’re anywhere near Atlanta, or you’ve been looking for a reason to plan a girls’ weekend, this may be it.

Come celebrate fashion.

Celebrate confidence.

Celebrate community.

Most importantly, celebrate yourself.

We can’t wait to see what THICKCON 2026 has in store this October.

Marie Denee