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ask stephanie
Stephanie is the
current Spokesmodel for BBW Magazine, a former Wilhelmina
ten20 model, the reigning World International Ms Plus 2000
& Ms Plus SC 2000, and a former division winner and Ms Photogenic
at the Plus USA Woman Pageant. She has modeled for Liz Claiborne/Elisabeth,
BBW Magazine, Belk, Dillard's, Modestyle Shop Curvie Show,
Parisian, Hamrick's, Dollar General, One Price Clothing, and
has done several bridal shows.
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Every month, Stephanie will answer your questions
about the industry on this site. To ask her a question, please
fill out the form below Please realize that she
cannot answer ever question, so make your question good!
Hi Stephanie! This is such a great
thing you are doing for the plus modeling world! I am 15
years old, and very interested in junior plus modeling.
Is there anything different I should know when going to
open call, such as the correct clothing, than an older model?
SH
Carmel , NY
STEPH:
Thank you for the kind words. Junior plus modeling is a
very exciting and a rather new side of the biz. When you
go to open calls, dress trendy and stylish, but refrain
from "trashy". Look your age,act your age, but don't over
do it with accessories and makeup. Just be yourself and
take some snapshots (& Mom) along with you.
Keep me posted!
;)Steph
Hi Stephanie,
I've always been interested in modeling. I've been told that
I should look into it by my peers. After having children I
didn't think that it was still possible since I gained weight
and am now in plus sizes.Doing some searching on the net I
came across this site and thought that I would seek your advice.
I am between 6'0 and 6'1 ( depends on who's measuring me)
and wear a size 18/20 on top and a size 22 on the bottom.
It depends on the pants. I am not as toned as I used to be
before my twins who are 18 months. I am trying to get back
into shape but in the meantime I would love to get started
with the modeling process. Is their a market out their for
models my size in print and also for African American models?
Thanks for your help.
AM
Kent, Ohio
STEPH:
There is a market for your size and yes that includes
print work & African American models. However, at the moment,
it is more likely you could get work on a local level, not
necessarily an international level.
I can say that on a local level, the sizes most used range
from 14-20W. On the international level sizes most used
range from 8-14, sometimes 16M. The strength of your faith
and determination will either make or break your career.
By the way there are some reputable agents in Ohio. Check
the agency list on the PlusModels
site.
Best of Luck!!
;)Steph
Dear Steph, in
your opinion, why do you think there is still a hypocrisy
in plus size modeling regarding clients? I am a plus model/fashion
stylist. As a 14-16 model, I am placed in clothes that an
18-20 instead of them finding a model of that size. As a fashion
stylist, I "pad" size 12s to accommodate the clients that
wants a plus size model but doesnt want them to "look it".
Am I missing something?
JA
New York City, NY
STEPH:
You're not missing a thing! There is no explanation for
this problem. The designers blame it on the manufacturers,
the manufacturers blame it on the designers, and the public
relations people just plain lie. They tell us that the plus
size public WANTS to see the size 8's in the clothes that
will be fitting our size 16, 18, 24, 30 frames. In my 6
years, I have not spoken to one plus individual that has
requested a size 8, 10, or 12 to be photographed in plus
size.
Padding began to take place in the
early to mid 90's and has become very fashionable. You see
the designers want to see the curves, but they don't want
the big arms, legs, or hands to go with it. They might be
afraid that we won't see them (the models) as beautiful
and buy the clothes anyway. Or they might even be shallow
enough to be offended by seeing a real plus women in their
clothes.
Either way, the only way to reach
them, to really show them is to stop buying their clothes.
Hit them in their pocket, where it counts.
Are you willing to do your part?
;)Steph
Hi, Steph, I am
anxiously awaiting for a response from my first ever application
from an agency who will launch a plus size division in April.
I know industry standards vary. However, after doing more
research I know that I am not industry standard at 5'6"
and a size 20 . Any suggestions, pointers, rules of the
trade. Anything to get rid of the nervous jitters.
JA
New York City, NY
STEPH:
My first thought is, "what agency makes you apply?"
Although the idea of an agency forming
a new, reputable plus division is exciting, agents do not
make you apply to be a part of their agency. Normally, an
agency will meet with you and invite you to stay if they
feel they can represent you. Some paperwork is exchanged
regarding contact info, stats, or your resume. Other than
that, an application process sounds sleazy!
Please be careful with agencies, not
all are good and honorable.
Find out whom their clients are, and
go from there. Whatever you do, don't give them money for
representation upfront. They should only charge you a fee
when they "get" you a job. That fee ranges from 15-20% per
job. Find an agency that believes in you and doesn't say
that prior to asking you for a $1000.
Best of luck!
;)Steph
Hi Stephanie,
just when I thought we as plus sized women have arrived, I
was saddened and discouraged to read the requirements for
being a plus sized model. I think the requirements are still
way off, when I buy BBW and used to buy Mode Magazine I get
really angry when I flip through them and see the women in
them, they don't look like me and that's why I no longer buy
the "plus size" mags. I guess my question is why are we still
not accepted?
DG
Philadelpia, PA
STEPH:
You are correct in most of your assessments. The current
acceptable sizes for plus start at a size 8 and go up to
a 16 (and that is missy size). Ten years ago the acceptable
plus size was an 18 women's. Every year things change in
our industry. I can only hope that the size prejudice is
not malicious, but rather just an industry fact.
I would like to mention that BBW Magazine
provides readers with models ranging from 14 to 28. Mode
provided us with images of women that can't even fit into
the "Women's" sizes. So why do the clothing designers make
the samples in size 8,12, or 14 missy? This has been the
unanswered question for the past 3 to 4 years. No one has
been able to answer it or even justify it. Don't lose faith,
there will come a time when we will not only be represented
properly, but respected for our contributions.
;)Steph
Hi, I'm 18 years
of age and a couple of years ago I did some standard size
modeling when I was severely into dieting. I've now accepted
my size and I am seriously interested in plus sized modeling.
I weigh 140 pounds, I'm 5'8'', and my measurements are 37-29-39.
Is this acceptable for a plus size model, or is it too small?
CO
Vancouver, BC
STEPH:
Congratulations on conquering your diet demons! You measurements
and height ARE acceptable in the current plus modeling
world. Although you height is a little under the minimum
standard of 5'9", I believe you should contact the reputable
agencies in your area. Try Heffner in Seattle, they have
a great reputation and actually get work for their models.
Best of luck and have fun!
;)Steph
I am 5'6" and a size 14/16. I live
in Toronto, Canada. Firstly, is my size acceptable? Secondly,
what steps does one take to attempt to get into the industry?
Thirdly, do I have to stick with agencies in my area? Where
do I start?
PO
Toronto
STEPH:
Well, let me first say that finding plusmodels.com is the
first step in pursuing your career. Your height is a bit
of a problem, however, there are other types of modeling
that could provide work. Second step is to get a consultation
on your look from a professional. Third step would be getting
some great pictures made. Finally, find an agency that is
reputable, can get good work and believes in you! If you
need extra advice, please feel free to e-mail me personally!
;)Steph
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