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Plus Size, Curve and Brawn Models

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Plus Size Models UK

Plus size and curve models are models who have fuller figures and model clothing in larger sizes than your traditional "straight-size" fashion or fittings models.

They represent real shapes and sizes of actual people and they have been instrumental in driving the body positivity movement and helping diversify the representation of body types in media, fashion, and advertising, through the following changes in the industry:

  1. Industry Shift: Over the past couple of decades, there's been a growing demand for more inclusivity in fashion. Plus size and curve models have become more prominent, securing campaigns, covers, and runway shows that previously would have been exclusive to straight-size models.
  2. Diverse Opportunities: Plus size and curve models can be found in various sectors of the modeling industry, including: Editorial: Magazines, online publications, and blogs. Commercial: Television commercials, online advertisements, and promotional events. Runway: Fashion shows, especially those dedicated to plus-size fashion. Catalog: Brands specializing in plus-size clothing or those offering a wider size range.
  3. Prominent Figures: Several plus size and curve models have gained significant recognition and have used their platforms to advocate for body positivity and change in the industry. Some names include Ashley Graham, Tess Holliday, and Paloma Elsesser.
  4. Challenging Standards: The presence and growing acceptance of plus size and curve models challenge traditional beauty standards. They play a crucial role in pushing for broader representation and inclusivity in fashion and media.
  5. Market Demand: With many women worldwide falling into the "plus size" category in terms of clothing size, there's a substantial market demand for models who represent this demographic. Brands recognize the need to cater to this audience both in terms of product offerings and marketing representation.
Plus size and curve models represent a broader and more realistic range of body types, helping to diversify the fashion and media industries and promote more inclusive beauty standards.
In the UK, as in many other markets, the definitions and standards for plus size or curve modeling have evolved over the years. However, there are some general size guidelines for female plus size or curve models in the UK:

  1. Dress Size: Typically, plus size or curve models in the UK start from a size 12 or 14 and go upwards. However, it's worth noting that the term "plus size" in the fashion industry often starts at a size that many people in the general population would consider to be "average."
  2. Bust, Waist, Hips Measurements: While there's a range of body shapes within the plus size or curve category, here are some general measurement guidelines: Bust: >38 inches / Waist: >30 inches / Hips: >40 inches 
  3. Height: Height requirements for plus size or curve models can vary, but many agencies prefer models to be between 5'8" and 6'0". However, with the rise of body positivity and inclusivity movements, some agencies and brands are becoming more flexible with height requirements.
  4. Proportionality: As with other types of modeling, proportionality is often a consideration. While specific measurements can provide a guideline, how a model carries herself, how clothing fits, and overall presentation can be just as crucial.
It's essential to recognize that "plus size" and "curve" encompass a broad range of body types. The industry is increasingly acknowledging the importance of representing this diversity, so there's no single "standard" that applies universally for female plus size and curve models.
The male plus size or "brawn" modeling sector is a more recent development compared to its female counterpart, but it's been growing steadily as brands and advertisers recognize the demand for more representative body images.

In the UK, as elsewhere, standards and requirements can vary between agencies and clients, but here are some general guidelines for male plus size or curve models:

  1. Chest and Waist Measurements: Chest: Typically >42 inches / Waist: >36 inches
  2. Clothing Size: This can vary, but generally, male plus size models might wear a size XL and above. However, the specific size can differ between brands.
  3. Height: The preferred height for male models, including plus size models, often starts at around 5'11", but there's flexibility, especially within the plus size category. Some agencies might be open to representing shorter models, particularly if they possess a unique look or have a significant presence.
  4. Build: A key consideration for male plus size or brawn models is proportionality. While they represent larger body types, agencies and clients often look for a balanced and proportional figure.
  5. Diverse Opportunities: Male plus size models can find work in various sectors, including editorial features, commercial ads, online promotions, and more. As the market grows, there will likely be even more opportunities in different areas of the industry.
  6. Challenging Standards: Like their female counterparts, male plus size models challenge traditional beauty and body standards in the industry. Their presence highlights the diversity of male body types and promotes broader representation.
It's essential to understand that while these are general guidelines, the modeling industry is fluid. Standards can change based on current trends, client demands, and societal shifts, so like their female counterparts, there there's no single "standard" that applies universally for male plus size and brawn models.
If you would like to become a plus size, curve or brawn model, then  please see our applications page to apply to our agency.