Inclusivity is a very new word in the fashion industry. The basic social connotation of fashion is models with zero-figures walking down the runway. As everyone says, “Change is the only constant”, we as spectators have seen revolutionary change with the introduction of plus-size models into the fashion industry. It highlights that we have moved past the stereotype of the ‘thin’ girl. On the contrary, this change can be viewed similar to the pro-bono quota of doctors, something that has to be done to show their humanity, but in reality has little meaning. The industry or society in general is hardly accepting towards these plus-size models. Here are some trailblazers who are changing this general conception.
1. Rochelle Brock
Brooklyn, New York based size inclusive photographer, Rochelle Brock deals with issues like beauty, emotions and identity. ‘Rochelle Fatleopard’, her photography page is inspiring to many individuals who feel ostracized by society’s rigid compartmentalization. Inspired by soft colours, Brock underscores the feminine side to women who do not fit into society’s expectations of a woman. I feel that through ‘Rochelle Fatleopard’, Rochelle Brock proves to be a catalyst in bringing about much needed body positivity. Follow her on Instagram (@rochellefatleopard) to witness the beauty of women embracing their true selves.
2. Lauren Chan
Founder and CEO of clothing brand ‘Henning’, former fashion editor at Glamour and Canadian Model, Lauren Chen empowers women above size 12. Having found it difficult to see her colleagues wear brands like Forever 21, where her size was not available, Chan was inspired to introduce her own clothes line. Being as inclusive as she is in her designs, Chen introduced the pieces that plus-size women voted for on her Instagram poll. Rather than designing dresses and tops, Chan’s pieces include pant-suits, knock-out dresses, high-quality coats and work wear that make the woman feel confident more than just pretty. Follow (@lcchan) the story of the woman who created a path for her when there wasn’t one.
3. Kellie Brown
Hashtag #fatatfashionweek in New York came into being thanks to content creator, influencer and sounder of ‘And I Get Dressed’, Kellie Brown. The central aim behind introducing this was to spread awareness about ‘big’ women being involved in the fashion industry. Brown explains that when she visited the New York Fashion Week 12 years ago, she felt like the ‘only one’. That she elaborates was due to the lack of social media. Brown feels proud of the ‘larger’ models and the diversity they symbolize. People believe in a certain thing, but being brave enough to start a hashtag movement, I think is inspirational and exceptional.
4. Tess Holliday
Holliday’s story is about acceptance and love. According to her accepting who she was and understanding that she too deserved to be treated with kindness helped her create a positive environment. Through, ‘Get Body Posi program’ Tess Holliday wants to spread this message. According to me, loving and appreciating yourself and your worth should have utmost importance in today’s era where body shaming is so prevalent. This life changing message is not just for plus-size individuals, but anyone who has issues accepting who they are. ‘The world’s first size 22 model’ started #EffYourBeautyStandards which reiterates self-appreciation and shattering social expectations.
5. Gabi Gregg
Thanks to a unabashed and self-confident picture in a striped bikini from SwimsuitsForAll, Gabbi Gregg became a famous advocate for inclusivity. Through her collaborative clothing brand Premme with Nicolette Mason, she wants to make women feel confident and self-loving which according to her is the definition of power. Usually known as her Instagram handle @gabifresh an individual who speaks her mind through design. The general conception is that you need a shapely body to wear a swimsuit but Gregg through her unconventional method breaks that notion.
Martin Luther King Junior once said “Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter”. Acceptance or inclusivity is not something that should be overlooked. You can love yourself as you are or you can strive to be better. That should be your decision and not someone else’s. Embrace who you are. Love who you are. Treat yourself with kindness.