Gong Zhen, a 29-year-old plus-size model from Shandong, China, is making waves in the fashion industry by promoting body positivity and representation. Standing at 170 cm and weighing 80 kg, Gong has been photographed over 700 times for advertisements since 2020, establishing herself as one of the top-paid plus-size models in China, earning about 3,000 yuan (approximately US$420) a day [f7e77edc].
Defined as models who weigh over 70 kg, plus-size models like Gong are increasingly gaining visibility in a traditionally narrow beauty standard. Gong's journey to success was not without challenges; she overcame appearance anxiety and bullying during her school years, finding confidence through the support of her parents. Her motto, 'body liberty and fashion freedom,' encapsulates her mission to inspire others to embrace their bodies [f7e77edc].
In addition to her modeling career, Gong aspires to start her own clothing brand, aiming to create inclusive fashion that caters to diverse body types. Her work has resonated with many, highlighting the importance of self-acceptance and diversity in the fashion industry [f7e77edc].
Gong's rise is part of a broader movement in China, where the conversation around body positivity is becoming more prominent. As brands increasingly recognize the demand for inclusivity, Gong's influence is expected to grow, paving the way for future models and changing perceptions of beauty in society [f7e77edc].