Fashion circuit rues lack of plus-size models

Chennai

Many of us would have come across French fashion designer Coco Chanel’s famous quote: “Fashion is architecture; it is a matter of proportions.” There are many celebrities and social media influencers who advocate body positivity and inclusivity. But there is hardly anyone in the city who champions the cause for plus-size modelling. Stylists, models and photographers share their opinion on whether plus-size models have found a strong foothold and if the fashion industry has done justice to such models.

We live in a society where unattainable beauty standards in fashion are no more a norm. “Today, a lot of people are embracing the plus-size culture and the requirement for plus-size models has increased substantially. Many international brands that sell clothes (from XL and upwards) have entered the city and are looking for plus-size models to endorse their brands. So, yes, there is an increase in demand for such models,” says stylist Prajanya Anand.

But what’s disappointing is that there aren’t enough plus-size models from Chennai. “Many follow the beauty standards when it comes to how a model should look. That said, the fashion/beauty community in the city is evolving — we have already embraced inclusive models. But there is a dearth of well-groomed models who can qualify as a plus-size model,” she adds.

We need to create awareness and there should be a good level of acceptance for plus-size models, who are willing to come forward.

Well-known make-up artist and hairstylist, Sridevi Ramesh, started her modelling career as a plus-size model. She was bold enough to break the beauty rules followed by the fashion police. “Many think that if you are flabby or out of shape then you are qualified to become a plus-size model. That’s wrong — he/she needs to be curvy, toned and should be able to carry off any type of clothes/accessories with confidence. You need to put in the same hard work as a normal model,” stresses Sridevi.

If you look at international plus-size models like Ashley Graham, they have got personal trainers, who help them maintain a shapely body. “This may seem like hypocrisy to some since the question, ‘How can a plus-size model be fit?’ arises. However, we need to create positive awareness that not anyone who wears bigger size clothing can be a model — only a person who is big made yet toned can qualify.”

Photographer Sandeep MV, who has done photo-shoots with plus-size models, is happy the way in which plus-size fashion is gaining popularity. “It’s very inspirational to see plus-size models walking the ramp and being part of various international shoots. If more designers and brands come forward encouraging such models, it would definitely make a difference,” he says.

One of city’s favourite designers and makeup artists, Suresh Menon always wanted to do a photo shoot with plus-size models. “Fashion is much more commercial in places like Mumbai, Hyderabad and Bengaluru. But when it comes to Chennai, we do have an emotional and sensitive side to it. Image consultants and stylists need to create awareness regarding plus-size modelling possibilities,” he tells us.

Visit news.dtnext.in to explore our interactive epaper!

Download the DT Next app for more exciting features!

Click here for iOS

Click here for Android