HSG

It's a pleasure to see Kelly Spina back in the pages of Seventeen for the magazine's September issue--and this time, in an original image.

Not only is the photograph new, but it takes up the whole page. No longer relegated to tiny corner boxes or partial pages, Kelly now dominates the whole of p.78, top to bottom (albeit sharing the stage with various articles of clothing).

This is a significant advance. Now the next step will (hopefully) be a bona-fide magazine layout, set in a pretty, natural location.

Also, we are pleased to note how much improved the text is that accompanies the image. In the past, Seventeen copy has occasionally been plagued by mixed messages, but this time, the captions are quite size-positive, advising full-figured girls to choose a dress that "clings to your curves," and encouraging them to "show off" their shape--as they should. Bravo to Seventeen particularly for using the word "clings," which is precisely the correct approach to plus-size styling.

Now, if we come in close, we see just how pretty Miss Spina is. Fans continue to wish that she were fuller-figured, but she has a unique beauty that is simultaneously exotic and wholesome, pretty yet sensual. Note in particular the extremely appealing trace of fullness in the face, with the seductive hint of a curve under the chin. Her hair is styled in an very becoming way, in thick Romantic waves that suggest weight and opulence. The black nail polish is a wicked touch. She looks delighted with herself, proud of her stunning beauty--and who can blame her?

Kudos to Kelly for another great image, and to Seventeen for continuing to use this popular and gorgeous young model.

(Click on the images to view the page at a larger size.)

- Kelly Spina gallery