Splashy magazine covers and billboards look different than they did a decade ago—and good thing. These days, more brands feature models with a range of body types, and the plus-size modeling industry is gaining serious ground. Ashley Graham wasn’t just a fluke; she kicked open the door, making room for new faces and body shapes in fashion campaigns, catalogs, and even high fashion. Thanks to social media, everyday people see themselves reflected in beauty standards—and the world is taking notice. If you think size matters in a bad way, you’d be surprised how much agencies and clients are searching for confidence and authenticity, not just measurements. The opportunity is real. It’s not about shrinking to fit the mold—it’s about showing what real confidence and personality look like in clothes made for your shape.
What It Really Takes to Break Into Plus-Size Modeling
First thing’s first: plus-size modeling isn’t about squeezing into someone else’s version of beauty. It’s about making your size, style, and character work for you. Most agencies in the US and UK define plus-size as anyone who wears a women’s size 12 and up (that’s a 42+ in EU sizing, if you’re wondering). Typical measurements for this category range from about 38-40 inches in the bust, 30-32 inches in the waist, and 40-42 inches in the hips. But here’s the kicker—brands and agencies are shifting toward broader spectrums, so the “ideal” size isn’t as fixed as it once was. If you’re comfortable in your skin and healthy, you’re on the right track, regardless of the tape measure.
Something else many people miss: agencies and casting directors care more about how you carry yourself than your pant size. They’re hunting for people with genuine personality, the kind that pops through even the plainest tee shirt and jeans. If you’ve ever watched a casting call, you’ll notice right away—they’re looking for eye contact, positivity, and someone who knows how to move in front of a camera. If you can show that, you’re already ahead of a lot of the competition. Several agencies—like IMG Models, Wilhelmina, and Ford Models—have entire divisions for curve or plus-size talent. It’s not unusual for new models to get signed straight from open calls or even from a killer Instagram presence. Last year, a UK agency revealed that nearly 30% of its new signings came from social media. The runway has moved online.
But don’t think you can just snap a selfie and get discovered. Invest some time in understanding the industry: read up on current trends, follow top plus-size models, see what kinds of poses and styles get booked for campaigns. A scroll on #curvyfashion or #plussizemodel will instantly show you what’s hot. Yes, there’s a lot of glamour, but it’s also work—prepping for castings, working with stylists, understanding client needs, and keeping your energy up. Agencies want reliability, so models who communicate well and are easy to work with often get called back again and again.
Here’s a quick look at the top reasons plus-size models get booked, according to agency scout surveys in 2024:
| Booking Factor | Percentage of Scouts Ranking it Top-3 |
|---|---|
| Personality/Confidence | 81% |
| Authenticity/Relatable Look | 67% |
| Suitability for Client Brands | 59% |
| Measurements/Body Type | 42% |
Notice how body type isn’t even the highest priority? The industry wants you to be YOU, not just fill out a size chart. Health and fitness play into that, too. It’s about feeling great, staying energized, and being able to work long days at shoots. No one’s expecting a bodybuilder, but stamina is key. Models like Tess Holliday and Paloma Elsesser talk openly about focusing on wellness, not weight.
Building Your Plus-Size Modeling Portfolio and Brand
A great portfolio sells you before you even say a word. If you’re new, start simple—just a handful of pro shots that show what you really look like. That means no heavy makeup, no filters, and definitely no wild FaceTune attempts (agents can spot those a mile away). Most agencies want to see a clear headshot, full-body shot, and maybe a profile shot. Wear fitted, solid-colored clothes—think jeans and a plain tee, or a body-skimming dress. This helps scouts see your natural shape and your vibe.
You don’t need to spend thousands on a big-name photographer. Many up-and-coming photographers or advanced students do fantastic work building model portfolios at reasonable rates. Search local creative groups, or DM photographers you admire on Instagram to ask about test shoots. Chemistry between model and shot is a must—don’t settle for photos where you look stiff or unhappy. Try different poses, expressions, and even a few with movement so your energy comes across. Agencies can always tell when someone’s just standing there vs. really owning their frame.
But here’s where it gets interesting: your personal brand matters as much as your portfolio. Develop an Instagram profile that feels natural, fun, and honest. Share behind-the-scenes moments, outfits you actually wear, and snaps that show your humor. Tag brands you like and use hashtags like #plussizemodel and #bodypositive. Stats from 2024 show that bookings for plus-size models with more than 10k Instagram followers have doubled since 2022. Brands want models with built-in audiences, and casting directors often browse social feeds before even looking at portfolios.
Your social presence can tip the scales, but don’t fake it. Audiences love authenticity—if you’re awkward about selfies or hate posting, stick to what feels right for you. Consistency is better than doing too much. Collaborate with makeup artists, stylists, and other models to create new looks and shoot collabs. The plus-size community has tons of supportive micro-influencers who’ll swap tips and even plug each other’s work. Networking beats competition in this space—being positive about yourself lifts up others, too.
Once you’ve got a good set of images and a social profile that reflects your vibe, cherry-pick agencies with proven work in the plus-size sector. Skip those “agencies” that try to charge big fees just for listing you on their website—reputable agencies make their money when you get booked. And don’t feel stuck if you aren’t getting much buzz at first. Models sometimes submit to 10-plus agencies before anyone signs them. Be persistent, but not desperate. Regularly update your portfolio every 6-12 months as your style evolves. Book test shoots to keep your look fresh and show different kinds of jobs—editorial, commercial, lifestyle, swimwear, and even fitness if that’s your thing.
- Pro tip: Add a simple stats sheet (name, height, clothing size, bust-waist-hip, shoe size) when you send out photos to agencies—makes things easy for them.
- Remember the plus-size models market is exploding: a 2025 report from Statista predicted plus-size apparel sales to top $32.5 billion in North America this year alone. That means modeling gigs aren’t in short supply anyway.
So curate your images, build your brand, and get your name out there. Persistence and a little strategy pay off big time.
Dealing With Challenges and Staying Motivated
Let’s get real—a career in modeling throws you curveballs, especially if you’re outside the mainstream mold. Not everyone in the industry is quick to embrace new standards, but the numbers don’t lie: 68% of American women wear a size 14 or above, according to a recent CDC survey, so the demand is here to stay. Some traditionalists might still talk about “flattering” certain body types, but new brands like Savage x Fenty, Chromat, and Universal Standard are blowing that mindset wide open. If you land a gig for any of these, count yourself lucky—they’re celebrated for using diverse and genuinely plus-size models in every campaign, not just the token spots.
One challenge many new models face is comparison—scrolling through social feeds and doubting their own path. But keep in mind, even the most visible plus-size stars get hate online. Ashley Graham herself faced years of skepticism, but she kept showing up, taking risks, and being her own hype machine. When rejection happens—and it will—don’t take it personally. Remember, modeling is subjective. One client might pass on you for being “too tall”; the next may love you for exactly the same reason. The trick is to see every casting as a chance to learn, not a failure. Write down call-back feedback, ask agents for honest advice, and keep training your posing and runway skills with local workshops or even online classes. The best models treat each no as one step closer to a yes.
If you’re worried about keeping mentally strong, do what most working models do—find a supportive crew. Online communities and forums like The Curvy Fashionista or Model Mayhem’s plus-size groups are full of people experiencing the same stuff. Mentorship helps a ton. Reach out to more established models whose style you admire; most are happy to drop a quick voice note or advice DM. Even sharing your journey on TikTok or Instagram can help de-stress rejection and turn it into motivation. People love seeing the unfiltered side of modeling, so don’t hide the tough stuff—show what it’s really like to chase your dream.
Health matters, too. Ignore anyone who pressures you to change your natural shape for a job. Top agencies like IMG now offer nutrition and wellness support for all their models whether they’re sample size or above—a huge sign things are shifting for good. Stay active in ways you actually enjoy, whether that’s dance, yoga, or walking your dog. Well-being shows in your photos and attitude. Agencies often say they want models “comfortable in their own skin”—that starts with treating yourself well, both physically and mentally.
Your voice is your power, too. More plus-size models are speaking out about pay rates, job safety, and respect in the workplace. Know your value; don’t feel pressured to accept gigs that pay less simply for “exposure.” In 2024, a collective called Model Alliance even released a report showing that plus-size models were three times more likely than straight-size models to be paid late or asked to work for free—so stand up for fair treatment. Negotiating rates gets easier as your portfolio grows and your confidence shows. Don’t be afraid to ask questions: What’s the rate? Who’s working the shoot? How will your images be used?
Above all—enjoy the ride. Every casting, every shoot, every mistake is a chance to learn. If you’ve ever imagined seeing a body like yours in ads, runways, or Instagram stories, you’re not alone. The industry is changing for the better, and someone out there is looking for exactly what you bring. Own it, show up as yourself, and shape tomorrow’s version of beauty your way—because that’s what moves fashion forward, one model at a time.
