The Lil’ Mama Blog

When I was in the US last year launching Lil’ Mama, I had the pleasure of working with some of the busiest and most respected plus size models in the country… all of whom, I have developed great friendships with.

One of the fabulous women I got to work with was Maggie B, who was the winner of Tyra Banks first ever “Thick and Sexy Top Model” competition in November of 2006. Since winning, Maggie went on to sign with Wilhelmina Models and is currently represented in NYC, Miami and LA.

As a designer, meeting women like her is a dream come true for me, not only do they bring my clothes to life, but they are also strong, positive, fabulous role models for women everywhere.

So I decided to ask Maggie to join the Lil’ Mama blog team, as our regular go-to girl and expert on anything to do with plus size modeling.

Before giving her her first assignment, I thought I would do a quick interview with her, to give you a chance to get to know her a little better…

What made you enter the “Thick and Sexy Top Model” Comp?

It was really a whim! A schoolmate of mine that I had just reconnected with (who does some modeling) told me I should really try to pursue a “Plus size modeling” career and so one night I was online searching through Craigslist, I saw a post saying “Ever wanted to be a plus size model?” and I thought … why not and entered then and there at 2am in the morning!

Had you done any modelling previously?

Actually yes, I did some runway modeling back when I was in 8th grade. I was always very interested in the industry, I had won a scholarship to a modeling school but my mother wanted me to focus on my studies. So, I put it on hold and finished my schooling but the “modeling itch” kept itching and here I am!

Who is your favorite plus size model?

I ADORE Emme - just because of what she stands for… her amazing journey, and her strength for all that she has been through.

What makes a great plus size model?

Poise, professionalism, individuality, beauty,

What is the best job you have ever done?

That’s hard to say! I’ve worked for so many Great clients… I think my favorite is Runway though, because you get to show so much of your own personality and really strut your stuff! There’s no photoshoping invovled and it’s just you and the clothing! I also love the rush and energy you feel right before you step out on the catwalk!

What is the thing you enjoy most about your job?

Meeting new people… everytime I have job I work with a different set of people it’s always so wonderful to meet people from all walks of life!

What is the Plus Model checklist? (The things women should know before pursuing a career as a plus size model)

Research! Find out what are the “standards” of the plus models in your area (agencies). Understand that it is hard work and be willing to put alot of time and effort into it! Practice!!! Practice posing, practice walking… practice smiling!!!

Recently Whitney Thomas was announced as America’s Next Top Model’s latest winner, do you consider her to be “Plus Size”?

By industry standards… Yes. But I don’t always agree with industry standards… I find it frustrating when plus size companies that exclusively sell 16W-24W size clothing use “lifestyle” models who range from size 6-10 for their catalogs. Although they maybe considered “plus size” in comparison to the average high fashion size 0 model, they do not represent the “real plus sized woman”.

I think that the industry as a whole still has a long way to go to fully represent the plus size women accurately… I’d like to see these companies use true plus size models from the actual plus size agency boards for their catalogs…

I think Whitney winning ANTM is a good start and congratulations to her, but why not do an all plus size Top Model? Now that would be amazing!

Next month Maggie will talk more about the things every woman should know before getting into plus size modeling.

If you have a question you would like to ask Maggie, plus feel free to contact us!