Fashion Industry
The fashion industry has long been criticized for its narrow standards of beauty, often excluding diverse body types. However, in recent years, there has been a significant shift towards inclusivity, with plus-size models playing a pivotal role in revolutionizing the fashion landscape. These trailblazers are challenging stereotypes, breaking barriers, and redefining beauty standards. Here, we celebrate 10 plus-size models who are making a lasting impact on the industry.
Ashley Graham
Ashley Graham is a household name in the world of plus-size modeling. Breaking through the industry’s traditional norms, Graham has graced the covers of major magazines, walked runways, and advocated for body positivity. As a pioneer, she has opened doors for many aspiring plus-size models, proving that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes.
Tess Holliday
Tess Holliday, a fierce advocate for body diversity, challenges conventional beauty standards with confidence and style. Holliday, who proudly embraces her size, has worked with renowned brands, becoming the first size-22 model to sign with a major modeling agency. Her unapologetic approach to self-love has inspired countless individuals to embrace their bodies.
Precious Lee
Breaking barriers in the fashion industry, Precious Lee has become a force to be reckoned with. As the first black plus-size model to feature in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, Lee’s presence is a testament to the growing acknowledgment of diverse beauty. She continues to pave the way for increased representation of plus-size women of color.
Paloma Elsesser
Paloma Elsesser is a trailblazer known for her fierce intelligence and unique style. As an advocate for inclusivity, Elsesser has been a driving force in reshaping the industry’s perception of beauty. With an impressive portfolio that includes collaborations with major fashion brands, she is breaking barriers and redefining standards of success for plus-size models.
Candice Huffine
Candice Huffine is a veteran in the world of plus-size modeling, having paved the way for many aspiring models. Known for her elegance and grace, she has graced the pages of prestigious fashion magazines and worked with renowned designers. Huffine’s enduring presence in the industry has played a crucial role in challenging outdated beauty ideals.
Hunter McGrady
Hunter McGrady is breaking barriers as a plus-size model in the swimwear and lingerie industry. Known for her Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue features, McGrady promotes body positivity and self-acceptance. Her activism and advocacy for size diversity have made her a role model for those seeking representation in mainstream media.
Denise Bidot
Denise Bidot is a model and entrepreneur making waves in the fashion industry. Her commitment to empowering women and promoting body positivity is evident in her work. Bidot is not only a successful model but also the founder of the “There Is No Wrong Way to Be a Woman” campaign, encouraging women to embrace their individuality.
Lizzo
While primarily known as a Grammy-winning artist, Lizzo has also become an influential figure in the fashion world. Embracing her curves and unique style, Lizzo challenges beauty norms and encourages others to do the same. Her bold and unapologetic presence is a testament to the growing acceptance of diverse body types in the entertainment and fashion industries.
Iskra Lawrence
Iskra Lawrence is a British model and body positivity advocate known for her commitment to promoting self-love. As a role model for young women, Lawrence has actively campaigned against unrealistic beauty standards. Through her work with Aerie’s #AerieREAL campaign, she has helped redefine beauty norms and promote inclusivity.
Philomena Kwao
Philomena Kwao is a Ghanaian-British model and advocate for diversity in the fashion industry. Kwao challenges stereotypes with her striking presence and has been a vocal supporter of inclusivity. As an ambassador for the “All Woman Project,” she continues to push for a more diverse representation of beauty in the media.
Conclusion
These 10 plus-size models are at the forefront of a fashion revolution, challenging long-standing norms and pushing for inclusivity. Their impact extends beyond the runway, influencing the industry to recognize and celebrate beauty in all its forms. As these trailblazers continue to inspire change, the fashion world is gradually becoming more diverse, accepting, and representative of the real, multifaceted beauty that exists in the world.
