SA’s first plus-size male model fashion show set to ‘change the narrative’

It is almost time for SA’s first plus-size male model fashion showing.

SA’s first plus-size male model fashion show

On 27 November at 19:00 history will be made with the first ever #PlusIsEqual Fashion show at the Radisson RED Hotel V&A Waterfront.

Earlier this year, the Radisson RED Hotel launched its #PlusIsEqual casting call and found their plus-size male models soon after.

It is reported that the fashion show will be overseen by fashion show director Mary Reynolds, and the hotel is excited to celebrate men of all sizes. A total of 12 gents was selected to model a new plus-size men’s range designed by a secret designer, reports BizCommunity.

“While it’s promising to see women being a focal point of this conversation, we want people to include larger men in the movement toward body confidence and equal representation,” curator Leonie Andereya said.

Spokesperson for the #PlusisEqual campaign TJ Ngoma also said that he wants to see people who look like him on a billboard.

“I want to see a person that looks like me on billboards and runways. I hope to inspire South Africans to see that a plus-size man’s body is beautiful and should be celebrated just the same.”

Another plus-size model, Andile Sam also said that he is thankful:

“We’re not less of human beings because of our size. Thank goodness we have the #PlusIsEqual campaign to get out of our comfort zone and finally let our voices be heard.”

Body positivity amongst plus-size men

It is said that body positivity amongst plus-size men is slowly gaining more awareness in countries like the US and Australia – highlighting the need for change in the fashion industry.

South African plus-size model, campaign spokesperson and founder of Embrace Your Curves, Candice Manuel, points out that men suffer the same insecurities as women when it comes to their body, but it’s not something society talks about.

“We are seeing the awareness starting to grow in the female plus-size model industry, with more women accepting their bodies. Sadly, this is not the case for larger men. The #PlusIsEqual campaign allows men to take a stand and say: ‘Yes, we also love our bodies and want to wear fashionable clothing.’It’s time for the guys to shine'”.