Ep. 25: Plus size representation, photography, and finding beauty in every body with Lydia Hudgens
Description
In this episode, Kristen and Jennine talk with photographer Lydia Hudgens, whose new book Plus: Expanding the Frame features 100% plus-size models and is the first of its kind. Lydia shares her journey from street-style photographer to celebrating body diversity through her lens, the state of plus-size representation in fashion today, and how posing can empower confidence for every body type.
They also explore how the rise of GLP-1 weight loss drugs, post-pandemic beauty standards, and internalized fatphobia are reshaping conversations about body image and inclusivity. Lydia discusses her modeling classes, why she believes representation matters across generations, and how her work helps people see the beauty in themselves that they might have forgotten was there.
We discuss:
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The inspiration behind Plus: Expanding the Frame
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How fashion's body inclusivity has backslid in recent years
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The impact of GLP-1 drugs on representation and body image
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"Aspirational plus size," and why it's problematic
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How age, tattoos, and size intersect in modeling
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Why posing can help you feel more confident and connected to your body
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The message Lydia hopes her book will leave with readers
Guest:
Lydia Hudgens — photographer, model, and advocate for body diversity. Her work has appeared in Vogue, Teen Vogue, Glamour, and more, and her clients include Anthropologie, Reformation, and Rent the Runway. Her book Plus: Expanding the Frame is available now.
Follow Lydia:
Instagram: @lydiahudgens (photography) @lydiaoffduty (modeling)
Buy Lydia's book: Plus: Expanding the Frame
United States
