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Size 16 model Ashley Graham made history as the first plus-size model to cover Sports Illustrated Swimsuit this February.
This isn't just great news for Graham — it's great news for the entire curve model community. Graham's history-making cover is paving the way for other plus-size models to break out in the mainstream.
There are seven in particular that I think are about to blow up.
PHILOMENA KWAO: If you saw Graham's SI Swimsuit issue, you may recognize Kwao, who was also featured in the mag. She made a cameo in the lookbook for Beth Ditto's lauded new plus-size line last month, too.
PRECIOUS LEE: Lane Bryant fans are familiar with Lee; she's been in the brand's "I'm No Angel," "Plus Is Equal," and "This Body" campaigns. Her charismatic persona and lively attitude are infectious.
DENISE BIDOT: This Puerto Rican and Kuwaiti beauty made history as the first curve model to walk in two straight-size fashion shows at New York Fashion Week. She also starred in J.Lo's reality show, "Curvy Girls," on NUVOtv.
ROSIE MERCADO: I love how Mercado promotes self-love. Her recent, life-changing weight-loss landed her on the Dr. Oz show. Famous for her hips, she can be seen in campaigns for Slink Jeans, Igigi, and many others.
ISKRA LAWRENCE: This model first caught my eye on the Isabel Toledo x Lane Bryant runway. People like to call her the Gigi Hadid of plus-size. I just call her gorgeous.
ROBYN LAWLEY: This Australian goddess got into curve modeling after her straight-size career failed to start. She is one of the most popular swim designers among the curve community.
OLIVIA WILSON: Signed to Wilhelmina Curve, Wilson is the creator of the #ohhdoubledareyou hashtag, which inspires women to go outside of their fashion comfort zones.
