Feature
10 PLUS SIZE Models Who Are Owning The Spotlight in 2019
These plus size/big and tall Models dominated in 2018 and show no signs of slowing down in 2019.
Whether it’s new models on the scene or veterans continuing to work with major campaigns, we’re loving the strong presence of diversity, not just in fashion but in other segments as well.
Beauty brands are starting to take notice as well as major lifestyle brands, which shows us that diversity is on the rise and 2019 has us excited!
Here’s 10 models who are owning the spotlight and busting down those doors to create a more diverse space for all models to come through and be seen.
#1: Denise Bidot
Bidot continues to be one of the top plus size supermodels out there. She spent 2018 working on major campaigns (Oil of Olay, Hello!), appearing on TV as a judge and now a dancer (Nuestra Belleza Latina and Mira Quién Baila), and being seen on a billboard in Times Square. The single mom and creator of the No Wrong Way movement shows no signs for slowing down in 2019. Team Denise!
#2: Fluvia Lacerda
This veteran model worked non-stop in 2018, jetsetting all over the world while balancing modeling, TV segments, motherhood and designing. The Brazilian beauty has recently been in her home country, shooting for local businesses and designers, as well as doing meets and greets. We love her dedication to her home country but her willingness to go all over the world to spread the message of body positivity is what makes her a standout.
#3: Paloma Elsesser
Where do we start? Simply, Elsesser is killin’ it! From doing campaigns with major brands such as Glossier, Converse, Reebok, Nike and 7 For All Mankind to gracing magazine covers (Vogue!), 2018 was her year. She’s so fearless in her style and uses her voice to be candidly honest about an industry that didn’t accept her until now. She continues to break barriers and doors so we’re sure 2019 is going to be epic for her.
#4: Philomena Kwao
Kwao is not just a model but a humanitarian and activist who uses her voice to bring more awareness to women of color and body positivity. She also uses her platform to speak to women about body image and self confidence, all the while, being seen EVERYWHERE in 2018. So she is definitely one to watch this year!
#5: La’Tecia Thomas
https://www.instagram.com/p/BmgrHyYluH_/
Thomas started her career as a size 6 but after dealing with self loathing and body image issues, she is now a happy size 16, using her voice to speak about the importance of self love and acceptance. This Aussie model slays it in brands such Fashion Nova and Pretty Little Thing and launched her own collection with InTheStyleCURVE. We’re hoping Sports Illustrated scoops her up for their next Swim Issue.
#6: Tabria Majors
Majors makes no apologies for being visibly plus in an industry that is just beginning to use models who are not a size 10. She is very active, sharing workout videos on social media and being vocal on topics such as self love, acceptance, body image and sex. She was featured in Sports Illustrated’s 2018 Swim Issue, has a podcast called The Thick Podcast, and shows that you can rock a bikini at any size. We love seeing her everywhere, modeling for many plus size brands and we’re excited to see where her career goes in 2019, hopefully in mainstream campaigns.
#7: Miguel Perdomo
Perdomo has been in the modeling game for years, starting out as a straight size model and now is an emerging star in the Big and Tall modeling industry. Having worked for major brands such as Target, Old Navy, Party City, Van Heusen and JC Penney, Perdomo has cemented a name for himself in the industry while remaining humble and down-to-earth. The new father is also an artist and uses his platform to speak on body positivity, pursuing your dreams and realizing your true purpose. 2019 is going to be his year!
#8: Rob Robinson
https://www.instagram.com/p/BoQDWRUB4ZL/
This breakout model has been featured by brands such as MVP Collections, Bad Rhino and DXL as well as gracing the cover of our Love Your Body issue in 2018. His funny videos and willingness to speak about his past body image issues makes him so relatable to fans. He partnered with plus size model Christina Mendez in 2018 on a model workshop and also uses his platform to promote being healthy at any size. 2019 is surely going to be an amazing year for Robinson.
#9: Zach Miko
Being the first Brawn model signed to IMG Models, Miko is the trailblazer who has made such an impact on the big and tall fashion industry. Having worked for major brands such as Bonobos, Target, Kingsize, DXL, and Izod, he also launched his own podcast Big Things With Zach Miko in 2018 as well as appearing in an episode of America’s Next Top Model, walking in a swimsuit fashion show in Australia and continuing to be candid about his own body struggles. Not to mention, he’s such a nice guy who is extremely humble. We know 2019 is going to be incredible for him.
#10: Maxey Greene
Greene made some serious moves in 2018 and to see this size-18 apple shaped model gracing advertisements for brands such as Macy’s, American Eagle, Lane Bryant, Eloquii and more, is simply amazing. She continues to also use her platform to push the message that beauty isn’t a size and it’s okay to love yourself as you are. She’s also a photographer and blogger. Talk about a triple threat!
Who are some of your favorite plus size models who are owning the spotlight? Follow us @plusmodelmag and let us know!
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Unveiling the Power of Self-Care Rituals: Insights into Mental Wellness…
For some of us stress seems to be an inevitable companion, and prioritizing mental health has become a crucial aspect of our lives. As the spotlight on mental wellness intensifies, individuals are increasingly turning towards self-care rituals to nurture their minds and souls. In this exploration, we delve into the realm of self-care practices, unveiling their significance in promoting mental well-being.
Self-care goes beyond pampering oneself with occasional treats; it embodies a holistic approach to nurturing our mental, emotional, and physical health. It encompasses activities that recharge our batteries, soothe our souls, and rejuvenate our spirits amidst life’s demands.
Discovering the Tapestry of Self-Care Rituals
- Mindfulness Meditation: Engaging in mindfulness practices such as meditation or deep breathing exercises can help anchor our minds to the present moment, fostering a sense of calm and clarity amidst chaos.
- Nourishing Nutrition: Fueling our bodies with wholesome, nutritious foods not only sustains physical health but also nurtures our mental well-being. Incorporating fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins into our diets can bolster our mood and energy levels.
- Creative Expression: Whether through art, music, writing, or any other form of creative expression, channeling our inner creativity can serve as a therapeutic outlet for processing emotions and fostering self-discovery.
- Physical Activity: Regular exercise not only benefits our physical health but also has profound effects on our mental well-being. Whether it’s a brisk walk in nature, a yoga session, or a dance class, moving our bodies can release endorphins, alleviate stress, and enhance our overall mood.
- Digital Detox: In an era dominated by screens and constant connectivity, unplugging from digital devices and immersing ourselves in offline activities can provide much-needed respite for our minds, allowing space for introspection and relaxation.
- Quality Sleep: Prioritizing adequate sleep is paramount for mental health and overall well-being. Establishing a bedtime routine, creating a restful sleep environment, and practicing relaxation techniques can promote restorative sleep and enhance cognitive function.
Embracing self-care rituals isn’t just about indulgence; it’s about cultivating resilience, nurturing self-compassion, and fostering a deeper connection with ourselves. By prioritizing our mental well-being and incorporating self-care practices into our daily lives, we empower ourselves to navigate life’s challenges with grace and authenticity.
As the discourse around mental health continues to evolve, integrating self-care into our collective consciousness is imperative. By embracing self-care rituals as a cornerstone of our lives, we not only prioritize our mental wellness but also contribute to the creation of a culture that values compassion, authenticity, and holistic well-being. So, let’s embark on this journey of self-discovery, one self-care ritual at a time, and pave the way for a brighter, more resilient future.
In the tapestry of self-care, let us weave a masterpiece of mental wellness—one nurturing gesture, one mindful breath, and one compassionate act at a time.
What are your favorite self-care rituals? How do you prioritize mental wellness in your daily life? Join the conversation on social media and share your insights!
Feature
SwimStar All Stars Partnership With Renowned Plus-size Model and Swimsuits For All Ambassador, Denise Bidot
Inclusive Swimwear Brand Collaborates with Prominent Plus-Size Model Denise Bidot to Empower Aspiring Models…
Swimsuits For All, a pioneer in inclusive swimwear, proudly introduces its inaugural SwimStar All Stars campaign in partnership with renowned plus-size model and Swimsuits For All ambassador, Denise Bidot. This collaboration marks a significant milestone, nearly a decade following Denise’s groundbreaking “Beach Body, Not Sorry” campaign with Swimsuits For All in 2015, which showcased unretouched imagery aimed at promoting unapologetic confidence.
Denise Bidot and Swimsuits For All have jointly unveiled the SwimStar All Stars nationwide search, dedicated to discovering emerging talent in the realm of swimsuit modeling. Encouraging aspiring models to share their personal narratives, the initiative aims to inspire women of all backgrounds, shapes, and sizes. Following a rigorous selection process, Brittany Wilborn, Camryn Henry, and Sharon Clawson emerged as the chosen winners. In January 2024, these models embarked on a transformative journey to Harbour Island, where they had the unparalleled opportunity to shoot alongside Denise under the expert direction of internationally acclaimed photographer and director, Ben Watts.
Reflecting on the initiative, Denise Bidot remarked, “This was a truly exceptional opportunity to celebrate the diversity of plus-size models and cultivate an atmosphere of support, empowerment, and knowledge sharing. The camaraderie on set was palpable, and I am deeply honored to impart the wisdom and insights I’ve garnered throughout my career. Opportunities like these are scarce for plus-size models in the industry, and it has been a privilege to collaborate with the exceptional team at Swimsuits for All to bring this campaign to fruition.”
The models showcased the latest swimwear offerings from the Swimsuits for All 2024 collection, featuring innovative designs tailored to meet the diverse needs of women, including:
Feel-good Fits: Addressing common concerns such as tummy bulges and fit issues, Swimsuits for All offers a range of fits designed to instill confidence and comfort in every body. Incorporating features like Power Mesh for a smooth, flattering silhouette, and adjustable straps for customizable support, the collection caters to various body types.
Bold Prints & Colors for Summer: The summer swimwear collection boasts vibrant colors and captivating prints, injecting excitement and personality into beach and poolside attire. From vivid neon hues to tropical motifs, the collection encourages self-expression and style experimentation.
Liquid Shine: Introducing Liquid Shine, a striking swim fabrication characterized by a glossy, liquid-like finish, adding an edgy allure to beachwear. Available in multiple silhouettes, including bikinis, Liquid Shine ensures you stand out with confidence.
Bikinis that Suit You Best: The Mix & Match Bikini collection offers a personalized approach to swimwear, allowing individuals to mix and match colors and silhouettes for a bespoke look tailored to their preferences.
Beyond showcasing inclusive swimwear designs, the SwimStar All Stars campaign embodies a celebration of women uplifting one another in an industry often marked by competitiveness. Throughout the week-long shoot, models engaged in one-on-one sessions with Denise, fostering meaningful dialogue about the evolving representation of plus-size bodies in swim and fashion.
Jordan Hauser, Senior Director of E-Commerce & Marketing, expressed, “This campaign transcends conventional notions of body positivity and representation in the swim and fashion industries. It is a testament to the power of storytelling and authenticity in reflecting the diverse experiences of our customer base. We are committed to fostering a movement where women find strength in unity, and we are thrilled to embark on this journey alongside Denise Bidot, one of the industry’s foremost advocates for inclusivity.”
The summer 2024 swimwear collection is now available. For further details about Swimsuits For All and the SwimStar All Stars campaign, please visit www.swimsuitsforall.com.
Imagine being scouted while you are performing a dance routine in baggy clothes and not even thinking about becoming a model. This was in part our cover model’s journey to where she is today. This month we are celebrating our journeys and embracing the steps that have brought us to where we are today.
Get to know our cover model Sharon Dumfries…
Photographer, Milton Goedhoop
Please tell us a little about yourself and how you got started in the modeling industry.
I’m Sharon Dumfries, born and raised on the Island of Aruba but my parents have a different background and are Dutch Indonesian and Surinam Haitian. As a kid and teenager, I got bullied for my looks and for being different, and I had a hard time standing up for myself. It was also hard to find fashion in my size. Taking dancing classes helped me get out of my comfort zone and get better self-esteem during the years. I moved to the Netherlands at 18 years of age to study and today I’m a model and teacher for over 13 years.
I got scouted unexpectedly after dancing a ”Hip-hop and House” routine in my baggiest outfit during a fashion show with primarily straight-size models. I started as a catwalk model on weekends after doing an intensive catwalk and fashion show training, next to finishing my Biology and Teachers degree. A few years later I got scouted by a big brand during a fashion show and this was the stepping stone to getting signed with a bigger agency in Amsterdam.
We have spoken to models from all over the world about the plus size industry in their respective countries, and realize it’s different outside of the United States. Can you share the plus-size industry as you see it in The Netherlands?
A lot of brands tend to book models in the same country, so if you really want to make a career it’s sometimes best to be ”on stay” for a while in the UK or Germany. We don’t have a lot of ”go-sees”. The sizes of most models that get booked are usually smaller than in the US. The sizes size 42- 44- 46- (Sometimes 48) EU are very popular because of the Sample Sizes.
For those of us getting to know you, can you share your work with us as an educator and coach?
I currently teach Biology in High School for the past 12,5 years and have managed to work as a model part-time. I’m also a coach at school and help students with their emotions such as fear of failure. Through coaching, I’m given the opportunity to speak to teenagers who aren’t able to come to school due to anxiety about participating in school in the regular classes, heavy bullying, or being kicked out of school for other reasons. This is still fully new and just started at our school a few weeks ago.
What role do you believe social media plays in today’s society as we raise children and also tend to our mental health?
The stress level is rising earlier on due to pressure to not only be cool and accepted in real life but also online. The level of bullying online is where there is no supervision and it is getting out of control. Teenagers already get burned out at a very young age. There is too much non-visible pressure that everyone needs to be above average. Some try to over-achieve and get burned out and others give up and don’t get to make small steps forward and stay stuck, which in turn also causes a lot of stress.
What tips do you have about navigating social media for both the younger generation and those of us who remember the days before the internet?
I am not the best in Social Media, a little bit by choice. I don’t want it to be a must. But a lot of people make a living out of it. It takes a lot of time and effort, so for it to really make it work it’s a full-time job or you need a team. For the ones who remember the days before the internet: just try, and have a bit of fun along the way trying to figure it out, it all changes so quickly nowadays. But most of all be authentic. For the younger generation, I would say the same. It is not a must as a model to have a huge following. It’s about being visible that counts, that people and brands can find you. It’s best to start small and make baby steps. It took me more than 10 years to get where I am now. I believe working together and genuinely spreading love makes the difference.
As a model, teacher, and coach what are some of your goals for the future and what changes would you like to see in the plus-size modeling industry?
In the future, I would like to combine my knowledge as a teacher, model, and coach. Preferably by helping others to realize what true beauty is. As cheesy as it sounds, from the inside out. In the future, I would like see more diversity and inclusiveness, not as a trend. I would like to see bigger sizes being booked just as often as small sizes. And also better education about what being healthy means. I would like to see more respect from people behind their laptops, to always show love, if there is hate, keep it to yourself ;). In the best scenario, brands need to book models for their charisma and make the clothes fit them. I would like less plastic surgery, and more natural imperfections to be celebrated. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and is different in every culture, never let that define your beauty. You are good enough just as you are <3
Visit online IG @sharondumfries
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Welcome to our May issue of PLUS Model Magazine, where we’re embracing the beauty of the past while eagerly embracing the promise of the future.
This month, we’re thrilled to showcase the remarkable journey of one of our own: a returning cover model who’s not only graced the virtual pages of our magazine but also the hearts of many through her dedication as an educator and coach.
As we celebrate the spirit of resilience and perseverance, we remember our beloved plus-size model, Mia Amber Davis, whose light continues to inspire us even thirteen years after her sudden departure. Mia’s legacy is a testament to the power of embracing oneself wholly and unapologetically. Her impact on the fashion industry echoes through time, reminding us of the importance of representation and inclusivity.
In this issue, we’re not just reflecting on the past; we’re also celebrating the present and future of the modeling industry. Alongside Mia’s story, we’re excited to introduce you to new faces, fresh voices, and passionate individuals who are redefining beauty standards and making their mark in the world of fashion.
Our cover model’s journey embodies the essence of our theme this month. She’s not just a stunning face; she’s a beacon of inspiration, a guiding light for the people she works with, and a mentor for aspiring models. Her story is a reminder that no dream is too big and no obstacle too daunting when passion and perseverance are your guiding stars.
This month, may you be inspired by the stories of courage, resilience, and hope that grace our platform and social media pages. Let us celebrate the past, embrace the present, and welcome the future with open arms and unwavering optimism.
Thank you for joining us on this journey of inspiration and empowerment.
With love and gratitude
Madeline Jones
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