Paloma Elsesser is a name that resonates across the worlds of fashion, activism, and self-love. As one of the most recognizable plus-size models today, Paloma is not just redefining beauty standards but also championing diversity and inclusivity in a historically exclusive industry. From gracing Vogue covers to walking for major fashion houses, her presence is a breath of fresh air in a world hungry for authenticity.
Early Life and Background
Paloma Kai Shockley Elsesser was born on April 12, 1992, in London, England, to an African-American mother and a Chilean-Swiss father. She was raised in Los Angeles, California, where she developed a strong connection to multicultural influences, creativity, and expression.
After high school, she moved to New York City to study psychology and literature at The New School, where she began exploring fashion and self-expression more deeply.
Modeling Career Beginnings
Paloma’s career began in an unconventional yet modern way—she was discovered on Instagram by legendary makeup artist Pat McGrath. Pat was looking for unique, beautiful faces that challenged the norm, and Paloma was a perfect match.
Breakthrough Moment
Paloma first gained international attention in 2016 when she starred in a Pat McGrath Labs beauty campaign, which led to a rapid rise in visibility. Soon, she was signed by IMG Models, one of the world’s top modeling agencies.
Rise to Fame
Elsesser’s rise wasn’t just about her size—it was about her confidence, charisma, and message of self-acceptance. Her presence demanded that the fashion world evolve.
Notable Campaigns and Collaborations:
- Fenty Beauty by Rihanna
- Glossier
- Nike
- Coach
- Swarovski
- Marc Jacobs
Magazine Features:
- American Vogue (cover star – Dec 2020)
- British Vogue
- Vogue Arabia
- Elle
- i-D Magazine
- Interview Magazine
She became the first plus-size model to appear on the cover of Vogue’s U.S. December issue, marking a historic moment in fashion history.
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Paloma is more than a model—she’s an outspoken advocate for body positivity, mental health, and racial justice. She uses her platform to promote:
- Inclusivity in beauty and fashion
- Representation for plus-size women
- The importance of mental health awareness
In many interviews, she openly discusses her struggles with body image, eating disorders, and the challenges of fitting into an industry that was not built for people like her.
“I don’t want to be a token, I want to be a blueprint,” she once said in an interview with The Cut.
Body Measurements and Personal Stats
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Paloma Kai Shockley Elsesser |
| Birthdate | April 12, 1992 |
| Age | 33 years old (as of 2025) |
| Height | 5 feet 8 inches (173 cm) |
| Weight | Approx. 85 kg (187 lbs) |
| Measurements | 43-33-46 inches (approx.) |
| Hair Color | Black |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Nationality | British-American |
Social Media Presence
Paloma is also an Instagram star with over 600k+ followers. Her feed is a mix of fashion-forward looks, unfiltered moments, personal messages, and social activism.
She uses her social platforms as tools for change, not just for promotion.
Runway Presence
Paloma has walked for some of the biggest names in fashion, proving that beauty is not one-size-fits-all:
- Fendi
- Alexander McQueen
- Savage X Fenty
- Lanvin
- Eckhaus Latta
- Salvatore Ferragamo
Awards and Recognition
Paloma has received critical acclaim and numerous awards for her work in fashion and body positivity:
- InStyle’s Badass 50
- BoF 500 (Business of Fashion’s most influential people list)
- Featured in TIME100 Next List
- Honored by British Fashion Council for representation work
External Links
Internal Links
FAQs
Q1: What is Paloma Elsesser known for?
Paloma is best known as a plus-size fashion model and body positivity advocate who has broken barriers in high fashion.
Q2: What is Paloma Elsesser’s age?
She was born on April 12, 1992, and is 33 years old as of 2025.
Q3: Has Paloma been on the cover of Vogue?
Yes, she was the first plus-size woman featured on the cover of American Vogue’s December 2020 issue.
Q4: Who discovered Paloma Elsesser?
She was discovered by legendary makeup artist Pat McGrath via Instagram.
Q5: Is Paloma Elsesser active on social media?
Yes, she is very active, especially on Instagram where she shares her work, activism, and daily life.
Final Thoughts
Paloma Elsesser’s journey is more than a success story—it’s a movement. She’s not just changing fashion runways; she’s changing lives. With each campaign, each speech, and every unapologetic photo, Paloma pushes the world closer to true representation and self-acceptance.
Her impact on the fashion industry and beyond will be felt for generations, as more people begin to see beauty in their own skin—thanks, in no small part, to her.