Yet, social media often overwhelms us with images of seemingly perfect bodies.
Against this backdrop, Ady Del Valle stands out as a trailblazer in the fashion industry.
Challenging societal norms and redefining beauty standards.
He weights 449 pounds and proudly identifies as gay.
Arcadio “Ady” Del Valle has made a bold entrance into the world of fashion. Thus sparking a mix of reactions.
Could this signal a true shift in the industry?
Ady’s journey began in 2015 when they joined Instagram. He started sharing casual selfies with no intention of pursuing modeling
Feeling disconnected from the glamorous image of the industry, they aimed to connect with others who shared similar experiences.
He challenged the idea that only “normal” or conventional beauty deserves visibility.
Born in Boston in 1987 to a Puerto Rican family, Ady grew up immersed in the world of fashion, watching runway shows and model interviews from the sidelines. Their big break came in 2016 when an independent designer invited them to walk the runway at New York Fashion Week. Though hesitant at first, Ady embraced the opportunity with encouragement from friends and family. Soon, they were confidently strutting down the catwalk at a converted church in New York, alongside other XXXL models.
But Ady is far more than a model with a captivating presence. Their mission extends beyond personal success, aiming to spark broader societal change. Through their images and advocacy, Ady invites us to reflect on deeply ingrained biases about body image and beauty standards.
Ady’s bold presence on social media has been revolutionary, shaking up the modeling industry and sparking important conversations about inclusivity. Their photos often depict them at the beach, by the pool, or basking in the sun—sometimes shirtless, sometimes in striking swimsuit ensembles. Ady’s wardrobe choices blend tulle, animal prints, lace bodices, and daring designs, breaking free from outdated stereotypes of masculinity.
As a plus-size model, Ady redefines the purpose of fashion. For them, clothing isn’t about hiding—it’s about celebrating and showcasing individuality. By rejecting the notion that fashion caters only to certain body types, Ady challenges the industry to do better.
Today, Ady has become an activist within the plus-size community, working to dismantle the stigma surrounding bodies like theirs. They approach this mission strategically, using social media as a tool for advocacy.
“In Instagram, you’ll rarely see photos of plus-size men in swimsuits because they get taken down. Different bodies are censored—whether it’s because they’re bigger, or they’re of color, or for any other reason,” Ady explains. “But we have more power than social media. Without us, it doesn’t exist.”
When asked why XXXL bodies are stigmatized while XS bodies are not, Ady offers a thought-provoking perspective:
“Since we’re kids, TV and magazines teach us what beauty is, and we idolize it as we grow up. But now, social media gives people like me an advantage. We can change the narrative, showing other types of bodies. Maybe one day, TV and magazines will catch up and embrace bodies like mine.”
Ady’s words and actions signal a glimmer of hope for a more inclusive and representative future—one where every body has a place in fashion and media.
