Full Figure Modeling Advice: How to Break in Without an Agent

Are you curious about breaking into full figure modeling? You don't have to live in New York or have an agent to break in. Your own city is the best place to test the waters of full figure modeling. In fact, you can pursue your dream and get started without spending money on professional pictures or going to school. You don't even need an agent to start. Here are some smart ways to break into plus size modeling in your own backyard.

Mall Fashion Shows

At the next major mall fashion show, identify the show coordinator. Wait until after the show to go backstage. Ask to talk to the show coordinator (or just ask who's in charge). Introduce yourself and ask them how to get started. Be friendly, courteous, professional, and let them know that you'd like model in their next show.

Two big seasonal mall shows are the back-to-school fashion show and the holiday fashion show. Look for announcements or ask when the next show is happening at your local mall.

Newspaper Advertising

Does your locally-owned department store (not the major national chain stores) ever run newspaper ads in your local paper? Go in and ask if they'd consider using you as one of their plus size models.

Informal Modeling

Here's a great opportunity to start your career in full figure modeling. Department stores and independent boutiques sell more clothes when customers can see how those clothes look on a beautiful woman who looks like them. Informal modeling is simply being that woman. Go into department stores and local boutiques and ask if they'd consider using you as an informal model.

Showroom Model

Locate your regional merchandise mart (that's the place buyers go to see next season's clothes). Showroom models work much like informal models but the customer is the wholesale buyer (instead of the consumer).

During seasonal market weeks, there are loads of full figure modeling opportunities at your local merchandise mart. Throughout market week, showroom models are on hand, changing outfits frequently, looking wonderful and inspiring sales. Could you do that?

Independent Modeling

There are also many opportunities to model for individuals or smaller groups. Check the bulletin boards at local art schools to see if they are looking for figure models. This is a hidden full figure modeling opportunity that can be lurative if you're cmfortable with your curves and open to the process. It's not for everyone but it is surprisingly open to models of all shapes and sizes.

Often independent photographers or painters will have meetings or events where each participant pays the model for their time, usually in cash and immediately following the session. If you do find yourself working frequently enough, you'll want to keep records of your income and expenses for tax purposes. Most of the online software companies offer a free tax prep version, which will be sufficient for simple write-offs and secondary income. You'll often be paid in cash though; in most cases eliminating the need to even worry about reporting. State laws vary, but in most cases, anything less than $500 is not required to be reported at all.

Charity Auctions and Luncheons

Charity luncheons are often accompanied by fashion shows. Though these are not specifically plus size events, remember that over half the attendees are likely to wear a plus size.

Approach the organizer or committee chair in-charge of these events and offer your modeling services. Tell her that if they are not currently using a plus size model in their events, including you could inspire more auction bids and raise more money. Work with a charity you believe in and call this a win-win-win!

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