Val Thompson loves her curves yet knows firsthand the frustrations full-figured women often experience when they shop: Darts in the wrong places, large armholes, inferior workmanship and materials.
Lucky for the plus-size crowd that Valerie is a designer, and her Cushie B line of beautifully made clothes, fashioned in luxurious
fabrics, is all about them.
Why now?
Two years ago, Valerie was working crazy hours as corporate vice president of knitwear design for Bernard Chaus in New York City; her oldest daughter was in college; and her twins were almost in high school. She wanted more time at home.
“I’m big, have a hard time finding clothes I like, and knew it was time to start designing well-made, great fitting clothes for women like me,” she says.
Valerie switched to freelance design in NYC, and started Cushie B in her Stamford home. She is a staff of one: designer, chooser of fabrics, factory quality controller (her clothes are American-made), order-taker and fulfiller. She sells online and at trunk shows in area homes and charity events.
How is Cushie B different?
“The clothes fit really well,” she says. “I know how to size for a fuller figure. And there is an attention to detail not usually found in plus-size clothing.”
Valerie’s passion is knits, and she uses many, including in her snappy, new kimono wrap in teal and black. She calls her style feminine, simple, chic, and concentrates on classic tops—from T-shirts to cardigans—the basis of a great wardrobe. A full line of clothing is her dream. “I want every woman with curves to know my clothes will make her feel fabulous. My clothes build confidence!”
What’s with the name?
There is a little ditty that always reminds her of growing up in Newcastle, England: “She’s a big lass and a bonnie lass and she likes her beer. And they call her Cushie Butterfield and I wish she was here.”
Valerie explains: “I wanted a name that was soft and meant something to me. I love the song except I would change beer to wine.”