Plus Size on the Runway: Ololade Passes Message of Inclusivity

By Mighty Oluwayemi

In a bold move to reshape the fashion industry’s narrative, Nigerian model Ololade Ayelabola has embarked on a mission to break the Guinness World Record for the longest distance walked on a catwalk. However, her attempt is not just about setting a record; it’s about challenging the deeply ingrained ideals of the modeling industry and championing inclusivity, especially for plus-size models.

Traditionally, the fashion industry, both in Africa and around the globe, has adhered to rigid beauty standards. Slim, tall, and often light-skinned models have dominated runways, with plus-size individuals largely sidelined from high-fashion events. Major African fashion shows, such as Lagos Fashion Week and the South African Fashion Week, have faced criticism for their limited representation of body diversity. In many instances, plus-size models were absent, reinforcing the industry’s skewed preference for slim models as the epitome of beauty and elegance.

Ololade Ayelabola’s world record attempt stands in stark contrast to this history of exclusivity. Along with her personal goal to set a record, she has incorporated plus-size models into her catwalk challenge, using the platform to showcase their talent, beauty, and, most importantly, their right to walk in the same spotlight as any other model. This inclusion represents a significant shift in the industry’s approach, as Ayelabola’s tagline—“Inclusivity”—takes center stage. Her efforts reflect her determination to redefine beauty standards and give all body types the opportunity to shine.

Ayelabola’s initiative addresses a significant gap in the fashion world. While international movements toward inclusivity, such as New York Fashion Week’s use of plus-size models like Ashley Graham, have gained momentum, Africa has lagged behind in embracing diverse body representations on the runway. By including plus-size models in her record attempt, Ayelabola sends a powerful message: beauty comes in all shapes and sizes.

This effort also taps into a deeper, societal need—building confidence in individuals who have historically been marginalized for their body size. By showcasing these plus-size models, Ayelabola is providing a platform for them to express their talents and individuality, while also inspiring others to embrace their bodies. The visibility of these models on such a large stage is a step toward dismantling the stigma around plus-size bodies in fashion, particularly in a continent where conventional beauty standards have often been rigid.

In essence, Ayelabola’s walk is more than a world record attempt—it’s a movement. It paves the way for a new narrative in African fashion, one where inclusivity is not just a tagline, but a reality. With this bold move, she is changing the conversation, promoting body positivity, and inspiring a generation of plus-size individuals to take pride in their beauty.

As the fashion industry evolves, figures like Ololade Ayelabola are instrumental in driving change. Her inclusive runway stands as a beacon of hope, encouraging broader representation in fashion, not only in Africa but worldwide. The future of fashion, thanks to trailblazers like her, looks more diverse, more inclusive, and more beautiful than ever.