Tess Holliday is an influential plus-size model, body positivity advocate, and keynote speaker who has reshaped the fashion industry’s approach to inclusivity. Known for her dynamic personality and unapologetic advocacy, Tess uses her platform to champion self-acceptance and challenge conventional beauty standards. As the first size-22 model signed to a major modelling agency, she has carved out a space in high fashion, using her voice to inspire and empower others, especially in discussions surrounding mental health and body image.
Tess’s early career was marked by resilience in the face of industry biases and societal challenges. Raised in a small town in Mississippi, she faced bullying and adversity due to her appearance but persevered in her dream of modelling. After relocating to Los Angeles, she began gaining recognition for her unique look and bold self-confidence. Her breakthrough came in 2015 when she signed with MiLK Model Management, marking a historic moment as the first size-22 model to achieve such a milestone. From there, her profile soared, and she has since become a beacon for those often underrepresented in fashion and media.
Over the years, Tess has earned notable accolades for her contributions to body positivity and mental health advocacy. Her 2018 Cosmopolitan UK cover was a landmark moment, celebrated worldwide as a step forward for diversity in fashion. Recognised for her influence on social media, she was listed among TIME’s 30 Most Influential People on the Internet in 2016. Tess has continued to make her mark, working with brands like H&M to further inclusivity in fashion. She frequently appears in publications like Vogue, People, and Refinery29, solidifying her status as an influential figure challenging and expanding the scope of beauty in fashion.
Tess Holliday’s authenticity and advocacy make her an in-demand speaker, addressing essential topics like self-acceptance, breaking societal beauty standards, mental health, and social media activism. With her personal journey as a foundation, she connects with audiences on profound issues facing individuals today. Whether speaking to corporate groups, universities, or organisations, Tess’s messages on resilience, inclusivity, and empowerment resonate widely, establishing her as a significant voice in the modern dialogue on diversity and acceptance.
How to hire Tess Holliday
Contact the Champions Speakers Agency to provisionally enquire about hiring Tess Holliday for your next event, today. To get in touch, simply call an official booking agent on 0207 1010 553 or email us at [email protected] for more information.
** We do not accept requests for autographs, signed merchandise, fan mail, birthday messages or any other non-commercial contact with the speakers or acts. Each speaker on the website may not have necessarily worked with Champions in the past but are known to perform such engagements within the industry.
Tess Holliday's official speaker topics are listed below:
- Body Positivity and Self-Acceptance
- Breaking Beauty Standards in Fashion
- Mental Health and Self-Care
- Overcoming Adversity in the Fashion Industry
- Social Media Activism and Fatphobia Awareness
- 2024 - Partnered with H&M on a size-inclusive initiative, bringing plus-size representation to global retail
- 2018 - Cover feature on Cosmopolitan UK, celebrated as an iconic moment for plus-size representation
- 2016 - Listed in TIME’s 30 Most Influential People on the Internet, for her advocacy on social media
- 2015 - Signed to MiLK Model Management, becoming the first size-22 model to join a major agency
