Introduction: Who is Catherine Li?
Catherine Li is a rising star in the world of fashion and modeling — a Chinese-American curvy model, digital entrepreneur, and fierce advocate for body positivity. Best known for breaking barriers for Asian plus-size women in the modeling industry, she has also carved out a name for herself as the founder of ShopParade, a fashion brand celebrating inclusive beauty and bold self-expression.
With a confident attitude, relatable presence, and stunning fashion sense, Catherine Li is more than just a model — she is a movement.
Quick Bio Overview
| Field | Detail |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Catherine Li |
| Date of Birth | March 16, 1991 |
| Age | 34 (as of 2025) |
| Ethnicity | Chinese-American |
| Height | 5 ft 10 in (178 cm) |
| Weight | Approx. 190 lbs (86 kg) |
| Profession | Plus-size Model, Entrepreneur |
| Based in | Los Angeles, California |
| @catieli |
Early Life & Education
Born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area, Catherine Li grew up navigating two worlds — her Chinese heritage and American environment. As a child, she was artistic and fashion-obsessed, though she struggled to find role models who looked like her.
In her teens and early adulthood, she faced both cultural and industry pressure around weight and beauty standards. But rather than conform, she chose to challenge. Catherine pursued her dreams, completing her education and eventually moving to Los Angeles to begin modeling and building her brand.
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Modeling Journey: Breaking Asian Plus-Size Barriers
Catherine’s modeling career began not in a traditional agency but on Instagram. She started sharing empowering, unfiltered photos that showcased her natural body and fierce fashion sense — and quickly attracted a loyal following.
As an Asian plus-size model, she defied stereotypes and helped fill a major void in representation. Her authenticity, beauty, and confidence inspired thousands, particularly Asian women who had never seen someone like them in fashion before.
📸 Career Highlights:
- Featured in Refinery29, Teen Vogue, The Cut, and BuzzFeed
- Collaborated with brands like Savage X Fenty, Fashion to Figure, Forever21 Plus, and Shein Curve
- Walked runways and modeled for inclusive fashion campaigns
- Launched viral TikToks and reels promoting real body talk and fashion hacks
Entrepreneurship: The Birth of ShopParade
In 2020, Catherine Li launched ShopParade, an online fashion boutique celebrating diverse, curvy, and confident women. The brand’s mission is simple but powerful: to make fashion inclusive, stylish, and body-empowering.
From bold dresses and crop tops to size-inclusive fits and edgy looks, ShopParade is redefining what “trendy” looks like for every body type.
“ShopParade is for anyone who has ever felt overlooked by fashion. We make clothes that hug curves and spark joy.” – Catherine Li
ShopParade isn’t just a store — it’s a statement of self-love and rebellion against beauty norms.
Instagram & Social Media Influence
Catherine’s Instagram handle, @catieli, is a vibrant collection of:
- Empowering body-positive photos
- Behind-the-scenes modeling content
- Candid takes on mental health and self-image
- Fashion tips and curve-friendly looks
- Glimpses into her brand and personal life
She has over 240,000 followers and growing — with engagement driven by her mix of authenticity, humor, and high-fashion energy.
Other Platforms:
- TikTok: Trending videos on body confidence and curve fashion
- YouTube: Occasional vlogs, styling tips, and Q&As
- Pinterest: Shared boards of bold and inclusive fashion inspo
Body Measurements & Fashion Style
| Feature | Measurement (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Bust | 44 inches |
| Waist | 36 inches |
| Hips | 49 inches |
| Dress Size | US 16-18 |
Style Description:
Catherine Li’s style is edgy, feminine, and unapologetic. She often pairs:
- Body-hugging crop tops with oversized denim jackets
- Bright monochrome sets with heels
- Curve-hugging dresses with bold makeup looks
Fashion Mantra:
“Style has no size. Confidence is the accessory that brings every outfit to life.”
Advocacy & Empowerment
Catherine Li has been a strong voice in the plus-size and Asian communities. She often speaks about:
- Representation in fashion and media
- Toxic beauty standards in Asian cultures
- Inclusivity in brand marketing
- Empowering curvy women of color
She frequently uses her platform to collaborate with other diverse creators and to call out brands that fail to practice genuine inclusion.
Photoshoots & Brand Collabs
Catherine’s modeling portfolio includes:
- Lingerie & Intimates: Bold Savage X Fenty shoots that celebrate curves
- Streetwear: Laid-back, trendy collabs with Shein Curve
- High-Fashion: Editorial shoots with dramatic lighting, makeup, and poses
- Fitness & Lifestyle: Empowering campaigns for activewear and body mobility
She blends mainstream fashion with bold, unapologetic personal branding.
Interesting Facts About Catherine Li
- 🎓 She graduated with a degree in Communications before pursuing modeling
- 🌈 She identifies as queer and speaks openly about identity
- 🛍 ShopParade is 100% woman-owned and size-inclusive
- 💡 She started modeling using an iPhone and ring light in her apartment
- 🌍 She has fans and followers from across the US, Canada, Philippines, and UK
Internal Links
External Links
FAQs About Catherine Li
Who is Catherine Li?
Catherine Li is a Chinese-American plus-size model, influencer, and entrepreneur. She is the founder of ShopParade and a leading voice in body positivity and Asian representation in fashion.
How old is Catherine Li?
She was born on March 16, 1991, making her 34 years old as of 2025.
What is Catherine Li’s Instagram?
Her Instagram is @catieli with over 240K followers.
What is ShopParade?
ShopParade is Catherine’s fashion brand, focused on inclusive sizing and bold, confident styles for curvy women.
What are Catherine Li’s body measurements?
Her approximate measurements are 44-36-49 inches, and she wears a US size 16–18.
Conclusion: A New Era of Fashion Freedom
Catherine Li represents a new generation of models — unapologetically bold, body positive, and business-savvy. Whether she’s launching a viral fashion reel, modeling for a major brand, or designing for ShopParade, Catherine is leaving her mark on the fashion world.
She’s not just redefining beauty — she’s reclaiming it.