6 Curvy Models Who Changed The World's Perspective On Fashion

Today's fashion industry is evolving to meet the new body image.

The modeling industry is one of the most dynamic areas of our lives. It has evolved from curvaceous models with hourglass shapes in the 1950s to slender models in the 1990s.

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Today's fashion industry is evolving to meet the new body image, which is defined by self-acceptance and body positivity. Ashley Graham, Paloma Elsesser, Candice Huffine, and other influencers are demonstrating that the fashion industry is ready for major changes, which are already taking place.

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It is important to realize that we should promote diversity and inclusion regarding beauty standards because diversity and inclusion are not passing fads but rather the way we should truly operate in today's world. After all, nothing will change unless we speak up—and compel society to reconsider the perceptions of beauty and fashion.

Curvy models are frequently the outliers in an ocean of slim women. According to the Fashion Spot's 2019 diversity report, only 50 plus-size models featured on 18 different 2019 runways during the Fall season in New York, London, Paris, and Milan, accounting for 0.69 percent of all models.

This underrepresentation in fashion contrasts sharply with real women's bodies: the average American woman wears a size 16 to 18. Don't even get us started on how fashion disregards large breasts.

While sample sizes continue to dominate the runway, some models have made strides in countering beauty ideals. We've compiled a list of six curvy models who have challenged and ultimately changed the game.

1. Ashley Graham

1. Ashley Graham© BOISIERE/SIPA/EAST NEWS, © Jonas Gustavsson/Sipa USA/East News
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Ashley Graham is one of the most famous curvaceous top models, and she is an inspiration for numerous women as she paved the way for many plus-size models in the industry.

© ANGELA WEISS/AFP/East News
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Ashley promotes self-acceptance and often shares makeup and filter-free photos. She shows the world her postpartum belly with stretch marks as she encourages others to stop using filters and Photoshop. As Dr. Esther Perel, a renowned couples therapist, states, "Embracing our authentic selves, including our imperfections, is essential for true intimacy and connection." By sharing her journey, Ashley inspires many to appreciate their bodies and foster a healthier self-image.

© face to face/FaceToFace/REPORTER/East News

Graham said that these beauty modifications are so hurtful and create a bigger problem than we are aware of. In a few years, the results start to show.

© face to face/FaceToFace/REPORTER/East News

2. Paloma Elsesser

2. Paloma Elsesser© AUG/FaceToFace/REPORTER/East News

Paloma Elsesser was discovered on Instagram by Pat McGrath, who is a makeup artist.

© Jonas Gustavsson/Sipa USA/East News

In her career, Elsesser has worked with many brands and has also appeared in numerous famous fashion magazines.

© Jonas Gustavsson/Sipa USA/East News

The model hopes to pave the way for more girls in the industry and promotes diversity in the world of fashion.

© Jonas Gustavsson/Sipa USA/East News

3. Candice Huffine

3. Candice Huffine© Jonas Gustavsson/Sipa USA/East News

Candice Huffine participated in New York Fashion Week. She also worked with prominent designers.

© Jonas Gustavsson/Sipa USA/East News

The model confessed that shooting for Vogue Italia was a pivotal moment for her career and that it will go down in history for her.

© Jonas Gustavsson/Sipa USA/East News

The model Dr. Alexandra Solomon, a relationship therapist, noted that "the fashion industry has historically marginalized curvy women, but their visibility is crucial for redefining beauty standards." This shift in representation has indeed changed the game, as curvy women are often overlooked in editorial opportunities.

© Jonas Gustavsson/Sipa USA/East News

4. Precious Lee

4. Precious Lee© Marechal Aurore/ABACA/Abaca/East News

Precious Lee is one of the world-famous women who redefined the supermodel image. Her energy and hard work have allowed her to work with numerous famous designers.

© Jonas Gustavsson/Sipa USA/East News

The model presented Versace’s spring 2021 collection in Milan and worked with Donatella Versace.

© Jonas Gustavsson/Sipa USA/East News

Donatella Versace said that Precious Lee embodies sensuality in her own way and that she is easy to work with.

© Jonas Gustavsson/Sipa USA/East News

5. Iskra Lawrence

5. Iskra Lawrence© Jonas Gustavsson/Sipa USA/East News

Iskra shared several rules of self-acceptance that she follows in an interview. She understands that it’s important to be your own favorite fan and to speak out about your insecurities.

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© Sebastien Courdji/KCS/East News

The model said she'd tell her 15-year-old self that 'this is me.' She says she has spent too much time comparing herself to others.

When she stopped, she accepted herself, and it freed her mindset.

© Sebastien Courdji/KCS/East News© Invision/Invision/East News

Iskra Lawrence was named one of BBC’s World’s 100 Women in 2016, and three years later, she was included in the Forbes 30 Under 30 for Europe.

© Gilbert Flores/Broadimage/Broad Image/East News

6. Tess Holliday

6. Tess Holliday© Sipa USA/Sipa USA/East News

She is another powerful influencer who preaches self-acceptance. She promotes body confidence and positivity.

© Gilbert Flores/Broadimage/Broad Image/East News

Tess launched a social media campaign that encouraged plus-size women to wear what they want, despite all odds.

© Gilbert Flores/Broadimage/Broad Image/East News

Tess Holliday starred in the H&M sustainable fashion campaign and participated in photoshoots for several magazines.

© LCLA/Broadimage/Broad Image/East News

Fashion is gradually changing in terms of variety and representation, thanks largely to industry trailblazers like these curvaceous celebrities. While fashion still has a bit of a way to go, it's encouraging to see more busty, body-positive women in the spotlight.

Even industry leaders are emphasizing the importance of greater diversity. Which other curvy celebrities do you think we should have included?

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