From Dreams to Reality: My First Plus Size Modeling Experience
(This post originally appeared on my old site, shiningself.com)
Okay, let’s just start with this: I walked a freaking runway as a plus-size model! Cue the squeals, the jazz hands, and maybe even a confetti cannon. Even several years later, I’m still obsessing over those photos and reliving that magical night!
Let me tell you, I felt sassy, sexy, confident, and completely in my element in my fabulous fat body. That’s right—this plus-size body took up space, owned it, and looked damn good doing it.
Now, here’s the kicker: I used to HATE my body. I was trapped in the never-ending yo-yo diet cycle, feeling uncomfortable in my skin and constantly chasing the idea of “fixing” myself (aka doing anything to seek thinness). Fast-forward to me strutting my stuff on the runway? Yeah, I call that brave, bold, and a total glow-up moment.
The Nerve-Wracking Start of Something Amazing
Towards the end of 2018 – not long after moving here to the West coast – I saw an ad for an open casting call for plus-size models in a few weeks. So I went… Nervous? Oh, you bet. But I knew I couldn’t spend my life wondering “what if?” So, I swallowed the fear, marched in there, and guess what? Best decision ever.
Sure, I was excited, but let’s be real—stepping out of my comfort zone like that was terrifying. I felt like a badass for even showing up. And while I don’t share all this to brag (okay, maybe a little), I do it because I want to show others what’s possible.
It’s OK to Take Up Space In a Plus Size Body!
I share my journey to remind all the other plus size gals out there:
- It’s OK to take up space, no matter what society says.
- It’s OK to wear what you want (hiding your body won’t make you less fat, and who cares anyway?).
- It’s OK to dance, jiggle, hike, and live—you deserve to do all those things unapologetically.
- It’s OK to be bold, use your voice, and demand to be treated with kindness & respect!
Fat bodies, skinny bodies, all bodies: we’re here to be celebrated, not hidden.
The Pre-Show Meltdown (Yep, It Happened)
Let’s get real for a minute. A few nights before the big show, I had a major breakdown. While talking about the formal dress outfit, I panicked and offered to wear something else. Why? Because when I looked in the mirror, my brain said, “You’re not pretty enough for this. You don’t deserve to feel like a princess.”
Cue the tears.
But then someone said something that changed everything. Another woman came up to me, hugged me, and said, “Thank you for doing this. You’re doing it for me and every other plus-size woman out there, giving us permission to be comfortable taking up space in larger bodies.”
Mic. Drop.
That moment reminded me why I do what I do—why I push through the fear and show up as I am. Because it’s not just about me; it’s about inspiring other plus size women to live their best, most unapologetic lives right now, in the body they have today, not when x amount of weight lost has been achieved.
The Big Day: Runway Royalty
When the day finally came, I was ready to channel my inner diva. Hair and makeup? On point:
Nerves? Through the roof. But the second I stepped on that runway, everything clicked.
First walk: Shaky, nervous, and lips quivering, but I did it!
Second walk: Rocked a fun, flirty swimsuit and fell so in love with it, I bought it after the show was over.
Third walk: Princess vibes unlocked. I felt unstoppable, sassy, and totally in my element.
Oh, and did I mention I got to walk with Becky, the founder of Curvy Chic Closet? (Couldn’t find my picture of that to share, though).
Final Thoughts: A Night to Remember
Here’s the thing: as a plus-size woman, I’m used to hearing criticisms, not cheers. But that night, I was celebrated—claps, smiles, and genuine support for my body. And let me tell you, it felt amazing.
I’ll never forget the joy, empowerment, and pure happiness I felt that day. Modeling? I loved it. And the best part? Knowing that by putting myself out there, I’m helping others do the same.
Here are some more images from that night: (The first picture – black & white – I’m the one in the background high fiving a lady in the audience. The second pic I’m the first one on the step)
And a few more:
So here’s to taking up space, strutting confidently, and embracing all the fabulousness we have to offer. If I can do it, so can you!
Oh And I can’t forget to give credit where credit is due – those who made me look great on the runway! Hair/Make-up: Elizabeth Little | Designers: Mary Rose NW Boutique, Catherine’s & Curvy Chic Closet | Photographer: Hal Harrison – Rose City Photography, Amber Torres, Daryl Johnson | Event: Curvy Chic Closet 2019 Fall Event