9 Body Confidence Tricks You Need from Plus-Size Models

Beauty comes in all shapes and sizes, but sometimes it can be hard to remember that on a day when you're feeling blah. Here, top plus-size models reveal their confidence-boosting secrets.

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Remind yourself that true beauty is power

Body confidence comes from the inside, not the outside, and model Ali Tate knows this well. “True beauty comes from the soul. To change yourself and to conform to anyone else’s standards of beauty, is to change your essence,” she told todayslifestyle.com. “Own who you are and you become a truly powerful woman.” (Discover these science-backed tricks to boost your confidence.)

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Look for role models

When model Georgia Pratt feels down about herself, she looks outward to those she respects. “I feel like it is so crucial to have relatable models/figures throughout all types of media, not just fashion,” she said. “And I think it’s even more important to have these figures relatable to all ages.” (Related: Steal these 10 Marilyn Monroe-inspired beauty tricks.)

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Look in the mirror and tell yourself that you are perfect just the way you are

Modeling phenom Tess Holliday (creator of #effyourbeautystandards), says that one of the most important keys to body confidence is accepting yourself. “It’s all about accepting yourself the way you are,” she said. “If you want to work toward a better you in whatever regards…do it. But you’re okay just the way you are today.” (Here’s more advice on body positivity and learning how to love yourself.)

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Stay positive and don’t let other people’s doubts slow you down

When model Whitney Thompson was the only plus-sized contestant on America’s Next Top Model, she felt empowered, not intimidated. Her amazing photos and killer confidence helped her win her entire season, beating out thousands of other models. “I think the fact that I didn’t adjust my mindset is what took me further. Instead of being like, ‘Oh no, I’m big!’ I was like, “Yeah, I’m making pancakes for breakfast!” she said. “I think that really did help because you have to keep your hopes high and your mentality going. At the end of the day, you don’t have anyone but yourself.” (Learn the 10 tricks to looking better in photos.)

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Know that body shape and size does not equate to good health

Another America’s Next Top Model alum is one of the most successful contestants in history. Toccara Jones has landed movie roles, modeling campaigns, and a 14-page spread in Italian Vogue. “When people think plus-size, they assume it means overweight, fat, or unattractive, but I’ve met so many different models of different sizes—beautiful women,” she said. “As for me, I am P-L-U-S. I’m big, black, beautiful and love it!”

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Prioritizing confidence and self awarness will make you happier

Modeling star Kate Dillon Levin hits the nail on the head when she talks about sexiness, plus size fashion tips, and self-awareness. “I firmly believe that what makes you sexy and beautiful is not the size of your body or the color lipstick you have on,” she said. “What really makes you sexy is what you project: Your confidence and your self-awareness.”

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Accept yourself and move forward

Current model-of-the-moment Jordyn Woods was discovered by a modeling agency on Instagram, and her career has taken off since then. Even her BFF Kylie Jenner is in awe of her. “We’re all given this vessel, this body, and we all have a purpose,” Woods said. “For me, if there’s something I don’t like about myself, I’ll accept it—the sooner you can accept it, then you can work on making it better.”

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Don’t be your own worst enemy

Denise Bidot has spent her modeling career landing high-profile gigs, and she knows a thing or two about body confidence. “All I can say is that the only person that can stop you from achieving your goals is yourself,” she said. “If you believe, then everyone else will too. Be proud of who you are and don’t change for anyone.”

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Your confidence and self-love can pave the way for others

One of the best parts about body confidence is that it radiates off of you and can inspire others. Model Fluvia Lacerda attributes some of her body confidence to knowing that she is a role model to others. “The best result out of all the hard work I have achieved is knowing that I have liberated the minds of so many women who have struggled with a negative body image their entire lives,” she said.

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Above all else, love yourself, because you deserve it

Ashley Graham is one of the most well known models in the entire fashion industry, and not just for being plus-sized. Her campaign to encourage body confidence has paved the way for many plus size models after her. “It’s not just about being healthy; it’s also about loving who you are,” she said. “If you don’t love who you are, you are never going to feel 100 percent satisfied in life. It all starts with you. If you don’t love you, nobody else is going to be able to.”

Reader's Digest
Originally Published in Reader's Digest