BREAKING THE MOLD: THE CHALLENGES BIG AND TALL MALE MODELS FACE IN THE PLUS INDUSTRY
For decades, the fashion and modeling industry has been dominated by one body standard—tall, lean, and chiseled. But as the movement toward inclusivity and body positivity continues to grow, a long-overdue spotlight is finally being shone on plus-size representation. While curvier women have increasingly gained visibility and acceptance, their male counterparts, specifically big and tall models—are still fighting an uphill battle for recognition, respect, and runway time.
Despite the progress that’s been made, big and tall men continue to face unique challenges as they try to carve out a space in the plus-size fashion world. From limited agency representation to a lack of diverse styling options, the journey is far from easy. Despite the progress that’s been made, big and tall men continue to face unique challenges as they try to carve out a space in the plus-size fashion world. From limited agency representation to a lack of diverse styling options, the journey is far from easy. But they have not given up. In this cover story, we have caught up with a handful of big and tall models that are working to rewrite the narrative and claim their space in an industry that has overlooked them for far too long.
Muscle, Mission, and the Model Life: Meet Eric Ardonis Brisbane
Eric Ardonis Brisbane’s story is not just one of transformation, it’s one of triumph. A warrior, a role model, and a living testament to what the human spirit can overcome, Eric has turned adversity into empowerment, both for himself and for the many lives he now inspires.
Once overweight and struggling with serious health challenges, including Hutchinson’s Disease and a battle with colon cancer. Eric knows what it means to fight for his life. After receiving a devastating diagnosis, he made a life-changing decision: he was going to get healthy, not just for survival, but for strength, purpose, and legacy.
That decision sparked a fire.
Eric began working out, even when his body protested. He showed up on the days it hurt, on the days it felt impossible, and on the days when no one would have blamed him for giving up. Slowly but surely, the weight began to drop, but more importantly, Eric began to rise. The man who once struggled with his own reflection was now sculpting a new image—one of power, health, and renewed confidence.
As Eric often demonstrates, "One can choose to go back toward safety or forward toward growth," a truth famously stated by Abraham Maslow. Eric chose growth—again and again—even when it was painful, even when the future felt uncertain.
Today, Eric is the proud owner of his own gym, where he trains others with the same empathy, discipline, and motivation that fueled his own transformation. His approach is personal because his story is personal. He doesn’t just talk about fitness, he lives it. Every rep, every set, every motivational speech comes from a place of experience, pain, and ultimately, perseverance.
But Eric didn’t stop there.
With his lean, strong physique and commanding presence, he soon found himself in front of the camera and on the runway. Now a successful fashion and runway model, Eric is breaking stereotypes and redefining what a survivor looks like. For Eric, “Fashion is not just about the clothes we wear but also about the way we feel and express ourselves.” On every runway and in every photoshoot, he channels confidence, strength, and the story of someone who didn’t just survive—he evolved.
Whether he’s walking the catwalk or encouraging a client through their final set, Eric exudes resilience, grace, and undeniable strength. His story is a powerful reminder that you can start over at any time. That your past doesn’t define your determination does. Eric Ardonis Brisbane proves that it’s not about how you fall; it’s about how you rise, how you rebuild, and how you choose to inspire others on the journey.
He’s not just changing bodies, he’s changing lives.
Christopher Rucker: A Gentle Giant Redefining the Runway and Rewriting the Rules
When Christopher Rucker stepped onto the runway for the first time in 2011, it wasn’t just about fashion, it was about visibility. At 6 feet 5 inches and weighing over 500 pounds, Rucker had never seen someone who looked like him grace a catwalk, and he was determined to change that. That moment wasn’t just a debut—it was a declaration.
Christopher is, by his own admission, an introvert. But his story is one of learning to lean into discomfort, stepping out of his shell, and using his voice and presence to make room for others who have been told they didn’t belong. Modeling was never just about clothes for him—it was about pushing back against an industry that so often left people like him out of the picture. “I never saw men that looked like me on the runway,” he shared. “So I decided to be the one to change that.”
Born with a protector’s heart, Rucker’s life has always revolved around standing up for others, something that perhaps stems from his own experience as a positive product of the foster care system. He’s built his life not just on surviving but thriving—and then turning around to lift others up too.
After enduring two heartbreaking losses, his fiancée and his grandmother, Rucker found healing and community in an unexpected place: a truck club. He and a few friends started a crew called Fat Ass Boys, a name that flipped the script on fatphobia with humor, pride, and purpose. But the club wasn’t just about cool trucks—it became a vehicle for service. They gave back to their communities, showing up with the kind of love and presence that only those who have known pain and come out the other side can offer. Though the club is no longer active, its impact still echoes.
That same bold, intentional energy now lives on in Rucker’s fashion brand, Full Figured State University (FFSU). Founded in 2024, the brand is more than apparel—it’s a movement. With its collegiate-style shield and the silhouette of a full-figured woman in the logo, FFSU represents education, pride, and the unapologetic celebration of body diversity. Rucker’s mission is clear: to create a space where full-figured people feel seen, respected, and stylish. Or, as he puts it, “If comfort, confidence, and culture had a baby — it’d wear a hoodie.”
Behind the bold brand and commanding presence is a man still figuring it all out—still pushing past shyness, still healing, still growing. Rucker lives by the words of Nelson Mandela: “It always seems impossible until it’s done.” And time and time again, he’s shown that impossible is just another challenge waiting to be conquered.
Christopher Rucker is proof that introverts can be leaders, that loss can lead to legacy, and that representation matters. He’s not just walking the runway—he’s blazing a path for everyone who’s ever been told they were “too much” to fit in.
Turns out, they were just enough to stand out.
Ira Brown: A Life of Purpose, Preparation, and Legacy
Ira Brown’s journey is a testament to the power of purpose, preparation, and personal growth. Born and raised in Chicago, Ira now resides in Delaware, where he balances a multifaceted life as a healthcare executive, fashion model, fraternity brother, and—most importantly—a devoted father to his 22-year-old twin daughters.
By day, Ira serves as Vice President of Operations in the healthcare sector, a role that demands strategic thinking and strong leadership. His definition of success—setting goals, achieving them, and continuously striving for more—has guided him through both his professional and personal endeavors.
Rooted in his faith, Ira draws strength from Romans 8:37: “In all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.” This scripture fuels his drive and resilience across every role he takes on.
In 2023, Ira ventured into the world of modeling, bringing with him the same discipline that has defined his executive career. “As a Big N Tall model that represents a blend of strength, good looks, professionalism and timeless charm, I want to be one of the change agents for the fashion industry,” Ira says. He’s challenging long-held standards and shifting perceptions with every runway he walks and campaign he joins.
Preparation is key to his success on and off the runway. Ira meticulously organizes for every show and photo shoot, creating detailed checklists to ensure he arrives fully equipped and ready to shine. He engages in regular coaching sessions and prioritizes skincare as essential elements of his modeling journey. His passion for fashion is matched only by his belief in personal growth. “It is never too late to strive for your dream as long as you are spiritually centered and have a great work ethic,” he reflects—words that have become his mantra.
His commitment to service extends beyond the spotlight. Ira remains an active member of his fraternity, which focuses on giving back to the community—an alignment of values that speaks volumes about his character. Whether mentoring youth or serving those in need, his dedication to lifting others echoes throughout his life.
Yet, above all else, Ira considers his role as a father to be his greatest legacy. “I am motivated by my beautiful twin daughters because while they are proud of their dad... they are watching.” Their success and strength at just 22 years old are a source of deep pride for Ira—a reflection of the example he continues to set every day.
For more insights into Ira's life and journey, follow him on Instagram: @thei_2
James DeWalt: A Portrait in Duality
“Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak. Plus size, plus confidence, plus energy is the only way to live!”
James DeWalt is a multifaceted artist whose life and work embody a harmonious blend of contrasts. As a professional vocalist, his voice resonates with the depth of his experiences, captivating audiences with its soulful timbre. His journey into the world of modeling began in 2009, where he quickly made a name for himself by embracing both masculine and feminine aesthetics, often adorning his nails in black and white, a symbolic nod to the balance he maintains in his personal and professional life.
DeWalt’s bold expression of identity is a living testament to the belief that “style is a way to say who you are without having to speak.” Whether he's commanding a stage or striking a pose for the camera, James exudes an unapologetic confidence that inspires others to embrace their true selves. “Plus size, plus confidence, plus energy is the only way to live,” he says—and he lives that mantra fully.
Living by the motto, "What is for me will be for me," James approaches life with a sense of purpose and acceptance, believing that everything happens for a reason. This philosophy is evident in his preparation for photo shoots and fashion shows, where he engages in mirror affirmations to bolster his confidence, reminding himself of his worth and talent.
Openly identifying as bisexual, James is a proud advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, using his platform to challenge stereotypes and promote inclusivity. As a single father to a 12-year-old daughter, he navigates the complexities of parenthood with grace, instilling in her the same values of authenticity and self-love that he embodies.
At the heart of James’s world is a beautiful, grounding simplicity: “Music. Food. Fashion. Family. Love.” These are not just the elements of his lifestyle, they are the cornerstones of his spirit. They guide his artistic expression, fuel his activism, and shape the loving environment he creates for his daughter.
James’s presence extends beyond the stage and runway; his social media, particularly his Instagram account @cancerteddy, offers a glimpse into his daily life, showcasing moments of vulnerability, strength, and the unyielding bond he shares with his daughter. In every post, every performance, and every fashion moment, James DeWalt continues to redefine what it means to live boldly and beautifully in your truth.
Kevin Khamís: A Walk Into Destiny
Sometimes, the most extraordinary journeys begin with a simple act of support. For rising model, artist, and advocate Kevin Khamís, that moment came when he accompanied his girlfriend to an audition, expecting nothing more than to cheer her on from the sidelines. But fate had other plans. As he stood in the background, the panelists couldn’t help but notice his undeniable presence. They invited him to audition, and before he knew it, Kevin was on the runway—and the rest, as they say, is history.
Since that serendipitous start, Kevin Khamís has carved out a place for himself in the fashion world with his striking look, humble confidence, and magnetic energy. But modeling is just one piece of what makes him a standout in the industry. Off the runway, Kevin is a passionate spoken word artist, a musician on the brink of his debut, and a devoted worker with neurodiverse individuals, an experience he describes as grounding, rewarding, and a huge part of who he is.
“The runway gave me visibility, but working with individuals with special needs gives me purpose,” he says. “That balance keeps me human.”
Kevin's personal style speaks volumes before he even opens his mouth—a truth best summed up by fashion icon Rachel Zoe’s words: “Style is a way to say who you are without having to speak.” On every runway he walks, Kevin makes a statement that goes beyond fabric and trends—he communicates identity, resilience, and evolution.
And while fashion may have sparked his rise, Kevin is ready to dive deeper. “Music is my next big leap,” he shares. “It’s where I get to bring all of me—my voice, my rhythm, my stories—into one space. I'm ready.”
This next chapter for Kevin is not just about artistic expansion, but personal awakening. As Confucius once said, “We have two lives, and the second begins when we realize we only have one.” With this awareness, Kevin is embracing each opportunity with urgency and intention, knowing that his time—and his voice—matter.
With his debut on the horizon, Kevin Khamís is poised to redefine what it means to be a multi-hyphenate creative in today’s world—one who leads with compassion, creates with intention, and walks every runway like he was born for it.
Whether he's turning heads on the catwalk, inspiring through poetry, or working behind the scenes to uplift the next generation, Kevin is proof that sometimes, the most powerful paths are the ones we never planned.
From Big Rigs to Big Heart: The Story of Markis Hackney
Markis Hackney's life is a compelling narrative of resilience, faith, and unwavering commitment to community. For over two decades, he has successfully operated a trucking company—a testament to his dedication, entrepreneurial spirit, and the belief that “you can have anything in life if you dress for it!” This quote from the legendary Edith Head seems to mirror the confidence and poise Markis carries both behind the wheel and in front of the camera.
Beyond his business endeavors, Markis is deeply involved in caregiving—providing support to his grandmother and his girlfriend's mother and regularly visiting the local senior center during his free time. These acts of service come from a place of genuine love and compassion, further highlighting his big heart.
His journey of faith began early. By the age of 10, Markis was already serving as a junior minister, laying the foundation for a life guided by honesty and spiritual conviction. This moral compass has shaped not only his personal life but also his professional dealings, earning him a reputation as a straight shooter in all his interactions.
Encouraged by his girlfriend, a seasoned model of 15 years, Markis ventured into the world of modeling himself. Embracing his look and rejecting narrow beauty standards, Markis stands as a relatable and inspiring figure in the industry. He embodies the essence of being present and unapologetically himself—living by the wisdom of Buddha: “Don’t dwell on the past, do not dream of the future, concentrate the mind on the present moment.”
While specific details from his Instagram profile (@marcobigrig) are not available, his online presence likely reflects his multifaceted life—blending entrepreneurship, caregiving, faith, and personal growth.
Markis Hackney's story is a powerful reminder of the impact of living authentically and serving others. It illustrates how one can successfully balance personal ambitions with a deep commitment to community and faith—living proof that success isn’t just about the road you travel, but the heart you bring with you on the journey.
The Struggle for Visibility
While the plus-size movement has made major strides for women, the same cannot be said for men. Big and tall models are often an afterthought in castings, campaigns, and industry events. Even the term “plus-size” is more commonly associated with women, which has created confusion and exclusion when addressing the needs of larger male bodies. For many, the journey begins with convincing brands that big men are not just a niche market—but a viable, valuable, and loyal consumer base.
Limited Representation
Agency representation remains one of the biggest hurdles. Major modeling agencies have slowly started to sign a handful of big and tall male models, but opportunities are still scarce. Those who do break through often find themselves tokenized or boxed into stereotypical roles. They are either hyper-masculinized or reduced to comedic relief, rarely afforded the same glamour, versatility, or high-fashion opportunities as other models.
A Lack of Stylish Options
It’s not just the catwalk that lacks inclusion—retail racks do, too. Many big and tall men express frustration at the limited clothing options available to them. When clothes are available in their size, they are often ill-fitting, bland, or outdated. The fashion industry has yet to embrace the idea that big men want—and deserve—to dress well, express themselves, and be fashion-forward.
Challenging the Stereotypes
The models featured in this piece are more than their measurements. They are redefining what it means to be stylish, confident, and visible. By using their platforms to share their experiences, support one another, and advocate for change, they are challenging long-standing stereotypes and demanding space in campaigns, on runways, and in fashion conversations.
The Road Ahead
While the road may be long, the presence of big and tall models in the plus industry is steadily growing. Social media, indie brands, and community-driven platforms are helping to elevate new faces and voices. But real change will require more than a few Instagram likes—it will require brands, agencies, and media outlets to fully embrace and invest in the representation of all body types, including big and tall men.
Be prepared to see more of the six men featured in this article. Through resilience, authenticity, and relentless self-belief, they are helping to build a more inclusive future for the plus-size fashion industry—one where everyone, regardless of size, is seen, celebrated, and styled.
Model Photos: by Philip Drew @photosbypdrew
Creative Director: Tawana Blassingame @tawanablassingame
Model Coordinator: Sherita Ivory @sherita_ivory
Models: Ira Brown @thei_2
Kevin Khamis @wordsbykevin
James DeWalt @cancerteddy
Markis Hackney @marcobigrig
Christopher Rucker - @prez_ruck
Eric Adonis Brisbane - @king_bris_
