Era of dwarf model

“You are tall, why don’t you try modeling?” This is a common line to hear or moreover to say. In our minds, we have normalized so many things that can affect someone in a very negative way. There is a phrase that says fashion comes in every shape. Curvy or skinny, tall or short that should never matter. But how the dwarf model is representing them and their confidence about their own self steals the show. Therefore, why is it that when we say model we always picture someone skinny and tall? It is because a typical stereotype has been roaming in our minds about heights. 

Modeling is not an easy task to do. One has to face thousands of rejections and challenges. Similarly, it becomes more difficult for dwarf model. There are some norms that the fashion or modeling industry follows. For instance, height is one of the most important criteria. Hence it is taken as a parameter for the modeling industry. 

Dwarf modeling and challenges

The limits are in people’s minds – says Laura, a popular dwarf model.

The life of a dwarf person is challenging in many terms. However, it starts with school bullies. And then in every moment in your life people will continuously teach you self-love. Along with that, the obstacle that a dwarf model faces is much more than any other person faces in their modeling career. Rejections, pity, uncertainty may haunt them forever. To start with, the fashion designers who are skilled do not show interest in designing clothes for dwarf models.

Similarly, the brands or designs will not give first preference to the dwarf models and every day they will be seeing a step farther to their dream. From facing emotional bullies such as receiving ridiculous comments for their appearance to wait for the opportunity, the list will go on. Additionally, the wait for acceptance may never end sometimes. In this scenario, it takes so much mental strength to bear the circumstances and fight for the dream. 

The rising of dwarf models 

Although breaking stereotypes in the fashion world is not easy, the revolution of dwarf models has already started. The International Dwarf Fashion Show is one of the non-profit organizations that has been organizing fashion weeks for dwarf models. However, the main aim of the organization is to spread awareness and empower dwarf models. Till today, they have successfully organized fashion weeks in Berlin, New York, Paris, Dubai, and so on. Models from different states and different designs rocked the stage of The International Dwarf Fashion Show.

Dwarf models who are shining through the obstacles 

Dru Presta

I want anybody to be able to walk that runway just like anybody else; whether you see them rolling down the runway in your wheelchair or on crutches – Says dwarf model Dru Presta. 

This 21 old beautiful young model is three feet and four inches and she is all set to bring new changes to the fashion industry. Her dwarfism never made her stop in her way to reach her goals. Even after facing many bullies and insecurities about her height, Dru decided to shine. And after starting her journey as a fashion model in LA Dru never had to look back.

Laura Alma Casados Mata

Had this dream to become a model since her childhood but because of the dwarfism, Laura always wondered if that would ever be possible. Now, Laura Alma is the one and only little model in the modeling agency named LOA Models. Although the journey was not easy. Laura had to face mean comments from her classmates regarding her height. Nevertheless, she never did any obstacle take control over her dreams. According to Laura, the beauty world wants perfect bodies but that is not the reality. And she believes that the beauty world is going to change and accept all kinds of bodies and shapes.

These models have proven to be an inspiration to many. Just like Dru Presta or Laura, there are many dwarf models who broke the stereotypes. They are small but stunning and strong and their dwarfism never stopped them from rocking the ramp. Nevertheless, all the discrimination and negligence against the dwarf models come from our heads. Likewise, Laura said, every limit starts from our head and lies there. However, the audience too holds a powerful take in this scenario. As the industry changes with whatever the audience wants more to see or appreciate. It is necessary that the dwarf models get encouragement and appreciation for their work. Meanwhile, the concept that says that beauty comes in every shape and color will be relevant only when all types of skin, color, or bodies will be accepted and appreciated.