There has been a major breakthrough in plus-size models this year, and now we can add another one to the list.
Meet Zach Miko, IMG Model’s first ‘Brawn’ model.
He’s the first person to sign to the agency’s new larger sized division, and he’s gained attention in the past for being Target’s only plus-sized model.
‘Brawn’ is IMG’s new, more marketable term for big and tall, which Ivan Bart, president of IMG Models, told WWD, ‘has a body positive message’. He told them ‘brawn is physical strength’ – which is an extremely refreshing look at the plus-sized industry.
Miko, who is 6’6 and has a 40-inch waist, has become a relatable representation for larger men who feel great about their bodies and want to look fashionable.
Essentially, he’s the male version of Ashley Graham – a curvy model who recently appeared on the cover of Sports Illustrated Swimsuit issue. They’re both signed with IMG, and they’re both really good looking.
IMG’s new division – and Miko is its poster boy – has been met with an overwhelmingly positive response, with people taking to social media to show their support.
He told Buzzfeed:
Being a man of size, I never imagined for a minute that this would be a possible career.
Then, Ivan told me about his dreams for the fashion industry: diversity, inclusion, evolution. I knew then I hadn’t just found an agency, I had found a home.
The ‘brawn’ division is going to open up the fashion world to the everyman. Fashion is ever-changing, but more importantly it is ever-evolving.
Women of all shapes and sizes are beautiful and confident and sexy. The conversation has changed from ‘This is what beautiful is’ to ‘What is beautiful?’ I am humbled to be able to raise that question for the men’s industry.
People are absolutely thrilled about Zach’s signing and so are we – relatable models is what the fashion industry needs.
