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28 July 2023
In recent years, a seismic shift has been shaking the modeling industry. The focus, once exclusively on size-zero models, is now broadening. We’re experiencing an inspiring movement toward inclusivity and diversity, with plus-size models leading the charge, promoting body positivity, and challenging entrenched norms. This transition hasn’t been without hurdles, but it’s reshaping the fashion world in profound ways. In this detailed exploration, we’ll delve into this transformative journey.
A New Standard for Beauty
Every revolution begins with a spark. For the modeling industry, that spark was the rise of plus-size models. These figures challenged and continue to challenge the narrowly defined standards of beauty the fashion world once staunchly defended. Models like Emme Aronson, the first recognized plus-size supermodel, set the tone in the ’90s, appearing on mainstream magazine covers and significant fashion campaigns. This momentum continues to fuel the rise of the plus-size modeling industry.
The role of plus-size models is more than aesthetic; it’s symbolic. These individuals represent a demographic that’s been sidelined due to the industry’s rigid beauty standards. Their presence is a call to challenge these stereotypes, advocating for the right to feel beautiful and worthy, regardless of size.
Numerous plus-size models are driving change in the industry. Ashley Graham, the first plus-size model on the cover of Sports Illustrated ‘s swimsuit issue, has used her platform to encourage body positivity and inclusivity. Similarly, Tess Holliday, the creator of the #EffYourBeautyStandards movement, has taken social media by storm, using it to inspire self-love and acceptance among her followers.
Inclusivity in modeling isn’t limited to size; it also encompasses gender and sexual identity. In recent years, the fashion industry has seen an increase in LGBTQ+ plus-size models, such as Hunter Schafer and Jari Jones, who are breaking barriers for queer representation in fashion. These models not only challenge size norms but also promote broader acceptance and understanding for the LGBTQ+ community within the industry.
Social media, notably Instagram, has offered an invaluable platform for plus-size models. This tool enables them to display their work and communicate directly with a global audience. It’s about more than posting images; social media is a potent tool for challenging harmful beauty standards and cultivating a community of acceptance and self-love.
Despite the progress, plus-size models face significant obstacles. Limited opportunities, compared to their slender counterparts, and outright body-shaming indicate the industry has further to grow. However, these challenges only fuel the determination of these models, who continue to defy stereotypes and pave the way for inclusivity.
Brands and designers play a crucial role in driving this change. Several companies have stepped up to embrace plus-size models, leading a shift toward a more inclusive industry. Brands like ASOS and Savage X Fenty, which feature models of diverse sizes in their campaigns, are shaping a more accepting future.
Body positivity is a universal issue, transcending gender boundaries. As society evolves, more men are stepping into the plus-size modeling world, promoting acceptance and positive body image among men. Models like Zach Miko and Troy Solomon are at the forefront, demonstrating that style and beauty are not confined to any size or gender.
The rise of plus-size models is influencing fashion and society at large. They are shifting perceptions, inspiring body positivity movements, and changing consumer behavior. The trend is teaching people to celebrate their bodies and reject harmful beauty standards, promising a more inclusive and body-positive future in fashion.
Plus-size models are making an indelible impact on the fashion industry. Their journey is one of resilience, courage, and self-love, breaking barriers, and promoting a broader definition of beauty. While there’s still progress to be made, these models’ strides are setting a precedent, creating a future where beauty is not defined by size but celebrated in all its unique forms.
The influence of these trailblazers promises an inclusive future for the fashion industry. Their journey towards inclusivity isn’t complete, but the progress they’re making is encouraging, fostering a future where beauty is celebrated in all its diverse, inclusive, and unique forms.
