In the world of fashion, beauty conventions are constantly changing. From silhouettes to patterns, what’s considered “in” seems to switch every few years, driving the industry’s evolution. However, one of the biggest changes in recent years has been the rise of plus size modeling. As a niche that has been breaking the traditional modeling standards, it has shaped the fashion industry in exciting ways. In this article, we will explore the rise of plus size models and their impact on the fashion industry.
1. Redefining the Fashion Industry: The Rise of Plus Size Modeling
The fashion industry has a long history of excluding individuals beyond size 12. Plus size models have often been excluded from runway shows, advertising campaigns, and other editorial work, simply because they were deemed “too big.” Now, times are changing and the opportunities for plus size models are more expansive than ever.
In recent years, the plus size model industry has seen an increase in exposure, with an ever-growing number of influential and inspiring women taking part in campaigns and editorials. Brands are leading the charge, creating lines with pieces that fit and flatter curvier figures. With fashion styling and editorial work, plus size models are changing the narrative, showing that beauty is not limited to a certain size.
- Fashion houses and brands are working to make their offerings more plus size friendly
- Plus size models are becoming the face of the fashion industry, appearing in more campaigns and editorial projects
- Body positive images depicting real-world diversity is seen on magazines, billboards, and TV ads
As the industry continues to recognize plus size models and their potential, we can hope for an even broader representation of figures and sizes in the fashion industry.
2. A New Era of Inclusivity in the Fashion World
The fashion world is rapidly changing by introducing an unprecedented level of inclusivity, within each of its lines. As the industry shifts their focus to creating clothes that are suitable for everyone regardless of gender, shape and size, designers have been striving to make sure that their collections are as diverse as possible.
A representative example of this new trend is the gender-inclusive collections crafted by prominent fashion houses such as Gucci, Vans and Converse, allowing everyone to feel confident and fashionable without relying on outdated gender stereotypes. Meanwhile, plus-size fashion is more accessible than ever thanks to the sheer number of brands and retailers which now stock extended sizes, challenging the traditional body ideals.
- Adoption of inclusive sizing ranges
- New gender-neutral clothing lines
These initiatives are the first steps towards a more accepting fashion industry. By breaking down barriers and offering appealing clothing options, designers are promoting a message of radical acceptance while making sure everyone can enjoy the latest fashion trends.
Ultimately, the fashion world seems to be on the brink of a new era of inclusivity, where everyone is allowed to dress however they please without fear of judgement.
3. Chipping Away at Unattainable Beauty Standards
It has long been society’s obsession to create and promote unattainable beauty standards, from ancient Greek sculptures of the perfect body to today’s heavily airbrushed celebrities featured in magazines and tv ads. The prevalence of these standards has created an unrealistic expectation many aspire to meet, but not all. The definition of beauty is subjective, and it’s crucial that we begin recognizing and celebrating ourselves for the unique qualities that make us who we are.
We should look beyond the fictitious standards set by brands and the media, and discover our own version of beauty, within and without. We can start small by focusing on the little things that make us feel great, such as
- experimenting with new makeup techniques
- trying out different hairstyles
- shopping for clothes that make us feel confident and empowered
- developing a positive self-image
These small tweaks can help us feel more positive in our own skin, and that’s what matters most. You can break away from unrealistic standards and start focusing on enhancing your unique features, both on the inside and out.
4. Embracing the Beauty of Diversity
We are living in an incredible time where people from different backgrounds—different races, cultures, religions, and opinions—are confronting each other. Although this confrontation can be seen as a collision of ideas, it may also be seen in a much more beautiful way. For example, being exposed to diverse opinions can add color to our grayed out views, making our perspectives more vivid and tangible.
Diversity unlocks opportunities for individuals and society as a whole to learn and grow. Ideas, cultures, and people can interact and create something new. This new way of thinking can be used to provide solutions to some of the world’s greatest problems. We can take pride in the fact that by embracing diversity and not shying away from difference, we can create an atmosphere of creativity, innovation, and acceptance.
- Step 1: Be tolerant and respectful of diversity.
- Step 2: Embrace and celebrate cultural differences.
- Step 3: Explore and discuss different opinions.
Plus size models are liberating the fashion industry from decades of barriers to inclusion. They are creating a new standard of beauty for all women, of any size and background. Modeling no longer has to be an unattainable dream; it can be a reality for anyone who desires it. Plus size models are encouraging all of us to free ourselves from the damaging constraints of traditional beauty standards and to embrace the power of self-confidence and body positivity.
