With the rise of stunning plus-size models on runways worldwide, they are redefining beauty standards by teaching us to celebrate our bodies as they are. While “lean and thin” remains a widely desired look, plus-size fashion is steadily gaining prominence, challenging traditional norms. The debate over whether size matters is personal. Yet, society often holds fast to rigid beauty standards that exclude plus-size figures. Many women feel pressured to conform to an “ideal” shape—tall, slim, and flawless—which is frequently unrealistic.
In fashion, plus-size models typically refer to sizes 12 and above. However, even within this category, there are specific proportions, such as a waist that is 10 inches smaller than the hips. Despite facing shaming and prejudice, these women have carved out successful modeling careers, challenging what the industry deems “model material.”
These models have shattered stereotypes, bringing their authentic selves to the forefront and defying the expectations of an industry often biased against diverse body types. They embody depth and resilience, pushing forward despite the odds. By taking center stage on their terms, they redefine beauty and show the world it’s time to move beyond outdated standards.
Ava Hariri-Kia
An American plus-size model and advocate for body positivity, Ava inspires others to embrace their bodies and challenge conventional beauty norms through her vibrant personality and social media presence.
Tabria Majors
Tabria Majors is a well-known name among the few plus-size models who are also women of color. In 2018, Majors appeared as a finalist in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue in the brand’s open casting call.
Paloma Elsesser
One of the most prolific models of her generation, the 2020 Model of the Year winner has already nabbed a handful of worldwide Vogue covers and has walked the runways for everybody from Fendi to Alexander McQueen.
Joanne Borgella
Joanne Borgella was an American singer, plus-size model, and reality television personality. She was signed to Wilhelmina Models in New York City, Miami and LA. She was the first winner of Mo’Nique’s Fat Chance pageant as “Miss F.A.T.” in 2005 and a top 24 contestant on the seventh season of American Idol in 2008.
Leslie Sidora
She has graced international covers from Elle, Sweden, to Harper’s Bazaar, Brazil. Earlier this year, she was featured in an Elle editorial. However, she may be best recognized for walking in Rihanna’s Savage X Fenty show.
Barbie Ferreira
American model and former Euphoria star Barbara ‘Barbie’ Ferreira started modeling after sending photos of herself to American Apparel. Now one of the biggest body diversity advocates and a muse of Selena Gomez‘s best friend, Petra Collins, Barbie has firmly cemented herself in the fashion world.
Georgia Pratt Holiber
This New Zealand model celebrates natural beauty and advocates for body diversity in fashion. Through her editorial work and runway appearances, Georgia promotes self-love and empowerment.
Jill Kortleve
Known for her striking presence on the runway, Dutch model Jill Kortleve has walked for renowned brands like Balenciaga and Chanel, passionately advocating for body positivity and inclusivity.
Tess Holliday
American model Tess Holliday has long advocated for more representation in the fashion industry. In 2013, she founded the ‘EFF YOUR BEAUTY STANDARDS’ movement on Instagram and currently works as a diversity and inclusion consultant for brands including H&M.
Lexi Placourakis
Lexi strives to debunk the rules of how one is supposed to look. After many personal struggles with weight and food and trying to incorporate a healthy lifestyle, Lexi Placourakis is now a supermodel and entrepreneur, touching many lives.
Jennie Runk
American model Jennie Runk gained prominence with her groundbreaking appearance in H&M’s Summer 2013 beachwear campaign, sparking vital conversations about inclusivity in fashion.
Ajok Daing
Ajok, a South Sudanese-Australian plus-size model, is celebrated for her striking features and impactful presence. She uses her platform to advocate for diversity and inspire others to embrace their unique beauty.
Kate Wasley
An Australian plus-size model and body positivity advocate, Kate has gained recognition through her engaging social media presence and collaborations with major brands. She promotes self-love and encourages women to embrace their curves.
Alva Claire
Alva is an American plus-size model known for her bold style. With runway appearances for brands like Savage X Fenty, she actively promotes body positivity and challenges traditional beauty standards.
Precious Lee
One of the most prominent plus-size models working today, Lee, can be found anywhere from the Met Gala to strutting down the runway in Jean Paul Gaultier couture to starring in a Marc Jacobs fragrance ad.
Ekaterina Zharkova
Russian model Ekaterina Zharkova, often called Katya, began modeling at 14 and gained recognition for her work with Forever 21. She stands out as one of the celebrated plus-size models.
Lauren Chan
A Canadian plus-size model and founder of the brand Henning, Lauren champions body diversity and empowers women to embrace their individuality with her chic style.
Ashley Graham
Ashley Graham made history in 2016 as the first size 16 model on the cover of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. As a trailblazer, she is a prominent advocate for body positivity and has appeared in top publications.
Bishamber Das
Celebrated as the first British Asian plus-size model, Bishamber uses her platform to break cultural taboos and inspire South Asian women to embrace their bodies.
Holly Rose Emery
New Zealand model Holly Rose Emery is known for her versatility. She has been featured in Vogue and advocates for body diversity in high fashion.
Carly Stone
Carly’s journey to embracing her curves began as a nurse in a cancer ward, where she gained a new perspective on body image. With her grounded outlook, she made her mark in the modeling world.
Tara Lynn
Tara Lynn started her career in grocery stores and restaurants but has since graced the cover of Italian Vogue and is known for her captivating lingerie campaigns.
Tess McMillan
American plus-size model Tess McMillan is recognized for her striking red hair and unique beauty. She has worked with top brands and appeared in Vogue Italia, symbolizing authenticity and confidence.
Celina Ralph
British plus-size model Celina Ralph is admired for her elegance and significant presence in the fashion industry. Her work showcases her commitment to body positivity and diversity.
Yumi Nu
An American model and singer-songwriter, Yumi made history as the first Asian plus-size model in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue, advocating for body inclusivity and bridging fashion and music.
Devyn Garcia
Devyn Garcia is an American plus-size model renowned for her natural beauty and collaborations with brands like Versace and Vogue. She promotes body diversity on high-fashion runways.
Denise Bidot
A Miami native, Denise made history in 2014 as the first plus-size model to walk for two straight-size brands at New York Fashion Week, being a vocal advocate for body diversity.
Iskra Lawrence
British model Iskra Lawrence promotes body positivity and confidence as a global ambassador for self-acceptance and empowerment.
Hunter McGrady
Los Angeles native Hunter McGrady gained recognition as the curviest model in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. She continues to inspire with her advocacy for body positivity.
Silvia Rho
Korean model Silvia Rho challenges stereotypes in Asian modeling circles with her stunning features and bold presence.
Justine LeGault
Canadian model Justine LeGault is known for her elegant photoshoots and successful collaborations with brands like Torrid.
Nadia Aboulhosn
A Miami-born model and entrepreneur, Nadia is renowned for her influential fashion blog and bold style approach, promoting size inclusivity.
Stephanie Viada
Model and makeup artist Stephanie gained recognition for her work with brands like Debshops and Forever 21, showcasing her talent in the beauty industry.
Graciela Montes
Mexican model Graciela Montes is celebrated for her positive outlook and entrepreneurial spirit. She embraces body positivity while running her successful makeup label.
Ashley Alexiss
Known for her striking looks and popularity on Instagram, Ashley advocates for body acceptance and self-love while building a successful career in plus-size modeling.
Candice Huffine
Candice proudly embraces her size 12 curves and made history with her appearance in the 2015 Pirelli Calendar, advocating for natural beauty.
Anastasia Vinogradova
Russian model Anastasia Vinogradova captivates fans worldwide. She is known for her cute looks and positive energy, especially after appearing in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue.
Bianca Mitsuko Davies
With a unique heritage of Latina, African-American, and Japanese roots, Bianca encourages women to embrace their curves and is celebrated for her stunning features.
Vanessa Romo
Chicana model Vanessa Romo, a UC Santa Barbara alumna, has collaborated with major brands and leveraged her strong online following to impact the industry.
Saffi Karina
English model Saffi Karina promotes body positivity on social media and founded the Curve Project London to inspire women to embrace self-acceptance.
Emilee Peer
Represented by Natural Model Management, Emilee is known for her commitment to body diversity in the plus-size modeling industry.
Johanna Dray
A pioneering French plus-size model, Johanna began her career when no plus-size agencies existed, paving the way for others in Paris and beyond.
Grisel Paula
Dominican-born Grisel Paula founded Rebdolls, an inclusive online fashion retailer dedicated to stylish options for women of all sizes.
Melissa Masi
American model Melissa Masi, represented by DcM, is known for her commitment to body positivity and growing presence in the plus-size fashion scene.
Allexa D’Alessio
Allexa has openly shared her struggles with body image, promoting self-love through modeling and inspiring others to pursue their dreams.
Cleo Fernandes
Cleo was crowned Miss Plus Size Brazil 2012 and advocates for body confidence, building a successful modeling career without conforming to traditional beauty standards.
Kristina Yeo
Known for her curvaceous appearance, Kristina has earned respect in the modeling industry as an advocate for size diversity and acceptance.
Juliya Lavrova
Russian model Juliya Lavrova began modeling as a hobby and is now passionate about changing beauty standards. She is known for her unique look and graceful presence.
Danielle van Grondelle
Danielle, Holland’s first curvy top model, transitioned from straight-size to plus-size modeling, making strides in expanding Dutch modeling standards.
Robyn Lawley
Australia’s most prominent plus-size model, Robyn Lawley, was the first to appear in a Ralph Lauren campaign and has been featured in top international fashion magazines.
Plus-size models have broken many stereotypes and encouraged people to embrace themselves the way they are by promoting body positivity. These curvy models plus size create a more accepting and representative world by celebrating diversity and promoting inclusivity. Their stories remind us that everyone deserves to feel confident and beautiful, regardless of size.
