Over the past decade, there has been a noticeable shift in the fashion industry’s approach to size representation. Brands are starting to include models of varying body types in their advertising, and the body positivity movement has fueled this push for diversity. But does increased representation in media campaigns translate to real opportunities for plus-size models? Our survey of 150 plus-size models offers key insights into this issue.
Survey Findings: Representation vs. Reality
1. Increased Representation, But Limited Impact
- Question: Have you been booked for work due to the increased visibility of body positivity and size diversity in media campaigns?
- Results: 30% of respondents said "Yes," 60% said "No," and 10% were unsure.
- Interpretation: While a portion of plus-size models have seen benefits from greater visibility in media campaigns, the majority have not experienced significant changes in their booking opportunities. This suggests that, despite campaigns showcasing diverse body types, real access to work remains a challenge.
2. The Perception of Change in Opportunities
- Question: Do you feel that opportunities for plus-size models have improved in the past 5 years?
- Results: 20% said "Yes, significantly," 40% said "Yes, slightly," 30% reported "No change," and 5% said "Decreased."
- Interpretation: A slight majority (60%) of respondents believe there have been at least some improvements, indicating that visibility may be affecting perceptions of change. However, nearly 35% report no change or a decrease, highlighting that media representation alone is not enough to shift the industry’s hiring practices.
3. Real Challenges Persist
- Question: What challenges do you face when working with brands or fashion agencies as a plus-size model? (Open-ended)
- Findings: Common themes included limited access to high-fashion opportunities, a lack of clothing options that fit, and biases during casting calls. One model shared, "Despite seeing more plus-size models in ads, I still get told I don’t fit the 'ideal' image for many jobs."
- Interpretation: These responses underscore the need for media campaigns to be paired with deeper, industry-wide shifts. Representation must go beyond marketing and advertising to influence how plus-size models are treated across all aspects of the industry.
What Needs to Change for Size Diversity to Be More Than a Trend
While campaigns featuring plus-size models are important for challenging beauty norms and empowering individuals, these efforts must be backed by real opportunities. Here’s what needs to happen:
1. Inclusive Casting Practices
- Brands should ensure that casting calls and job opportunities reflect the diversity seen in media campaigns. Consistent, diverse representation should extend beyond print and digital media and into runway shows and commercial work.
2. Expansion of Size Ranges
- Clothing and product lines must include a broader range of sizes to accommodate plus-size models and customers. This shift will create more opportunities for models to secure work and reinforce the idea that fashion can be for everyone.
3. Addressing Bias and Stereotypes
- Efforts to combat biases and stereotypes must be an ongoing part of industry practices. Training in bias recognition and inclusive hiring should become standard to ensure that models of all sizes have fair and equal access to work.
Conclusion: From Visibility to Opportunity
The fashion industry has taken important steps toward showcasing size diversity in media campaigns, but the impact on job opportunities for plus-size models is still limited. Representation alone cannot create change; it needs to be supported by industry-wide policies and practices that prioritize inclusivity. Brands, agencies, and fashion professionals must move beyond one-time campaigns and commit to long-term change that opens doors for plus-size models and creates equal opportunities for all.