In a world filled with women of all sizes constantly trying to keep up with the newest trends, the newest fad diets, and setting their sights on buying the next-best-thing, it’s no wonder why Robyn Lawley is becoming an icon for women empowerment.
In July 2013, Lawley interviewed with Fashionista and told them, “If [average-sized women] were included [on the runways and in magazines] on a regular basis no one would make such a huge uproar about it. But because it’s rare, that’s the reality.”
Two years later, here Lawley is turning the rarity of curvy women in the media into a beautiful reality.
As a confident curvaceous Australian native, Lawley will be the first plus-sized model to be featured in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Edition for 2015. With this opportunity, Lawley is on her way to changing the fashion industry norms as well as societies ideals on beauty as a U.S. size 12.
In an interview she told The Cut, “I want Vogue to be regularly featuring curvy or plus-size or size-8 models. At the end of the day, I (and other girls) look up to these magazines. If you just see one consistent body type, you’re going to hate your body. I don’t want girls to feel like that.” With this idea for the future of the fashion industry, Lawley is setting the stage for a future where women will embrace their size and realize that the number they wear does not define them.
Lawley also told Time Magazine, “I don’t know if I consider myself as a plus- size model or not, I just consider myself a model because I’m trying to help women in general accept their bodies.” As a model, a soon to be mother, a swimwear designer for sizes 8-18, and a true inspiration, it’s no wonder why we, as collegiettes, support Lawley’s endeavor to redefine beauty for all.