The Plus-Size Revolution

Models Direct is proud to be part of the growing movement we’ve seen transform over time which is advocating for greater representation of people. The shift is a long-awaited one which we’ve been eagerly anticipating and we’re seeing more plus-size modelling.

Seeing people in the fashion world, social media platforms, TV, the big screen and as part of our wider society being put forward rather than placed back, is a positive change that’s had a lot of hard work dedicated to its cause.


Nevertheless, it hasn’t been easy. The plus size revolution has had its ups and downs, and as always, there are critical opinions still floating out there, stereotypes and prejudice which even though every part of the movement would like to remove, it’s not entirely possible.


However, we’re all still trying our best to continue to challenge the traditional beauty standards (size zero, super tall, chiselled features, not an inch of fat to be seen), and promote a healthier outlook to body positivity by accepting the diverse looks our population is proud to showcase.

What’s also tremendously helped elevate the trend is famous faces speaking out, campaigning and celebrating body diversity.


Take a look at some of these courageous ladies who are all about speaking their minds and not being afraid of standing up for their views.


Lizzo

The “Good as Hell” and “Truth Hurts,” singer, rapper, and actress has spoken openly about self-love and how she views her body throughout her career. With her reality TV show “Lizzo’s Watch Out for the Big Grrrls,” (2022) searching for backup dancers, and her shapewear collection, “Yitty,” designed for all body shapes released in 2022 she has said:

“I made the decision that I just wanted to be happy with my body and happy with who I am. You have to find that love for yourself deep down inside, underneath all of the questioning and iciness.”


Chrissy Metz

“Our bodies don’t define us—they just happen to be our vessels.”

If you haven’t seen the American comedy series “This is Us’ then you’ve missed out on a great asset to the body acceptance conversation. Actress Chrissy Metz has spoken about her own struggles with her body weight and how she sees herself, often talking about her childhood and weight journey.


Tess Holliday
Gorgeous plus-size model, author and activist, Tess Holliday was scouted by plus-size fashion brand Torrid. At first, she thought it was a scam but the next thing she knew, she was up on the billboards. This was just the beginning of Tess’s modelling journey.


She created a storm by sending out Instagram pics going against beauty norms and opening the conversation about how women can wear whatever they want regardless of their shape and size.

Tess has explained:

“Be yourself at any cost. Don’t make any apologies…Because you are great just as you are and if people don’t believe it, then you show them.”


Other notable figures include model/presenter Ashley Graham, actress Danielle Brooks, singer-songwriter Meghan Trainor and models Robyn Lawley, Paloma Elsesser and Denise Bidot.


Well, guys, we stand by you and have plus-size male and female models here at MD. We’ve always been happy to support and celebrate all body shapes and sizes, and moving forward we’ll continue to be part of this amazing initiative.