On the plus side

Penelope Benson, Playtex's gorgeous 'plus size' model/ambassador, talks about being a fuller-figured lingerie model in the fashion industry...

How did you get started in the plus-sized modelling industry? Are you noticing a shift in the fashion world in that it seems to be more accepting of different shapes and sizes these days?
I built up the courage to approach Chelsea at Bella model management just over 4 years ago after lots of encouragement from family and friends, and it all went on from there. Yes there has been a massive shift towards health rather than size over the past 3 years, and I’m so glad for that because that’s what we should be concerned about as women. Healthy women are glowing and confident, mush better than starving yourself and being a size 8 but grey and sick with it!

Pictured left: Penelope Benson wears the white Self Stripe T-Shirt Bra, and below, the black Minimising Underwire, both from the Playtex SS12 collection.



How did your partnership with Playtex come about?
Playtex were looking for a new face and a fresh look to relaunch their brand in Australia and Chelsea suggested me for it, I flew down to meet the team and I was lucky enough to get the gig. It is very exciting to be a part of and I have loved starting a professional relationship with such a creative team and such a iconic brand . I'm eternally grateful for the opportunity and have become increasingly passionate about great fitting lingerie since working with Playtex. It was definitely one of those right place right time moments.

Do you have a favourite item from the Playtex range? Is there an item in the range that is a must-have for every woman?
My favourite piece from the range is the Playtex Supersoft Hidden Underwire bra, and it has been for a while. Its soft and comfortable but I still feel sexy wearing it.. however I have just seen next seasons new styles and I think I may have a new favourite!

Do you ever feel the pressure to slim down for your career?
I can’t ever recall a time I have felt pressure to lose weight for work. Nor have I or would accept pressure to put on weight to work. I'm booked when a client wants to use me and someone my size, and furthermore not booked when a client is looking for someone else bigger or smaller. I exercise regularly and eat healthily so if there has ever been a time I have wanted to shape up or become stronger or more flexible it's always to satisfy personal goals, never for work.

Below: Lace Overlay Underwire.



What has been the most exciting moment of your modelling career so far?
My relationship with Playtex is definitely one of, if not the most major highs I’ve experienced so far. I've always wanted to take on an ambassadorial role with a brand, and there is much more to it than being the 'Face of', you definitely have to relate to the product and understand the message. I’m also one of the women Playtex are trying to advise about properly fitted and made bras so I identify with their customer. I've had lots of amazing experiences modelling here and overseas, walking in both Sydney, Melbourne and Milan fashion weeks last season was incredible, my first UK cover just came out in London which was really exciting, and I spent 4 days shooting in the Southern Highlands recently which was breathtaking! But the most special moments are when I get to work with photographers and creative teams that I dream of working with, on campaigns I really believe in… they are the super great days!

Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?
I love the freedom that the job gives me, I get to travel and be creative and meet interesting people.. I never want to have to do anything else. Chelsea has just signed me with W Curve in New York and I’m looking forward to heading over there after show season to begin working with them. If I’m still travelling the world, modelling for clients I love and helping to empower women change their focus to health and not weight I will be really happy!

Do you have any advice for other women wanting to get into plus-sized modelling?
Like Daryl Somers used to say about the Northern Territory, "You'll never never know if you never never go". If you think you have what it takes, go and meet with someone who might be able to make it happen for you, don't waste time waiting. With this in mind, remember it's all about being healthy, and still very much about taking care of yourself and projecting the best image of yourself at your natural size.

As a model, have you learnt any interesting beauty tips that you can share with readers?
The main thing I have taken away from watching make-up artist work their magic is to do with prepping the skin. It makes such a difference to find a good moisturiser or primer that suits your skin, it helps your make-up set and stay around for the length you need to wear it. If I had to think of one more thing, I've also learnt that groomed eyebrows do wonders for your face and it appearing symmetrical.

By Angie www.anobsessionwiththefabulous.com

20 September 2011.