Fashion magazines are not known for celebrating curves but Elle Quebec has bucked the trend by elevating a plus-size model to covergirl status in its most recent issue.
French-Canadian model Justine Legault, who wears the equivalent of an Australian size 16, is the first plus-size model to grace the cover of the mainstream magazine.
The 26-year-old beauty stands at 5’9″ and strikes a daring pose on the cover wearing only a classic white shirt and baring her thighs.
The French-speaking model was discovered at the age of 20 by an agency seeking a plus-size girl.
Her timeless look, with her long blonde locks, soft features and captivating green eyes, have seen Legault rise in the modelling world, fronting campaigns for Nordstrom, Macy’s and Avenue department stores.
“At my first photo shoot, I remember hearing the photographer call my agent on the phone and say, ‘Oh my god! We’ve got something here'” she said inside the pages of Elle.
In the interview, Legault explains that her skincare and fitness routine is “similar to that of other models”, but she also points out how she is different.
“Except that I love a good meal and I eat very well!”
The reaction to the cover has been overwhelmingly positive from readers and online admirers, but Legault reveals she has also had her fair share of criticism, and how she deals with it.
“How many times have people told me during an audition: “I don’t like your hair, I don’t like your teeth?
“I didn’t listen to those people I continued to have confidence in myself. I prefer to remember compliments from people who like me how I am and believe in me.”
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