For the longest time, plus-size models have been sidelined while skinny and petite shape is what was considered the best fit in the fashion and modeling industry. Couple of years back, if you looked through fashion magazines, it was hard to cross a plus size woman.
For skinny women, it has always been easy and smooth getting into the modeling world as that was one of the major qualifications. However, things are changing now. More designers and fashion brands have realized the importance of including all shapes and sizes in their fashion shows.
It makes more sense for brands to have women of all sizes showcase their products as they also make products and clothing for different sizes, not just thin women. This is not only essential for the marketing but also for the positive impact it has brought in the industry as well as the society.
Plus Size Models are in Demand
Before we answer the question above, who are plus size models? This is a category of models that are said to be above the standard sizing of the modeling industry. While there is no agreed standard size, we all have seen the types of models popular on runways and magazines.
While the plus size model sector is not as big, things are different now and the industry has realized that the majority of their prospective customers are actually above the standard sizes they have created for their suited models. This has led to the rise in demand for plus size models in the industry.
It is unrealistic to see skinny women on the runway for a plus size clothing line or brands that make clothes for women of all sizes. For that reason, if there is a better time to join the industry in full force as a plus size model, that would be now.
There are multiple different categories of modeling that you can choose to take up on. This includes the catwalk, or runway modeling, lookbook, commercial, and editorial modeling (for advertisement and digital campaigns), catalog modeling, art modeling, video advertising, showroom model, and influencer modeling among others.
The Impact of Having Plus Size Models in the Industry
Let’s face reality, when it comes to looks and appearances, models, influencers, and all these people we see on TV and social media play a big part in how we feel in our own skin. It is not odd for younger, or even older, fans comparing themselves with their favorite models and celebrities.
This definitely took a toll on how people looked at themselves. When you see a Victoria secret’s skinny model looking hot in that lingerie, that you can’t afford to put on because of your size led to people falling into depression, eating disorders, starving themselves, and other forms of physical and mental torture.
Here are some ways the plus size modeling has impacted the society;
- Plus size women are loving themselves more and taking good care of their bodies. A lot of people have learned that women will always be of different sizes and it is okay to fall in the plus size category. No one needs to starve themselves to be skinny and “fit”.
- Society has accepted thick women more. Well, there has never been a written rule about skinny models and plus size women, but times have definitely changed. We can see plus size women being involved in modeling and other multiple fashion events.
- It has helped boost self esteem amongst those considered plus size. We can now see women of all shapes and sizes wearing whatever they can and walking shoulder high, because there is no shame in being whatever size.
