The Face of Monif C. - Mia Amber Davis Yard Passes Away
By now many of you have probably heard or read the devastating news that my friend and the face of Monif C. Plus Sizes, Supermodel Mia Amber Davis Yard, has passed away. It has taken me a week to even try to write down my feelings about Mia because my heart is so heavy and I am overwhelmed with sadness.
Mia texted me on Sunday, Mother's Day. After my mom passed away a year and a half ago and Mia's husband Mike's dad passed about a year ago, Mia and I always made it a point to reach out to each other on Mother's Day and Father's Day no matter where we were. We texted back and forth about her time in Los Angeles, and the show she was producing, that she missed me, and that we may see each other in June. Two days later, Mia passed away.
I met Mia back in 2005 within months of starting Monif C. She modeled for me in a fashion show produced by Gwen Devoe called Dangerous Curves. I was immediately struck by her confidence, beauty (Mia was beyond gorgeous), and just how sweet she was. Only a few months later, my mom and I contacted her to shoot with us. Those early days of shooting with Mia were a trip. I remember the scene like it was yesterday...we used to shoot with Kristie Lee out in Westfield, Mia would do her own hair and I'd do her makeup (:side eye) and even if the shoot took 2 hours more than we allotted, Mia never complained...we'd leave the shoot, go get some pizza, laugh it up and go home.
Many Monif C. fans know Mia as the face of Monif C....and she was. Mia worked with us on numerous photoshoots and even when we decided to work with other models, somehow, someway, we always got back around to shooting with Mia. Matter of fact, she and I were making plans to shoot the fall 2011 collection together when she got back from LA. Where ever I go, people always tell me, you know that model on your website, she is stunning...or I buy anything Mia models...or it feels so good to see a woman that looks like me modeling your clothes. In addition to being the face of Monif C., Mia became a champion for Monif C. She did public relations for us in the early days, writing press releases, planning numerous Curvy Girls Night Outs, and whenever there was a casting or TV opportunity, Mia always called me to submit Monif C. Mia is one of the most sincere, compassionate, loving people I know. I remember her telling me stories of women coming up to her on the train and throughout NYC, and she always stopped and talked to them. She even started her blog MiaAmber.com to provide tips to women on how to become a plus size model.
Throughout those years of shooting together, a true friendship developed. Mia and I joined a fitness bootcamp together and after class would sometimes spend hours talking. I worried about the future of Monif C. and many times wanted to close the business. Mia would tell me, are you crazy? What will all of us wear? Mia would sometimes worry about her own future within this industry and even though she accomplished so much would often wonder what more she could do. I was always pushing her telling her, women look up to you, you are an inspiration and doors will continue to open for you to shine your light. I remember one night in Fort Greene Park breaking down and telling Mia that my mother had her second bout with breast cancer and really worrying about her future. We prayed together and she told me everything was going to be alright. Mia was always reassuring, loving, and loyal. She had a way of making you feel alright even in tough situations.
I always say that when someone comes into your life and leaves such an indelible mark, it's because God is trying to show you how you can be a better person. Mia's life has encouraged me to be even more kind, loving, gracious, and encouraging. Mia will hopefully also be an inspiration to all women to follow your dreams. Mia was steadfast in reaching for new goals and taking on new endeavors (tv producing, modeling for Kimora Lee Simmons, advocating for the plus size woman on CNN). I hope that this will show us all that we are never promised tomorrow so it is imperative that we reach for the stars and make each day count by following our purpose and passion.
Mia was an angel on earth and now she's an angel in heaven. I love you Mia and miss you terribly.
I am asking anyone who loved, admired, or was inspired by Mia to support her family and funeral costs by donating to the Mia Amber Fund, click here to donate.
Here are a few pictures and video of my girl in action...one of the best to ever do it...
Comments
charmaine | May 18, 2011 @ 10:01 AM
She was stunning in all her pictures, when i saw her in those clothes made me want to buy each one i saw. RIP my sista.
Queen Bee | May 18, 2011 @ 10:04 AM
Rip you have done a job well done Mia!!!
Jennifer | May 18, 2011 @ 10:05 AM
wow Monif this is soooo shocking!! Just like I feel like I know you, I feel the same way about Mia because she was the face of Monif C when I first discovered your clothing line. I am extremely sad but I celebrate the person she was and I am happy we have beautiful pictures and stories to remember her by…praying for you and her family and friends.
love you,
Jennifer
la jones | May 18, 2011 @ 10:09 AM
beautiful post monif - you captured the essence of mia in such a kind, loving, and true fashion. i didn’t know her well, but she was also so sweet and i, like many, was highly encouraged by her determination and achievements. thanks for sharing your personal memories and i hope to see you soon…
Kisha | May 18, 2011 @ 10:12 AM
Ms. Monif, I’m sending my deepest sympathies to you and Mia’s family and friends. She was truly an inspiration to so many, including myself. I would see your clothes on her, and had to have them! I adored her, she represented our beauty like a Queen! God has welcomed a fierce Angel in Heaven. May she forever rest in his arms. She will never be forgotten. Be strong Queen, be strong!
Kisha
Eleshia Dotson | May 18, 2011 @ 10:30 AM
Thank you Mia Amber Davis Yard for giving us full figure sistas a voice. You were the essence of grace and style. Even as we saw you on a many billboards and photos, your beauty shined from within. My heart and prayers go out to your family. I thank God for sharing one of his many treasures(Mia Amber). R. I.P. Mia, I know you are in heaven “Rippin the the Runway”.
Crystal | May 18, 2011 @ 10:35 AM
Monif, Staff and family of Mia - sending you love and prayers during this time.
This is a moving and wonderful tribute to your friend.
After reading the first few lines - I smiled. You know your followers and clients - the selling factor for me on each piece I have by you (whether purchased on your website or at a MonifC vendor) were driven as well as inspired by Mia.
Thanks, Monif was honoring your friend and introducing and sharing her with us.
Marissa | May 18, 2011 @ 10:39 AM
I’m so sorry you’ve lost a dear friend, Monif. My thoughts are with you and others who loved Mia. I’m always a phone call away if you need to talk. Love, Marissa
One Single Rose | May 18, 2011 @ 10:41 AM
I am saddened to learn of Mia’s loss. Your tribute in her blog made tears well up in my eyes. . .when I scrolled down and saw Mia’s pics, they streamed down my face. Such a beautiful woman gone too soon. I know you will keep her legacy alive for the plus sized women. My prayers go up for your strength and that of her family.
Cindi L | May 18, 2011 @ 10:41 AM
Well written Mo. You can tell that she was a beautiful person inside and out. My prayers go out to her family and friends. RIP Mia.
Anjie Hosley | May 18, 2011 @ 10:43 AM
I am saddened for our loss. I prayer for her husband. She was truly a role model for me. I even used her picture as my profile on FaceBook last year when I was looking for and promoting beautiful women. My heart aches a little today. Be blessed Monif!
Dee | May 18, 2011 @ 10:44 AM
Such beautiful words for a truly beautiful and inspirational person to all women.
When I first heard about Mia’s passing days ago, I immediately thought of you Monif.
I did not know Mia personally, but her beauty went far beyond the surface, and shined through her photos and the television screen. My prayers go out to her family, loved ones and friends.
Natalie | May 18, 2011 @ 10:45 AM
I recall the first time I saw both of you—Monif, you had a sale in lower Manhattan, I think on 34th street or nearby. I was blown away by your clothes and style and Mia was there! Wow—she gave me the confidence to think that I could and SHOULD show off my curves! Surreal to think she is gone on. But that feeling of pride and confidence that she instilled in all the curvy ladies like her, will live on and on and on. God bless her. God’s peace to her family and friends.
Shatima Brooks | May 18, 2011 @ 10:48 AM
This was very beautiful, and well put together. Pictures are out of this world;-) I never met her, But all I can say is everyone had the same thing to say about her. She seem to be a beautiful Angel inside and out. May she Rest In Peace.
Richmiel | May 18, 2011 @ 10:49 AM
Monif, I know your heart is heavy and your loss is hurtful to your core. There are no words that can help relieve you from grieving for your friend. After the loss of my father this March, a friend gave me a book “Written in Tears” by Luke Veldt. From it, I have been comforted by God’s word in Psalm 103, knowing we will never have an answer or be appeased by knowing “WHY?”. But know and rest that God knows you and your suffering and feels your pain, HE will never leave or foresake you!!! Be strong my sister and whenever you feel that light touch that seems to warn and brings beautiful life and people in your world, know it is your Mom and Mia looking out for their favorite girl!! Be strong and blessed my beautiful sister!
Shantel | May 18, 2011 @ 10:49 AM
Mia is the reason that I LOVE your clothes! She’s the reason I HAD to have that curve hugging, rouched waist, RED dress. She made those clothes (which are already stunning) SANG!! I began to LOVE and want to show off my curves instead of hiding them under big ugly clothes. I remember the 1st yr y’all did BET RTR..My family thought I was crazy the way I screamed, jumped, and cried in front of my TV screen. To see us represented so beautifully, so gracefully, so fiercely! I LOVE you all for what you do @ Monif C. I didn’t know Mia personally..but her spirit lives on forever. NOBODY ripped the runway like her! God bless her family & friends.
Love From Louisville, KY
Shantel
Latashia Gordon | May 18, 2011 @ 10:50 AM
For years, I submitted my pictures to try and become a model for Monif C. because of Mia Amber. I remember all the way back to the movie road trip! When I saw that she was the main model for you guys- I was like, “Wow, she looks great now!” Not that she didn’t before. This is very shocking, but it’s GODs doing!!! I pray for your strength Monif. I also pray for her husband and family as well. I know GOD just added another angel to watch over you and her family! Blessings to you and your staff as well. Be strong and remember it’s okay to cry. But also remember it’s even better to laugh and remember the good times!
-Latashia
MsNickee Mack | May 18, 2011 @ 10:50 AM
This made me cry all over again. Beautiful Tribute still stunned however she is truly in a better place. However we will miss our Angel on earth! Thank you for this!
Erika | May 18, 2011 @ 10:52 AM
I’m very sad to hear about her passing…she was definitely a beautiful woman! My heart and prayers go out to you and her family.
LatashaMAE | May 18, 2011 @ 10:54 AM
Thank you for your transparency Monif…I did not know Mia on a personal level, so for you to share what you have makes me grieve for her from a different perspective rather than just as a fan. In the past 1.5 years I have suddenly lost my daddy, age 49 and my younger brother, age 29…loss is loss and I hurt with you.
Andrea M. Bunton | May 18, 2011 @ 10:58 AM
Mia Ambers is someone who touched many all over the world, I never met her personnally but she touched my life in more ways than one. When I succeed into the plus size industryy i will dedicated everything I do to her. She was a natural and I feel like I missed out by not being able to meet her. God has his angel now, Rest in Peace Mia Ambers, you are gone but never forgotten.
Chiquita Y Carson | May 18, 2011 @ 11:01 AM
Monif….Blessings to you and your business. God has given you a talent to service the full figure woman and its great. I love everything. Maybe in our future we’ll work together on a project i have a vision for the full figure woman.
I’m so sorry for your loss. However in time God heals the heaviness.
Chiquita Y Carson
Also a friend on facebook Yvette Carson
Kia | May 18, 2011 @ 11:01 AM
Monif C. thank you so much for such a beautiful tribute for such a beautiful individual. I remember seeing Mia graced the runways,and modeling online for certain boutiques,and retailers. I remember thinking: ” This sister is beautiful,and she is rocking it!” People like you, and Mia inspire me to always love me no matter what. Monif C, I have always loved your fashions, but seeing them on Mia,and how she rocked them made me want to purchase each,and every piece though I have only purchased a few from you. I just say this to say that she truly was inspiration,and she owned it, anything she would wear. Thank you so much Monif C. I hope that you will continue to stay uplifted,and positive during this time,and continue to grace us with your beauty,and fashions. With Love Kia.
Christine | May 18, 2011 @ 11:02 AM
absolutely beautiful tribute to Ms. Yard. RIP you beautiful black woman
najwa moses | May 18, 2011 @ 11:03 AM
Girl my heart literally stopped when I read about this. Mia was such a beauty, talent and sweetheart-thanks for this lovely post!
Mocha Bronz Goddess | May 18, 2011 @ 11:07 AM
Mia was a beautiful woman that blessed many with her talent. It hurt my heart to hear a young woman left us too soon. May her family & friends find peace during this difficult time. May her legacy of projecting positive images of curvy plus sized women live on.
Melinda Smith | May 18, 2011 @ 11:11 AM
Thank you Monif for sharing your kind words and the beautiful photos of Mia. She is now an angel in heaven watching over all of us…
She will truly be missed.
TBRAXTONBELVIN | May 18, 2011 @ 11:22 AM
A beautiful way to remember a friendship. May your memories comfort you.
Rasheedah | May 18, 2011 @ 11:23 AM
Lovely inpiration to all of the beautiful and confidant plus size women, love to see women that represents me do so with such style and grace may she RIP
Felicity Swanson | May 18, 2011 @ 11:25 AM
I was very sad to see an article on Essence.com about Mia. I could not believe this. Her pizazz will always be a memory to me of Monif. As she always brought her “A” game. Monif, you have my deepest sympathy in the loss of your friend. I love you and I’m praying for you and Mia’s family for God to comfort you all in the of your loss.
Ellarose Preston | May 18, 2011 @ 11:26 AM
Monif, thank you for sharing this tribute with us. Mia was truly an inspiration and will be missed. I will keep her family and friends lifted in my prayers.
Voluptous Bronze Goddess | May 18, 2011 @ 11:27 AM
I am deeply saddened by the loss of Mia. She was gorgeous and made me PROUD to be a Full size DIVA.
Monif you’re tribute is so touching that I write this through my tears. Thank you for showing US in OUR BEST LIGHT ALWAYS!!
May Mia rest in peace and her family and friends take comfort in the fact that ‘to be absent from the body, is to be present with GOD”
Mia will truly be missed.
Lydia | May 18, 2011 @ 11:28 AM
Beautiful tribute Monif. I just called the shop yesterday and shared with Brandon that I’m keeping you all in my thoughts during this time.
Lydia
Cammy | May 18, 2011 @ 11:42 AM
BEAUTIFUL.
Brownshuga24 | May 18, 2011 @ 11:43 AM
I am soooo saddened by this! I was terribly shocked when my sister shared the post with me about Mia’s passing. She was GORGEOUS and seemed to be a very kind person. I also enjoyed browsing Monif C.‘s site and looking at all of pieces that Mia modeled. She will be missed!
Sequenthia Frank-Russell | May 18, 2011 @ 11:46 AM
I remember seeing Mia model the Nelli Ruched dress; after seeing her I had to have it….she was such a beutiful model, very professional and well spoken .She will truly be missed.
Sarah Joy | May 18, 2011 @ 11:48 AM
First, my sincere sympathies at the loss of your dear friend. Also, thank you so much for sharing your thoughts and memories. Its always nice to get a glimpse of the real person rather than just the “celebrity” version. I loved the pics of you two working out in the park. Prayers to you and her family.
Shawnte | May 18, 2011 @ 12:06 PM
i was so deeply saddened when i heard this…Mia was one of the reasons i have tried and still plan on pursing plus modeling…truly a natural beauty..you were lucky Monif to have such a angel in your presence…my heart goes out to her family, and you and know that when she left this earth, God just made room enough for her among his angels..God bless and be strong
Alisha | May 18, 2011 @ 12:24 PM
Mia was such a beautiful lady. I bought my 30th birthday dress because she had it on. I didnt know her personally but i can tell by all of her pictures that she had Amazing Confidence. She will truly be missed on the Monif C website. Prayers go out to you and her family. So Sad…..
Errorka Russell | May 18, 2011 @ 12:28 PM
Thank you so much for sharing this tribute… I’m so sad about Mia’s death as she was such a beautiful person inside and out!! My prayers are with her family. GOD BLESS THEM AND KEEP THEM STRONG!!
heloris | May 18, 2011 @ 12:28 PM
i’m sad to hear about mia she was so beautiful love your family and friends
Carlena O'juicy1 Funches | May 18, 2011 @ 12:36 PM
I’m speechless and my heart is heavy! She was a beautiful woman and I loved seeing her work. GOD is in control and HE has truly called one of HIS angels home!
Caprice Love B. (L.I.) | May 18, 2011 @ 12:45 PM
When I received an e-mail this morning b4 I’d opened it I was like okay what’s new@ Monif C. Like most I certainly wasn’t expecting this. :’-( I like many am still in shock. Mia(golden-amazon) gone2soon. Although I didn’t know Mia personally.it was apparent she had an inner light& beauty that glowed just like her skin. Mia exuded confidence. All of whom& what she touched was & still is a “blessing”. We were robbed!!!! They say God takes the best. That is Mia. My heart &well; wishes go out to Mia’s family& close friend’s. As well as Ms. Monif C & staff. Mia will truly be missed but…. “Never4gotten”!!!! We Love U Mia o:-* sincerely from Caprice B. (L.I.)
charmaine | May 18, 2011 @ 12:46 PM
RIP
Daynette Jones | May 18, 2011 @ 12:52 PM
My mother & I attended the fashion show in Los Angeles, on Saturday May 7th, seeing Mia for the first time in person. I was so amazed, happy, shocked, to see that Mia was standing two feet away from me. I whisphered to my mom, “thats the model we adore from Monif” so we took pics from a distance, and I was going to ask to take a pic with her, as I was on my way to Mia, the CEO of the fashion show approached me & said, “I want you to model with my troupe”, I was so excited, but regret not getting over to Mia to take a photo, not knowing that would be the first & last time I would see her beautiful smile in person.
Theresa Carson | May 18, 2011 @ 1:00 PM
RIP MIA….what a tribute!!! When I first saw the ad for Monif C….Mia made every dress u have look Fabulous!!!! My condolences to her family…I love ur dresses Monif C.
Alexandra | May 18, 2011 @ 1:02 PM
I am so sorry for your lost. My heart goes out to her family.
This should be the wake up call for everyone around the world, tomorrow is not ours to promise or plan. Live your best life now.
RIP beautiful lady, you will be missed!
Randa P. | May 18, 2011 @ 1:14 PM
I discovered Mia when i was about 16 and trying to find out more about who i was..i was uncomfortable with my body and really wanted to see if there were other women out there that looked like me. I found Mia Amber online and she instantly took my breathe away!! I couldnt believe how beautiful she was and how tall and statuesque she was. I wanted to be just like her. During that time i was wearing baggy mens clothes to hide all that i had going on….(which wasnt anything major) now that i look back on it!! Mia Amber gave me courage at first glance i always wanted to meet her… ppl always tell me till this day..“Randa you carry yourself so well and you dress so nice” I owe that to her. I am devastated that i wont get that opportunity to meet her but will definitely pass on her legacy!! MiaAmber will never be forgotten and sorely missed!!! We Love You!!
Da'von (Chicago) | May 18, 2011 @ 1:18 PM
OMG OMG OMG I’m sooo heart broken, Monif I am praying for her family as well as you and I’ll definitely make a contribution. We have to cherish the lives we live and love the people that are in it, b/c tomorrows not promised and time waits on no one. I am soo sorry for your loss and I know and it’ll never be ok but the minutes in the days will get easier.
Peace and Love Always
Limarie | May 18, 2011 @ 1:35 PM
Thank you for sharing your photos and a little about your friendship with Mia. She was someone who everyone can learn something from….she lived her dream. I am praying for you and her husband and family Monif. Mia will forever be missed, keep on pushing with your work knowing that she believes in you and so do we. You too are helping to make a difference from the full figured woman everywhere by doing what you love. Peace and many mnay blessings my sister. Love, Limarie Lewis
Miriam | May 18, 2011 @ 1:56 PM
R.I.P Mia. I liked Mia the day I met her. You going to be missed. I am so sad right now I cannot say more.
Megan C | May 18, 2011 @ 2:53 PM
Thank you so much for giving this beautiful dedication to Mia and giving those of us who will never have the pleasure of meeting her insight into who she was on the inside. I always admired Mia’s work and she was definitley and inspiration to me!! Mia looked amazing in everything :-) She exuded beauty and it was obvious through her smile just how big her heart was! The plus size community has definitely lost an Icon! My prayers are with you and Mia’s family. Rest peacefully angel Mia! You will truly be missed!!
lisa | May 18, 2011 @ 2:58 PM
Mia was very specail and very kind. Never had to act BIG her heart did the talking. I remember when she booked me on the Star Jones Show, usually as a model you have to run people down for a copy of your appearance. Mia sent me so many dvds I had extra. But that is how nice she really was. She just left something special when she left u. I can’t describe what it was. It was what they call the IT FACTOR.
Treneice "Barbie Diva" | May 18, 2011 @ 3:01 PM
This was an AMAZING tribute Monif… We will definately have some big shoes to fill…She was a REAL down to earth woman who embraced her curves and inspired us all…. Mia will remain with us as plus size models and live on through us… never forgotten and her LEGACY will and SHALL live on… LOVE YOU MIA
Jan | May 18, 2011 @ 3:03 PM
Thank you so much for sharing with us. My heart goes out to you and all of Mia’s friends and family. She was such a beautiful person and an inspiration to us all to keep following our dreams. I hope you continue to follow yours. In those dark hours please remember her encouragement and keep pressing on. You give the rest of us curvey women confidence in ourselves and our curves in spite of what the rest of the world may say. And you have created a beautiful clothing line that finally embraces curves instead of trying to hide them. Thank you!
Sharon | May 18, 2011 @ 3:30 PM
What a tribute to your friend! I cried all the way through. I feel as though I knew Mia. She is an icon, and I mourn her passing with you.
Tracy | May 18, 2011 @ 3:44 PM
Give God the glory. You have been a blessing and an inspiration to all of of women. May you rest in peace…
The Classic Plus Size Woman | May 18, 2011 @ 4:17 PM
l will certainly miss her gorgeous face and style. It’s good to know that she was as lovely on the inside as she was on the outside. Rest with the angels Mia.
Aimee Cheshire | May 18, 2011 @ 4:26 PM
What a beautiful post, dedicated to such a amazing woman. Thank you for sharing with us.
Serwa | May 18, 2011 @ 4:57 PM
I remember meeting Mia Amber years ago when Monique did ” Monique’s Fat chance”. We all sat outside waiting to make our mark in the modeling industry…..she did it and then some! Mia was an inspiration to me then and this tribute to her lets me know that she was truly and amazing woman.
Many blessings to her family and friends to stay strong and to cherish her memory…...she was a fabulous person.
Dj Lady Lockz | May 18, 2011 @ 5:26 PM
Mia Luv you will trully be missed! She will always be the Face for Curvy Beautiful Women! Monif Stay Strong! Much Blessings to both of you beautiful Souls! And my Staff and Friends send our Condolences to the Yard and Davis Family.
Keturah Medlock | May 18, 2011 @ 5:33 PM
OMG this is such shock! I brought my first dress ( mia in the valentines day add ) because of her!!! Rest n peace. my prayers are with you all!!
Shephard | May 18, 2011 @ 6:16 PM
Angel.
Justin McClure | May 18, 2011 @ 6:52 PM
This was so awesome and thoughtful that you took the time to put this together….bless you. Very loevlyl.
Sharon Christopher | May 18, 2011 @ 7:15 PM
What a beautiful tribute! I didn’t know her but wish I did. Know she is with the Lord and may she rest in peace.
Candice215 | May 18, 2011 @ 7:58 PM
thank you for sharing your memories sometimes we get caught up with all the fluff in our lives and forget to enjoy the people around us
Gloria Chandler | May 18, 2011 @ 8:35 PM
I only began receiving information about Monif C. about 2 months ago, and being a plus size women was very thankful to know there were such beautiful fashions available on line. I thank GOD she was on this earth long enough to be made known to us all with her creative gift placed within her by our heavenly father.
You have my deepest sympathies, and my prayer is that GOD will provide his peace and comfort to her family at this time. For she will truly be missed.
GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
lafrancelc8 | May 18, 2011 @ 9:36 PM
She radiates beauty—her gift and talent was shared with all of us!!! I appreciate you Monifah for having the insight and wisdom to have her to show us your beautiful pieces. While I know it is difficult,please take comfort in knowing how much others care. Although I did not know your friend, I could see her beauty within and truly she was a pioneer in modeling—so glad her dream was shared with all of us as a true Rose!!! Thank you!!
Desiree Fleming | May 18, 2011 @ 10:12 PM
Thank you for sharing. Very touching tribute to absolutely fabulously beautiful young woman. Gone too soon.
Bishop Satin L. Greene | May 18, 2011 @ 10:19 PM
WOW! I’m blown away by this. She is so beautiful. Sorry for the lost Monif C. I’m sure was just like family.
Regina | May 18, 2011 @ 10:21 PM
Monif, we are all experiencing your and Mia’s family’s pain. We should all be comforted by the beautiful legacy that Mia has left. God loaned her to us and we should appreciate the time we were allowed to share her. She brought such joy and love and that was a very important commandment fulfilled. She merely has a new address, Heaven. I pray that God embraces all with His Peace.
April | May 18, 2011 @ 10:23 PM
Beautiful tribute, Monif. Like so many people have said before, Mia was truly an inspiration. After admiring your clothes for years, I remember seeing Mia in the convertible dresses for your Fall 2009 campaign. I knew at that moment I had to have one, so at your shopping party in Los Angeles in October of 2009 I purchased my first convertible dress. Mia’s beauty and grace will be missed and anyone reading your tribute can feel the love you have for her. God bless you and Mia’s family during this difficult time.
Ruby | May 18, 2011 @ 11:32 PM
Thank you for sharing what a special person she was and what a great friendship you both encountered. My prayers are with you and everyone connected to Mia.
Moe | May 19, 2011 @ 1:30 AM
She was beautiful inside and out.
I had forgotten those exercise pieces you guys did those were fab.
Mia will be remembered fondly.
Tanya | May 19, 2011 @ 3:40 AM
Thanks for the wonderful picture memorial of this beautiful woman who has helped many other full figured women feel sexy in our clothing choices. God Bless to Ms Mia, her family and friends such as yourself!
Lovely | May 19, 2011 @ 5:59 AM
OMG! :( I was going through my email just now and my heart sank to my feet. I am soooo sorry for your loss, and my thoughts and prayers are with Mia’s friends and family right now.
Red | May 19, 2011 @ 10:29 AM
I didn’t know Mia personally, but always checked out the fashions and listened to the updates going on for Plus size women. I’m so sorrrry to hear about her passing and she will truly be missed. My Prays go out to her husband & family. Blessed Be.
Madonna Boyd | May 19, 2011 @ 11:23 AM
She inspired me. I worked part time at Ashley Stewart where her face was always posted. I did Gwen Devoe’s FFF competition in 2006 after being inspired by the pictures and myspace profiles of Mia, Joanne B, and Maddy. I didnt win the competition but i have walked differently ever since. With pride in my body and confidence in my curves. Its strange to cry about someone you never met but she helped me so much just by taking pictures with her pretty self.
Heaven just gained a hot new angel. God bless her loved ones. This cant be easy.
L.... Jackson | May 19, 2011 @ 1:35 PM
I am so sorry for your loss. She was a beautiful woman! My prayers go out to all of her friends and family
Querida | May 19, 2011 @ 1:47 PM
I am so glad that you, Monif took out the time to post and pay tribute to Mia. Very often plus size model go unnoticed but Mia had a spirit transcend through pictures and she will truly be missed.
Merri | May 19, 2011 @ 3:31 PM
Miss Monif, this was a lovely tribute. Thank you for all the great pictures you posted. As a full figured woman, I always admired the way Mia was represented as a classy, beautiful, sexy woman. To now know that she was kind at heart as well, just emphasizes the void her passing has created.
Rest in peace, Mia.
Tasha C. | May 19, 2011 @ 3:34 PM
Such a loss, such a young and beautiful young lady. May she Rest In Paradise…..God Bless.
Denine | May 19, 2011 @ 6:43 PM
Mia’s BEAUTIFUL image leaping out at me was one of the main reasons why I came to Monif C. To purchase the sea blue Marilyn long dress. I saw how pretty and confident she looked and made the decision to come and buy one from the NYC studio! It saddens me to know such a vibrant beauty has passed away! Monif words cannot say how much you both have done for so many of us who, are not appreciated by the fashion industry! I pray that you and Mia’s family find comfort in knowing that she will forever be BEAUTIFUL as she rests in the arms of GOD! You all have my utmost sympathy and condolences! She will truly be missed!
Keisha | May 20, 2011 @ 9:14 AM
My God, she was so beautiful. I have a picture of her on my fridge in a dress that I would love to have for my vacation/honeymoon…I use her as my muse to watch what I eat. I just recently had minor surgery and thought about her and her unfortunate end following a similar procedure…never meeting her and feeling a connection to Mia is amazing. She will certainly be missed.
Rasheeda | May 20, 2011 @ 6:45 PM
I heard a few days after and all I could do is repeat “What girl”... “Who”....“who are u talkin about and through out the whole time I knew who it was. I went to sleep right then and there. I didnt know her personally but through movies and modeling for u and others she was the “IT” girl and I would love to modle like her one day. Condolences to Mias family, friends and followers….I lost a friend a few years ago and I think about him daily. R.I.P.
regnoult severine | May 20, 2011 @ 11:12 PM
Bonjour,
Merci à Monif c pour tout son talent et aussi pour nous rendre si jolies, nous les femmes qui avons un petit truc en plus….
severine
regnoult severine | May 20, 2011 @ 11:19 PM
Beaucoup de courage et beaucoup d’amour a tous ceux qui l’adoraient….
4CoverGirl | May 21, 2011 @ 2:53 AM
Mia Amber was my favorite Plus Size Supermodel. I watched Rip the Runway just to see her and what she would have on. I always wanted the clothes she modeled because then I could judge how the clothes would fit me. I loved the fact that she was a Real full-figured woman. Thank you Monif C for using MIa as your “TopModel” because that what she was for me “The Best”.
Sonjia Winley | May 22, 2011 @ 5:27 PM
I rmember day dreaming a day before i found out how dope it would be if I could get Mia to make an apperance at my boutique opening. Mia was the best at what she did she always talked the the camera with her eyes she will be missed
Sheri Collins | May 23, 2011 @ 9:18 AM
Hi Monif, You’ve done a beautiful job of honoring Mia in this tribute. I was not able to make it to the funeral, but my thoughts and prayers were with you and her family. I know this is very difficult for you because when I heard I cried and I didn’t know her very well at all. But I remember her spirit and what it was like to be in her presence. She was a fabulous curvy woman with the power and confidence to make things happen! She was fearfully and wonderfully made: an extraordinary example of God’s marvelous work for us all to see!
BEVERLY WILSON | May 25, 2011 @ 7:05 AM
What a beautiful tribute. To a person who was both beautiful inside and out. May his love and force be with Mia and her family always.
Grace | May 25, 2011 @ 9:39 AM
My condolences go out to the family and friends of Mia. May her memory and contributions continue to be a source of comfort and inspiration to us ALL.
Live on in spirit and our hearts Mia….......
Debbie | May 31, 2011 @ 1:48 PM
So sorry, What a true inspiration Mia is and such a beautiful person. She inspired me…. to love myself.
God Bless!
Shelly Hurtt | Jun 3, 2011 @ 1:12 AM
I was so sad to hear of her passing, and still just cannot believe it. Such a beautiful person, I wish I would have gotten to meet her. Rest In Peace Pretty Girl!
William Banks | Jun 5, 2011 @ 1:37 AM
She was beautiful,talented,and inspiration to us all. Her legacy lives on. My condolences and prayers are with her friends and family.