For a while, society has seen models who are thin and, according to some people, “not-the-average-size” for the average American woman.

In 2015 and 2016, more curvy plus size models are making appearances. There has been a generational change in the ideal body types.

The definition of plus size is debated, but based on an article from Cosmopolitan, the fashion industry identifies sizes 8 and up to be plus size.

Candice Huffine is a plus size model for several businesses, even though she is a size 6. According to Cara Kelly’s article in The Washington Post, her curvy body type is what defined her as a plus size model.

Huffine works with high fashion magazines like Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar for the plus size industry. Along with fellow plus size model Ashley Graham, Huffine is a strong voice for women in the fashion industry who deal with the same problems and have the same body types.

There has not only been a change in the modeling industry, but children’s toys have taken a new route to define mainstream ideas of beauty.

On Jan. 28 2016, Barbie released three new body structures for their dolls. The new tall, petite and curvy dolls are available in multiple complexion shades. Venita Godfrey, Barbie Collector, has been collecting barbie dolls since 2000. Godfrey believes the change in design and skin complexions adds to the color variations seen in today’s society.

“I think it’s great because there are all type of skin colors in this world instead of just black and white,” Godfrey said.

In an ongoing poll by Amy Kuperinsky, NJ Advance Media for NJ.com, about 58 percent of people surveyed said they “welcome the change and the belief the new Barbies will send a good message to children.”

Caroline Bologna, Parent Editor of the Huffington Post, in an article explains the hope that the Barbie Company wants for the owner of their curvy dolls, along with feedback from mothers and their daughters on the new curvy design.

USA Today exposes the change in the Barbie dolls from the past 60 years. Godfrey has 12 Barbie dolls and plans on getting three more. Her oldest doll was made in 1997. Godfrey has a Pinterest named My Barbie Collection.

According to USA Today, there are several reasons why these dolls are good for children, both male and female. The dolls are thought to give girls a boost in self-esteem and teach boys that girls come in different sizes.

Godfrey agrees.

“It tells them that no shape is better than the other,” he said. “We should all be proud of our bodies.”

Godfrey believes in this universal message of acceptance and confidence that the plus size fashion industry, including Barbie, is trying to push.

“We all matter, no matter what skin color, body type, etc.,” Godfrey said “ It’s hard enough growing up, and it just make it a little easier knowing that no matter your size, you can be recognized.”

Photos courtesy of Creative Commons, licensed for reuse.