How to Break into plus Size Modeling
With the fashion industry recognizing that society is not made up of size zero people, the market for plus size models has never been as lucrative as it is now. Agencies all over the world are looking for those models that stand out from the crowd, though never in an ostentatious way. The look that they want is relatively conservative, because the types of clothing that a plus size model will be showing are those that really do not want attention drawn away from them by overpowering looks.
Breaking into modeling takes a series of actions on your part because modeling doesn't just fall into your lap, no matter how beautiful your face is. There are basic requirements that models need to adhere to which may mean that modeling is not for you and these should be adhered to as the fashion industry is quite stringent on it's requirement for models of all sizes.
HEIGHT
Here the minimum height for plus size models is 5'7, although some agencies do ask for a little taller than this. The best way to check is to telephone agencies to find out what their requirement on height is.
SIZE
Although the fashion industry does of course sell to all sizes, they do have restrictions upon what size they want their models to be. These limit the plus size model, although the usual requirement in plus size is between size 14 and 16, rarely going over this size.
AGE LIMITATIONS
Teen to middle aged.
WHY THE LIMITATIONS ?
When a fashion collection is created, it is done so to a set size. The whole collection is molded to this size and the fashion industry isn't going to change their view just because you don't fit their criteria. The criteria is there for a very important reason, and fitting into the criteria asked for means you will be able to model the clothing easily without adjustments that would cost the industry too dearly to even consider individual qualities that perhaps you see as important.
CREATING YOUR LOOK
Before jumping in and paying for an expensive portfolio, understanding the requirements of agencies is essential. They want up to date looks, though they don't want all the individuality that goes with it. In the plus sizes, the chances are that you will be modeling those styles that appeal to larger people, and the classic approach to look will work much better than choosing styles that make you stand out from the crowd. It's the clothing that stands out, rather than the model themselves, and the two have to work closely hand in hand. Choose a hairstyle that is classically beautiful, avoid body piercing since the image they produce is not conducive with quality fashion presentation, work with make-up so that it is gentle and not excessively applied, since this will be offputting. Natural beauty is the order of the day, and presentation examples can be seen in most mail order catalogs which can give you hints at the style people are seeking.
Look at your presentation, because modeling is all about presentation. Learn to walk with shoulders held back and not slouched. Have a manicure and ensure that you nails and hands look nice. Make the most of who you are ready to create your portfolio.
CREATING A PORTFOLIO
Professional models will be expected to provide a portfolio of photographs, and here many photographic studios are accustomed to taking fashion photographs. Discuss with the photographer about the choice of styles for a portfolio and be as flexible as you can, showing how your looks work with different styles. Do listen to the photographer since he will be accustomed to dealing with those seeking to become models. A telephone call to a respectable modeling agency will be able to inform you of what photographers are recommended and at what price, though never pay an agency for this information or create the portfolio through an agency, since this causes unnecessary expense and can be a scam.
PRESENTING THE PORTFOLIO
When your portfolio is gathered, look up modeling agencies in your town to find if they have a demand for plus size models. If they do, remember to present yourself in the best light possible, and do telephone to make an appointment with the agency, and ask them what you will need to bring with you. Usually this will be your CV and portfolio. Since agencies are seeking a new look, it won't matter much that your CV is limited in your modeling career, since each agency will be able to tell you how you fit into their scheme of plans.
WHAT TO AVOID
Avoid those photographers that get too personal. Models have been pressured into starting relationships in their optimism that their beauty will get them into a modeling career and are vulnerable and can be fooled. Also, avoid any company that asks you for money. If you are good enough to be a model, parting with money isn't part of the deal. Also be wary of agency fees. Of course, they have to make money, though the fees differ considerably between agencies. Read the small-print before signing anything.
Modeling can be a career that takes you into the exciting world of fashion, though realistic approach will get you there faster than idealistic dreams. Remember the world is filled with those that believe they have that special something, while the only something that a model needs is a look they can call beautiful, a classic style, and a commonsense approach to a whole new career.
