Model and actress Denise Bidot is turning heads and making statements, not only for her beauty but also for her radiant charm. The international Plus Sized Model and mom has traveled the world, working with many of the industry’s top clients such as Macys, Old Navy, Lane Bryant and Forever 21.

Bidot also stars on Nuvo Tv’s hit show “Curvy Girls”, which provides an all-access pass inside the glamorous world of professional modeling. The show has garnered a huge following of fans since its debut, receiving praise for highlighting a different side of the modeling world and for encouraging women to embrace their bodies no matter what shape or size.

Much like the show, Bidot’s own story is one of inspiration and letting nothing stand in the way of success. I spoke with her about how she got her start, what a typical day is like in the life of a model and how true beauty really does come from within.

How did you get your start in modeling?

I was one of those kids growing up who was always enamored by the whole aspect of entertainment and all of the glitz and glamor associated with it. I knew what I wanted to do early on so I started taking acting classes. When I was 18, I decided to move to LA and started going to auditions. I remember everyone I met kept telling me that I had a lot of charisma and that I was so much of a “leading lady” person, but my body type was something that wasn’t quite what they were looking for.

Seeing that it was an industry that I wanted to be in, my mom convinced me to go back to school for makeup and I eventually started doing freelance work for a plus sized model for a photo shoot. That was when a photographer asked me if I’d be interested in modeling for her as well. I had never done anything like that before but the next thing you know, I’m shooting pictures with her and before long started getting calls for work. It was really one of those right place at the right time type of stories. It’s been an amazing journey of self discovery and a dream come true.

What are some of the things you’ve learned about being a Plus Sized Model?

I think there’s something to be said about what’s lacking in fashion and for me, it’s great to be a part of something that’s at the forefront of change. It’s really all about embracing every woman and the diversity of her shape, ethnicity and age. Of course, I would prefer to just be called “model”, but it’s the technicality of it right now with fashion. Hopefully it will eventually be dropped but right now it’s cool to be involved with fashion in a way that people don’t necessarily expect.

What’s a typical photo shoot like?

A lot of people think it’s all glitz and glamor but there’s really a lot of work and travel involved as well. We’ll usually get up in the morning and have our hair and makeup done (the fun part), but over the course of the day there may be as many as 20 or 30 different changes. It’s a definite workout for ten hours, but as a woman it’s the best job in the world. You get to play dress-up and feel amazingly empowered.

Who are some of the people who inspire you?

There are a lot of women who inspire me. I’m a big fan of Jennifer Lopez. As a Latino woman, it’s remarkable what she’s achieved. I admire her for her production work, music and film. She’s been able to grasp the whole realm of the industry. I also love Penelope Cruz, Jessica Alba and Sophia Vergara. Women who’ve learned not only to love themselves but have also inspired others to love themselves as well.

What does your daughter think about your career?

My daughter is a princess and thinks that what I do is so cool. But she also sees first hand that you have to really work hard for what you want. That nothing is impossible and real beauty can come in many different ways. It’s a great journey and I’m so thankful to be able to share it with her.

What advice can you give to women who are self conscious about themselves or think they’re never “good enough”?

First, you need to stop thinking that you’re not perfect. Sometimes the media tries to make people believe that there is that “perfect” woman but the truth is, there isn’t. You need to be happy with who you are; with none of the make-up, hair extensions or fancy clothes. It’s about the woman inside. Every woman has her own specialness and nothing is impossible. I like to say, “There’s no wrong way to be a woman.” But don’t just say it. Believe it!

Do you have other interests outside of modeling?

I love art, movies, painting and playing in the park with my daughter. There’s so much beauty and things that can be done in the world. I’m still growing as a woman and learning about who I am.

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