Current events

All I have discussed should have given you an idea of what kind of images of women presents us media today. However, media has extremely raised a very interesting issue recently: Plus-size modeling. Plus-size models and their walks on runways have become such a popular issue recently that I can even use this issue as a subject of blog which, as you know, is Stereotyped Images of Women in the Media. This does not necessarily mean that I already consider plus-size models as one of the stereotyped media images presented today by the media but the fact that they become very popular and can become a ‘threat’ for today’s popular media images by changing them is also very significant.

What is a plus-size modeling? Who are the plus-size models? What success do plus-size models have?

To have a better understanding of what is a plus-size modeling I will present you general requirements which plus-size models should satisfy. The following list of requirements is offered by portfolio hosting service “Models Connect”: “ If you’re curvy in all the right places, have a look at our top requirements and suggestions for making it as a plus size model – Firstly, as a plus size model you will advertise clothes, accessories and products for the larger woman. Therefore, it is necessary that you represent this look so must be at least a UK size 12 to qualify. Ideally, you will be a UK dress size 12, 14 or 16. Although, sizes 10 and 18/20 are also used, it is far less common. Secondly, as with any other style of modelling, height plays an important roll. You must be at least 5’6”, however, it is recommended that you are between 5′8″ and 6′0″tall. Thirdly, you must be toned. Even though you are plus sized, you should represent an idealised plus sized form, think Rubenesque. You will be required to look full figured but may also still model for swimwear, lingerie or fitness gear. Finally, you should be in proportion. Your bust, waist and hips should be about ten inches apart in size (i.e. 42-32-42) or very close. Your figure should be well balanced and you should not appear top or bottom heavy.” (ModelsConnect)

Some of the plus-size models who became very famous are Crystal Renn, Johanna Dray, Barbara Brickner, Justine Legault, Whitney Thompson, Kate Dillon, etc.
Here you can watch an interview with one of the most famous and young plus-size models Crystal Renn talking about how she became plus-size model and her first experience on runway on Jean-Paul Gaultier fashion show :

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s-g__2p-bgA&feature=related

Plus-size models can be seen walking on runways more and more often. For example, Canadian fashion designer Mark Fast chose some fuller figured models for his fashion show. Here is a short interview with the designer on the mentioned event:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xGQJuALzNGo

One of the big recent successes that plus-size models achieved is a “Curves Ahead” issue at V Magazine with Terry Richardson photo-shoot:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1eOFuOu4xEI




"Plus Size Model :: Modelling UK." Model Agencies Scouting, Can You Be a Model? :: Modelling UK. © 2005 - 2010 Modelsconnect.net. Web. 10 May 2010.
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