"I'm a model who loves my curves and isn't afraid to show them," said newly-minted Sports Illustrated cover girl Ashley Graham. Get to know the red-hot plus-size model with these 10 facts!
Photo: Instagram/@theashleygraham
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1. She started modeling at age 12 and has since gone to feature for a variety of brands including Levi's and Lane Bryant.
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2. Ashley, who was born in Lincoln, Nebraska, stands at 5'9".
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3. The gorgeous brunette visits schools to talk about body image and acceptance, and has also been involved in humanitarian missions in South Africa.
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4. Ashley helped to found ALDA, a coalition of models promoting a healthy body image for women.
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5. Ashley made history as one of three covers for the 2016 Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue.
Photo: Sports Illustrated
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6. As well as modeling, she has collaborated with Addition Elle on her own range of lingerie available at Nordstrom and AshleyGrahamCollections.com.
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7. In January 2016, the model, seen here with fellow models Kyra Santoro, left, and Emily Ratajkowski, was named to Forbes Magazine’s coveted “30 Under 30” list.
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8. When she landed the Sports Illustrated cover in 2016, she said, "This is for all the women who didn't think they were beautiful because of their size." Here she's seen with Bridget Moynahan and Christie Brinkley at the NYDJ 2016 Fit To Be Campaign launch at Lord & Taylor.
Photo: Getty Images
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9. She also has her own website, www.ashleygraham.com, with the slogan, "Stand up for curves, confidence is sexy."
Photo: Getty Images
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10. Despite her growing success, she remains firmly grounded and often excitedly shares photos of celebrities she meets at fashion events and shows, from Karlie Kloss to singer Ciara, joking about her 'fan girl moments.'
Photo: Instagram/@theashleygraham