As the demand for curvy women rises in the modelling industry, stakeholders, including fashion designers, retailers, and product designers, seek plus-size models to represent their brands.
Today, full-figured women are fashion-forward individuals who embrace contemporary styles. They are open to wearing garments once designed solely for petite frames. This change reflects a broader social approval and celebrates all body shapes and sizes in fashion.
Exploring the Growing Popularity of Plus-Size Models
Historically, the criteria for beauty standards for models are significantly different from the preferences of today. At the turn of the 20th century, the hourglass shape with narrow waists, wide hips, and long legs was celebrated. By the 1930s and 1940s, the full-figured woman we often refer to as plus-sized was the personification of attractiveness (if you grew up in the baby boomer era, you could relate to that trend). Fashion models of that period had curvaceous forms. Even the renowned fashion designer Jean-Paul Gaultier employed curvy women to model some of his designs in his spring 2006 showing in Paris.
But why is the demand for plus-size models on the rise? Because:
- It makes economic sense. Plus-size women are now bold and confident enough to wear uber-stylish apparel.
- They are required for other modelling services, for jobs that are not strictly related to clothing. Examples include photography and advertising of household products, jewellery, beauty, weight-loss, and home décor products.
- The 21st century has heralded a greater awareness and appreciation of the voluptuous woman. Her figure is now celebrated.
- There is a shift towards body inclusivity and diversity in the fashion industry.
- The increasing prevalence of obesity worldwide has expanded the market for plus-size clothing, prompting brands to cater to a broader range of body types.
- Social media plays a significant role in promoting full-figured silhouettes.
- Curvy models are influencing today’s fashion trends.
Today, the top modelling agencies regularly sign on full-bodied young girls and women for regular showings and fashion campaigns.
How the Modelling Industry Is Changing the Way Curvy Women Dress
The modelling industry has helped make more full-figured women aware of their femininity. It is like an awakening because big women now pay more attention to how they look and appear to the outside world. As more curvy models strut the fashion runway, it will continue to positively impact their dress sense, and boost confidence and self-esteem.
As full-bodied models now regularly showcase plus-size designs at Fashion Shows, there is the assurance that being fat and curvy is also beautiful. Certainly, this will make curvy women feel more of a partaker in the trendy fashion and style scene.