Plus size models should be the only models for plus size clothing. Now don't get me wrong I'm not trying to stereo type, just stating an obvious fact. That fact that topic could even be debatable baffles me. For anyone who thinks that plus size clothing shouldn't be modeled by plus size models is just plain ignorant of the subject.
Every woman, whether your short or tall, skinny or plus size deserves the right to be fashionable and feel beautiful. If you put a woman that is not plus size on the runway, or in a magazine to model the clothes for plus size women, that is an insult. Plus size women now-a-days aren't afraid to show their curves, and be happy with who they are. By putting a small woman in their place is like saying they aren't pretty enough to model their own clothing. That would be like putting a teenage boy in a dress to model for young girls, it's just not right.
Every person male or female, young or old should be able to get an accurate view. If you place a smaller woman in plus size clothing for a photo shoot you might as well have her hold a sign saying "SUE ME." Advertisers that opt for a smaller woman to model their plus size lines are basically asking for lawsuit of false advertisement.
Plus size women are just like every other woman out there. When they shop they pay attention to things like fit, and detail, and they shop for their body type. To show a woman a plus size magazine with smaller women it isn't fair. They as customers miss out on the visual points needed to choose clothes.
I think it's degrading not to have a plus size woman model plus size clothing. To say that a smaller model would look better, is the equivalent of telling a plus size model they aren't good enough. No customer and no human being deserve that.
If you're a designer and you choose to design a plus size line, shouldn't you know your audience first? Most designers still look for tall, skinny, flat chest models for their runways. Most women in America don't look like this. Most women have curves, and are proud to show them off.
I personally have always been an above average sized woman. I know that personally I would never take a second look at clothing modeled for my size, by a smaller woman. As a woman I buy clothes that make me feel good in them and give me confidence, that's what every woman wants. So for a woman to be shown a picture of a smaller woman modeling clothes for her, it's a huge turn off. How are women supposed to feel comfortable in buying clothes when it's a constant comparison?