I want to preface this blog before you read: I do not believe the term “plus size,” is actually plus size and I think it’s silly because the average plus size model is size 6. I also do not feel I need to lose/gain any sort of weight nor do I really want too. If talking about weight makes you uncomfortable or modeling makes you uncomfortable, I’ll ramble a different topic tomorrow. I just wanted to create an open discussion about it.
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So yesterday when I was in line at the store and a lady approached me asked and if I was a plus size model. Long story short I w as just like no I’m actually just a college athlete who happened to be wearing real girl clothes. She then told me I should look into it. So.random. Why is my life cray cray? Not to stereotype but she was a middle aged woman with perfect hair and makeup, I almost wanted to ask if she would do mine all the time.
I wasn’t sure how I should respond to that question because honestly it was kinda awkward. I’m 5’7 and I’m not overweight by any means but I’m also not underweight by any means either. Oh and also because I forgot to say this-her asking me actually didn’t even really make me think oh my god fat day have I gained weight?
I was just more puzzled then anything else. What would you do in that situation?
I mean I was flattered that someone would think I was a model to begin with but I didn’t know how to approach the topic of “plus size.” In fact, “normal size models” don’t even wear normal sized clothing and plus sized females wear clothing set at most normal sizes. I never quite understood why it would be that glamorous to walk down a run way when you can barely walk because you are so damn starving.
Oh and incase you wondered (because we all know my obsession with ANTM and I spend hours researching possible ways to meet Tyra)… Editorial (magazine) models are not normally underweight with bones showing. They are in the (lower) but healthy range of their weight category. Runway models and some high end fashion are the all skins and bones. Think about it, a 5’8 female weighing less than 115 pounds?
While some people think that all models are underweight, that is actually false and it’s runway models that get all the attention for that. (So not even half the modeling industry is underweight, but it’s just the most advertised).
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While doing a bit more digging around, I found some interesting statistics of the modeling world.
Runway and editorial models:
Height: 5’8″-6’0″
Weight: 105-125 lbs
Measurements: 34-24-34 (bust, waist, hips)
Size: 0-4
Physical: naturally slim/slender, not very curvy, striking/unique/odd features, strong bone
Commercial/print models:
Height: 5’5″-5’7″
Weight: 105-125 lbs
Measurements: 34-24-34 (bust, waist, hips)
Sizes: varies
Physical: proportional, symmetrical, attractive face, great smile/teeth, good complexion
Petite models (on a side note-It’s harder to get a job if you are petite versus being plus size):
Height: 5’1″-5’5″
Weight: 100-125 lbs
Measurements: 34-24-34 (bust, waist, hips)
Sizes: 2-4 petite sizes
Physical: proportional, naturally slim/slender, strikingly attractive, good complexion, healthy hair
Plus size models:
Height: 5’8″-6’0″
Weight: varies
Measurements: varies, but must be proportionally 10 inches between measurements (example: 42-32-42).
Sizes: 10-18
Physical: proportional and toned, great skin, hair and teeth, nicely shaped legs.
Glamour models:
Height: open
Weight: open
Measurements: varies but 36-24-36 is ideal (bust, waist, hips)
Sizes: open
Physical: glamour models can be short or tall, thin or thick. The curvier, the better. Should have a great, toned body, full bust and a nice butt.
Lets chat about the modeling world. It all fascinates me as you probably know. What do you think about it?