Redefining Standards: The Rise of Body Positivity in the Modeling Industry

Slim waist and tall stature have been the standard for models in runway shows, advertisements, and brand commercials for as long as most can remember. However, in recent years, body positivity has progressed tremendously, pushing more and more brands to embrace body positivity and inclusivity more than ever. From ads that featured nearly exclusively white, tall, and slim models, we now see more campaigns highlighting models with diverse races and realistic shapes and sizes. 

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If you don’t know a lot about body positivity yet and are looking for more information about it, this post is written for you. Read on as we get into further detail about the role of body positivity in the modeling industry, its importance, and how it’s changing businesses worldwide.

What Is Body Positivity?

Body positivity is the concept that centers around the belief that every individual, regardless of their shape or size, is beautiful. Instead of promoting stereotypical body standards set by society, body positivity helps people recognize that bodies are unique and accept their bodies as they are.

Why Does Body Positivity Matter in the Modeling Industry

Did you know that the modeling industry reached about $1.6bn market size in 2022? As the modeling industry becomes one of the fastest-growing industries, there is a greater need to follow trends and embrace various concepts such as body positivity. In recent years, body positivity has been essential for the modeling industry to stay relevant and credible to modern-day mindful audiences and consumers. Are you curious why a simple concept became a driving factor for success in the modeling industry today? Wonder no more. Below we list the various reasons why body positivity matters in the said industry and provide insights about them. 

1. Portrays an Accurate Representation of Society 

With body positivity on trend today, modeling agencies, firms, and other businesses alike are opting for models or talents from a wide range of shapes and sizes. Whether the model is small or a plus-size, black or white, tall or short, every model now has more chances to get into the modeling industry than before. Similarly, audiences have more exposure to the real appearances, sizes, and shapes of bodies that exist in society. This change not only promotes inclusivity but also conveys a more accurate representation of society.

2. Improves the Self-Esteem of Models, Audiences, and Others Alike

A report on Body Positivity and Self-Esteem suggests that body image and self-esteem can directly affect one another. Those who have a positive body image are likely to feel more comfortable about their body, while those who don’t tend to experience the opposite

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So, how does body positivity in the modeling industry help with self-esteem? Let us explain. As audiences see more models of different sizes in print media, TV commercials, and runways, they become more aware of the true diversity and beauty. This can help individuals to accept their bodies, have a healthy body image faster, and become more confident.

3. Boosts the Well-Being and Mental Health of Models and Audiences 

A Mental Health Foundation article says that dissatisfaction with the body could cause negative impacts on quality of life. It can also affect a person’s psychological well-being and lead to unhealthy eating behaviors and disorders. Oftentimes, an individual’s negative body image comes from unrealistic mainstream standards. Luckily, more businesses are getting more conscious about body positivity nowadays. An increasing number of businesses are opting for models of different sizes, shapes, and beauty to represent their brands and redefine the beauty standards in the world. This helps boost the well-being and mental health of audiences, consumers, and others alike. 

4. Promotes a More Inclusive and Accepting Society

Believe it or not, employing models with different body types and sizes can have a ripple effect on society's perception of beauty. By featuring models from a wide range of body types in media, fashion, advertising, and other industries, the modeling industry can change societal beauty standards and promote inclusivity and acceptance. 

How Body Positivity Is Impacting Businesses Today 

Body positivity doesn’t just challenge the modeling industry but also businesses in various industries. Below we discuss in greater detail the various impacts of body positivity in businesses today. 

1. Body Positivity Encourages More Clothing Businesses to Broaden Their  Range of Sizes 

In the past, businesses (particularly clothing brands) often catered to a limited range of sizes. However, as body positivity becomes known worldwide, its influence on society has pushed more brands to broaden their range of product sizes. From four sizes (S, M, L, and XL), various brands introduce more sizes from XS to 3XL. This allows them to expand their reach and tap into a bigger market. At the same time, more consumers can have access to fashion and products that cater to their needs and preferences. 

2. Body Positivity Helps Brands to Stay Relevant

It goes without saying that customer demands are changing nowadays. Consumers are now more aware of body positivity campaigns and tend to favor brands that value inclusivity than those that still adhere to narrow beauty standards. As a matter of fact, 57% of people are eager to see health and beauty brands promote body positivity. 

3. Body Positivity Enhances Brand Image and Reputation

When brands recognize and support body positivity, they can present themselves as responsible and progressive. This can attract positive attention and loyalty from consumers who appreciate brands that are inclusive. 

How To Maintain Body Positivity 

Every individual has the right to have a healthy body image. Unfortunately, many people still find it difficult to see their bodies from a positive perspective. If you have a hard time cultivating or maintaining a positive image, you're not alone, and there are things you can do to help yourself. Below we list some tips to maintain a positive body image:

1. Recognize that every type of body is unique and beautiful 
2. Treat your body with respect and love
3. Don't judge yourself based on the norms set by the media or society
4. Eat nutritious meals that keep your body healthy from the inside out
5. Exercise regularly 
6. Don't deprive yourself of rest 
7. Don't be afraid to wear the clothes you like 
8. Respect other people's bodies and don't judge them based on their size

Optimize the Processes in Your Modeling Agency With StaffConnect

Along with the growth of the modeling industry's market size and the need for more models of various sizes and shapes, your modeling agency faces more pressure than ever. But don't worry because StaffConnect is here to help. StaffConnect is a business management software created to streamline tasks, automate processes, increase workforce efficiency, and save time. It features all the necessary tools needed for efficient processes, from onboarding and sending payroll to data gathering. Feel free to check out more features of StaffConnect here or schedule your free demo for a hands-on experience at this link.