Addressing the Gap: What Needs to Change for a Truly Inclusive Fashion Industry

While some steps toward inclusivity have been made, the fashion industry still has significant gaps to close. Our survey of 150 plus-size models revealed both the progress that has been made and the obstacles that remain. The findings paint a clear picture: despite greater visibility and body positivity campaigns, plus-size models continue to face barriers that limit opportunities and reinforce stereotypes. Here, we discuss these key findings and what changes are necessary to create a truly inclusive future in fashion.

1. Limited Job Opportunities

One of the most telling results from our survey was that 65% of plus-size models reported limited job opportunities. The majority of respondents indicated that they book modeling jobs only a few times a year or less frequently. While this is an improvement compared to past decades, it’s far from enough. To truly support plus-size talent, brands must ensure more consistent opportunities, moving beyond occasional “size-inclusive” campaigns and making size diversity a staple in all advertising.

What can be done: Brands should integrate diverse body types into their campaigns regularly, rather than as a special event. Creating a pipeline of opportunities for models of all sizes ensures that these opportunities are meaningful and not just performative.

2. Persistent Bias and Stereotyping

Half of the models surveyed reported experiencing stereotyping or bias. This can manifest in subtle ways, such as being passed over for jobs due to not fitting an “ideal” beauty standard, or being offered only specific types of work that reinforce traditional ideas of beauty. Bias limits creativity, reduces job diversity, and perpetuates a narrow view of what is considered beautiful.

What can be done: Brands can address this issue by implementing comprehensive bias training for all employees, particularly those involved in casting and design. Developing diverse hiring practices that prioritize models of different sizes and backgrounds will help shift industry norms.

3. Clothing Accessibility

Approximately 45% of respondents said limited clothing options were a significant challenge. When working with high-fashion brands, many models have difficulty finding pieces that fit properly, which restricts their ability to participate in high-profile shoots or runway shows. This not only affects models but also impacts consumers who seek fashionable clothing in larger sizes.

What can be done: Brands should expand their size ranges and collaborate with designers who specialize in creating clothing for a variety of body types. This ensures that clothing is not just accessible but also stylish, helping models represent a broader range of fashion trends.

4. Representation Beyond Marketing

While many brands have begun featuring plus-size models in advertising, only 30% of our respondents said they were booked for work due to the increased visibility of body positivity. This suggests that visibility does not always translate into meaningful opportunities. Models want to be seen not just in niche or “body positivity” campaigns but in mainstream, high-profile projects where they can showcase their talent and reach larger audiences.

What can be done: Brands should integrate plus-size models into their mainline advertising and marketing strategies, placing them alongside models of all sizes. This sends a message that inclusivity is not an afterthought but a core part of the brand’s identity.

5. The Need for an Authentic Shift

Many plus-size models have expressed that the industry’s approach to inclusivity can often feel performative or superficial. While campaigns and initiatives focused on body positivity are welcome, they need to be part of a larger, ongoing commitment to change. Real inclusivity involves reshaping the industry’s culture to recognize and value diversity in all forms.

What can be done: Brands and industry professionals should create long-term initiatives aimed at fostering inclusivity. This includes embedding size diversity into business practices, conducting regular reviews of how inclusivity is implemented, and ensuring that it is present at all levels of a company—from boardrooms to creative teams.

How You Can Support Progress

Whether you’re a consumer, brand, or fashion professional, there are steps you can take to support a more inclusive industry:

  • Consumers: Support brands that demonstrate authentic inclusivity and call out those that don't. Your voice and purchasing power matter.
  • Brands: Prioritize size diversity not just for marketing stunts but as a core part of your brand identity. Create a culture that values and uplifts all body types.
  • Fashion Professionals: Advocate for and participate in hiring practices and creative direction that prioritize inclusivity. Share your influence to bring about a more equitable future.

Conclusion: Moving Beyond the Surface

The fashion industry has come a long way in terms of visibility, but there is still a significant gap to be addressed. The barriers faced by plus-size models—limited opportunities, bias, lack of clothing options, and superficial representation—show that inclusivity must be more than just a marketing term. Brands, consumers, and fashion professionals need to work together to foster real change. The future of fashion should celebrate all bodies equally, creating a space where everyone feels seen and valued.

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