On February 9 2015, the much awaited Swimsuit Edition of Sports Illustrated will achieve a landmark of sorts. For the first time in the magazine’s history, it will feature a plus-size model. Admittedly, at 6’2” and a US size 12, Robyn Lawley is a size smaller than the average US woman (Size 14) and is in the kind of shape that most of us can only dream of. However, she heralds a refreshing change and a step in the right direction towards what most activists consider the celebration of ‘real’ bodies.
We tell you a little more about Ms. Lawley and other unusual models like her who have taken the fashion world by storm:
Robyn Lawley
Robyn Lawley models one of her own designs (Image courtesy: robynlawley.com)
The Australian model first went to an agency at the age of 15. Although they were ready to sign her on, she did not feel it was worth losing weight to reach the required Size 8, and went on to sign up with Bella model management, a company that worked with plus-size models. Since then, Lawley has appeared in Vogue Italia and Vogue Australia, as well as on the cover of the French Marie Claire. She was also the first plus-size model to appear in a Ralph Lauren campaign.
Sophie Dahl
Sophie Dahl in a design she created for Brora (Image courtesy: Brora.com)
To many, Sophie Dahl, the granddaughter of writer Roald Dahl, is the quintessential plus-size model. Since her debut on the runway in 1997, Sophie has modelled for Versace, Alexander McQueen, DKNY, Boucheron and Pringle. She has also written extensively for fashion magazines like Vogue, and even published her own book. She has designed clothes for brands like Brora and runs a website on which she shares advice on food, fashion, beauty, etc.
Ashley Graham
(Image courtesy: ashleygraham.com)
American Ashley Graham signed up with an agency at the age of 15. Featured in magazines like Vogue, Glamour, and Harper’s Bazaar, and in campaigns for Levi’s, Hanes, Macy’s, Nordstrom, and Lane Bryant, she also appears in an advertisement featured in the upcoming Sports Illustrated issue.
Tara Lynn
(Image courtesy: Tara Lynn’s official Facebook page)
This stunning Size 14 model has been dubbed “The Body” by Elle France. She featured in a fashion spread by Vogue Italia and was at the front of H&M’s Big is Beautiful campaign. Having struggled with her image growing up, she says women like Beyoncé and JLo inspired her to embrace the way she looked.
So, do you think there is a future for models with “real” bodies? Tell us what you think.
