Plus Size Fashion News
Plus Size Models Hard To Find In Melbourne
ARE you tall, gorgeous, well-proportioned and on the top side of size 12?
A second career in modelling could be waiting for you.
Melbourne has a shortage of plus-size models, according to specialist modelling agencies and the fashion companies who use them. This is despite the fact one of Australia’s most successful plus-size models, Abby Valdes, who is signed to Ford Models in New York, is a Melbourne girl.
Maria Muratore, general manager of Dream Diva said while there were lots of size-12 models around she considered a plus-size model to be a size 16. “I’ve got the best one and she’s on contract,” Ms Muratore said. “I don’t know whether they don’t have confidence in Melbourne . . . I don’t think there’s less talent.” Ts 14 Plus marketing manager Melanie Schwarz said her label required models that would fit their sample clothing properly and had experience in front of the camera. She said the label also couldn’t keep using the same models. “It’s a difficult task, and that’s not to say we don’t appreciate the models we have, but we always want to keep our brand looking fresh,” she said. “It can be quite a challenge to get those planets aligned.” Chelsea Bonner, of Sydney based plus-size model agency Bella, said Melbourne fashion companies often flew models down from Sydney because they couldn’t find the talent they required at home. She said she was hoping to rectify the problem by holding an open casting call in St Kilda tomorrow. “We really need to have a way to encourage Melbourne girls to get in contact with us,” she said.
She said many of her models went on to forge good careers in the business. “A lot of my girls end up working in New York or Germany, and end up making big dollars.” Darrianne Donnelly, of fellow plus-size agency BGM Models, said that while there were beautiful girls in Melbourne, finding girls to fit the model criteria was difficult. Ms Bonner said plus-size models on her books needed to have a body mass index that was in the “healthy” range, a bust-hip-waist ratio that was in proportion, and be at least 172cm tall.
Article from the Herald Sun
Work Rest And Play Plus Sized Clothing are looking for plus size models. Please view the 'WRAP News' page on our model search for details on how to register your interest.
War of the sizes - Fat V Skinny
The Daily Mail asked two women to pose for pictures, one is a size 0 (UK size 4) and the other is an 18, in the hope of raising awareness of the increasing weight issues in the UK today.So - Is media coverage of size zero celebrities directly responsible for the increase in eating disorders in young girls? Or is the steady rise in obesity a far more worrying problem?
Both women appear to eat a healthy balanced diet but nutritionist Fiona Hunter believes that the size zero model - Sasha Larner is eating less than half of the recommended daily calorie intake, and the majority of these are made up of biscuits & alcohol. Fiona had higher praise for the well balanced diet of Mikyla Dodd of Hollyoaks & Celebrity fit club fame.
War of the sizes Fat V Skinny From plussize.wordpress.com
Are fat friends a fashion statement?
I sit here seething after reading an article on The daily mail website entitled why every woman needs a fat friend. The article talks about Kate Moss and a recent snap of her with 15-stone frontwoman of indie band The Gossip, Beth Ditto, and another unnamed ‘fat’ friend. In no uncertain terms it is stated that the beautiful people only have ‘fat’ friends to make them:
A) Look better
B) Feel better
C) Make it easier to pull
Here is a quote from the article:
‘But it’s not just when you’re out on the town that your fat friend makes you feel better. When you’re out shopping there’s the satisfaction of slipping into a size 10 as she struggles with a 16, and even if you have put on a few pounds, the fact she can’t fit into the biggest size the shop stocks takes the sting out of moving up to a 12.’
The fact that somebody would take pleasure from the obvious distress of one of their friends pretty much sums it up. I for one have many friends of all shapes and sizes who love me for who I am and vice versa. I would not want such a shallow friend, as frankly who needs enemies with friends like that!
If you are a 16 plus and suffer from the problem faced when shopping on the high street, try Curvety.com where you can pick up the latest fashions in sizes up to a 36. And if you have friends like Ursula it will be your turn to show them up!
I ask you all to read and comment on the article at the daily mail website as I think that the damage that this kind of journalism can do should be flagged. If this was about race or religion then Ursula would be stoned in the street. So why it ok to prejudice against people because of their size? People like Ursula at the Daily mail need to take responsibility for their actions and the affect stories like this have on teens and young women.
Article from plussize.wordpress.com
Passionate about Plus Size. 7 Tips to being a sexy plus size
by Nancy Hayssen
by Nancy Hayssen
Former plus size model Nancy Hayssen has written a book called ‘You Can be Sexy at Any Size.” In the promotion surrounding the release Nancy is giving 7 top tips on how women can boost their confidence whatever their size or shape.Here are Nancy’s tips:
1) Positive Self Talk Probably the most important thing you can ever do at any time is—talk POSITIVE to yourself. Most people have negative self talk running through their heads 24/7 and they don’t even realize it!
2) Hang out with positive people. Ask your friends and loved ones to help you by saying positive and approving things about you. The more often you hear positive things about yourself, the sooner you’ll believe them.
3) Move your body. It sounds so simple, but moving your body can make you feel better.
4) Ask yourself—“How do I want others to think of me when they look at me?” What kind of image are you projecting with the clothes you wear? Maybe you dress to be really comfortable or maybe you dress to be extremely stylish, but however you dress, ask yourself if your clothes are giving others the impression of you that you want them to have?
5) We’ve all heard the phrase, “Fake it ‘til you make it.” Well, it works. It works partly because the subconscious mind doesn’t’ recognize the word or concept of pretending. For the subconscious, everything is always “real.” So faking it ‘til you make it, makes it happen.
6) Breathe. Yup, that’s it. Breathe. By taking some long, deep breaths, you will begin to calm your body and give it the much needed oxygen it craves.
7) Give what you want to get. Like attracts like. So give what you want to get and you might be surprised at how enjoyable it is to give when you get so much back!
These tips are a small insight into the content of her book which gives more ideas on how to increase your confidence and make the most of yourself. Nancy adds ‘remember, you’re the only you there is! You’re unique and precious just as you are!’
Gaultier Swaps Size 0 Models For ‘Size 20′
Fashion designer Jean Paul Gaultier found his own way to comment on the ’size zero’ debate - by putting a larger model down the catwalk to show off his clothes.
Dressed in a daring black corsetry, the plus-sized model dwarfed her fellow waif-like catwalk queens.
Clearly more of a size 20 than the controversial model Size 0, this voluptuous woman proved big is beautiful as she strutted down the runway at Gaultier’s 30th anniversary show yesterday during fashion week in Paris.
Information for this article is from the Daily Mail.
www.plussizedclothing.com.au Model Search!
Are you interested in becoming a plus size model?
Work Rest And Play Plus Sized Clothing are currently searching for plus size women who are looking to break into the modeling industry. If you answer is yes to the following questions then you may be exactly who we are looking for:
Are you between size 14 and 36?
Are you based in Melbourne, Australia?
Do you have a passion to be a plus size model?
We do not require you to have previous experience in modelling. All we ask is that you have a desire and passion for it and have time available for photo shoots. If you think you are the person we are looking for then please email us and attach a photo of yourself to: contactus@plussizedclothing.com.au
Plus Size Modeling: An Introduction
Plus size modeling is a growing industry that is gaining popularity and acceptance throughout the world. Because plus size models and modeling has gained popularity in the last ten years, the opportunities have broadened considerable, but all modeling shoots for a plus size model are not the same. Plus size models will discover major differences between shoots, whether operating as a free agent or with representation and between different markets.
When you decide you want to try plus size modeling, you need to consider whether you want or can get representation right away, or if you want to act as a free agent. Finding representation can get you into many doors, but in some cases, if you are just starting out, you may want to be a free agent and market yourself to build your portfolio and get experience.
Finding representation can be challenging. You”ll need some photos of yourself and you may need to try several agencies before you find the right one. Some agents want to see professional headshots, while others prefer a simple Polaroid. In many cases, they prefer to see your “raw material” and then they”ll help you find and cultivate a desirable plus size model “look.” If you find representation, you should remember that the agent is working for you but you still need to take an active interest in your own modeling career. You should know what kinds of jobs they are promoting you for and why you are or are not getting jobs.
As a free agent you may have more flexibility, but you”ll need to carefully protect yourself and make sure you”re booking legitimate, paying jobs. Regardless of your status, you should constantly seek feedback, and do your best not to take it personally. Consider yourself a product that will be effective selling a product, or not. You may need to alter your look, gain weight, tone up or change your hair to be more marketable. Make sure you remember on thing; you won”t be right for every job no matter what you do.
If you want to be a plus size model, you do need to consider that there are different kinds of plus size modeling and different markets for different sizes. Here is an interesting guide to some of the different markets and needs for plus size models.
Plus Size Lingerie Modeling: Really good plus size lingerie models are hard to find. Not only are companies and agencies looking for well proportioned and sexy women from sizes 10 to 18, they are also looking for toned, curvy bodies that will really make their photos pop! In many cases, a lingerie photo shoot will also be different than that of a catalog or fashion shoot. They may want sensual, sexy or even playful moods and you need to be comfortable with your body and your sexuality to project the right feelings.
Plus size catalog photo shoots for clothing are very different than plus size lingerie modeling. Most companies are looking for plus size models that are from sizes 10 to 18 with well proportioned bodies, pretty faces and positive, professional attitudes. Since plus size clothing is designed to flatter fuller figures, you may not have to worry about being as toned as for plus size lingerie. In many cases, these shoots are more about smiling, laughing, and being active. If you are modeling plus size swimwear or active-wear, you may need to have a more toned physique.
Plus size fashion shoots will always favor the prepared. Although you may or may not be showing a lot of skin, couture plus size fashion will fit better and look better if you are well toned and filling out the clothes in all the right places. Additionally, high fashion is frequently made of higher end silks and satins which are less forgiving than cottons and knits. With strong abs and smooth lines that show off your gorgeous curves, a fashion house or magazine will be far more likely to book you again.
Finally, different geographic markets call for different sized plus size models. For instance, the UK market favors sizes 12 and 14, American client”s book specific sizes anywhere from 10 to 18 while the Italian market targets sizes 12 to 16. Markets like South America are just introducing plus models while the German market still favors sizes 8 to 12.
One unifying factor is certainly attitude. If you are a go getter who arrives at every shoot upbeat and prepared to work, you are more likely to be a successful plus size model. The plus size models that realty stand out are always well groomed and ready to slip into whatever role they are called on to perform. Whether portraying a confident business woman or a sexy siren the most successful plus size models glow with inner confidence. The best plus models know that they are sexy and beautiful because of their curves, not in spite of them.
By Rebecca Jennings
We are always looking for models to show off our clothing. If you are based in Melbourne and are looking to get your foot in the door in plus size modeling please contact us at: contactus@plussizedclothing.com.au
Our Men Prefer Us Curvy
Top Ten Plus Size Models
Forget the skeletal, sickly girls who pass as fashion models these days. A true man knows that real beauty isn’t found in a size zero. A growing number of plus-size models are redefining what society considers beautiful, and the heroin addict-looking supermodels of today could soon find their jobs in jeopardy.
Here is a list of the top 10 plus-size models, choosing not only the hottest women, but also the most successful and ambitious. These healthy, full-sized hotties are riding the wave of public backlash against the walking coat hangers plying the runways.
Please note, all sizes in this article are in US sizes.
No. 10 Natalie Laughlin
Risk-averse marketing types resisted using plus-size models for years, but as public criticism against anorexic models grew, it was just a matter of time. Liz Claiborne was one of the first to cave, featuring this brown-haired, brown-eyed beauty as their “Elizabeth” girl. The progressive company even went as far as to feature her on five massive billboards in Times Square. The Trinidad-born Natalie Laughlin, who fluctuates between a size 12 and 14, has been called “the Cindy Crawford of plus-size models.” A big compliment for this big, beautiful woman.
No.9 - Maggie Brown
This Hawaii-raised hottie got her big break after winning Tyra Banks’ horribly named Thick and Sexy model search in 2006. She quickly signed to Wilhelmina Models and has worked for Macy’s, Mervyns and more. Her exotic, Asian look and voluptuous curves keep this plus-size model busy. She appears alongside Queer Eye for the Straight Guy’s Carson Kressley on How to Look Good Naked, something many men would love Maggie Brown to give them a real-life lesson on.
No.8 - Barbara Brickner
This popular plus-size model was downright offended when she was first approached to do some plus-size modeling. Luckily, the lure of world travel, huge paychecks and fame convinced her to try. It turns out that was a wise decision, as she got her first big paying gig almost immediately. Since then, this curvy brunette has worked for clients like Eddie Bauer, Target and more. Now, she is focusing her energy on making her true dream come true: becoming a country music star.
No.7 - Crystal Renn
Her name may sound like a porn star’s, but this beautiful brunette is undoubtedly one of the most popular plus-size models working today. Things weren’t always so peachy for this Floridian. As a 14-year-old aspiring model, she was told to lose almost 1/3 of her body weight in order to get work. That understandably triggered a series of eating disorders that eventually drove her out of the business. After some time for reflection, however, she regained the weight and rebranded herself as a healthy, voluptuous plus-size model. Crystal Renn remains the only model in her niche industry to have appeared in all four international editions of Vogue magazine.
No.6 - Kate Dillon
Kate Dillon was once a successful “straight” model (what plus-size models refer to their bony, malnourished colleagues as). There was always a big girl dying to get out, and she constantly battled with her weight. Despite starving herself and living off cigarettes and coffee, she was repeatedly sent home from shoots for being “too fat.” Her “eureka” moment came after she was hospitalized for gastroenteritis. She emerged gaunt and weak from her bed two weeks later, and ran into a colleague from the modeling industry who remarked that she looked “fabulous.”
The beauty from the Beltway (Washington DC, to the uninitiated) got healthy, gained back all the weight she had starved off and used her contacts in the industry to relaunch her career as a plus-size model. 
No.5 - Emme Aronson
Some girls are just born big and live their lives battling it, and hating themselves in the process. Others, like Emme Aronson, embrace their big, beautiful selves and are that much more attractive for it. Born in New York but raised in Saudi Arabia, she deflected all the criticism usually thrown at big-boned teenage girls (including her own father, who famously used a black marker to circle where she needed to lose weight) and channeled all her anger into sports. She excelled at rowing, eventually earning a full scholarship to Syracuse. After a stint working as an anchor for a TV station in Arizona, she went full bore into modeling and has been wildly successful since.
No.4 - Mia Tyler
When your sister is all-world hottie Liv Tyler and your dad is diminutive Aerosmith lead singer Steven Tyler, there are a lot of expectations when it comes to your appearance. This sexy size 10, however, turns all those prejudices on their ear, flaunting her larger-than-life personality and curvaceous body in Vogue and Marie Claire. Mia Tyler also appeared on Celebrity Fit Club, losing 18 pounds but maintaining her buxom beauty. She has the bloodlines and the potential inheritance that truly set her apart.
No.3 - Toccara Jones
This statuesque black beauty completely obliterates the tired preconceived notion of blond-haired, blue-eyed beauty. She first came into the public eye as a contestant on America’s Next Top Model. Competing against frail, starving waifs, the 5’7” citizen of Dayton more than held her own, claiming the show’s coveted “CoverGirl of the Week” title four times. Toccara Jones was eventually voted off the show, but she parlayed the exposure into a contract with renowned plus-size model agency Wilhelmina.
No.2 - Chloe Marshall
This vivacious Brit is proof of just how far plus-size models have come. No longer content to grace magazine pages or fashion runways, they are now invading beauty pageants too. Chloe Marshall is a finalist for the Miss England title, already having beat out seven presumably skinny girls for the title of Miss Surrey. Miss England will be crowned in July 2008, but Chloe Marshall already has a juicy contract with agency Models Plus to fall back on. She oozes confidence, is as bubbly as they come and has a bright future ahead of her, win or lose.
No.1 - Whitney Thompson
Season 10 of America’s Next Top Model was when plus-size models went prime time. That’s because a 5’10”, blond bombshell in a size 10 dress beat out scores of bony, generic wannabe models to become the first plus-size girl to win. As part of her prize package, the Jacksonville native won a contract with Elite Model Management and a sponsorship deal with CoverGirl.
Even though ANTM host Tyra Banks suggested Whitney Thompson was more of a “full-figured model” than a plus-size one, the zesty Floridian has already broken down barriers and paved the way to mainstream success for bigger girls who dream of the glamorous life of a fashion model.
Information for this post is from askmen.com
Plus Styles Getting Hotter!
Women requiring larger fits (size 14 and up) are finding more options when it comes to choosing their wardrobes. Clothing companies and retailers have gotten smarter and are no longer viewing Plus clothing as a necessity to cover-up imperfections but rather embracing the view that Plus clothing can be fun and sexy for the larger woman.
Research on the plus size market have for years shown the strong buying power of this market, yet most larger woman will tell you that they cannot find enough styles for their curvy shapes. Estimates for 2005 show that 30% of the U.S. woman’s apparel market is Plus size with 47 billion dollars spent. Many studies also indicate that the average size of American women is a 14 and that the majority of women in the U.S. wear a size 12 or above. Despite the fertile territory in larger sizes, most clothing companies have still preferred to focus their design and sourcing resources on fitting the smaller woman. This can be evidenced in most department stores where Woman’s (larger sized) sections are cast off to far corners of the shopping netherworld. Should a larger woman finally find her section, the majority of the women are disappointed to find boring or out-dated styles.
Well it appears as if better shopping experiences are ahead as the fashion industry is finally starting to pay attention to the specific needs and wants of the curvy woman. Plus women want to show their curves and feel sexy.
Reinforced by more positive media images, an increasing number of larger women have become empowered by the fact that their natural curves can draw serious sex appeal. The popularity of celebrities such as singer/actress Queen Latifah and Plus size model Toccara Jones support this confidence surge.
Many in the fashion industry have embraced this liberating mindset and have now begun to re-think and re-sketch their designs for beauty. Driven by these forces, the fashion industry should provide better choices for this large segment of the apparel market. And finally, the average woman will be able to rest assured that the latest runway hits will be hanging in her closet soon.
by: Yul Kwon at Missphit
