The demand for size diversity in the fashion industry is rising, but many brands are still lagging behind. Our recent survey of 150 plus-size models reveals that while the visibility of diverse body types has improved, significant barriers remain. To support and empower plus-size talent, brands must move beyond token gestures and commit to real, sustainable change. Here’s how brands can make a difference.
The Current State of the Industry: Progress and Gaps
While body positivity campaigns and media representation have brought some positive attention to plus-size modeling, our findings indicate that real, tangible change is still needed. When asked how often they book jobs, 70% of respondents reported working only a few times a year or rarely. Even more telling, only 30% of respondents noted that they had been booked for work specifically due to the increased visibility of body positivity. This data suggests that while conversations around inclusivity are happening, they have not yet translated into significant opportunities for plus-size models.
Key Challenges Still Persisting
Our survey revealed several challenges that continue to limit opportunities for plus-size models, including:
- Limited Clothing Options: 45% of respondents mentioned that clothing size ranges offered by brands are often too narrow, restricting the variety of work they can book.
- Lack of Representation in High-Fashion Campaigns: Many respondents noted that plus-size models are often limited to niche campaigns rather than being featured prominently in mainstream or high-fashion projects.
- Bias and Discrimination: Over 50% reported facing stereotyping or bias, with some being told they didn’t fit the “ideal” beauty standard or asked to lose weight to book jobs.
These challenges highlight the need for brands to take concrete steps toward inclusion and diversity.
How Brands Can Take Action
The path to genuine inclusivity requires brands to adopt comprehensive strategies that go beyond superficial representation. Here are practical ways brands can improve opportunities for plus-size models:
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Expand Size Ranges: Brands should offer a broader range of sizes in their clothing lines, ensuring that products are accessible to all body types. This commitment allows plus-size models to confidently showcase a variety of fashion choices and promotes a more authentic representation of consumers.
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Promote Diverse Models in High-Fashion Campaigns: While plus-size models are becoming more visible in some marketing campaigns, high-fashion and luxury brands still often overlook them. By casting plus-size models in prominent campaigns, brands can break down stereotypes and set new industry standards for inclusivity.
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Partner with Agencies Prioritizing Inclusivity: Collaborating with modeling agencies that prioritize representing plus-size talent can help ensure that models receive fair opportunities. These partnerships can help brands build more diverse, well-rounded campaigns and set an example for others in the industry.
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Implement Fair Casting Practices: Brands and agencies need to recognize that outdated beauty ideals limit opportunities for models of all sizes. Adopting fair, unbiased casting processes will help level the playing field and ensure that all models have a chance to showcase their talent.
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Invest in Long-Term Change: True inclusivity requires more than just one-off campaigns; it needs to be integrated into every facet of a brand’s operations, from hiring practices to marketing strategies. Brands should strive for consistency and transparency in their efforts to support plus-size models.
Why It Matters
Supporting plus-size models isn’t just about changing how the fashion industry looks; it’s about shifting the culture toward genuine representation. When brands take meaningful steps to support plus-size talent, they send a powerful message that beauty exists in all shapes and sizes. This shift can inspire confidence, foster a more inclusive community, and inspire future generations of models to see themselves reflected in the industry.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
The fashion industry is at a crossroads. While the visibility of plus-size models has increased, there is still much work to be done to ensure equal opportunities and true inclusivity. By expanding size ranges, featuring diverse models in high-fashion campaigns, partnering with inclusive agencies, and committing to long-term change, brands can play an essential role in shaping a more inclusive future for the fashion world.