Meet Tess Munster, a fashion model who is breaking up the beauty standards of the modern world. The 29 year-old just got a contract with UK modeling agency Milk Management. Standing at 5 feet 5 inches and wearing a size 22, this gorgeous lady is the first of her height and size to model for a major agency.
Munster’s success in the fashion world has not come easily to her. She grew up being bullied and picked on because of her size, told that she wouldn’t be able to make it. “It doesn’t feel like it’s me,” she said. “Every time I have a big thing happen in my career, it’s an out of body experience. I’m always still that 13-year-old girl in Mississippi who people told I wasn’t good enough.”
Years later, she can say she definitely is—and she’s encouraging others to realize their potential through the body positivity movement #EffYourBeautyStandards. It’s gained a ton of traction, with 79 thousand followers on Instagram. The official page is full of inspirational images and quotes from women and for women, encouraging them to live out their lives and seek out joy no matter what the world thinks of their size. The movement actively challenges those who try to negate the happiness of fat people simply because they are fat.
When she’s not at a photo shoot, you can find Munster looking fab doing so alongside her beardy partner and an adorable little boy.
Oof! One family. ALL the cuteness.
4 weeks ago, Munster posted this photo of herself, with a fantastic message to supporters, haters, and everyone in between:
“I hope this makes you realize that it’s okay to be yourself, even if you happen to exist in a fat body. I’m sexy, confident & give no fucks. Also, fuck anyone for saying otherwise.”
We are totally falling for this fierce, amazing woman and her beautiful message (and family… and tattoos… and, y’know, everything). Be sure to brighten your day by checking her out on Instagram.
Photos via Instagram and Milk Management