The body positivity movement has led to increased visibility for plus-size models and a shift in the way brands approach size representation. However, our recent survey of 150 plus-size models shows that while awareness has grown, opportunities have not kept pace. Only 30% of respondents indicated they had been booked for work due to the heightened focus on body diversity. This stark reality begs the question: How can the fashion industry move from token representation to meaningful inclusion?
Survey Findings: Opportunities vs. Expectations
1. The Gap Between Visibility and Work Opportunities
- Question: Have you been booked for work due to the increased visibility of body positivity and size diversity in media campaigns?
- Results: Only 30% of models said "Yes," while 60% said "No," and 10% were unsure.
- Insight: The data shows that while campaigns featuring diverse body types have helped boost representation, they have not translated into tangible career growth for most plus-size models. This highlights the need for a more comprehensive approach that integrates inclusion at every level of the industry.
2. Perceptions of Change in Industry Practices
- Question: Do you feel that opportunities for plus-size models have improved in the past 5 years?
- Results: 20% said "Yes, significantly," 40% "Yes, slightly," 30% "No change," and 5% "Decreased."
- Insight: A majority of models (60%) do feel that there has been at least some improvement, but 35% report no change or a decrease in job opportunities. This indicates that while body positivity has made strides in public perception, it hasn't yet changed the fundamental practices that shape the fashion industry.
Transforming Data Into Action: Recommendations for Brands and Agencies
1. Revisit Casting and Hiring Practices
- Broaden Casting Calls: Brands need to ensure that casting calls actively seek out models of all sizes, not just in niche or commercial markets but also in high-fashion and luxury segments.
- Eliminate Bias: Agencies should provide bias training and implement standardized practices for fair casting that do not exclude plus-size models based on outdated beauty standards.
2. Expand Size Diversity in Fashion Design
- Inclusive Product Lines: Brands should commit to creating and selling clothing in a wider range of sizes. This helps ensure that plus-size models are more likely to find work because clothing options are available.
- Design with Diversity in Mind: When designing collections, brands should collaborate with plus-size models and designers to better understand how to create garments that flatter diverse body types.
3. Create Long-Term Partnerships
- Collaborate with Diverse Agencies: Work with agencies that have a proven track record of representing plus-size talent, ensuring that models have consistent opportunities across various campaigns and projects.
- Sustainable Representation: Move beyond one-time campaigns and foster ongoing collaborations that integrate diversity as a core part of brand identity.
Moving Forward: Embracing Real Change
The path from increased visibility to lasting inclusivity requires more than just representing diverse body types in media. It calls for real, systemic change within the fashion industry—from revising casting practices to incorporating size diversity in design and marketing strategies. By turning these survey insights into action, brands and agencies can support genuine progress and make a tangible difference for plus-size models.