SHERITA IVORY

BREAKING BARRIERS, OWNING THE RUNWAY, AND REDEFINING BEAUTY

Sherita Ivory, affectionately known as "SheShe" or "She," is more than just a model—she is a force of inspiration and transformation within the beauty industry. Born and raised in New York City, Sherita embodies resilience, ambition, and the belief that one’s dreams should be limitless. Her journey is not just about personal success; it’s about paving the way for others to embrace their inner strength, heal, and evolve into their best selves.

A Trailblazing Career

Sherita's impact on the fashion industry is undeniable. She made history as the first plus-size model to land a four-page spread in Sheen Magazine, a nationally and internationally distributed publication known for exclusively featuring straight-size models. Her trailblazing efforts set a precedent for inclusivity in high fashion. She also received the prestigious Curvy Model of the Year award, solidifying her status as a leader in the plus-size modeling movement.

Additionally, Sherita was the first and only plus-size model prototype for NYFW Curve, setting the standard for the plus-size division in the production. Her modeling career extends to Times Square billboards, top-tier runway shows, and high-profile brand campaigns, including e-commerce work with BJ’s Wholesale and RBX commercial brand ads.

Walking the Runway with Purpose

Sherita’s resume boasts an impressive list of runway appearances at some of the most coveted fashion events, including Fashion Week Columbus, Runway 7 @ NYFW, Philly Fashion Week, and DC Fashion Week. She has worked with celebrity designers such as Michele Lopez, Kenya Freeman, and Chaka Khan’s debut iKhan collection. Her ability to command a runway has earned her a spot in shows like Good Morning Washington’s “Mothers & Sons Slam the Runway” and the prestigious Miguel Wilson Collection Annual Fashion Shows.

Expanding Her Influence

Beyond modeling, Sherita has worn many hats—literally and figuratively. She is a contributing writer, an actress, a voice-over artist, and a sought-after speaker. Her television appearances include segments on Good Morning Washington, Baltimore Fox45 News, and DC News Now. Her modeling work has also graced the pages of iconic publications like BTFL Magazine, Queen Size Magazine, and Iconic Bride Magazine.

With over 19 years in the industry, Sherita continues to use her expertise to uplift and empower others. She serves as a motivational speaker, development coach, model runway coach, and workshop instructor. She has judged numerous modeling competitions and pageants, including the Ms. Full Figured DMV Pageant, and has been a key panelist at events such as “Network Your Curves Off.”

Giving Back and Leading the Way

Sherita’s commitment to community service is just as impressive as her career milestones. She dedicates her time to volunteering with children and adults, helping them find confidence and purpose through creative expression. She has worked backstage as a production operations manager for major fashion events, ensuring that plus-size representation is not just an afterthought but a standard.

Her ability to inspire extends beyond fashion. Sherita has been a multiple-time presenter at the Full Figured Industry Awards (FFIAs), a guest host on various podcasts, and a liturgical dancer. She continues to push boundaries by exploring hairstyling, fashion styling, and fitness coaching, always finding new ways to use her talents for the greater good.

The Legacy of a Visionary

Sherita Ivory is more than a model—she is a movement. Her journey exemplifies what it means to be fearless, innovative, and unapologetically authentic. From breaking barriers on magazine covers to mentoring aspiring models, she continues to redefine beauty standards and elevate the plus-size fashion industry.

With an ever-expanding portfolio and a heart dedicated to inspiring others, Sherita Ivory’s story is far from over. She is a beacon of hope, a symbol of empowerment, and proof that dreams—when pursued with passion and purpose—become reality.

QSM: Sherita, you've had such an inspiring journey in the beauty industry. What were some of the early challenges you faced, and how did you overcome them?

Sherita: Oh, thank you so much! It's so nice to hear that my beauty industry journey can inspire others because that's one of the reasons I'm encouraged to progress forward. 

There are a number of challenges I've faced earlier on in my journey. Today I would like to mention a few key components that I believe will enlighten someone else if they decide to pursue this endeavor.

I am a fuller figured body type who entered into an industry that was more susceptible to the slimmer body frame influence. I made a decision to "love me as I am first" and I grew to be confident in myself and my abilities to be the ideal model for any occasion.  There are definitely times I did not get selected for gigs which can be discouraging. What I learned was to not take it personally but to understand that they have a vision and the gig I'm supposed to be a part of will present itself.  A quote I created and instill in the students who attend the workshops I teach states, "know who you are so you don't answer to who you are not". This means no matter what others think or say about you is irrelevant because you know the power of your existence. Always stand on that truth.

Networking is King. To me it is an art form and an intricate part of building yourself as a brand. I'm typically kind of shy but an internal extrovert so I had to learn how to enter rooms with confidence and actually speak to people. You never know who you will meet and how they may elevate your career. For me, I've been blessed to also meet new people through the years who have become my friends which adds to my growth as an individual. 

With all the glitz, glam, traveling and fun, modeling of any form is still a business. It is your responsibility to educate yourself about the monetary benefits, different brands, designers, etc., as well as where you would fit best for your particular look. I understood that I may not get paid at all in the beginning stages, but it is important to still gain experience and the wealth of knowledge along the way to apply in the future. As you learn and grow in your artistry you are showcasing your abilities which will provide more opportunities to reap benefits.

There are different avenues of modeling you can take to promote brands and yourself as a business marketing tool. A few are being an influencer, an agency signed model or an independent model.  Again, education and knowledge will be your best friend. Seek to understand the different options and what they offer and select your desire. I currently am considered an independent model, but I am open to other possibilities if they are aligned with my career goals. 

QSM: On the heels of Black History Month and welcoming in welcoming in Woman’s History Month, let’s talk about making history. As the first plus-size model to have a four-page spread in Sheen Magazine, how did that moment feel, and what did it mean for you personally and for the industry?

Sherita: Omgoodness!  When I was initially told that the photos were accepted and would be added to Sheen Magazine I was elated in unbelief like WOW. It didn't actually resonate deeply until I was able to go to Barnes & Noble, pick up the magazine off-the-shelf with Tamar Braxton on the Cover, hold it in my hands, open it and see myself not only on one page, not on 2, not on 3 but on 4 pages in a predominantly straight size model representation magazine.  I was able to share that special moment with my mom and recorded it to keep as a treasured memory. 

As we are celebrating Women’s History Month, I am honored to acknowledge the phenomenal women I had the honor to work with to create the synergetic magic.

Brandi Lewis of Syeko Design House is the dope designer and stylist for the shoot and Jovanna Reyes who was the photographer who was pivotal in submitting our work for consideration. We did promotions and social media postings to create awareness and celebrate the achievement. We along with our family and friends bought multiple copies to support and posted about it as well. 

Though we are truly grateful for the support, I do wish it could have made an even greater impact publicly because for the plus size community, it is monumental in our plight towards inclusivity within the modeling industry. Even still, I move forward to the upcoming opportunities believing every portion adds to the complete pie.

QSM: The plus-size fashion industry is constantly evolving—sometimes making huge strides forward, other times facing setbacks. Over the years, what significant changes have you observed in the industry, and what are your hopes for the future of inclusivity?

Sherita: Yes, I do agree that we have made huge strides throughout the years in spite of the setbacks. As with anything, there is always room for improvement and in this case, acceptance and visibility. Society within the media and advertisement has deemed what should be the norm when it comes to body type preference which actually leaves a large part of humanity unrecognized. The only way to combat that is to become visible. We can demand to be seen diplomatically where society may not like it but they have to respect it. When those who are in positions to make plus models such as myself and numerous other amazing plus models visible to the public eye, it encourages awareness and capability no matter which field of work we are in. 

QSM: Can you talk about your role as a development coach and motivational speaker? How do you use your platform to inspire others, especially when it comes to self-love and personal growth?

Sherita: Many years ago, I've learned that I have power in my words when I write and speak.

It is my desire to use what I speak to uplift, encourage, support, motivate and heal those who will take their precious time to hear what I have to say. There are some crucial life lessons that I've acquired in my personal and modeling journey, and I remain open to obtain continuous wisdom. As I receive, I can give back to others with the hope that they can be healed and do the same for someone else. 

We live our lives like an analogy of a staircase taking one step at a time to elevate. I believe that the staircase is never-ending to the top as long as we have breath in our bodies, which means we should always be willing to ascend. By not putting pressure on ourselves, we can take the time to receive growth in the different stages of our lives. People are always watching so it is up to us to present who we are genuinely in a positive light. That's who I hope to be for someone with the platform I've been blessed to be a part of. 

QSM: You’ve mentored aspiring models and served as a coach for pageant runway prep. What advice do you give to those starting out in the fashion and beauty industry?

Sherita: Well, first I'd like to mention that the runway coaching I do for pageantry and fashion are similar but different in style. Also, since I coach men, women and children my approach may differ as well. I believe that it is important for those I work with to know the "why" of what they're choosing to learn. Once that is defined, they need to assess themselves and decide what they would like to focus on within the beauty industry and do the research to know what's expected of them. Taking coaching sessions with myself or with the many other training classes available is a great way to continue to develop into how you want to represent yourself. 

QSM: Can you share a powerful moment where you saw the impact of your work on someone else's life, whether through your coaching or community advocacy?

Sherita: In spring of 2024, I had the wonderful opportunity to be an instructor at a workshop alongside other fantastic ladies. We shared the knowledge we've obtained in the areas of runway, posing and industry insight. I was the last speaker with the least amount of time so I knew I had to leave the attendees with something they could keep with them throughout their modeling journey. I spoke on industry insight with the focus on loving yourself and knowing your worth to sustain you through the peaks and valleys of your career. 

Now, I can't give great detail because it would take too long, but I remember that there was a turning point during my session. As I continued to speak on the different topics, the ladies began to tap into their hearts and shared personal experiences, many even cried about theirs prompting a feeling of togetherness, understanding and support throughout the room. 

There was an atmosphere of genuineness, trust, breakthrough, strength, comfort and love released in that space to where all that was in attendance received what they needed in areas far beyond wanting to be a model. It was Impactful and that is what I desire to give with my purpose.

QSM: You've worked with several high-profile designers and appeared in major campaigns. How do you approach preparing for these big moments on the runway?

Sherita: I am so grateful to have been presented with awesome opportunities which have placed me in rooms with people I couldn't even imagine. I don't take being in those spaces lightly, so I carry a great deal of respect for those I work with and most importantly for myself. Being true to my higher self and the desire to continually evolve internally is what I tap into to prepare me for those encounters. We all need to find where our grounded space is within us that gives us the courage to walk in faith even when it's scary and trust that everything will work out the way it should. 

QSM: “The possibilities of what could be, are greater than your aspirations." What does that quote mean to you, and how does it influence the way you approach your career?

Sherita: To answer this question simply I would say to think beyond what you believe you can achieve and then thank and believe beyond that. Do Not Limit Yourself. I definitely remain open to exploring new endeavors that align with my morals and character. That quote was created through me to not only excel my thinking regarding what's possible as a person and creative but to propel those who read it to seek beyond their self-imposed restrictions.

QSM: As someone who has dedicated a lot of her time to community service and advocating for mental health, body positivity, and wellness. How do these causes align with your personal values and your professional journey?

Sherita: Community service within itself can enrich a person's life by being selfless to help or inspire other people in need. These particular causes are prevalent in all cultural communities, so they leave no space for division of race. This way, healthy relationships can be fostered between denominations, ethnicities, ages, etc., to unify us with the same mission to provide support where needed. 

Fun Fact, I was voted "most diverse" in my high school and was captioned with that title in our yearbook lol. So, if I can be of service with nothing but the power in my voice, then I hope that will touch someone.

I may model fashion and products in my professional life, but the root of these causes is to bring awareness. Therefore, being just one of the many examples of a plus size model, visibility and acceptance is eminent.

QSM: Looking ahead, what are some of the goals you’re still working toward, both in your career and in your personal life?

Sherita: Since I am constantly evolving, my goals are constantly changing. I have achieved and surpassed the goals I've set when I began on this journey. I also enjoy acting so I am working towards those goals as well. 

We should always remain in a posture to pivot when necessary. My passion will always be modeling, and I make sure to include those opportunities in my life. I have actively been working as the Backstage Production Operations Manager for numerous productions. This is a position I have taken on for years now but just have not announced it publicly. It's actually not much different from other occupations I've done such as wedding and events planning/coordinating. They all require an exceptional level of organization, management skills and execution which is one of my strong suits. In addition, I am doing more model development through runway training and preparation workshop which I thoroughly enjoy. The men, women and children I work with are new to the industry so they are a clean slate, eager to learn and ready to take enter the industry. My job is to prepare them as much as possible and be a point of contact to guide them along the way. 

QSM: If or when your name is written in the history books, what would it say?

Sherita: I feel that I am witnessing my "history" in real time which is amazing. I'm thankful for every moment of my day-to-day life. My family, friends, the new people I meet and even those whom I've only passed by have all played a significant role in how I navigate life. 

Working in the beauty industry or in my personal life, my hope is that I've made a positive impact overall whether great or small. Operating in perfection is an impossible feet in this human form so even the negative instances are lessons for growth. What I do know is that I have been intentional with the depth of my purpose. 

Whatever is written in those history books I cannot control. All I can do is live in the moment, hold on steadfastly and unmovable to my Joy and Love and allow it to radiate from within and connect where needed. 

QSM: Please share your social media, website and booking information.

Sherita: Social Media - FB: @Sherita Ivory  IG @sherita_ivory        

Booking Info - email: ivorymodel@yahoo.com 

 Photo credits:

Photographer | Jovanna Reyes IG @jovannareyesphotography

Attire and Stylist: It's Chic by Chantele IG @itschicbychantele (Owner - Leah Chantele Campbell)

Makeup Artist & Hair Stylist | IG @sherita_ivory