The modeling world has long been discriminative of plus-size women, but in recent years plus-size models have been more in demand than ever. Granted, there is still a loooong way to go as far as acceptance and steady, diverse work, but the modeling industry has made significant strides over the years. Modeling agencies that represented plus-size models would have a separate division for those over a size 10 and in some cases over a size 8 (hey, i knowwwww).
However, last week, news was announced set to change all of this. A new model agency, Jag Model Agency was just launched by former Ford (Plus) Model agents Gary Dakin and Jaclyn Sarka, and they are looking to shake up the game with straight-size and plus-size models treated equally. Their models will range from size a US 6 to 18. They are looking to get their models seen regardless of size.
Dakin says, “The average size of the girls [we represent] is a 14/16 but there are 10s and there are 18s and if there’s a size 8 or a size 6 that we fall in love with we’ll take them on. We’re not going to limit ourselves, because the industry shouldn’t be limiting to anybody.”
Image Credit: H&M
When I heard about this I was like this is great! Why segregate? Just show off your great models regardless of size! But, as I thought about it I was like, how will that work? Is this a good thing? I feel like it’s nice for them to showcase everyone side by side, BUT IN REALITY, it doesn’t matter how your agency merchandises its models, it matters what your clients are willing to book. The bigger issue is changing client’s mindsets. If they want a 6 you can’t send your 16. What happens then? Will JAG also work in consulting, helping these brands choose or fine tune their direction?
The fact that this is happening on the agency side is quite intriguing. Most of the times, these agencies are the ones who push for models of a certain size and look, thus influencing the brands. IMHO. But what happens when a plus size brand comes to them? Will they push their size 8? Or will they match a size 14,16, or (wait for it… ) an 18? I want to know what Jag will be doing to convince top companies to show models over a size 4 in their campaigns with a variety of sample sizes.
One of their clients is Jennie Runk of the infamous H&M plus size campaign. It was great that H&M featured her on their homepage without even mentioning plus-size. I mean she’s a size 12, she’s normal, an everyday woman. I mean add to thus buzz that Tara Lynn was their campaign Plus Model and one could be like… okay, that’s nice. But, we need MORE companies to be willing to do this for this agency to be truly successful. I really hope Jag succeeds in fostering change in the modeling and fashion industry.
We all know its LONG OVERDUE.
Jag launches with a well-rounded roster of about 30 models including Bree Warren, Chloe Marshall, Geo Burke, Jennie Runk, Kaela Humphries, Kamie Crawford (Miss Teen USA 2010), Mckenzie Raley and Myla Dalbesio.
I still have questions, but I am curious to see what comes next.
All change has to start somewhere, let’s hope this is the beginning of something great.
Read the full story here
What do you think? Do you think Jag can get enough companies to feature a more diverse size and range of models?
LOVE THAT YOU ARE GIVING IMAGES THAT MY DAUGHTERS CAN LOOK UP TO, WOMEN WITH REAL LIFE BODIES!!!!
Fit Modeling is a growing area of the modeling industry. One leading NYC agency is Fit Models LLC http://www.fitmodelsllc.com They specialize in Plus-Size and XXL male athlete fit models.
Had many boyfriends put me down n say Im gawj us in face but void do to loose Abit of weight … I have always been self conscious I’m doing this to prove myself and then wrong
I’ve always wanted to be a model! I’ve tried many websites and I’ve always got sad news. Like for instance, you need to lose weight, you’re too short, and your body is not meant to model. It was tough hearing that. I see women beautiful in all shapes and sizes.
I have been searching for Thick Modeling Agencies because I know I have what it takes to become successful in this industry of thick modeling!
I’m a full figured woman and whose proud of it.I would really like to join your agency
I want to be a model because my parents always told me that I’m made to wear curtain clothes
I just love the way you guys make big cury thick girls look at thier self and not see shame,i’m 15 years old and i want to become an example to other little girls to not be shame who they are and show there real inner person,also i love styling cloth and trying new things.
Modeling is something I’ve always watched and never even thought I would be able to do. I see models that are not size 0 and it’s inspiring to see that those models are happy with what they look like even though it’s not that smallest size and I want to do that to other girls that feel insecure about their own bodies.
I’ve done some modeling in my younger days and i wanted to start something new in my life I’m sassy and fully of spunk with curves for days. took me awhile to love the new skin I’m in but I must say I love my body and myself I just want the chance to show people that big is beautiful baby.
It’s a Dream for me I wish to see my thick skin in magazines and I will be happy if this could happen