Plus-size model

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Velvet_D'Amour
Error creating thumbnail:
Tess_Holliday_-_Vogue_Taiwan_2020_(0)
1954_Lane_Bryant_catalog
File:BBW Cover Sample-1979-2003.png
BBW_Cover_Sample-1979-2003
File:Sample Covers of BBW Magazine circa 1979-2003.png
Sample_Covers_of_BBW_Magazine_circa_1979-2003
File:Mode Magazine Premiere Issue Cover.jpg
Mode_Magazine_Premiere_Issue_Cover
File:Sample Cover of Grace Woman Magazine.jpg
Sample_Cover_of_Grace_Woman_Magazine

Plus-size model

A plus-size model is a professional model who is engaged primarily in modeling plus-size clothing. Plus-size models are typically categorized by their size rather than their body measurements. They are generally considered to be models who wear a size 12 or larger in the United States, or size 16 or larger in the United Kingdom. Plus-size models are employed in various sectors of the fashion industry, including editorial modeling, runway modeling, commercial modeling, and fit modeling.

History[edit | edit source]

The concept of plus-size modeling emerged in the early 20th century, but it gained significant traction in the 1970s and 1980s. The first plus-size model agency, Big Beauties Little Women, was founded in 1977 by former plus-size model Mary Duffy. This agency paved the way for the acceptance and inclusion of plus-size models in mainstream fashion.

Industry Impact[edit | edit source]

Plus-size models have played a crucial role in challenging traditional beauty standards and promoting body positivity. They have been instrumental in the success of plus-size fashion brands and have helped to expand the market for plus-size clothing. Notable plus-size models include Ashley Graham, Tess Holliday, and Emme.

Categories of Plus-Size Modeling[edit | edit source]

Plus-size modeling can be divided into several categories:

  • Editorial Modeling: Plus-size models appear in fashion magazines, advertisements, and other media.
  • Runway Modeling: Plus-size models walk the runway for designers who create plus-size collections.
  • Commercial Modeling: Plus-size models are featured in advertisements for a wide range of products, not limited to clothing.
  • Fit Modeling: Plus-size models work with designers and manufacturers to ensure that clothing fits properly on larger bodies.

Challenges and Controversies[edit | edit source]

Despite the progress made, plus-size models still face challenges and controversies. The fashion industry has been criticized for its limited representation of diverse body types and for perpetuating unrealistic beauty standards. Additionally, the term "plus-size" itself has been a subject of debate, with some arguing that it reinforces negative stereotypes.

Related Pages[edit | edit source]

See Also[edit | edit source]

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD