We’re still a long way to accepting real bodies as bodies and not policing how other people look…let alone actually celebrating any woman who isn’t a size 0.
BUT it’s getting better and so-called plus size models are now scoring huge gigs, appearing in major ads and campaigns, and collecting legions of adoring fans. Times are changing, and it’s an amazing thing, plus…to bring the conversation down a level…these women are hot, hot, hot! Here’s our picks of the hottest, most beautiful and driven plus-size models ruling it right now.
1. Iskra Lawrence
It’s an effed up world we live in where English model Iskra Lawrence is considered overweight and has been bullied for her size. She’s the one coming out on top though as she’s been modelling since she was a teen for huge clients and is the founder of the fashion site RunWayRiot.com.
2. Tess Holliday
If you’ve even heard the phrase “plus sized model” in your whole life you probably already knew that Tess would be on this list. Known for her activism as much as her success, she’s making the world a better place just by being sexy. She’s also a new Mom!
3. Bishamber Das
Is there anything that Bishamber Das can’t do? Model, activist, motivational speaker, Miss India Kenya 2014, singer; it’s surprising she ever has time to update her Instagram page.
4. Ashley Graham
Ashley Graham. This wouldn’t be a list without Ashley Graham. She was on the cover of the Sports Illustrated Swim Suit Edition this year, and is another bodacious babe as renowned for her flawless body as she is for her work creating a space in our culture for ladies of all sizes!
5. Marquita Pring
Stunning and captivating are words often used to describe Pring. But she is also an outspoken activist about accepting all shapes and sizes. Keep up with her on Instagram.
6. Robin Lawley
We won’t blame you if you spend the rest of the day watching this looping GIF. This Australian treasure is known the world over for starring in editorials for every magazine that matters. Fun fact: She’s also getting famous for her cooking and her food blog is an international hit. Check out her website for links.
7. Liris Crosse
Anyone nicknamed ‘The Naomi Campbell’ of the plus size modeling world has big stilettos to fill. Yet Liris Crosse does is with ease and grace, even racking up a star role in a Jay Z music video. And yes, that is Kanye West checking out her…assets.
8. Barbie Ferreira
Only 19 years-old Barbie Ferreira is setting the modelling world ablaze as the face and bod for American Eagle’s Aerie brand lingerie. Wise beyond her years, Barbie doesn’t allow any of her pics to be retouched and has a legion of dedicated fans due to her frank Instagram and social media accounts.
9. Philomena Kwao
Beauty and brains. This Londoner has a degree in Economics and a Masters’ degree in International Health Management. Learn more about Kwao on her website.
10. Tara Lynn
Brunette (and sometimes blonde) bombshell Tara Lynn stepped out of our dreams and into the ad campaigns and pictorials of the nation. She causes a true sensation every time she walks the runway.
11. Denise Bidot
“There’s no wrong way to be a woman” is the slogan of Denise Bidot, a model shattering both the limits of size in her industry, and the overwhelming whiteness (she’s of Kuwaiti and Puerto Rican background). Discovered by a photographer while working as a makeup artist, her Cinderella story is like the plot of a movie, but lucky for us she’s 100% real.
12. Olivia Campbell
As famous for her beauty as she is her down-to-earth attitude. Campbell is an outspoken supporter of embracing all sizes and is well known for her frank assessments, “I’m not curvy, I’m fat.”
Want to check out more models in GIF form? Head over to MakeaGIF.
