For decades, fashion ran on fantasy - but for many of those years, that fantasy seemed to exclude anyone above a size 10. While brands paraded their commitment to “inclusivity,” the reality often felt like a buzzword wrapped in performative castings and the occasional token curve model.
But the tides are turning. More than ever, body diversity is being represented on the runway - not as an afterthought, but as an integral part of the industry’s evolution. Front and centre of this seismic shift? Paloma Elsesser.
London-born, Los Angeles-raised - Paloma Elsesser is a breath of fresh air and she's redefining what it means to be a supermodel in 2025. She’s not just walking runways - she’s walking the walk for a generation that’s tired of outdated beauty standards and airbrushed ideals. Whether she’s wearing a corseted Met Gala gown or oversized knits on the street, Paloma brings the kind of confident, fashion-forward energy that commands attention without demanding it. She’s not here to be anyone’s body-positive poster girl - she’s here to change the game on her own terms.
And her origin story? Utterly iconic. Discovered by legendary makeup artist Pat McGrath via Instagram, Paloma originally moved to New York to study psychology and literature. But her plans took a fashionable detour when she was cast in a major beauty campaign - and the rest is runway history.
© Matteo Prandoni/BFA.comGranted, she is by no means the first plus-sized supermodel to have carved out an illustrious career. In fact, Ashley Graham was the first-ever plus-size model to grace the cover of Vogue back in 2017, and the 34-year-old is a hugely successful player in the industry, having walked for plenty of major names including Michael Kors, Dolce & Gabbana and Christian Siriano.
Meanwhile Elsesser has walked for powerhouses like Fendi, Versace, Gabriela Hearst, Coperni, and Tommy Hilfiger, starred in campaigns for Fenty Beauty, and graced multiple international covers. Her influence extends far beyond fashion, too - she’s sparked conversations around size representation, mental health, and the beauty of living unapologetically. If you’ve seen her serve on the red carpet, street style circuit, or catwalk, you’ll know Paloma doesn’t just wear fashion - she reshapes it. Below, we celebrate her most unforgettable fashion moments and the unapologetic attitude that’s made her the coolest voice in style right now...
How did Paloma Elsesser become famous?
Boasting, quite literally, the coolest origin story ever, Paloma Elsesser was actually discovered by makeup legend Pat McGrath and shot to fame after appearing in McGrath’s first major beauty campaign. She moved to New York to study psychology and literature but put her studies on hold. From there, she became a muse for brands like Glossier, Fenty, and Nike, and transitioned effortlessly into high fashion.
© JP YimAccording to stylists Paloma typically wears a UK size 16–18 (US 12–14) - a size that’s historically been underrepresented in high fashion. But that hasn’t stopped her from becoming one of the most in-demand models of the decade.
Where is Paloma Elsesser from?
Paloma is of mixed heritage - her mother is African-American, and her father is of Chilean and Swiss descent. Her unique background is part of what gives her such a striking, memorable presence in fashion.
Paloma Elsesser's Best Fashion Moments Of All Time:
1/9
© Getty ImagesSpot On in Satin - 2019
At the CFDA Vogue Fashion Fund, Paloma brought vintage drama in a mint satin polka-dot ensemble, cinched with a sparkling belt and paired with a boxy bag.
2/9
© Getty ImagesBlackout Drama - 2022
At the 2022 CFDA Fashion Awards, Paloma turned out in a full sequin black gown with sharp-shoulder detailing and opera gloves. The slick updo and mini patent bag screamed star power.
3/9
© Getty ImagesBronze Glitz - 2022
Paloma wowed in a sequinned copper tank and dramatically slashed white skirt at The Fifteen Percent Pledge Benefit Gala in New York. A fluffy bag and strappy heels added retro disco energy.
4/9
© Getty ImagesCorset Queen - 2022
For the 2022 Met Gala, Paloma embraced lingerie-inspired elegance in a blush corset gown with delicate lace detailing. Her stacked choker necklaces and mini bag sealed the boudoir-glam brief.
5/9
© FilmMagicTop Tux - 2023
Paloma proved she's not afraid to mix menswear with sex appeal in a white tuxedo jacket, ribbed tank and dramatic slit skirt. The chain-link necklace and red nails were perfect for her 2023 CFDA Fashion Awards appearance.
6/9
© GC ImagesChartreuse Chic - 2024
In a chunky green knit and matching sequin midi skirt, Paloma embraced maximalist texture at its best. Snake-print heels and a micro bag added a high-fashion wink to this cozy-glam combo.
7/9
© WWD via Getty ImagesAngel Energy - 2024
On the Victoria's Secret runway, Paloma made hearts flutter in a bubblegum pink slip dress with beaded heart wings. Her strappy sandals and glowing skin made her the ultimate Y2K cupid.
8/9
© Getty ImagesFuzzy & Fabulous - 2024
At the WSJ Innovator Awards, Paloma stunned in a sleek white gown with a blush fur trim neckline. The minimalist halter silhouette and slick bun gave it modern bombshell energy.
9/9
© GC ImagesPrep School Cool - 2025
Paloma redefined street style in a pleated plaid skirt, sporty windbreaker and sky-high silver heels - with Miu Miu socks, no less. It was 'schoolgirl-core' meets Fashion Week front row.
