Study Identifies An Increase In Plus-Size Models Across Social Media

Worldwide beauty standards have been a controversial topic of discussion for several years now. The representation of all shapes, sizes and skin tones has been difficult to integrate into the modelling industry and as a result, we have seen a similar body type across marketing campaigns for years. A new study suggests that this is beginning to change.

Social media algorithms have been targeted as only promoting a certain body type to audiences however new research from Boston University highlights that more plus-size models are making a sizable impact across platforms, representing a potential shift in the inclusivity matrix of modeling.

“While the American standard of beauty appears to idolize extreme thinness as seen in Victoria Secret models and their diminishing body sizes, we sought to explore the impact of plus-size models by reviewing their body size metrics and social media presence to better understand their emerging role in the current standards of beauty,” said study co-author Neelam Vashi in a statement.

In the study, researchers assessed the characteristics and body measurements of 159 plus-size models and the highest paid mainstream models, as determined by Forbes.

The top 10 highest paid models had an average individual following of 38 million and plus-size models had an average of 3.8 million followers. Even with the massive margin, however, researchers found no significant differences in average likes per post, average comments per post, and total posts.

From a measurements perspective, the average plus-size model’s height was 69 inches, with an average bust measurement of 40 inches, a waist measurement of 43 inches, and hip measurement of 46 inches. Their average dress size was 14 and they had an increased body mass index.

The data portrayed that among “traditionally skinny models” and plus-size models, the waist-to-hip ratio was 0.71 and 0.74 on average, respectively, effectively meaning that this metric remains a consistent beauty standard across body types.

“With the changing societal body image in America, plus-size models have gained in popularity and positively impacted a body-inclusive model of beauty,” the authors wrote. “However, the mainstream model still prevails as the social media powerhouse of influence.”

NOW PR founder, Tash Griezen, has had a storied career in the fashion and beauty world representing both brands and individuals on the world stage.

On the receipt of the study, she said, “The way we see beauty has certainly changed over the years and become more welcoming and inclusive. Most perspectives in the past have been somewhat narrow, and lacking a sense of global understanding.”

“The study highlights that that is changing but more so when we look at who is being marketed and where, it’s evident that there is a brand, and now public, awareness that beauty is not just one body type.”

On whether NOW PR would work with plus-size models across their campaigns she said, “Of course. Brands more than ever want their image to be represented by a wide variety of people. Inclusivity is an area that we champion, and that will certainly continue.”

Amanda Nicole Awayda, a successful model and entrepreneur, echoed Griezen’s sentiment.

“I’m a self-made model and entrepreneur and the hardest thing for me at the start of my career was getting my foot in the door of the industry. For plus-size models it is very likely even tougher,” she said.

“I have been on the cover of the biggest magazines in the world such as Harper’s Bazaar, ELLE, Glamour, L’OFFICIEL, and various others. I am also signed to 5 top modeling agencies, where I have modeled and partnered with the most prestigious and renowned brands. Through all of this, I have also successfully grown a large fan base and following of over 260,000+ people.”

She continued, “I’ve seen my career grow and flourish, and now there is certainly a sense that the industry is opening up and adapting to positive change and inclusivity. We don’t all look alike, it’s good the modeling industry is recognizing this and being adaptable.”

On advice she would give plus-size models she added, “I’d say that you should always believe in yourself, work hard, and not listen to the negativity of others. This is how I got to where I am today and to accomplish anything in life you must know your vision and stay focused. I believe that anything is possible as long as you combine faith with hard work.”

Plus-size influencers Ashley Graham, Jordyn Woods, and Iskra Lawrence were the highest ranked in regards to followers among plus size models, while Kendall Jenner, Gigi Hadid, and Cara Delevingne were the top 3 most followed traditional models.

The researchers also pointed out that none of the top paid models, according to Forbes, are plus-size. All of them are between the sizes 0 and 4.