Brielle Anyea: Yes all the time. Brands usually only have one sample size for plus-sized and straight-sized models, so they expect every single model to contort their bodies to fit one size for photo shoots. This is the main reason so many models have eating disorders, [and] low confidence and self worth. Their entire career is [spent] working super hard to fit into one size. That's extremely hard. I don't allow comments to be made about my body on set anymore with me present. If it's said, I immediately correct them and let them know it's not OK.
Hayley Hasselhoff: I have been asked to lose weight before. Was it hard to hear? Yes. Was I happy I heard it when I was in a secure place with who I was? YES. I remember leaving my agency calling my mother and balling my eyes out. But I would have never shown that to my agent, as I knew I was worthy to be in this industry no matter if I had gained a pound or two. Being a plus-sized model still means you have to take care of your health and your body. But every body is different, and it is normal to fluctuate with your weight at times. I always approach body remarks with kindness and care. Especially at work; you have to remember it is not about you, yet about the sample size in which they are trying to fit on you.
"The first time I ever stepped foot into an agency, I was asked to lose weight in order to be signed. I knew that was not a path I could safely walk down"
Candice Huffine: The first time I ever stepped foot into an agency, I was asked to lose weight in order to be signed. I knew that was not a path I could safely walk down, and declined on the spot. The next day, I received a contract to be a plus-sized model and signed immediately, my only question being: "Can I just be me?" The answer was "Yes", and the rest is history, as they say.
Leslide Sidora: My weight fluctuates a lot depending on my stress and eating, but my agents never asked me anything, nor made any hurtful comments. I'm at my lowest since I've started modelling, and I was the one worried about my weight loss. They've been nothing but supportive. The issue often comes with the people I work on set with who think it's OK to comment on my weight. I usually try to not give any energy to negativity, but I'm human, and sometimes it hurts. Body shaming someone because they're not up to your idea of what plus-sized should be isn't OK.