The fashion industry has come under fire for pushing narrow definitions of beauty that make people feel disconnected. However, there has been a positive shift in recent years toward diversity and inclusivity, especially when it comes to displaying a range of body types. After being disregarded for a while, plus-size models are now in the spotlight, changing the definition of beauty and shattering stereotypes within the industry.
These curvy models and curvy actresses are celebrated not just for their looks but also for their advocacy and empowerment. Curvy model plus size promotes self-love, body positivity, and acceptance of all body types, encouraging a cultural shift towards diversity and inclusion.
This list highlights 15 of the most famous plus-size models and actresses all around the world who have made significant contributions to fashion and beyond. They have graced magazine covers, walked in major fashion shows, and worked with top brands, proving that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes. Their stories inspire a world that includes and accepts everyone.
15 Top Plus Size Models
These 15 top plus-size models are changing beauty standards and making a big impact in the fashion world, from breaking stereotypes to appearing on famous magazine covers.
1. Vidya Balan
Vidya Balan, a prominent Bollywood actress, debuted in 1995 with the sitcom Hum Paanch. Despite her talent, she initially faced challenges in securing film roles due to her appearance. Overcoming these obstacles, Vidya has become celebrated for her powerful performances, breaking stereotypes by embracing her body and proving that plus size should not hinder success in the film industry.
 2. Ashley Graham
Ashley Graham is a renowned plus-size supermodel featured in Vogue, Glamour, Elle UK, Harper's Bazaar, Sports Illustrated, and more. As a body positivity activist, she promotes self-acceptance, especially for women. She even recently launched a book called “A Kids Book About Beauty”, aimed at teaching children that beauty is a state of mind. The curvy model dedicated the book to her 9-year-old self.
 3. Huma Qureshi
The another successful Bollywood actress and beautiful plus size model who is very much comfortable with her own body size. In an interview, Huma says that "I have always been very confident being curvy. I think it is all about feeling good and accepting yourself the way you are. There is no such rule that being skinny is the right way to go about.
 4. Paloma Elsesser
Paloma Elsesser, an American gorgeous curvy model and body advocate, made history by becoming the first plus size model to win the coveted Model of the Year award in 2023. Despite facing criticism for not fitting traditional beauty standards, Paloma remained confident in her uniqueness. She serves as an inspiration, demonstrating that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes.
 5.Harnaaz Kaur Sandhu
Harnaaz Kaur Sandhu, crowned Miss Universe 2021, is not typically categorised as a plus-size model. She gained attention for her response to body shaming on social media, where she candidly addressed her struggles with celiac disease and the impact it has on her weight. While she's not a curvy model plus size, her advocacy for body positivity and awareness about health conditions highlights the importance of embracing diverse body types in the fashion industry.
6. Precious Lee
Precious Lee is a curvy actress, plus size female model, and advocate for race and size diversity in fashion. She has worked with brands like Versace and Marc Jacobs and became the first Black, curvy model plus size to appear in American Vogue in 2015.
7. Lauren Chan
Lauren Chan, a Canadian model, editor, and entrepreneur, relocated to New York City after graduating from university to pursue a career as a plus-size model. In 2019, she was recognised by Chatelaine magazine as one of their Women of the Year. Recently, she received honours from Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine and Assemblymember Grace Lee for her work in advocating size inclusion within New York City's Asian-American community and the broader fashion industry.
8. Lizzo
Melissa Jefferson, known as Lizzo, is an American rapper and singer and a beautiful curvy model who promotes body positivity and self-acceptance. She has won four Grammys and is known for her empowering messages. Despite facing controversy, Lizzo continues to be a strong advocate for embracing one’s body and being happy with how you look.
9. Sonakshi Sinha
Sonakshi Sinha, a Bollywood actress and a beautiful plus size model known for promoting body positivity, has faced criticism bravely. She recalls being teased in school and feeling pressure to fit beauty standards during her fashion studies. Despite this, she's achieved acclaim in Bollywood, winning a Filmfare Award for her debut in Dabangg. Her journey showcases resilience and self-acceptance in the face of societal pressures.
10. Iskra Lawrence
Iskra Lawrence is a British gorgeous curvy model and body positivity advocate. She gained prominence through her work with Aerie's #AerieREAL campaign, promoting body acceptance and diversity. Iskra challenges traditional beauty standards and encourages self-love regardless of size. Her impact on the fashion industry has earned her a spot as one of the top plus-size models, inspiring countless individuals to embrace their bodies and celebrate their uniqueness.
11. Jane Garrett
Jane Garrett, the first plus-size model and contestant from Nepal to compete in the Miss Universe pageant, made history in 2023. Her participation not only challenged conventional beauty standards but also highlighted the importance of body positivity. Jane's advocacy extends beyond the pageant stage; she frequently utilizes social media platforms to promote inclusivity and normalize plus-size bodies, influencing perceptions of beauty on a global scale.
12. Anjali Anand
Anjali Anand is a popular Indian curvy actress and gorgeous curvy model known for her roles in Hindi television shows like Dhhai Kilo Prem and Kullfi Kumarr Bajewala. She gained recognition for her breakout role in Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani. Despite facing challenges, Anjali remains resilient and inspiring. She now focuses on body positivity, choosing to not let social media affect her and embracing self-confidence.
13. Bharti Singh
Bharti Singh, a well-known Indian comedian and television personality, has broken stereotypes with her confident and humorous persona. While not traditionally a plus size female model, Bharti has inspired many with her self-confidence and charm. Her success in the entertainment industry, along with her positive body image, makes her a role model for embracing one's uniqueness and challenging societal norms.
14. Octavia Spencer
Octavia Spencer, a famous American curvy actress featured in movies like "Hidden Figures," "The Help," and "Fruitvale Station," stands against body shaming, especially when it affects kids. She talks openly about her weight loss journey, which was her choice for self-care, not because of pressure from the industry. Using platforms like social media she spreads positivity about body image. Spencer wants everyone to have inclusive discussions about body image, showing how important supportive conversations are.
15. Yumi Nu
Yumi Nu, also known as Yumi Nootenboom, is an American one of the most beautiful plus size models who made headlines by becoming the first plus-size supermodel of Asian-American descent to appear on the cover of the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue in 2022. She's been open about her struggles, discussing how she dealt with self-doubt because of her race and body size. Yumi Nu is also a strong advocate for more inclusivity in the fashion world.
Conclusion
The journey of these 15 plus-size models shows how the fashion industry is changing. They have broken barriers and redefined beauty standards, proving that confidence and style come in all shapes and sizes. Their achievements inspire many people to embrace their unique beauty and challenge outdated norms.
By celebrating diversity and promoting inclusivity, these curvy models plus size are creating a more accepting and representative world. Their stories remind us that everyone deserves to feel confident and beautiful, no matter their size.
At Instafab Plus, we believe every woman deserves to feel like a model. Our collection features stylish large size dresses, tops, jeans, and co-ord sets designed exclusively for plus-size women. Embrace your beauty and confidence with Instafab Plus – because fashion should be for everyone. Shop now and find your perfect look!
FAQs on Plus Size Models
Who is India's first plus size model?
India's first plus-size model is Fizah Khan. She made significant strides in the fashion industry by embracing her body and challenging traditional beauty standards, inspiring others to do the same.
Who is the No. 1 plus size model in the world?
It's hard to pinpoint the No. 1 plus-size model globally, as popularity varies. However, Tess Holliday, Ashley Graham, and Precious Lee stand out as highly influential figures in the fashion world.
What impact do plus-size models have on the fashion industry?
Plus-size models have a big impact on the fashion industry by promoting body positivity and diversity. They help change beauty standards, making fashion more inclusive and representative of different body types.
