A plus size model is a term used to label a full figured male or female who possesses body measurements above the standard fashion industry requirements. According to the Merriam-webster dictionary, ‘plus’ means “in addition to which.”
What Is Considered Plus Size?
There was a time where most fashion models were between the sizes of 0-4; with an acceptance of a size 6. The issue with that was many consumers were above that size requirement.
By definition of former president Kennedy, consumer means to “include all of us.” In order for brands to be inclusive, they would have to market to every type of person.
Not just to a small sizing range. So besides the standard and strict industry size requirement; a plus size category emerged.
Primarily, to become a plus size model, you don’t NEED any previous experience or a portfolio of arrayed professional images to apply to a modeling agency.
If you’ve attended a few open calls and you haven’t received a callback, then it’s time to take another avenue and invest in yourself! You can read more about Choosing The Right Photographer ↳ HERE
How To Become A Plus Size Model With No Experience
Write down a list of plus size modeling agencies that highly interest you. You can do a quick google search that will cause a display of top modeling agencies for plus size models.
Understand that you don’t have to sign with a top modeling agency right off the back.
You can build your portfolio by reaching out to photographers in your local area.
An awesome way of working with a reputable photographer and viewing their portfolio, is if you choose one through instagram.
You can sign to a smaller agency known as a boutique agency, better known as a Model Management. Agents at a Model Management have a great report with agents from top modeling agencies.
Your agent will send your portfolio to the larger agencies once it has been developed. Therefore, don’t rule out the underdog!
Ideal Model Measurements For Full Figured Models
Fortunately, because the fashion industry is focusing more on being inclusive and including more body sizes, there are really no ideal model measurements for plus size models.
Clients are looking for models to model sizes that are most in demand.
A client seeking plus size models, aren’t trying to book models two sizes above the normal industry standards.
They’re looking for full figured men and women who are relatable to common buyers.
Female Plus Size Model Measurements
Female Plus Size Models measurements are between:
Male Plus Size Model Measurements
Male Plus Size Models measurements are between:
HEIGHT: 5’11 – 6’2
BUT! Zac Miko who’s signed to IMG Models stands at 6’6!
WAIST: [ Minimum requirement ]: 42/44 inches
TOP SIZE [ Minimum ]: 2XL
ZACH MIKO’S INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/zachmiko/?hl=en
How To Apply To A Modeling Agency Online
Make sure that you submit what is requested.
Remember that you’re trying to make an impression on model scouts who have never met you.
Modeling agencies want aspiring models to submit their digitals or portfolio and information a certain way. If you’re serious about becoming a model, follow their directions.
If the digital requirement is to submit a headshot, full-body shot, and ¾ shot, then submit those three exactly the way described.
Don’t submit your “favorite” selfies that got you a lot of likes on Instagram! The best way to display yourself is to be natural
Attend A Modeling Open Call
A modeling agency open call is an in-person meeting that an aspiring model would attend to get signed.
Since covid, modeling agencies like one management ( who signed full figured models ) hosts open calls via instagram live!
You’ll meet with model scouts face to face.
The perks of an open call are that model scouts can personally see your attributes a lot better than what your model digitals display.
Models may not realize certain attributes that will make them a successful model:
• Facial features
• Long limbs
You may not understand how to capture those traits well in your digitals.
An experienced model scout will notice those striking traits a lot better by meeting with you face to face.
Another reason to attending open call is that you’ll briefly chat with a scout, show your personality, talk about your interest, and leave a positive lasting impression.
Model Tip:
Research agencies beforehand to make sure they have a plus size division.
Unfortunately, your favorite modeling agency of interest may not have a division just yet.
If you haven’t signed to another modeling agency still, check back periodically.
Use Your Social Media Platform
You can become a plus size model through your social media platforms. Model scouts need to view your personal page, so make sure your profile is set to public.
You don’t have to create a separate profile that looks “more professional”.
Use your main profile, but do better about the content that you upload. Social media posts that are engaging are important.
Share your personality and interest.
Instead of uploading pictures of just your dog, upload a candid image or reel of you walking your dog, or playing with your dog.
The intent is to show you while also expressing an interest in something. The image shows personality. Scouts and clients love to see models in their natural state, doing what they enjoy.
Since you love dogs, that means you know how to handle them with care. You can book an advertisement job with a client that has pet care products.
You’ll be the best candidate for being around dogs while on set because you’re familiar with pet care. Therefore, you’ll make the advertisement look more realistic and natural.
It’s the little things like that which will help you get signed to a modeling agency!
Personality is important!
Don’t worry about professional Instagram photos.
You don’t have to invest in a DSLR camera either.
Why buy a DSLR camera when you have a costly smartphone that can shoot great quality images?
You’re not trying to be a photographer, you just want to get noticed as a model!
Start by taking simple candid images and selfies with your phone.
3 Important Tips On How To Take Pictures Of Yourself
Lighting – Natural lighting is always the best option, but if you have an engaging filter for your images that doesn’t take away from your beauty, then use that!
A lot of models post simple candid pictures. When you’re out with friends and family, ask them to snap a picture of you!
Make sure the image isn’t distorted and you’re visible in the picture.
Oddly…
Blurry images are kind of a vibe.
Be artistic, but don’t over-due it to the point where you’re no longer the main subject.
Be Natural– Less is more! Take pictures with minimal makeup.
Not every picture that you post has to be makeup-free, but assure that every other upload includes an image of you with minimal makeup, accessories, and fake nails.
Don’t be serious all of the time, have Fun – Model scouts and clients love that!
Be versatile in the content you post and try to post content at least once a month. Post whatever you like, as long as it shows you in your element.
Typically, there will be certain clients that you can work for just because of your interest and knowledge.
Post at least once a month, but if you can do more, that’s even better!
Modeling School
Modeling school isn’t necessary to become a model. Yes, some models have been scouted through modeling schools, expos, and conventions, but it isn’t necessary.
There’s no guarantee that you’ll sign to a modeling agency after any type of training; so that’s a money loss.
There’s more value in submitting yourself through a modeling agencies website, tagging agents on social media, working with a photographer, and many other ways that can lead to getting signed.
Plus Size Model Weight Requirements
Does weight matter? No!
When becoming a model in general, it’s about your measurements. For instance, two models can have the same hip measurements but differ in weight.
How to measure your hips is by measuring the fullest part of your hips and rear.
If the two models’ hips are a size 53, one model can have a wider hip bone structure, while the other model may have a larger rear.
Although there’s no strict weight requirement, height is an important factor. Agencies do list on their website a requirement for height.
A plus model doesn’t need to focus on weight requirements.
The measurements an aspiring model should pay attention to is their height, waist, bust, and hips.
Although, It’s important to take care of your health no matter what type of model you are.
A model needs to have clear skin, healthy hair, nails, good oral care, and a straight posture.
These characters play an important role in getting signed, renewing your contract with your agency, and booking jobs.
After all, you’re applying to be in an industry whose main judgment goes by appearance.
Clients want to use a model for print work, and also for runway and commercials.
That’s why taking care of your overall health is critical in the beauty industry.
Develop A Routine
Model Skincare Routine [ Tip ]
Develop a minimal skincare routine AND STICK WITH IT!
A simple cleanser and moisturizer will do, less is more!
Even though cleansers and help your skin recover from breakouts, acne and skin texture issues come from within the body.
So clean up your diet!
Model Work-Out Routine [ Tip ]
Develop a work-out routine that you can do at least three times a week.
Get your body moving with simple daily activities.
Start off with extending yourself to complete tasks at home or run errands, for instance:
• Walk your dog longer
• Walk to local stores
• Park further away from stores
• Clean areas of your house
moving your body naturally counts as exercising!
For a greater change, look into:
• Club Pilates studio
– exercising in a group setting will heighten your motivation and lead to friendships.
• Yoga
• Ballet
• Cycling
• Lightweight training
You Can Become A Plus Size Model With No Experience
Overall, you don’t need the experience to become a plus-size model, but it will help further your career if you continue to get turned down by modeling agencies.
Sometimes scouts need to see you in a different element.
You can build your portfolio on your own by working with local photographers, or you can apply to a Model Management who will help further your development before you head off to a prominent fashion market.
There are many beautiful plus-size women with exotic traits and features emerging in the modeling industry constantly.
There are many ways to become a plus-size model with no experience.
The first thing you should do is take a leap of faith and submit yourself online, or attend an open call. You’ll never know unless you try!