Are you dying to know how to become a plus size model? Thanks to a number of boundary-pushing models, designers, and activists, there’s more plus size visibility in the world of fashion than ever before. Plus size modeling opportunities are increasing across the industry, from catalog and commercial jobs to swimsuit modeling, magazine editorials, and even runway shows.
These days, it’s not just plus size clothing brands looking to cast full figured models: more and more straight size brands (those catering to a size 12 and under) are extending their sizing—or rolling out entire plus collections.
If you’re looking to steal some of that limelight for yourself, we’ve got a few tips on how to get your foot in the door of the plus size fashion world, including finding plus size modeling jobs, applying to plus size model agencies, building an , and more. Let’s get started!
What are the Plus Size Model Requirements?
While straight-size modeling focuses mostly on body measurements, plus size models are typically evaluated and cast based on dress size. Broadly speaking, plus size models are categorized by the fashion industry as anyone over a size 6—a designation that’s .
These days, however, most women deemed plus size models are a size 12/14 or higher, bringing the industry’s perception with what counts as plus size a little more in line with that of the public.
The industry’s exacting standards about height and other aspects of models’ appearance, however, still remain largely intact. Plus size fashion models are generally 5’9” and up, and are asked to have unblemished skin, healthy hair and well-kept nails.
Plus size fit models can be shorter—between 5’6” and 5’9”—while commercial modeling gigs () offer more flexibility. (Keep in mind that there’s exceptions to every rule: famous plus size model Tess Holliday is 5’5”!)
Are There Plus Size Model Agencies I Can Apply to?
Many of the in North America and around the world now offer plus divisions. Here’s a selection:
Additionally, there are also a few curvy model agencies specializing in plus models, like Germany’s and U.K.-based (which represents “curve and brawn models”). For a more extensive list of regional agencies, check out this .
How Do I Get Signed by Plus Size Modeling Agencies?
The easiest way to get seen by model casting agents? Send them a link to your ! Many plus size modeling agencies have “Be A Model” pages set up, listing their desired criteria for models and allowing applicants to submit portfolio images for consideration. Expect to supply measurements like your height, weight, bust, waist, hips, dress size, and shoe size.
Additionally, plus size model agencies will ask for a selection of images—typically, a full-body photo, a waist-up photo, a headshot taken straight on, and a headshot taken in profile. These images don’t necessarily need to be elaborate, or taken by a professional photographer—all you need is natural lighting. The goal is to show yourself off as you are, so wear plain clothing (a white T-shirt and jeans or a black shirt and pants are great) and minimal or no makeup. (Looking for examples? offers sample images on their application page.)
You might also be able to attend an open casting call geared toward plus size models—many agencies will regularly open their doors to undiscovered models looking to meet with casting directors. For tips on how to navigate these cattle calls, check out our guide to .
Who are Some Famous Plus Size Models?
Arguably, the two biggest names in plus size modeling right now are , who landed the cover of Sports Illustrated’s famous swimsuit issue in 2016, and , who was featured on the cover of Cosmopolitan UK in 2018.
Other famous plus size models include Tara Lynn, Robyn Lawley, and Candice Huffine—but there’s also plenty of noteworthy rising plus size models, including La’Shaunae Stewart, Paloma Elsesser, Naomi Shimada, Vivian Eyo-Ephraim, and Tash Ncube.
How Can I Become a Plus Size Bikini Model?
Though agencies specializing in swimsuit modeling do exist, and some larger agencies do have specific swim divisions, most plus size models for swim campaigns are picked from a regular plus size modeling roster. Be sure to include bikini or lingerie shots in your portfolio so that casting directors can keep you in mind for swimwear gigs.
Plus size brands with a focus on swimwear might also host their own model searches looking for fresh faces, so be sure to follow some of your faves on social media for any news.
Height and size requirements are about the same for plus size bikini models as for other plus models. Generally, those casting plus size models for swimwear shoots are looking for people with an hourglass shape and visible muscle tone, but with brands constantly making their shoots more diverse, there’s more and more room being made for models of all shapes. Remember: here, more than ever, confidence is key!
What are Some Plus Size Fashion Designers and Plus Size Brands that Hire Plus Size Models?
Some of the major plus size clothing brands include and , while hipper indie brands include the basics-oriented and , a line created by plus size influencers Gabi Gregg and Nicolette Mason.
Canada has major plus size fashion brands like and , while the UK is home to , Asos’ plus size brand. offers budget-friendly clothing popular with streetwear lovers.
Meanwhile, a number of straight-size companies—including , , , and —have extended or introduced plus sizing, and have begun booking more plus size models to show off those wares.
What Kind of Plus Size Modeling Jobs are Out There?
According to , which represents several plus models, “plus size models can be found in advertising campaigns, magazine editorials, runway, live-TV work and commercials.”
Here’s a few tips on how to hunt down plus size modeling jobs without an agent:
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With the popularity of plus modeling on the rise, you might see an increasing number of plus size model searches held by designers and brands for specific campaigns. Be sure to follow plus size brands and designers on social media to find out who’s looking.
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Seek out Facebook groups or job boards in your area that feature postings for modeling gigs.
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Look on social media for local photographers who shoot full figured models. (Searching can help with this.)
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Try joining , a popular site for freelance models seeking gigs.
What Should I Put in My Plus Size Model Portfolio?
If you’re looking to jump-start a career as a plus size model, you’re going to need a an that lets you show plus size designers and casting directors what you can do.
As previously mentioned, basic images shot in natural lighting are a must-have, but you’ll also want to use images featuring a variety of looks in order to show off your range. Add them to your model portfolio book to bring with you to castings, and make sure you use them for your online portfolio as well—casting directors searching online for plus size models could book you on the strength of your online portfolio alone!
Here’s a few tips for building your plus size model portfolio:
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If you can’t afford to hire a photographer (and a stylist, and a makeup artist…) then is a great way to get images for your portfolio.
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Broaden your repertoire by brushing up on .
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Include a few bikini or lingerie photos—especially if you’re planning on going after plus size bikini model jobs.
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Check out a few for inspiration for what you can do with your own plus size model portfolio.
Once you have your shots in hand, use a to create a professional-looking portfolio in a snap. Choose one with that will impress industry insiders, and so you can show off your gorgeous Insta snaps there, too.
Check out our guide to for everything you need to know about making a stunning comp card and online model portfolio.
Now that you’ve learned all the ins and outs of becoming a plus size model, it’s time to get out there and show the world what you’ve got. Let your confidence shine, and the fashion world will take notice.
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