Australian Model Advocates for Dropping the Plus-Size Label
Australian Model Advocates for Dropping the Plus-Size Label
In 2015, Australian model Stefania Ferrari initiated a movement called #droptheplus, which has recently gained renewed momentum with the support of renowned Australian actress Ajay Rochester. Together, they have expanded the campaign across continents, advocating for a change in the modeling industry’s standards.
The Beginning of a Movement
Stefania’s journey began when she posted a nude photograph of herself on Instagram with the words “I am a model” written on her stomach. In the caption, she urged her 374,000 followers to support models who do not fit the conventional modeling standards. The modeling industry mandates that women with a size larger than a US size 10 (or Russian size 42) be labeled as plus-size and participate only in shows and photoshoots designated for plus-size models.
Stefania, who wears a size 14 (US size), which is the average women’s size in Australia and Europe, and below average in the US and Russia, challenges these norms. Medically, her size is considered a normal, healthy weight for a woman.
The Impact of Narrow Beauty Standards
Over the past year, Stefania has garnered support from numerous mid-size models who are also forced to work under the plus-size label. They argue that such narrow beauty standards can be damaging to the self-esteem of young girls, who may develop unhealthy perceptions of beauty and strive to meet unrealistic standards in their everyday lives.
Stefania shares her personal experience: “Throughout my youth, up until I turned 18 and decided to love my body as it is, I believed there was only one standard of beauty—a very thin, tanned, and toned body. I was obsessed with achieving that look. If my weight fluctuated even slightly, I would become distressed.”
The Movement Gains Traction
The #droptheplus movement reached new heights when popular media personality Ajay Rochester joined the cause. Originally from Australia and now residing in the US, Rochester is a versatile figure in the entertainment industry, known for her roles as an actress, producer, and comedian. She gained fame through her involvement in the Australian project “The Biggest Loser” (known as “Vzveshennye lyudi” in Russia).
The movement now advocates not only for the removal of the plus-size label but also for a comprehensive reevaluation of the modeling industry’s standards. Supporters believe that models should represent a diverse range of weights, skin colors, appearances, and ethnic backgrounds. This diversity aims to help young girls recognize the variety of beauty and learn to love themselves.
Global Support and Industry Changes
Currently, the #droptheplus movement is supported by models from the US, Australia, and various European countries, including those who fit the traditional modeling standards. The movement has also received significant backing from Vogue magazine, where Stefania Ferrari now works.
By promoting body positivity and diversity, the #droptheplus campaign is making strides towards reshaping the modeling industry and fostering a healthier, more inclusive perception of beauty. For more information on body positivity, you can visit this resource.
