Influencer Samyra Miller is making headlines for calling out fashion brands on their lack of inclusivity towards plus-size individuals. With a combined following of 2.5 million people across various platforms, Miller uses her platform to shed light on the challenges faced by plus-size individuals when it comes to finding suitable clothing options. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, she discusses her advocacy for size inclusivity, the strength she derives from her upbringing, and the importance of representation in the fashion industry.
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Growing up, Miller faced difficulties in finding clothes in her size, with JCPenney being one of the few retailers where she could consistently find garments that fit her. In a full-circle moment, Miller recently became one of the faces of the Ashley Graham x JCPenney campaign, which showcases a size-inclusive and affordable collection available in-store. She emphasises the importance of authenticity in brand collaborations, stating, “If I can’t fit into the clothes, why would I participate?”
Miller highlights the need for other brands to follow JCPenney’s lead in prioritising inclusivity in their clothing lines. She emphasises the necessity for diverse perspectives within companies, noting the lack of representation of plus-size individuals in decision-making spaces. Miller urges brands to move beyond tokenism and truly embrace inclusivity in their designs and marketing strategies.
Taking a stand against body-shaming and bigotry, Miller advocates for self-love and empowerment, especially among younger audiences. She encourages individuals to confront negativity and not tolerate hate directed towards them. After taking a brief break from social media to prioritise her mental well-being, Miller remains committed to continuing her advocacy work and amplifying the conversation around brand inclusivity.
As she returns to her online platforms, Miller hopes to inspire others to embrace their uniqueness and challenge societal norms around body image. She aims to create a space where individuals feel empowered to pursue their aspirations without being limited by societal standards. By sharing her journey and experiences, Miller seeks to foster a community of acceptance and self-empowerment among her followers.
In a world where body positivity and inclusivity are increasingly important, influencers like Samyra Miller play a crucial role in challenging traditional beauty standards and advocating for equality in the fashion industry. Through her activism and candid storytelling, Miller continues to pave the way for a more inclusive and empowering future for individuals of all sizes and shapes.