PLUS MODEL MAGAZINE March 2016 Issue | Page 96

know that not all clients pay for travel. So if you do not live in a major city where most of the shoots are done, you will have to pay for your own travel. Sharra B. from California asks: I’m 23 years old, 5’9 and wear a size 16. I have visited two different agencies and I’m more confused than ever. One agency said they would sign me if I lost weight and go down to a size 14. The other is ready to sign me now but they said that size 16 models do not work as much as smaller models. I can understand why you are confused but let me try and clarify. According to a few of my sources, agencies are being asked for models between size 12 and 14 for the most part. However, the pressure that the plus size customer has put on brands and designers for more diverse models is creating some change. If you notice, there are now size 16 models on the Lane Bryant website. Retailers such as Monif C, Catherines and Avenue also use models that are a size 16. The second agency is telling you that if size 16 is where you are most comfortable then they will market you at this size. However, they’d like you to know that while the industry continues to change, you may not get as many opportunities as smaller models. Is it fair? No. But I do like that the agent is willing to market and fight for you at your size. Good luck! Anonymous from NYC asks: I’m a signed model but have not been booking many jobs. I go on castings and I’m signed to a good agency. Do you have any advice for me?