When Will Plus Size Models Be Included in India Fashion Week?

As India Couture Week wrapped up yesterday in New Delhi, many fashion insiders wondered when plus size women will be represented on the catwalk.

Designer Varun Bahl, a participant of ICW, thinks it's imminent. "The movement has begun, but yes, it is yet to become mainstream," says Bahl to Business Standard. "But it's only a matter of time. It has become increasingly important to promote a healthy body image in times when body shaming and constant scrutinizing has become de rigueur."

Bahl's prediction is happening sooner than anticipated. The winter edition of Lakme Fashion Week (from August 24-28) in Mumbai will feature its premiere plus size show at the St. Regis. On July 29, the first plus-size model hunt for men and women will be hosted by designer Shilpa Chavan of Little Shilpa in collaboration with the plus-size store aLL. Auditions for plus size models will be held in Mumbai.