Natalie Wakeling is one of Australia’s most well-known plus-size models. Since her first editorial spread for Cosmopolitan Magazine back in 2000, she has been a fierce advocate for body inclusivity in the fashion industry, helping pave the way for some of today’s biggest names.

Born and raised in the NSW central west town of Mudgee, Natalie made the move to Sydney at the tender age of 17 to pursue a career in makeup artistry with Napoleon Perdis. It was here, that a chance encounter with a photographer - who was shooting for a new plus-size modelling agency BGM Models, would see Natalie go on to become Australia’s first plus-size model.

In 2000, she made Australian modelling history when she graced the pages of Cosmopolitan Magazine in Australia’s first ever editorial shoot featuring a plus-size model. This kickstarted a series of firsts for Natalie, who went on to become one of Australia’s first plus-size models to sign international contracts with top modelling agencies, including FORD Models in NYC and Elite Model Management in Miami.

Over the past two decades, she has enjoyed a meteoric rise to becoming one of Australia’s most recognisable plus-size models, having worked with every major Australian fashion title, plus-size brand and large retailer. She has also continued to be a fierce voice in the fight for diversity on the runways.

In 2006, she furthered her fight for size inclusivity and launched her own plus-size fashion label, Embody Women. A label that was born from her own frustrations at not being able to find luxurious, on-trend clothing that fitted her curves. 18 years later, Embody Women continues to provide women of all shapes and sizes with sustainable and effortless fashion, from sizes 8-22. Embody Women was sold in May 2023.



Career Highlights

Ambassador for Simone Perele

Walking for L’Oreal Paris Trends Parade in Australian Fashion Week

Participation in Australia’s first Curvy Catwalk in Melbourne

Finalist in the Prestigious ORIAS Award 2019 for Industry Recognition and Contribution

Two international front covers for Dutch Magazine, Yes!

More than 25 appearances in Australia’s Cosmopolitan Magazine

Designer collection for EMBODY WOMEN featured in the first ever AFW CURVE EDIT runway show.