Tess Holliday

Tess Holliday, born Ryann Hoven in 1985, is an American plus-size model, activist, and social media influencer who has become a prominent voice in the body positivity movement. Rising to fame through social media platforms, particularly Instagram, Tess built a massive following by confidently showcasing fashion and lifestyle content that challenged traditional modeling industry standards that historically excluded plus-size women. Her career represents a significant shift in the fashion and entertainment industries toward greater size diversity and inclusivity. Beyond modeling, Tess has leveraged her platform to advocate for body positivity, mental health awareness, and social justice causes. She has appeared on magazine covers, walked runways for major designers, and collaborated with brands seeking to expand their size ranges. Her activism extends to speaking publicly about eating disorders and body image issues, drawing from her personal experiences. Tess's influence has contributed to meaningful conversations about representation in media and fashion, inspiring countless individuals to embrace self-acceptance regardless of body size. Her career demonstrates the power of social media to challenge industry gatekeeping and create opportunities for underrepresented voices. Through her continued work in modeling and activism, Tess Holliday remains a significant figure in contemporary conversations about beauty, inclusion, and social change.