Plus Size Runway Model Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the world of fashion, the spotlight on plus size runway models has never been more prominent.
The industry is evolving, and with every turn, the demand for diverse, confident, and inspiring figures who can revolutionize, promote, and protect the inclusivity of our fashion world amplifies.
But let’s delve deeper: What’s truly expected from a plus size runway model?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker trying to understand the specifics of this role,
- A casting director outlining the perfect candidate,
- Or simply fascinated by the dynamics of plus size modeling,
You’re in the right place.
Today, we present a customizable plus size runway model job description template, designed for straightforward posting on job boards or casting call sites.
Let’s dive right into it.
Plus Size Runway Model Duties and Responsibilities
Plus Size Runway Models represent a more diverse body image in the fashion industry, showcasing clothes for plus size individuals during fashion shows and photo shoots.
They often work with designers, photographers, and stylists to create the desired look and feel.
The duties and responsibilities of a Plus Size Runway Model include:
- Attending auditions and casting calls to get selected for modeling assignments
- Walking the runway in fashion shows to display designers’ latest clothing lines and accessories
- Working closely with photographers, hair and makeup artists, designers, and stylists to create a specific look for a show or photo shoot
- Maintaining an active and professional social media presence to promote personal brand and attract opportunities
- Staying in excellent physical condition to maintain a healthy look
- Learning and understanding different poses and facial expressions to portray the mood of the fashion collection
- Adapting to different styles and settings as required by the specific fashion campaign or show
- Communicating with fashion designers to fully understand their vision for the clothing line
- Participating in promotional events, interviews and public appearances to promote a designer’s collection or own personal brand
Plus Size Runway Model Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are seeking a confident and talented Plus Size Runway Model to join our diverse and dynamic team.
The Plus Size Runway Model will be responsible for showcasing our fashion line in runway shows, photo shoots, and trade shows.
The ideal candidate is comfortable with their body, has a unique personal style, and can convey the intended fashion message to the audience.
They should have experience in modeling, possess excellent walking skills, and have a professional attitude towards the job.
Responsibilities
- Walk the runway to model our fashion line at various events
- Pose for photographers during photo shoots
- Attend fittings to ensure the garments fit properly
- Collaborate with designers, stylists, makeup artists, and other models
- Keep up-to-date with fashion trends
- Maintain excellent physical condition and personal grooming standards
- Display clothing and merchandise in commercials, advertisements, and online platforms
Qualifications
- Proven experience as a model, preferably in plus size fashion
- Excellent understanding of fashion trends and styles
- Outstanding walking skills for runway modeling
- Ability to travel to different locations for shoots and events
- Professional attitude with a strong work ethic
- Excellent time management skills
- Exceptional physical health and personal grooming standards
Benefits
- Exposure to top fashion designers and brands
- Travel opportunities
- Health insurance
- Professional training and development opportunities
- Flexible schedule
Additional Information
- Job Title: Plus Size Runway Model
- Work Environment: Varies depending on the event or shoot, may require travel
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Modeling Agency Manager or Fashion Event Coordinator.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: This is often a freelance role with pay based on the job. Potential earnings can range significantly.
- Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if travel is required)
- Employment Type: Contractual or freelance
- Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
- Application Instructions: Please submit your portfolio, resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].
What Does a Plus Size Runway Model Do?
A Plus Size Runway Model is a professional who showcases clothing and accessories designed specifically for larger body sizes on the runway.
They work closely with fashion designers, stylists, makeup artists and photographers to create the perfect look for each garment.
This includes trying on outfits, getting fitted for garments, and rehearsing for the runway walk.
Plus Size Runway Models also play a significant role in photoshoots for advertising campaigns, lookbooks and fashion magazines.
They often travel to different locations for shoots and shows, and sometimes participate in promotional events to engage with the brand’s target audience.
They are required to maintain a healthy lifestyle and positive body image, as they are role models for body positivity, breaking the traditional norms of the fashion industry.
Their job involves a lot of communication, confidence, and patience.
They need to be able to take direction from various industry professionals, and deal with the fast-paced and often high-pressure environment of runway shows.
Plus Size Runway Models also work with modeling agencies who help them find jobs, negotiate contracts and guide their career paths.
They often have to build and maintain a professional portfolio that showcases their work and versatility as a model.
They are sometimes involved in fittings and fashion shows during the development phase of a collection, providing designers with important feedback about the fit, feel, and movement of plus-size garments.
Plus Size Runway Model Qualifications and Skills
For a Plus Size Runway Model, the skills and qualifications required are diverse, including both physical attributes and personal traits, such as:
- Confidence and self-assuredness to carry themselves with poise and grace on the runway.
- Understanding of fashion and style trends to effectively showcase the clothing and accessories.
- Excellent physical health and stamina to endure long hours of standing, walking, and changing outfits.
- Effective communication skills to understand and interpret the visions of designers and stylists.
- A positive and professional attitude towards constructive criticism and feedback for improvement.
- Interpersonal skills to work effectively with a variety of individuals such as photographers, designers, stylists and other models.
- Ability to maintain a well-groomed appearance and manage body proportions within industry standards for plus-size models.
- Possessing a strong work ethic and commitment to the demanding schedule and travel requirements of the fashion industry.
Plus Size Runway Model Experience Requirements
To become a Plus Size Runway Model, experience is built through a variety of avenues.
Aspiring models may begin with local fashion shows or retail modeling to gain exposure and practical experience.
This can often lead to the opportunity to work with photographers and fashion designers, further honing their modeling skills.
Models can also gain experience through a modeling school or agency, where they are trained in the technical aspects of modeling, such as how to walk on a runway, pose for a camera, and effectively showcase clothing and accessories.
Entry-level models may have a few months to 1-2 years of experience, generally garnered through part-time assignments, volunteering in fashion events, or interning with fashion houses.
This initial experience is essential in understanding the dynamics of the fashion world and building a portfolio.
Models with 3 or more years of experience have likely participated in a number of fashion shows, advertising campaigns, or photo shoots.
This type of involvement helps to establish their reputation and increase their visibility in the industry.
Those with 5 or more years of experience may also have international experience and may have worked with renowned fashion designers and brands.
At this level, a model often becomes an industry influencer and may also diversify into areas such as fashion consulting or mentoring less experienced models.
Plus Size Runway Model Education and Training Requirements
Education and training requirements for plus size runway models may not be as straightforward as those for other professions.
While there is no formal education requirement, many aspiring models opt for modeling schools to learn and hone their runway skills, posing techniques, and understand the industry better.
These schools often offer short-term certification programs that provide industry-relevant knowledge.
A high school diploma or equivalent is usually appreciated, as it demonstrates a basic level of education and comprehension.
Being a model requires a good understanding of fashion, style, and current trends.
Therefore, some models may choose to pursue a degree or take classes in fashion, visual arts, or a related field to gain a deeper understanding of the industry.
Apart from formal education, physical requirements are crucial in this field.
Plus size runway models need to maintain a certain size, which is typically a US size 12 or above.
Experience is highly valued in the modeling industry.
Aspiring models should seek opportunities to build a portfolio, such as working with photographers, participating in local fashion shows, or volunteering for fashion events.
Finally, while not required, understanding multiple languages could be an advantage as modeling can often involve international travel and work.
Regardless of education and training, success in this field often depends on an individual’s personality, confidence, look, and ability to handle rejection and criticism.
Plus Size Runway Model Salary Expectations
A Plus Size Runway Model can expect to earn an average salary of $41,300 (USD) per year.
However, the salary can significantly vary depending on the model’s experience, the reputation of the modeling agency, the geographical location, and the frequency of assignments.
It is important to note that top plus size models working with high-end brands can earn much more.
Plus Size Runway Model Job Description FAQs
What qualities make a good plus size runway model?
A good plus size runway model has self-confidence, a positive body image, and the ability to carry themselves with grace and style on the runway.
They should be photogenic and comfortable in front of the camera, with the ability to convey emotion and personality through their poses and facial expressions.
A good plus size model is also punctual, professional, and able to take direction well.
What is the typical height requirement for a plus size runway model?
While traditional models often need to be 5’8 or taller, the height requirement for plus size models is usually more flexible.
Many successful plus size models are between 5’6 and 5’9, but there are exceptions.
What’s more important than height is proportion and how well clothes fit and look on the model.
Does a plus size runway model need a degree?
While a degree isn’t required to become a plus size runway model, some models choose to take courses or earn degrees in fields like fashion, communication, or marketing to help further their careers.
However, the most essential qualifications for a plus size model are physical attributes, confidence, and the ability to take direction and work well with others.
Is it difficult to break into the plus size modeling industry?
While there are challenges to breaking into any type of modeling, the demand for plus size models has been growing in recent years.
Plus size models may face additional hurdles, like finding agencies that represent larger models or dealing with negative stereotypes about size.
However, with perseverance, talent, and the right look, it’s certainly possible to succeed as a plus size runway model.
What should you look for in a plus size model’s portfolio?
A model’s portfolio should showcase their range and versatility.
For a plus size model, this might include a variety of full-body shots showing how they wear different types of clothing, as well as close-ups to highlight their facial features.
The portfolio should also include both posed and candid shots, and it’s a plus if the model has experience working with well-known brands or designers.
Conclusion
And there we have it.
Today, we’ve given you an insider’s look at what it truly means to be a plus size runway model.
Surprise!
It’s not just about strutting down the catwalk.
It’s about embodying confidence and style, one stride at a time.
With our detailed plus size runway model job description template and real-world examples, you’re more than ready to make your mark.
But why limit yourself?
Explore further with our job description generator. It’s your next step to creating perfectly tailored job listings or refining your portfolio to excellence.
Remember:
Every strut down the runway is part of a larger narrative.
Let’s embrace this journey. Together.