Model Monday- Meet Jessica Tucker!

Jessica Tucker  

 Congratulations on all of your success as a Plus Size Model.  How did you get started modelling?

I got started in modeling about 10 years ago as a teenager. I went to Barbazon but didnt finish. I just started back modeling as an adult 2 years ago. I have always been told i should model because of my height, beauty and overall disposition.

What has been your favourite experience thus far – the one you are most proud of?  

My proudest moment is when i did a photoshoot with the girls of my girls group whom i personally mentor. Seeing them be confident and beautiful brought me so much joy and pride. I teach them despite any obstacles in life remain beautiful through it all and also pose for the camera.

Just like any craft there is a learning curve – how did you learn how to model – both print and runway if applicable?   

I learned to pose from different models on shows and i also looked up my face structure to learn what hairstyle works with my face and how i should pose with different hairstyles. I learned how to walk from being a dancer for 14 years and from Ms. Gwen Devoe herself. I also learned how to properly pose from looking at curvy models in magazines and following models like Liris and Christina Mendez.

Did you have mentors or role models who helped and inspired you along the way? 

I actually didn’t have a role model or mentor I just decided to put my temple to use and show the world what i have to offer.

The Plus Size Industry has changed and continues to evolve – how do you think as a model you are able to help make an impact in how the world sees plus size women? 

      As an upcoming model i hope to impact the plus industry in a positive way. I would love if society could not use the word plus just consider us full figured models because I’m not sure what we are plus to. We are models who everyday women look like and look up to. I want to change the minds of people and how they view curvy women and models and let designers know that if you include curvy models in your plans it shows you have a heart and it will increase your sales and not limit their collections to one group. I want curvy to become normal and having models of color to become normal.

You exude confidence with every step you take, were you always this confident?  Tell us a little bit about the journey to confidence.  

I honestly have always had confidence in myself despite being teased as a child about my skin color and height. My mother and family did a beautiful job at being examples of having high self esteem and confidence. Also as a child I never saw my family talk bad about one another so I never let what people said about me affect me and plus whenever they had something negative to say about my skin tone I always had a remark to follow. I internalized compliments therefore all the negative comments never made it past my ears. 

For our readers who are interested in starting a plus model career, what would you suggest are some top tips to get started?  

I suggest they determine what type of model they want to be because there are many types. There are industry plus models, local runway fashion show models, only print model, fit models, and freelance models. You have to determine for yourself how far you want to go because industry models are a certain body and if that’s your dream hit the gym if need be and make it happen. Also know that being a model is an investment so paying for quality is a must don’t cheat yourself you deserve the best that you can afford. Modeling also follows you after the runway, photo shoot, or print ad having a good reputation outside of modeling and on social media goes a long way because people do lurk on your sites and word of mouth is always popular.

As a model you’ve had the opportunity to wear a variety of different styles, but what would we catch you in on an ‘off duty’ day?  What would you call your fashion sense and how has this evolved through your modelling career?  

On an off day you would see me in a skirt and fitted top. I love being feminine and sultry in my dress. Skirts, dresses, and heels are my favorite things. My fashion sense is Queen and Goddess like because i enjoy wearing big hair and flowly skirts or dusters and people always say i look like a queen or goddess so I have adopted that as my fashion sense. I also like retro 50’s and 60’s clothing and 40’s evening gowns. I grew up watching old movies and have always adored the dresses they wore in the old films and how classy they looked in them.

What are you some of your favourite places to shop your style?

I like forever 21, Macy’s, Honey Child’s Boutique, H&M, Aleisha’s Pieces(custom made garments), etc.

What does life look for you outside of the modelling world?  

I am doing computer coding at the current moment. I am coordinator of a girls group for my non for profit organization New Age Truth of Missouri Inc. I work for American Express. I am a dog mommy to a Sheltie and two snakes. I take many vacations during the year even if it is just 3 days its still a vacation to me.

Thank you for taking time to chat with us today!  What is one message you would like to leave with our readers today? 

Beauty is the pleasure of the soul, meaning be beautiful in all that you do and say. Do your most intelligent best at everything.

Social Media  

Facebook: Jessica Tucker 

Instagram:  @jestuck