When you think of the term “boot camp,” a growling fitness trainer may come to mind. But it’s 2016, so you know we had to upgrade the somewhat intimidating term with elements like acting and education. Thanks to model and businesswoman Liris Crosse, a new form of boot camp, #LifeOfAWorkingModel Boot Camp, is taking U.S. cities by storm; turning everyday women into plus-size models.
Just this past weekend, about 25 women gathered in Los Angeles, where they received personal coaching from the working model, actress and entrepreneur. In case you’re not already hip, Crosse, aka the “Naomi Campbell of plus,” has been modeling for quite some time. She’s put in work, despite criticism over her womanly figure from agencies and corporate advertisers alike.
According to Crosse, even as a gorgeous, tall, slim, yet shapely teen, she was looked over again and again by talent companies. So, she forged her own path — by nabbing coveted spreads in hip hop magazines. She was even invited to be featured in countless music videos for a number of artists, including Jay Z and “American Idol’s” Jennifer Lopez. Now, due to her hustle and hard work, the agencies, clothing brands and TV shows have come calling.
Most recently, Crosse graced the cat walk on “Project Runway.” In addition, she was a featured model during FFFWeek (Full Figure Fashion Week). Not to mention her latest work with Lane Bryant, Ashley Stewart and Monif C.
Naturally, Crosse has a thing or two to say about the business and wants to share her experience with aspiring talent. Alongside a panel of experts serving as mentors, Crosse uses her platform to school young women eager to learn the basics of modelling: specifically plus-size modeling. For a look at her most recent “boot camp” and her team: designers Mycheal Knight, Theary Sims and Jen Wilder, casting director Tracy Twinkie Bird, magazine editor Jerris Mogul, stylists Rashi Pinckney, make up artist Keesh Winkler Smith as well as other working models, Rosie Mercado, Nicole Spriull and most notably Toccara Jones, check out the gallery below.
For more information on #LifeofaworkingModel Boot Camp, click here. –darralynn hutson
