HSG

As reported on this forum before, the January 2010 edition of V Magazine will be a "size issue," due out January 14th.

Two editorials from the issue have already been released. The first was a disappointment. After Crystal Renn's attractively styled and posed Elle Canada layout, and her excellent Brigitte magazine spread, with its elegant, Old World aesethetic, the V story suffered from terribly modern styling and posing. Also, many writers felt disappointed that Crystal looked very thin (possible due more to excessive Photoshop than weight loss, but still . . .). It was not an auspicious omen for this issue.

Now, however, the second editorial, titled "Curves Ahead," photographed by Sølve Sundsbø, has been released, and it is worlds superior. In fact, it has produced an all-time masterpiece of curvaceous beauty.

We noted the fine work of Ford's Candice Huffine in a recent thread, expressing a wish that she were one size larger, but praising her soft physique.

This image celebrates her contours in an unapologetically sensual manner.

Just look at how this swimsuit, perfectly cut to showcase a full figure, displays the luxurious curves along the model's side. One sees her voluptuousness, and better still, an alluring swell at her abdomen. One might wish her limbs to be a tad fuller, but oh, it is those undulating curves at her side that make this one of the greatest images of plus-size beauty that we have ever seen. She appears seductively untoned (in the areas that matter most), well-fed and feminine.

If one can tear one's eyes away from her physique for a moment, one notices the other elements that make this image such a triumph. The pose is thrillingly passionate. Something about the way in which she clutches her stiletto heel gives the image a dramatic intensity. Her magnificent tresses flow in the wind. Candice's face is round and feminine--classically beautiful. The big accessories are very chic. Also, notice the hungry look that she exhibits. The viewer perceives the appetites that enabled her to acquire such a lush figure.

But all of those are extras. It is the undulating fullness at her midsection, her untoned, feminine physique, so lovingly presented, that is the key to the spectacular success of this image.

The photographer may have been inspired by Doutzen Kroes's recent swimwear candids in choosing the wardrobe for Candice, as Doutzen's swimsuit, cut in a similar manner, displayed slight curves along her side. Nothing like the alluring fleshiness of Candice's figure, though.

You can see more of this editorial at the models.com site here. Interestingly, the model featured in a state of undress, Tara Lynn, is listed as a size 16, but Candice's image, while clothed, is actually more sensual and size-positive. Posing matters, and sometimes, just a touch of clothing is more seductive than none at all.

V Magazine also features a behind-the-scenes video of this photoshoot on its site. The other pictures in the editorial are unremarkable. Nothing can compare to Candice's exciting masterpiece.

With our initial skepticism somewhat allayed, we are now curious to see what else this issue will offer. If nothing else, it has already produced an image for the ages, a magnificent example of Classical beauty interpreted in a timeless yet contemporary manner. Could lightning strike twice? We will have to wait and see.

- Click here to view image at a larger size