When it comes to the world of fashion and beauty, plus-size women have long been underrepresented and overlooked. However, in recent years, the body positive movement has brought about a shift in perception, encouraging women of all sizes to embrace and love their bodies as they are.
As part of this movement, the term "BBW" or "big beautiful woman" has become a popular way to describe women who are plus-size. And while traditionally, the fashion industry has excluded these women from their runways and campaigns, there have been some notable exceptions.
Here are the top 40 BBWs of all time, who have made a significant impact on the fashion and beauty world and challenged the industry's narrow beauty standards:
1. Ashley Graham - The first plus-size model to grace the cover of Sports Illustrated's swimsuit edition, Ashley Graham has become a leading voice in the body positivity movement.
2. Tess Holliday - A size 22 model and social media personality, Tess Holliday has become a powerful advocate for self-acceptance and body positivity.
3. Crystal Renn - Once a straight-sized model, Crystal Renn transformed her career by embracing her curves and becoming a leading plus-size model.
4. Whitney Thompson - The first plus-size model to win America's Next Top Model, Whitney Thompson has gone on to have a successful modeling career and has become a spokesperson for body acceptance.
5. Candice Huffine - One of the fashion industry's most in-demand plus-size models, Candice Huffine has modeled for major brands like Lane Bryant, Vogue Italia and Harper's Bazaar.
6. Precious Lee - The first black plus-size model to appear in Vogue, Precious Lee has become a trailblazer for diversity and representation in the fashion industry.
7. Emme - One of the first plus-size models to achieve international fame, Emme has since gone on to launch her own clothing line and become a prominent body positivity advocate.
8. Liris Crosse - A model and actress, Liris Crosse has walked in New York Fashion Week and has appeared in campaigns for brands like Lane Bryant and Ashley Stewart.
9. Tara Lynn - A frequent collaborator with fashion photographer Elle Muliarchyk, Tara Lynn has been featured in numerous international publications and brands.
10. Denise Bidot - A model and actress, Denise Bidot has modeled for major brands like Levi's, Lane Bryant and Target.
These women have challenged the notion that beauty can only be found in one particular body type and have paved the way for other plus-size models and body positivity advocates. By celebrating and embracing their bodies, they have helped to change the fashion and beauty industry for the better.
It's important to remember that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes, and by embracing diversity and individuality, we can create a more inclusive and accepting world.