Meet Kiarra Shelby

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kiarra Shelby.

Hi Kiarra, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m a plus-size model and body positive influencer. I started modeling in June 2020. I decided to take plus-size modeling serious after I got my braces off. This was huge for me because it was my first step in gaining more confidence in myself. What’s funny is that I was actually talking to my boyfriend about finally getting into modeling a week before I got booked for my first job and that was with Shop Babes, a black-owned clothing brand for curvy girls. I wanted to see more plus-size representation in the fashion industry so that’s another reason why I started modeling as well. People who look like me need that representation because it’s not always a person who’s a size two buying clothes, shoes and bags. There are people who look like me that are buying these items as well. I became a body positive influencer two months after I started modeling. I gained a lot of attention by wearing bikinis and lingerie on my Instagram. I love showing people who resemble me that it’s okay to wear what you want. You can wear that crop top and look just as good as someone who’s a smaller size than you. Being comfortable in your own skin is way more important than any opinion out there. That’s what I live by.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It hasn’t always been a smooth road. You know you always have negative people commenting on your profile, saying really hurtful things to try to tear you down. When moments like that happen, I would just turn to my group of friends, who are also plus-size models and ask for advice or support. You can’t let the struggles get to you, they’re only lessons to prepare you for something greater.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I would describe myself as an unapologetic body positive model and creative. I specialize in fashion and spreading body positivity. I would say I’m known for making reels in bikinis or lingerie sets and also recreating outfits in plus sizes. I re-create other influencer outfits in my size which is a 16. I would say I’m most proud of how many people I have inspired. I’m constantly getting DM’s from people about how I inspire them and how I help them gain confidence. That just warms my heart because that means my work actually means something. What sets me apart from others is just my personality and how I look to be honest. You don’t see too many girls who have my body type doing what I’m doing, but I hope to see more.

We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
The pandemic has been a huge learning lesson for me. I learned to slow down and really appreciate life. Before the pandemic, I was always on the go, only focusing on my career. Now I’m able to focus on relationships with my family, friends and my career. That was the balance I really needed.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: instagram.com/kee.illena
• Other: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMeeR3JoG/