Ashley Graham Profile, Biography, Lists
Lists:
Most Stylish Big Beautiful Women
Early Life & Discovery
- Born October 30, 1987, in Lincoln, Nebraska, as the eldest of three sisters. Diagnosed with ADHD and dyslexia during her school years.
- At age 12, scouted at Oak View Mall in Omaha and signed with Wilhelmina Models in 2001, beginning her path to modeling.
Modeling Breakthrough
- Gained early exposure through YM magazine and a 2009 Glamour editorial celebrating body diversity.
- Worked with brands like Dolce & Gabbana, Michael Kors, H&M, Levi’s, Lane Bryant, Addition Elle, and more.
- Historic SI Swimsuit Issue cover in 2016—as the first plus-size (size 16) model to appear on it.
- Featured on the cover of Vogue in 2017, marking another first for size-inclusive models .
Advocacy & Influence
- Vocal champion of body positivity and the Health at Every Size movement; encourages embracing bodies of all shapes.
- Delivered a powerful TED Talk featuring self-affirmation moments (“Back fat, I see you…”).
- Openly discusses her early experiences with body-shaming (nicknamed “cottage‑cheese thighs”) and overcame imposter syndrome through affirmations and resilience.
Entrepreneur & Designer
- Launched a lingerie line with Addition Elle (2013) and swimsuits with Swimsuits For All, reflecting her commitment to inclusive fashion.
- Developed a fitness program, Curvy Fit Club, and promotes healthful lifestyles, including boxing, CrossFit, and barre workouts.
Media, TV & Broadway
- Modeled in DNCE’s “Toothbrush” music video (2016) and won “Lip Sync Battle” in 2017.
- Hosted and judged major events: America’s Next Top Model, Miss USA/Universe (2016–2018), American Beauty Star (2019), Oscars red carpet (2023), and more.
- Published memoir A New Model in 2017 and later A Kid’s Book About Beauty, spreading confidence and self-love stories.
- In 2025, making her Broadway debut as Roxie Hart in Chicago, a groundbreaking moment for curve representation on stage.
Awards & Honors
- Time’s “100 Most Influential People”, Forbes “30 Under 30”, Glamour “Woman of the Year”, GQ’s “International Female Model of the Year”, and more.
- Received acknowledgment from the United Nations for her work in empowerment and from fashion publications for advancing inclusivity .
Personal Life & Philanthropy
- Married cinematographer Justin Ervin since 2010; the couple share three sons: Isaac (born 2020) and twins Malachi & Roman (born 2022).
- Engages in philanthropy through the Themba Foundation in South Africa, focusing on self-image and empowerment programs.
- Actively supports diverse causes and voices her beliefs on social inclusion and representation.
Why She Matters
- Paved the way for curvy models in mainstream fashion—breaking barriers with magazine covers, runway shows, and mainstream campaigns.
- Uses her platform to redefine beauty standards, offering role-model status for millions through empowerment, transparency, and activism.
- As she transitions to Broadway, her path continues to challenge norms and expand representation in entertainment.
Ashley Graham isn’t just a model—she’s a movement. From her early struggles to her global platform, she’s consistently redefined beauty, championed authenticity, and opened doors for the next generation of women to be seen, heard, and celebrated.
CATEGORIES Supermodels
