XL Trailblazers Raul Samuel

1. What are your biggest fashion obstacles?

One of the biggest obstacles for me has been working out what styles and clothes suit my body type.It can be a challenge for men to find clothes for all shapes and sizes; tall, small, big or slim.

2. Where are you from and what are biggest fashion trends in your city?

I am from London where the many different cultures are reflected in the styles seen every day on the streets.The biggest trend at the moment seems to be for skinny jeans and tight tops which obviously does not suit everybody.

3. Tell us about your biggest fashion nightmare and if it came true do explain. (attach a picture if you can)

My biggest fashion nightmare is to wear something I am not comfortable with that does not accentuate my height and size. Instead, these items can highlight our imperfections. This is very common with larger guys which is why so many of them turn to just wearing very big clothes which are a massive mistake!!

4. What are some of your biggest style inspirations?

I have worked with some amazingly stylish people at some of the brands and companies I have worked with. So many stylists are doing a great job of helping large men stay on top of fashion trends, and avoid wearing clothes which make them look like they are hiding. My inspiration does not come from one source but it can be a combination of people and outfits I see when I’m walking on the street or on Instagram when I’m looking for something I can try out myself.

5.Where do you see yourself in five years and how do you see yourself accomplishing it?

In five years I want to see most high street shops cater for XL men. It would be amazing for brawn models to be more visible in the fashion industry and to become household names. I plan to accomplish this by continuing to work with my agency Bridge Models who have the same dream for diversity and equality.

6. What do you feel is missing in fashion for the men of size?

As I said before I think diversity is missing among the models or when a plus size male model is used, it can often be seen as a token. It would be great to see more clothes which fit bigger men well and aren’t just designed to hide or swamp our lumps and bumps. The more brands become aware of the demand for this, and the more models like me are used in campaigns then the more people men will feel like there are clothes out there for them.