Therefore, if you are a woman of a dress size 14 or above or a man with a chest larger than 42ins and a waist larger than 34ins, you could potentially become a plus-size model.

However, it does also depend on your height and general build.

If you think you may be suitable for plus-size modelling, the best step is to fill in our form, send us a photograph and wait for us to be in touch.

Once we have all your statistics and information, as well as an idea of your body shape, we can offer you individual advice on how to proceed.

Plus-size modelling has really taken off in recent times.

The fashion industry has not only realised just how essential it is to cater for customers of all shapes and sizes, but the world of advertising has become aware of the importance of reflecting real people.

This means that there are now far more ranges of clothing aimed at those of above average sizes and that those conducting photo and film shoots often request curvy and plus-size models.

And, of course, this all comes as the world in general is edging towards a better understanding that we should all be celabrated for who we are.

Models Direct has always been about body positivity.

We love our models to be of all shapes, sizes, ages, backgrounds and abilities.

Our clients frequently come to us requesting everyday models and we have plus-size models who have been on our books for years.

Among them is Neri – here she explains more about her experience of working with us:

“This journey has been amazing so far, with my agent Molly having my back the whole time and encouraging my curvy self to push forward…

“Whatever happens, taking a chance on myself, was the best thing I did and Models Direct taking a chance on me, has been life changing.” 

Neri continues:

“I’ve worked with Models Direct since 2018 and I’ve always had great experiences with my bookings.

“I had another live TV show with Ideal World, modelling a different product and it was a lovely experience.

“The staff there are always so helpful and it’s so nice to go back somewhere, where they know your face.

“Thank you Charlie – always a superstar and the best agent ever!”

If you think you might be suitable for plus-size modelling, don’t hold back!

Get in contact with us and we can discuss it with you in more detail.

Seeing people in the fashion world, social media platforms, TV, the big screen and as part of our wider society being put forward rather than placed back, is a positive change that’s had a lot of hard work dedicated to its cause.

Nevertheless, it hasn’t been easy. The plus size revolution has had its ups and downs, and as always, there are critical opinions still floating out there, stereotypes and prejudice which even though every part of the movement would like to remove, it’s not entirely possible.

However, we’re all still trying our best to continue to challenge the traditional beauty standards (size zero, super tall, chiselled features, not an inch of fat to be seen), and promote a healthier outlook to body positivity by accepting the diverse looks our population is proud to showcase.

What’s also tremendously helped elevate the trend is famous faces speaking out, campaigning and celebrating body diversity.

Take a look at some of these courageous ladies who are all about speaking their minds and not being afraid of standing up for their views.

Lizzo

The “Good as Hell” and “Truth Hurts,” singer, rapper, and actress has spoken openly about self-love and how she views her body throughout her career. With her reality TV show “Lizzo’s Watch Out for the Big Grrrls,” (2022) searching for backup dancers, and her shapewear collection, “Yitty,” designed for all body shapes released in 2022 she has said:

“I made the decision that I just wanted to be happy with my body and happy with who I am. You have to find that love for yourself deep down inside, underneath all of the questioning and iciness.”

Chrissy Metz

“Our bodies don’t define us—they just happen to be our vessels.”

If you haven’t seen the American comedy series “This is Us’ then you’ve missed out on a great asset to the body acceptance conversation. Actress Chrissy Metz has spoken about her own struggles with her body weight and how she sees herself, often talking about her childhood and weight journey.

Tess Holliday
Gorgeous plus-size model, author and activist, Tess Holliday was scouted by plus-size fashion brand Torrid. At first, she thought it was a scam but the next thing she knew, she was up on the billboards. This was just the beginning of Tess’s modelling journey.

She created a storm by sending out Instagram pics going against beauty norms and opening the conversation about how women can wear whatever they want regardless of their shape and size.

Tess has explained:

“Be yourself at any cost. Don’t make any apologies…Because you are great just as you are and if people don’t believe it, then you show them.”

Other notable figures include model/presenter Ashley Graham, actress Danielle Brooks, singer-songwriter Meghan Trainor and models Robyn Lawley, Paloma Elsesser and Denise Bidot.

Well, guys, we stand by you and have plus-size male and female models here at MD. We’ve always been happy to support and celebrate all body shapes and sizes, and moving forward we’ll continue to be part of this amazing initiative.

Curve, plus-size or size-inclusive?

Whether they’re called curve models, plus-size models or size-inclusive models, this segment of the population deserves to be stylish and have access to collections just like other sizes do. As for which size is defined as plus-size, many companies do their take.

There’s been great strides in this part of the industry and out of all the fashion weeks, London has taken the top spot on the leader board where it’s been the most embracing towards size inclusivity. Okay, we know it’s not much but in this capital, 7% of models slaying the runway were plus-size or mid-size. Rather than looking at the percentage being minuscule, we’re focusing on the positives as is the body positivity revolution.

Brands taking plus-size to new heights

Yes, there’s still a long way to go on this journey of recognition and embracement but we’re travelling through already. Thanks to high street, premium and luxury fashion powerhouses such as Next, Karen Millen and Erdem, the footprints have already been embedded.

Vintage-inspired British womenswear brand Rixo drops new collections every month and has an “extended sizing” section dedicated to all sizes up to UK size 26.

Universal Standard (US) is another brand harnessing size inclusivity throughout their collections with staple fashion statements and a brilliant ethos of bringing fashion to everyone.

Fun fact: US collabed with Erdem in 2021 and a year before, published a children’s book titled What Would Fashion Look Like if it Included All of Us? to break down stereotypes and bring us all closer to clothing that suits our bodies.

Models Direct’s outlook

Over thirty years later, our philosophy has stayed the same – we embrace everyone, and we mean it – ev-er-y-one! This means whatever dress size you are, you’ll be in our MD books without any issue. We’re proud to support the body positivity movement and changes in the fashion and modelling world that are inclusive for all.

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Models Direct is all about embracing everyone. We work on not just making waves but tsunamis in our modelling world because the fact is, we want to make a positive long lasting difference.

We come in all shapes and sizes from different parts of the world, with different cultures, traditions, and languages. We don’t fit into a one-size-fits-all category, we’re unique and fascinating. Why should the modelling industry constrict beautiful characteristics and features so that models conform? This is where we want to inject that positivity and change.

Models Direct is extremely proud that we have been part of breaking the modelling barriers since we first set up our agency thirty years back. Plus size modelling is a tremendous asset to our business and we’ve been part of the revolutionary even before it was a thing.

As part of our FAQ hub we are presenting four of the most common questions we are often asked revolving this niche. We hope that you find this helpful, and if you have any further questions, our MD team are always happy to answer. Let’s go!

How do you get to be a plus size model?

If you’re interested in entering this industry, it doesn’t have to be a challenge or out of your league. You’ll need a reputable agency who can support your vision, goals and aspirations. Who can you turn to? Models Direct, that’s who! We’re here and we can help you break into the industry no matter what your age is, your size, and even your level of experience.

How much do plus size models make?

Great question! Plus size models can earn a good amount of money depending on who they are working with, the duration and the location of the project. Some assignments might mean a couple of hours worth of work for under £100 whilst others could mean a large sum of money going into the thousands! Head on over to our page which displays how much our Models Direct models have earned to see for yourself.

Is it hard to be a plus size model?

With everything in life, you have to work hard to achieve a goal. In this case, if your goal is to be a plus size model then you have to invest time in creating your portfolio and following up with assignments. If you’re with the right agency that values you and wants to put you forward whenever a client requests for your look, then this reduces the level of difficulty in becoming a successful model of this growing niche.

Can you be a model if you’re overweight?

This question was one we contemplated on whether to include in our list of FAQs but because it’s been asked so so many times, we only think it’s right to answer it.

Having a plus size division in the modelling industry means that people of all shapes and sizes are being embraced for who they are and not what they should look like. If your dress size is above 14 then you’ll fall within this niche where you’ll find work because clients are frequently calling for fuller, voluptuous models. Times have changed and clients are following the trends and where the movement of ideas and thoughts are flowing. We’re not leaving plus size modelling behind, we’re pushing it forward so if you’re interested in joining us, reach out and we’ll connect with you.