As the fashion industry increasingly embraces models with different body types in a bid to better reflect our society, plus-size models are in demand. Models like Raul Samuel, Felicity Hayward, and Iskra Lawrence are leading the way, championing plus-size beauty on the world stage.
Just as with any modelling career, to make it as a plus-size or ‘curve’ model, you generally need attractive looks and a strong work ethic — plus a kick-ass portfolio. Breaking into this competitive industry is not always easy, but it can be a lucrative career once you get there. So, how do you become a successful plus-size model? Here’s the inside track.
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A plus-size model is a model who is bigger than the fashion industry norm. In the UK, plus-size really means anyone a size 12 and up. Other than that, plus-size models do exactly the same work as any other kind of model, promoting products, advertising brands, walking catwalks, and posing for photo shoots.
Which brands use plus-size models?
Leading fashion brands such as Calvin Klein, Burberry, and Chanel use plus-size models, as do high street stalwarts like Dove, M&S, and ASOS. It’s a growing business: The UK plus-size women’s clothing market was valued at £8.1bn in 2023, and by 2032 it’s predicted to be nearer £12.6bn.
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According to job site Jooable, plus-size models in the UK make approximately £4,315 per month, £996 per week, or £25.59 per hour. But it’s worth noting these figures are an average: Many plus-size models supplement their income with other work, or by taking less glamorous gigs for online retailers or commercial advertising brands.
Most modelling contracts are freelance, and how much you earn as a model will be determined by the number and calibre of jobs you book. The more in demand you are, the more money you’ll bank. While prestigious and glamorous, editorial work in magazines doesn’t pay huge amounts of money – but it can attract the attention of brands connected to higher-paying commercial jobs.
1. Practise
As the saying goes, practice makes perfect, so pose in front of a camera to learn your best angles and how to work with the lens. You don’t need a professional camera to get going: a good-quality phone camera will do. Ask friends and people you trust for honest, constructive feedback on your photos.
2. Create a portfolio
A modelling portfolio is your showcase to potential agents, photographers, and clients. Fill it with your very best shots. Pictures should be high quality and feature:
- A headshot or portrait shot
- A full-length shot
- A black-and-white shot
- A creative shot
- A candid picture taken on location
- Your very best shot
Your portfolio should also include your name, age, measurements, contact details, and your agent’s details (if you’re already represented).
3. Get a modelling agent
A modelling agent will support your career every step of the way. They’ll source opportunities, manage contracts, and sometimes promote you on their social media pages, which can lead to more bookings.
In the UK, plus-size models are represented by both major modelling agencies like IMG and Wilhelmina, as well as specialist agencies such as London’s Bridge Agency. More and more agencies are taking on plus-size models, so ask around, do some research, and then apply to the agency you vibe with.
Remember, an agent takes a cut of what you earn – 20% on average – but reputable agents won’t charge you anything upfront.
4. Look after your body
Regardless of which facet of the industry you work in, as a model, your body is your business, so be sure to take good care of it. Get enough sleep, eat a balanced, healthy diet, and exercise regularly.
5. Learn the modelling industry
Study the plus-size models whose careers you want to emulate. How did they get there? Who represents them? What brands do they work with? What is their vibe? Learn what you can from their career paths and then forge your own; authenticity matters, and imitation is boring.
6. Promote yourself
Getting noticed by the right people is a crucial aspect of being a successful model. As well as networking in person, using social media effectively is really important.
Some models, like Callie Thorpe and Sonny Turner, started their careers without any professional representation, choosing instead to showcase their skills through social media. Ironically, Callie started out writing a dieting blog before changing direction, while Sonny got scouted via her Instagram.
Instagram is the favoured social platform of most models because, just like the fashion industry, it’s visual-led. Your profile should showcase your best shots as well as reveal some personality. Pictures should be flattering but not too heavily edited. Follow brands championing plus-size talent, like Dove UK and Nike, as well as models whose work you admire, top agencies, and designers.
Keep it real and use hashtags like #plussizemodel, #plussizeUK, #bodypositive, #curves, and #plussizefashion when you post to increase your chances of getting noticed.
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Celina Ralph
Born on the south coast in Hastings, Ralph has walked the catwalk for Emilio Pucci, Alexander MacQueen, and Max Mara. She’s also appeared in ad campaigns for US fashion giant Neiman Marcus.
James Corbin
Brixton boy James Corbin is part of a new generation of male plus-size models. He walked the catwalk for LVMH’s prize-winning brand S.S. Daley last year and has also modelled for brands like GAP, Levi’s, and Valentino.
Alva Claire
South Londoner Alva Claire was one of the first plus-size models to walk for Versace in 2020. She followed that up by strutting the runway for Rihanna’s Savage x Fenty show and shooting campaigns for Ivy Park and Marc Jacobs.
Saffi Karina
South London girl Saffi Karina has worked for top commercial brands like Monica Vinader, Boux Avenue, and River Island. With over 600,000 followers on Instagram, Karina uses her platform to champion body confidence and female self-empowerment.