Largest Female Models: Who Tops the Charts in Fashion Today?

Ever get the feeling the modeling world is finally catching up with reality? For decades, runways and magazine covers stuck to one ideal, most often super-thin and pretty much impossible for the average woman to relate to. Now we’re seeing models who break the mold—literally. The "largest" female models are owning the spotlight, shattering stereotypes, and proving there’s no single shape for beauty or success in fashion.

If you came here for a list of names and straight-up info, you’re in the right place. We're not talking average here—we're talking about models whose size and confidence have landed them global campaigns and real influence. And if you’re curious how they got started or want to walk in their footsteps, keep reading. The landscape is wide open for women who embrace their natural shape and want to do more than just fit in—they want to stand out.

• Fast Facts: Who Are the Largest Female Models?
• Straight Talk: Largest Female Models Right Now
• Why 'Largest' Is Changing Modeling Norms
• What Goes Into Becoming a Top Plus-Size Model
• Body Positivity and Industry Shifts
• Tips: How to Break In as a Plus-Size Model

Fast Facts: Who Are the Largest Female Models?

If you think modeling is only about being slim, think again. The fashion industry now celebrates all shapes, and some of today’s most successful models proudly rock fuller figures. Here's a quick rundown of the names everyone’s talking about when it comes to plus-size or truly largest female models.

• Tess Holliday – She’s arguably the most famous plus-size model right now. At around 5’5” and size 22 (UK 26), Tess made history as the largest model signed with a major agency. She’s walked for top brands and even started the #EffYourBeautyStandards movement.
• Precious Lee – You’ve seen her with Versace and featured in Vogue. She’s around size 18 US, making runway history for high-end brands that never used to go past a size 2.
• Paloma Elsesser – Paloma is a powerhouse at around size 14/16. She’s been the face of Fenty Beauty, walked for Alexander McQueen, and snagged covers on big-name fashion magazines.
• Barbie Ferreira – Star of HBO’s Euphoria and a long-time model, Barbie is about size 16. She boosts real representation—on screen and in the pages of Teen Vogue and V Magazine.
• Ali Tate Cutler – When Victoria’s Secret hired her, she was officially their first plus-size model, making a splash at about US size 14.

Not only are these women breaking size barriers, some are even breaking height standards. Tess Holliday proves you don’t have to be 5’10” to make the cover of Cosmopolitan.

“We want women to see themselves represented in every shape and size on runways, in magazines, and in stores,” says Ivan Bart, president of IMG Models, in a 2022 interview with The Guardian.

These models don’t just book gigs—they start conversations, shift culture, and open doors for others. The number one takeaway here? There’s room for every body type at the top of fashion today.

Straight Talk: Largest Female Models Right Now

So, who actually tops the lists as the largest female models right now? We're not just talking about talent, but women who have redefined the idea of body size in fashion. These models aren’t just getting by—they’re featured in international campaigns, closing shows, and landing covers for big brands that used to only go for size zero. Here’s the reality check: size inclusivity is booming, and brands know it pays to represent everyone.

Let’s get specific. Tess Holliday is one of the biggest names. She wears a US size 22 and stands at 5’5”. In 2015, she made headlines by signing with Milk Model Management, a first for someone with her stats. Holliday has graced magazine covers—from Cosmopolitan UK to People—proving you don’t need to shrink to fit in.

Another powerhouse is Ashley Graham. You’ve definitely seen her with big brands like Lane Bryant, Swimsuits For All, and Sports Illustrated. She’s around size 16-18 and was the first plus-size model on the cover of Sports Illustrated’s Swimsuit Issue in 2016. Graham is also known for speaking out about body positivity, not just modeling.

Candice Huffine is also one to watch. At about a size 14-16, she’s one of the first plus-size models to appear in the Pirelli Calendar. She’s modeled for Prabal Gurung, Christian Siriano, and more, sending a clear message that size diversity is here to stay.

Precious Lee is making history too. At roughly size 14-16, Lee has walked for Versace and appeared in Vogue’s global issues. She’s pushing the limits of high fashion’s old standards and has become a role model for new faces.

Want some quick facts? Here’s a handy table on these top models, with size and big brand highlights:

You’re not just seeing more diversity online—these models are shifting what’s "normal" in fashion shoots and on runways. Big brands are paying attention because today’s customers want to see people they relate to. If you’re aiming to break into modeling, these names are proof there’s demand at every size. It’s not about shrinking yourself to fit old standards anymore—it’s about showing up as you are and owning it.

Why 'Largest' Is Changing Modeling Norms

Let’s be real—fashion used to push a one-size-fits-all vibe that left most women out. But right now, models who are breaking size barriers are also breaking old rules. Ashley Graham landed the cover of Sports Illustrated in 2016, marking the first time a plus-size model headlined the mag's iconic Swim Issue. Before that, not a single curvier model got that spotlight. It made headlines for a reason—and it changed how brands see what’s “marketable.”

Brands know that people want to see themselves represented. According to the 2024 Statista survey, almost 70% of shoppers said they’re more likely to buy from a brand featuring models of different shapes and sizes. That’s not a trend; that’s a massive shift in what fashion means to real people. In turn, big campaigns by companies like Savage X Fenty, Aerie, and Fashion Nova now star women who look like the customers buying their clothes.

• The average American woman wears a size 16-18. For years, size 0-4 dominated modeling, but the gap is finally closing.
• Social media put big names like Tess Holliday and Paloma Elsesser front and center, letting them share their message without waiting for the old-school fashion gatekeepers to say yes.
• More modeling agencies are opening divisions focusing on plus-size and curve models—this wasn’t even a thing two decades ago.

The money is following, too. Check out how the landscape looked by the numbers just this year:

This rise in using the largest female models is changing the idea of beauty in the mainstream. The message? Being bigger isn’t a drawback; it’s a different kind of confidence and style. When the industry makes space for every shape, it’s not just good for business—it’s better for everyone watching from the sidelines, thinking if they’ll ever see someone who looks like them. Now they can, and that’s what really matters.

What Goes Into Becoming a Top Plus-Size Model

Breaking into plus-size modeling isn’t just about size—it’s about attitude, hard work, and real confidence. Top agencies like IMG, Wilhelmina, and Ford now have entire divisions just focused on curvy talent. If you scroll through big campaigns, you’ll see names like Ashley Graham, Paloma Elsesser, and Tess Holliday leading the charge. It’s not all smooth sailing, though. You need more than a camera-ready look.

You’ve probably noticed a shift: the term "plus-size" usually means a US size 12 and above, but the most sought-after models are often between size 14 and 18. Ashley Graham, for example, wears a size 16 and was the first plus-size model to land the cover of Sports Illustrated’s Swimsuit Issue in 2016. Tess Holliday, at a US size 22, has done campaigns for brands like H&M and Fabletics. But how do you reach their level?

• largest female models stand out by mixing confidence, a strong personal brand, and professionalism—on and off camera.
• Photos matter. Agencies want to see clear headshots and simple full-body shots. No filters, no heavy edits.
• Networking is huge. Many top models got noticed through Instagram or TikTok, so building a social following is almost as key as building a portfolio.
• It pays to know what the industry needs. Brands look for models who are comfortable in all types of clothing, from swimwear to evening gowns, and who can connect with a wide audience.
• Resilience is a must. Rejection happens to everyone, even stars like Paloma Elsesser, so sticking with it is vital.

Want a quick comparison of what agencies and jobs typically look for? Here’s a handy table with key requirements and stats from some of the agencies repping today’s top plus-size stars:

To get started, check out agencies with dedicated plus-size rosters and always keep your images current. And don’t be afraid to be yourself—personality counts as much as measurements. Many pros keep up with fitness, self-care, and even acting or posing classes to sharpen their skills. In this world, showing up as your real, confident self really is the secret weapon.

Body Positivity and Industry Shifts

You can’t talk about the rise of the largest female models without mentioning body positivity. It’s not just a hashtag—it’s become a real movement in fashion. In the last decade, big brands like Nike, ASOS, and Savage X Fenty have started putting plus-size models front and center. Even old-school fashion magazines like Vogue and Elle now put curvy women on the cover more than ever before.

This shift didn’t happen by accident. A 2023 survey from The Fashion Spot showed that 32% of models in major runway shows were plus-size, up from just 1% in 2015. That’s a game changer. Model Ashley Graham, for example, made headlines in 2016 as Sports Illustrated’s first plus-size cover star. Since then, she’s landed partnerships with Revlon, H&M, and Swimsuits For All, proving there’s demand for more than just one type of body in media.

If you dig into the numbers, here’s how the rise of body positivity looks in fashion:

There’s also a real community online. Influencers like Tess Holliday and Paloma Elsesser rack up millions of followers showing off their style, daily life, and honest talks about self-acceptance. These women have helped turn "body positivity" from an idea into a standard. Brands noticed: the more they feature plus-size models, the better their sales and social media engagement get.

For everyday folks, this growing inclusiveness means a couple of things. First, you’re more likely to see people who look like you while shopping—no more guessing how clothes will fit a real body. Second, more agencies are adding curvier models to their rosters and offering workshops about self-confidence and posing for all shapes and abilities.

All this change didn’t just make fashion more interesting to look at. It opened doors, made more people feel good about themselves, and proved that style has nothing to do with size. As brands keep chasing authenticity, expect even more visibility for big, bold models in the future.

Tips: How to Break In as a Plus-Size Model

So, you want to step into the shoes of those breakthrough largest female models? That's awesome—and totally doable. There’s a clear path, but it takes some smart planning and real hustle. Here’s what works right now, based on real industry moves and advice from models who’ve made it.

• Get Pro-Level Photos: Agencies and brands want to see what you actually look like. Hire a reputable photographer who’s shot plus-size models before. You'll need crisp headshots (with natural makeup) and full-body shots.
• Love Your Unique Look: Don’t hide your curves. Models like Ashley Graham and Paloma Elsesser built their careers on body confidence. Own your height, shape, and features—the more authentic, the better.
• Pick the Right Agencies: Look for agencies with a real plus-size board, like IMG Models, Wilhelmina, or Ford. Send them digitals (simple, non-retouched photos) and your basic stats—height, bust, waist, hips. Never pay to get signed; the reputable ones make money from bookings, not sign-up fees.
• Learn What Clients Want: Big brands—think Savage X Fenty, Lane Bryant, and Eloquii—look for models who are comfortable in front of a camera, good with movement, and social media-savvy. A strong Instagram presence can open doors fast.
• Network With Other Models: Connecting through social media or going to open calls helps you get noticed. Plus, other models are usually happy to tip you off about castings and opportunities.
• Keep It Healthy: Agencies want you to look and feel your best, whatever your size. Aim for a balanced diet, regular exercise, and self-care. Don’t stress about the scale—your measurements matter more than weight.
• Stay Patient and Persistent: Sometimes it takes months (even years) to land a gig. A lot of top plus-size models faced rejection before agencies said yes. Keep pushing, improve your posing, and learn from every casting experience.

The industry needs more body diversity and real-world confidence. If you lean in and act with purpose, you’re already ahead of the curve. The next "largest female model" the world spots could be you.