Rejoice, curvy girls! High street fave River Island is launching RI Plus, a new plus-size collection.In sizes 18 to 24, the 75-piece collection will be available early March 2016 and will offer everything from party and workwear to cult basics.
Candice Huffine will be modelling the range
"We're excited about giving great fashion to more women, we feel this is the right time for the brand to expand our size range offering," said Marketing Director Josie Roscop. "Ultimately, it's about fashion and being inclusive. "River Island called on plus-size model Candice Huffine to front their new range.
A sketch of Candice modelling River Island
"The fact that River Island is extending their sizing while staying true to their brand is perfection," said Candice. "It's clear they have thought about a curvy woman's body and designed accordingly while giving her exactly what can be found on the high street at any other size. A plus-size collection doesn't need to be made totally different, it just needs to be made to fit. "It's not the first time Candice has made fashion history – she was the first ever plus-sized model to feature in the Pirelli calendar in 2015.Renowned fashion photographer Steven Meisel shot the calendar, a first for the American icon, and chose the models who starred, picking Candice, with whom he has worked before. "I think that it is obviously extremely exciting," Candice told New York about being the calendar's first plus size model. "I'm so happy that I can say that's it me. It signifies so much and is such a bold and brilliant move on Pirelli and Meisel's part.""It's their understanding: they know that sexy can be in different shapes and sizes," she added. "They're willing to take the risk and do something new. It's just overwhelming in the best of ways."