8 Trailblazing Latina Plus-Size Models Changing Fashion
Meet the Latina plus-size models redefining beauty standards and fighting for size diversity in high fashion and media.
The fashion industry has long been criticized for its lack of diversity—especially when it comes to representation of body size, ethnicity, and cultural background. Among the most underrepresented are Latina plus-size models, who fight not only for size acceptance, but also for cultural visibility in a world that persistently favors the thin and the Eurocentric. As the average model weighs nearly 23 percent less than the average woman, the presence of full-figured Latinas in media and on runways remains marginal at best.
This article highlights the careers, struggles, and triumphs of eight outstanding Latina plus-size models. Each has broken barriers, altered beauty norms, and inspired a new generation of women to embrace themselves fearlessly. Their stories are a powerful call for industry reform—and a celebration of Latina pride and body positivity.
Why Curvy Latinas Deserve the Spotlight
Latinas represent a diverse spectrum of identities, sizes, and aesthetic traditions. However, the industry’s historic preference for white, thin models has led to pervasive underrepresentation: nearly 80 percent of New York Fashion Week runway models in recent years have been white—leaving little room for Latina and other minority models, particularly those who wear above-average sizes.
Despite these challenges, the Latina plus-size models featured here have proved that beauty is multifaceted, and that fashion has much to gain from true inclusion. Their voices and images inspire curvy women everywhere to claim their space with confidence.
Meet the Latina Plus-Size Game-Changers
- Denise Bidot
- Natalie Monet
- Jakaliene Rivera
- Danielle Zavala
- Griselangel Paula
- Fluvia Lacerda
- Rosie Mercado
- Lornalitz Baez
1. Denise Bidot
Prior to captivating the modeling world, Denise Bidot worked behind the scenes as a hair and makeup artist. Her path changed when a photographer invited her in front of the camera, recognizing her charisma and relatable beauty. Denise’s momentum grew rapidly after starring on NuvoTV’s reality show Curvy Girls. She has since modeled for major brands such as Nordstrom, Old Navy, Macy’s, and Forever 21.
Bidot is recognized not just for her photogenic presence, but for her outspoken advocacy on self-acceptance and representation. As one of the few Latina faces on international campaigns, she inspires women to embrace their curves, regardless of societal pressure.
- Starred in reality series Curvy Girls
- Featured in mainstream campaigns for major retailers
- Public voice for body diversity and self-love
2. Natalie Monet
Natalie Monet, of Puerto Rican heritage, entered the modeling world after winning Torrid’s House of Dreams Model Search in 2009. Her credentials include national brand campaigns for Ashley Stewart and Eloquii, as well as numerous runway appearances during BET’s “Rip The Runway” and the highly respected Full-Figured Fashion Week.
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Monet is celebrated for bringing Boricua pride to the fashion world and challenging restrictive criteria for beauty. Her pioneering spirit has opened doors for other Latina models in full-figured fashion.
- Winner of Torrid’s House of Dreams Model Search (2009)
- Featured in Ashley Stewart and Eloquii campaigns
- Frequent runway appearances at body-positive fashion events
3. Jakaliene Rivera
New Yorker Jakaliene Rivera rose to prominence after winning Seventeen Magazine’s “Fiercely Real” model search in 2012. Rivera’s modeling credits span major brands such as Miss Tina, Baby Phat, and House of Derion. She is also a consistent presence at Full-Figured Fashion Week, a premier showcase of curvy talent.
In a field where Latina bodies and narratives are often erased, Rivera’s success story stands as testament to resilience and self-belief. Her work continues to challenge the status quo, emphasizing that beauty is not one-size-fits-all.
- Winner, Seventeen Magazine’s “Fiercely Real” model search (2012)
- Campaigns for Miss Tina, Baby Phat, House of Derion
- Full-Figured Fashion Week runway veteran
4. Danielle Zavala
The 2011 title-holder of Mrs. Plus America, Danielle Zavala is an embodiment of the mantra “beauty isn’t a size, it’s an attitude.” Her modeling portfolio includes mainstream full-figured brands like Ashley Stewart and Evie Foster. Additionally, she is the Executive Director of the California Plus America Pageant, where she actively cultivates opportunities for plus-size women to shine.
Zavala’s influence extends to advocacy and mentorship, using her own journey to encourage others to celebrate their authenticity, rather than conform to narrow ideals.
- Former Mrs. Plus America (2011)
- Director, California Plus America Pageant
- Model for Ashley Stewart and Evie Foster
- Body-positive influencer
5. Griselangel Paula
Dominican model Griselangel Paula dove into plus-size modeling and almost immediately earned a coveted six-page editorial spread. Her impressive résumé includes work for Forever 21, Macy’s, Lane Bryant, Kmart, House of Derion, and Baby Phat.
Paula delivers runway, print, and commercial campaigns with unapologetic confidence, reflecting the diversity of Latina experiences and the growing demand for plus-size visibility.
- Notable six-page print editorial shortly after starting career
- Substantial portfolio with major American brands
- Role model for Afro-Latina and plus-size representation
6. Fluvia Lacerda
Nicknamed the “plus-size Gisele” for her Brazilian roots and impactful career, Fluvia Lacerda was named Plus Model of the Year by Full-Figured Fashion Week. Her international modeling work covers Torrid, Monif C., Igigi, Fashion Bug, Kmart, Bilka, Takko Fashions, and Eliza Parker.
Lacerda is not just a model but also a designer and an author—her book Fat is Not a Bad Word challenges cultural taboos and promotes self-acceptance within and beyond Latina communities. She continues to champion size diversity globally.
- Named Plus Model of the Year at Full-Figured Fashion Week
- Extensive global brand partnerships
- Author of Fat is Not a Bad Word
- Fashion designer and advocate
7. Rosie Mercado
Model, designer, host, entrepreneur, and single mother, Rosie Mercado is one of the most recognized Latina plus-size figures. She gained notoriety on Curvy Girls and was named one of Las Vegas’ Extraordinary Women. Mercado has built her own fashion line, FUERZA For SWAK, and regularly shares her weight-loss journey and motivational content with thousands of followers across social platforms.
Mercado is renowned for her multifaceted career and for openly discussing her personal transformation, inspiring others to pursue holistic health, empowerment, and creativity.
- Star on Curvy Girls reality series
- Founder of FUERZA For SWAK clothing line
- Named Las Vegas’ Extraordinary Woman
- Inspirational speaker and advocate
8. Lornalitz Baez
Lornalitz Baez blazed a path as the first plus-size model on the competition series Model Latina Las Vegas in 2009. Since then, she has worked for leading brands including Kmart, Bonny Bridal, and Nordstrom Rack. In 2013, Baez joined Curvy Girls and launched her “Curves Are In” designer t-shirt line—a campaign deeply informed by her experience battling bulimia.
Baez’s success signifies hope for young Latinas fighting similar issues of self-esteem, body image, and cultural pressure. Her work is a testament to personal resilience and the belief that curves deserve celebration.
- First plus-size contestant on Model Latina Las Vegas
- Brand campaigns for Kmart, Bonny Bridal, Nordstrom Rack
- Founder, “Curves Are In” apparel line
- Body positivity and eating disorder awareness advocate
The Broader Impact and Next Steps for Diversity
Representation matters. The achievements of these eight women stretch far beyond fashion—they fuel a growing movement calling for authentic representation in media, advertising, and public life.
Some vital issues still confronting plus-size Latina models include:
- Persistent underrepresentation in high-fashion and mainstream campaigns
- Stereotyping and marginalization based on size and ethnicity
- Industry practices that prioritize thinness and Eurocentric beauty standards
Grassroots activism, growing consumer demand for inclusivity, and the unrelenting spirit of advocates like these models continue to challenge the status quo. Schools, designers, and agencies are increasingly called upon to value models for their charisma, professionalism, and the diverse stories they bring—rather than shoehorning them into rigid categories.
The Power of Social Media and Body Positivity
Global acceptance of diverse body types is heavily boosted by social media platforms, where plus-size models like Denise Bidot and Tess Holliday (a key figure in the broader body-positivity movement) have amassed huge followings. These digital communities offer both visibility and mutual support, amplifying voices too often muted by traditional media outlets.
- Campaigns like “Eff Your Beauty Standards” challenge unrealistic norms
- Hashtags, body-positive influencers, and direct outreach inspire millions worldwide
- Online activism can pressure brands to change hiring practices and diversify casting
Latina plus-size models play a unique role in this landscape: they bridge movements for racial and size equity, painting a richer, more accurate cultural picture for today’s youth.
Model Career Highlights Table
| Model | Major Brands & Campaigns | Awards & Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Denise Bidot | Nordstrom, Old Navy, Macy’s, Forever 21 | Starred in Curvy Girls |
| Natalie Monet | Ashley Stewart, Eloquii | Torrid’s House of Dreams Model Search Winner |
| Jakaliene Rivera | Miss Tina, Baby Phat, House of Derion | Seventeen Magazine’s “Fiercely Real” Winner (2012) |
| Danielle Zavala | Ashley Stewart, Evie Foster | Mrs. Plus America 2011, Director of CA Plus America Pageant |
| Griselangel Paula | Forever 21, Macy’s, Lane Bryant, Kmart | Major editorial features shortly after starting career |
| Fluvia Lacerda | Torrid, Monif C., Igigi, Kmart, Bilka | Plus Model of the Year (Full-Figured Fashion Week); Author; Designer |
| Rosie Mercado | FUERZA For SWAK | Reality TV, Inspirational Speaker, Named Extraordinary Woman (Las Vegas) |
| Lornalitz Baez | Kmart, Bonny Bridal, Nordstrom Rack | First plus-size contestant on Model Latina Las Vegas; Founded “Curves Are In” |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Why is plus-size Latina representation important in fashion?
A: Plus-size Latina representation ensures that industries reflect the reality of their audiences—celebrating not only size diversity but also the cultural heritage, beauty ideals, and lived experiences unique to Latina women.
Q: What obstacles do Latina plus-size models face?
A: These models face barriers including underrepresentation, rigid size standards, ethnic stereotyping, lack of high-fashion opportunities, and pressures to conform to Eurocentric beauty ideals.
Q: How are these models changing the industry?
A: Through their visibility, activism, and success across major brands, these models force the fashion industry to widen its parameters for beauty, thereby supporting new generations of women seeking self-acceptance and public space.
Q: What can readers do to support body diversity?
A: Consumers can follow and uplift diverse models and brands, advocate for casting inclusivity, support ethical fashion, and use their purchasing power to demand broader representation and anti-discriminatory practices.
Conclusion: Curves Ahead
The journey of these eight Latina plus-size models demonstrates that the runway to inclusivity is paved not only by individual ambition, but also by community support, persistent advocacy, and the willingness to challenge unjust standards. With continued pressure on the industry—including from social media and consumers—fashion has the potential to become a force for both beauty and justice, illuminating curves as not only acceptable, but exceptional.
References
- https://hiplatina.com/trailblazing-plus-size-models/
- http://vagendamagazine.com/2013/09/cosmo-for-latinas-are-you-fiesty-curvy-and-hot-blooded-enough-to-try-it/index.htm
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/style-beauty/fashion/news/a19893/latina-plus-sized-models/
- https://womensmediacenter.com/fbomb/the-importance-of-plus-size-model-tess-hollidays-cosmopolitan-cover
- https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/fashion/a12228912/victorias-secret-plus-size-models/
- https://globalnews.ca/news/4426286/cosmo-editor-defends-tess-holliday/
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