Even at my most slender size five'ness, it was difficult to view the media's portrayal of the Ultimate Female Form as an attainable goal (since I'm 5'4" or so). If we are to believe print and television, videos and movies, the ideal woman seems to be about 5'10" and weighs in just under 115 pounds after a decent meal.
So, What is a Plus-Size Model?
A plus-size model is the term applied to a woman larger than a standard U.S. size 8 who models clothing for consumers wearing a dress size 14 in North American sizing. (Source: Wikipedia) Probably the most recognizable plus-size model is Melissa Aronson (you know her as Emme), at 5'11, who wears a size 16. The plus-size label has been applied (somewhat unfairly in some cases) to other actively working models and stars. One of my absolute favorites is Dana Owens (Queen Latifah), the hallmark face of CoverGirl Cosmetics and a completely unapologetic right-size person.In the last few years, more apparel companies are opening the doors to plus-size product lines, catalogs and online offerings, and are beginning to present wardrobe and apparel on models that are more reflective of what many more of us look like. There is progress, more every day, and there will continue to be progress as long as apparel companies keep recognizing that we are not all Kate Moss hopefuls.
Could I Be a Plus-Size Model?
Wilhelmina Agency began hosting an annual search for plus-size models in the 1990s. More information can be found at the Wilhelmina Agency website. Some agencies devote specific departments to plus-size model scouting and promotion, like Model Scouts.But for the straight scoop, I'd say listen to the Tyra Banks Show blog entry entitled What is a Plus-Size Model. I've noticed that on America's Next Top Model, she has referred to several of the candidates as "plus size model possibilities," and for the most part those candidates have seemed to be not much more than a bit bustier than the "regular girls" on the show.
Give and Get Peer Support
What really captivates me about Tyra Banks' blog are the comments. (The posting is dated November 2006, but the latest comment is from April 2007 - good staying power for a blog entry!) So many responses ask for more information, describing their own right-size lives and circumstances. So many hold out hope for a response, yet there are some comments that speak of discouragement and loss of hope.All the more reason for us right-size sisters to encourage each other to affirm our body image, be comfortable in our own skin and size, seek safe weight loss solutions if that is what we choose to do, and dress like we own the world we're in.
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5 comments:
I've been comfortable with my weight since I was 17 - got a wake-up moment, a realization basically and ever since, I've been comfortable with myself - even liking myself. It's a long story kinda but I wish that all large ladies would hold their pretty little heads up high and look people in the eye with confidence and conviction!
Oh yeah, one more thing. I was scouted by BBW when I was 19 - they wanted me to model for them but I worked in a computer dept. for the phone company and didn't want to leave my job. :) Who knows, I could have been famous.?.
A perfect cheer for you! Confidence and conviction are two important tools in our perfect toolbox. Spread the word, and help others gain the firm footing and comfort they so richly deserve.
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It would be great to check out the latest plus size clothing online.
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