Local designer to launch inaugural fall 2011 fashion line in New York City Naples Daily News User story from GravinaSmithMatteArnold Marina Zelner, the Naples-based creator of the new plus size fashion company, Queen Grace, will launch her inaugural Queen Grace Collection fashion line at Full Figured Fashion Week 2011, June 16 to 18 in New York City. The three-day event will include shopping, panel discussions, networking and a finale runway showcase exclusively for plus-sized women. The search to showcase the best independent designers, boutiques and retailers whose exceptional collections are targeted toward full-figured clientele culminated in the selection of Queen Grace Collection as one of the presenters at the finale showcase Saturday, June 18 at the New York Marriott Marquis in Times Square. Only 10 designers were selected from the more than 60 who submitted fashions for consideration. "I am overwhelmed to have been chosen to participate in the finale showcase, particularly since this is my first line after only six months in business," said Zelner. "Every piece in my collection is designed to empower and celebrate the strength and beauty of a full-figured woman." The collection offers a variety of sophisticated looks and timeless fashions that are fresh, innovative, elegant, sensual and affordable. All Queen Grace apparel is made from quality, comfortable material, tailored to flatter the curvy female form. From a pencil skirt to an evening gown, a silk blouse to a day dress, every piece in the collection celebrates a confident, modern woman who knows what she wants out of life. In addition to showcasing her Queen Grace Collection, Zelner will sponsor and help judge the Full Figured Fabulous runway model competition. Full Figured Fabulous is an annual runway modeling competition to showcase plus models sizes 14+ who would like to gain more experience and exposure via a competition environment. in 1988 and completed her undergraduate degree in organizational psychology at the City University of New York. degrees in human resource management and industrial organizational psychology. Her professional resume includes consulting, management training and leadership development at a variety of Fortune 500 companies. In 2003, she moved to Florida, where she became a founding partner and CFO of a multimillion-dollar commercial real estate development and investment company. In addition to a successful entrepreneurial career in other industries, Zelner enjoys assisting other full-figured businesswomen develop a unique sense of style and build a sophisticated wardrobe for all occasions. She has been invited to style European socialites, professional women and full-figured celebrities. Her passion for collecting vintage designs and fabrics and studying the art of fashion inspired her to embrace a change in her career and pursue a lifelong desire to build a fashion company that understands and supports full-figured women.