Is The Plus Size Customer Ready to See Size 18+ Models in Campaigns? Yes, They Are!
Body diversity is a topic that is often talked about, especially when it comes to the models used in campaigns. Some brands use size 8 models and some will use models over a size 18. However, the majority of brands use models a size 12 and under. Brands cite the reason behind using smaller models is that when they use bigger models, the items don’t sell as well as they do when modeled by a smaller model.
Read more: PLUS Model Magazine Survey Results – We Asked, YOU Answered… What Is ‘Plus Size’?
So we posed the question yesterday (7/22) to our fans on Facebook to see what you think and the response was overwhelming:
And we still want to hear from you – click here to let us know what you think. Here’s some of the comments we have already received:
“I don’t think the fault is in the model, but in the design of the clothing. A poor plus size design is much more apparent on a 20+ model that on a 14+ where more design flaws can be hidden by pinning etc. At least that’s what I’ve found to be true, I’m an 18/20 and I enjoy seeing a great design on a model my size!” ~ Prudence Allworthey
“That sounds like a totally bogus excuse. Of course we want to see bigger models! We want to see ourselves represented, we want (need) to know what’s available to us, and that these labels aren’t dissing us. It frustrates me to no end to see skinny models wearing clothes being sold to big girls.” ~ Amy Wulfe
“All sizes AND heights should be represented. Even at a 14/16 I will look different in the clothes compared to a model at the same size but is 5’10. My 5’6 frame looks totally different. It’s difficult to buy things when your not sure what they will look like on your body, especially when shopping online. Majority of the plus size lines are only available online, which is also frustrating.” ~ Sabrina Rojas
That question… “Is the plus size customer ready to see size 20+ models in campaigns?” is one that has been on our minds, especially with the popularity of Tess Holliday recently. So as we were preparing our annual denim issue, going live August 1, we wanted to do something different.
Read more: Plus Size Model Tess Holliday Graces The Cover of People Magazine
We decided to feature three models of different sizes to show diversity in our denim issue. The only way to show brands that customers want to see larger models or models of all sizes, is to let them know that this is what you want to see.
And then subsequently, opening your wallets and purchasing those items. We hold the power as the customer since we are the ones spending our money and promoting those items by wearing them, talking about them, posting images of us wearing them on social media and even blogging about them.
Editor-in-Chief Madeline Jones reveals why she wanted to show some diversity in our Denim issue:
“When I was preparing for our denim issue, I specifically chose models who complimented each other but also represented a wider range of sizes than we have done in the past. I’m especially proud to have been able to work with these fabulous ladies because they exude confidence and enjoy working in the plus size industry.”
The three models are:
- Jourdan Jerome: Size 14, signed to MSA Models – Curve Division
- Christina Mendez: Size 16, signed to True Model Management
- Kenya Morris: Size 18
We are definitely in favor of body diversity in every aspect because ALL bodies are beautiful.
And it’s important for us to listen to our readers and hear what you think. So we are beyond excited to unveil our Denim issue in 10 days. In the meantime, here’s some behind-the-scenes images from the shoot:
Our denim issue will be available online on August 1 and we would love to know what you think about it, once it’s live.
What do you think about the models used by brands in campaigns? Are they not “plus” enough? Would you like to see more diversity? Please leave us a comment below and let us know.