The fashion industry has made strides in embracing diversity and promoting body positivity. We’ve seen an influx of campaigns that feature plus-size models, challenging traditional beauty standards and celebrating all body types. But as our recent survey of 150 plus-size models reveals, the reality for many in the industry is far from the idealized image projected in these campaigns. Despite increased visibility, the opportunities for plus-size models are still limited.
Survey Insights: Visibility vs. Reality
1. Job Opportunities: Still a Struggle
- Question: Have you been booked for work due to the increased visibility of body positivity and size diversity in media campaigns?
- Results: 30% said "Yes," while 60% said "No," and 10% were unsure.
- Insight: While visibility in media campaigns has increased, tangible job opportunities for plus-size models have not proportionally followed. This disparity shows that the fashion industry's commitment to body positivity is often more performative than substantive.
2. The Disconnect Between Representation and Reality
- 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: While there are signs of progress, 35% of respondents indicated that there has been no change or even a decrease in opportunities. This suggests that efforts toward inclusivity are not yet deeply embedded into the core practices of the fashion industry.
Challenges Highlighted by Plus-Size Models
1. Limited Clothing Options Many models cited that they often face difficulties due to the limited availability of clothing in their sizes. This restricts their ability to book jobs where clothing is a crucial element, making it harder to get consistent work.
2. Bias and Stereotyping More than half of the respondents noted experiencing bias, including being told they didn’t fit the "ideal" image of beauty. This kind of stereotyping not only limits opportunities but also affects the confidence and career longevity of plus-size models.
3. Unfulfilled Promises Despite the growing number of campaigns featuring plus-size models, respondents shared that these campaigns rarely lead to consistent work or high-profile bookings. This points to a gap between the industry’s messaging and its actual practices.
Bridging the Gap: Recommendations for Real Change
1. Expand Casting Beyond Niche Markets Brands should move beyond casting plus-size models for niche campaigns and start including them in high-fashion and mainstream projects. This can help normalize diverse body types across the industry.
2. Rethink Design and Production Increasing the size range of clothing offered by brands would make a significant difference. Not only would this provide models with more opportunities, but it would also expand the market to cater to a wider audience.
3. Move Beyond Tokenism True inclusivity goes beyond having one or two plus-size models in a campaign. Brands should aim to create authentic, ongoing partnerships with diverse talent and feature them in a range of roles and contexts.
4. Address Bias in Hiring Practices Implementing bias training for hiring managers and casting agents can ensure a fairer and more equitable process. This is vital in creating an industry culture that values all body types equally and without discrimination.
Conclusion: Turning Words Into Action
Body positivity has made an impact, but there is still work to be done to translate visibility into meaningful opportunities. The disconnect between representation and real job prospects highlights a critical need for the fashion industry to make changes that go beyond surface-level inclusivity. By taking steps to expand opportunities, offer a broader range of sizes, and create sustainable practices, the fashion world can move closer to true inclusivity and fairness for plus-size models.