How to Become a Plus Size Model

If the world of full figure modeling has always intrigued you, you may have wondered how to become a plus size model yourself. Maybe people have often told you that you’re pretty and you’d love to pursue a career in the fashion industry. The world of models who are size 14 and up is not very different from that of models who are a size eight – you’ll have many of the same experiences and need much of the same guidance. Knowing the right steps to take can make the difference between success and failure.

How did many famous plus size models get their start in the business? Getting discovered in a soda shop is usually a fairy tale. Models have to work hard to get noticed and achieve success. Most models follow this path to the career of their dreams:

1. Sign with an agency: You will need to get signed on by a modeling agency that represents plus size models. Not all agencies will take on clients in the specialized full-figure market so you’ll need to do your research to make sure you approach the correct ones. This saves you and the agents some time. The venerable Ford Models has a Plus division and Model Service Agency has a Goddess division just for plus size models, to name just a couple of agencies in this area. It’s important to work with a reputable agency. Naturally, the more well-known names are located in big cities such as New York, Los Angeles, London and Chicago so you might have to relocate to get on with an agency there.
2. Build a portfolio: A model's portfolio is her resume. You’ll need an impressive one filled with your best shots. If you get tear sheets (actual pages from magazines you’ve appeared in), be sure to include them in your portfolio – it shows that you can secure work and that an agent can successfully place you with a client. Building a portfolio can take time, so don’t expect this to happen overnight.
3. Meet clients: Going to meet clients, or on go-sees, is part of every model’s start. Clients want to see you in person to evaluate if you’re what they’re looking for. Being professional and courteous is important. Stories of diva-like models are certainly entertaining, but few rude models make it far in the business. You need to show up for meetings on time and be approachable and friendly. Models who are easy to work with generally find more work than models who give everyone a hard time.

What types can expect to find work in the full figure modeling world? Most plus divisions are looking for:

• Models in sizes 10-20: A size 10 is really not considered plus-sized, but because it’s larger than what’s commonly advertised, even women in this size are seen as “larger than average,” even though the average women’s dress size in the U.S. is a 12! Some plus models on the smaller end of the size scale may find they need padding to model plus clothing.
• At least 5'8: The taller you are, the better your chances of becoming a model.
• Great skin: Models usually come by great skin naturally, but it’s still important to take care of it. Getting into a good cleansing and moisturizing routine early will help ensure that your skin rewards you.
• Toned body: Even full-figured models are expected to have good bodies. This doesn’t mean you have to be skinny – it means that you should be well-proportioned. Models of all sizes should follow a healthy diet and fitness program.
• Good personality: Agencies and clients want to work with personable, friendly models. You should also be professional: be on time and have all of your essentials at the ready. If you want to make modeling your career, an essential part of how to become a plus size model is approaching it with all seriousness.

Even following all of these guidelines may not meet with the success you want. Modeling is a select industry and not everyone will make it. However, if you’re willing to work hard and try to overcome the odds, you can use this information and see if you have what it takes to make a career out of this exciting and fulfilling industry.

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