At just 18 years old, Ameni Esseibi made a decision that would define her path—not to conform, not to shrink, but to use her voice and her presence to demand change. Growing up as a curvy Arab girl, she faced the kind of criticism that leaves most young women questioning their place in the world. “I knew something had to change,” Ameni recalls. “There were so many girls like me—curvy, Arab, and overlooked. No one saw them, no one heard them. I wanted to be the girl that made sure they felt seen, loved, and cared for.”
The bullying she endured in school didn’t break her. Instead, it sparked a fire within her to stand up for the women society often ignores. She didn’t just dream of change but became the change. Today, as the first plus-size Arab model, she stands at the forefront of promoting inclusivity and diversity in the industry, not just for women who look like her, but for an entire industry still grappling with the concept of inclusivity.
For Ameni, modeling is more than a career—it’s a platform to challenge the industry’s norms and redefine its narrow ideals. From booking campaigns that celebrated diversity to becoming a voice for body positivity, her journey has been one of resilience and transformation. “It’s about showing that beauty isn’t one-size-fits-all,” she says.
Now, as the cover star of Soigné Middle East’s debut print issue, Ameni takes on a new role: redefining modesty as bold. Draped in modest attire, she challenges the misconception that modest fashion is restrictive. “Modesty is about confidence,” she says. “It’s about owning how you want to be seen and expressing yourself on your terms. There’s this misconception that modesty can’t be fashionable, which is simply untrue.”
Her story is one of defiance, courage, and conviction—a reminder that the most powerful change often comes from those bold enough to stand out, even when the world tells them to blend in.
What are some unknown facts about Ameni Esseibi?
People don’t know my love for horses, nature, beaches, and dogs. I don’t post much about my private life, but I’m an unconditional lover. It’s the only thing that keeps me sane in life. Also, my connection and love for my country. Tunisia has grown so much in recent years. My favorite food is Japanese food, and Tunisian food, of course. People think I’m unapproachable because of my straight face most of the time—it’s just a Capricorn thing—but actually, I’m very approachable, very social, and very easy to talk to once you get to know me. Also, I’m a retired dancer.
Your journey as the first plus-size Arab model has inspired many women. How did you start and get here at such a young age? It’s not everyday women from this part of the world wakeup and decide they want to become the first of their kind.
I knew it had to change. I knew something had to change. There were a lot of girls like me who were curvy and Arab and just got lost in the middle of the crowd. No one saw them, heard them, or made them feel loved—always constantly pressured and criticized by family and society, even in schools and workplaces. I wanted to be the girl that makes sure that all these girls are seen, heard, loved, and cared for, but also help them get over their insecurities. Make them feel good in their skin, show them that they matter, they’re worth it, and that they’re beautiful. It started when I was 18, and all the ideas came from me getting bullied a lot in school.
You’ve always been vocal about body positivity and inclusivity. Were there any defining moments in your career where you felt like your voice truly made an impact?
As a model, body positivity and inclusivity have always been at the forefront of my journey. There have been several key moments in my career where I truly felt that my voice made an impact, and one of the most defining was when I began to see more diversity on the runway and in campaigns. Early in my career, I was often told that I didn’t fit the traditional ‘mold’ for models, and I struggled with that. But over time, I realized that my unique body and my story were powerful, and it was important for me to embrace and love who I am.
One of the moments that really resonated with me was when I started to book jobs for brands that were truly focused on inclusivity—where the emphasis wasn’t on achieving a certain body type but on celebrating individuality and diversity. I remember the first time I saw a campaign I was part of that featured women of all shapes, sizes, and backgrounds. It felt surreal to be part of a movement reshaping the industry to be more inclusive—not just of appearance, but of identity and culture.
The feedback I’ve received from fans and women who see themselves represented in my work has been incredibly moving. It’s one thing to be a model, but when I hear that my work made someone feel more confident or validated, that’s when I know I’m truly making an impact. For me, it’s about showing that beauty is not one-size-fits-all, and everyone deserves to be represented in the media. The path is still long, but challenging the industry’s norms and creating space for diverse bodies is a step towards real change.
This issue celebrates the boldness of modesty—not as a way of hiding but as a powerful choice of self-expression. What does this idea mean to you personally?
To me, the idea of modesty as a bold choice of self-expression is incredibly empowering. Growing up, I was taught that modesty is not about hiding or shrinking yourself, but rather about owning who you are in a way that feels true to you. Modesty, especially in fashion, is often misunderstood as something that restricts or limits, but for me, it’s about confidence in your own skin, regardless of how much or how little you choose to show. It’s about being in control of your narrative and expressing your identity on your own terms.
I’ve always felt that modesty allows to project a powerful sense of self. It’s not about conforming to someone else’s idea of what’s fashionable or acceptable—it’s about feeling authentic and comfortable in your choices. When I wear something that reflects my values and makes me feel confident, it’s a way of owning my body and my identity, rather than letting others define me.
For me, modesty is a statement. It says that who I am is not for the gaze of others, but for me. It’s about expressing my inner strength and individuality without needing validation from the outside world. In the fashion world, where so much emphasis is placed on revealing, modest fashion is revolutionary as it shows the world that true style and self-expression come from within, and it’s about choice, not limitation.
As the first cover star of Soigné Middle East, you’re representing the heart of this publication—empowerment, diversity, and authenticity. How do these values align with yours?
Being the first cover star of Soigné Middle East is truly an honor, and it resonates deeply with my personal values of empowerment, diversity, and authenticity. These are values I hold close to my heart, and they shape everything I do—both as a model and as a person. Empowerment, for me, is about owning my narrative and helping others do the same. It’s about feeling confident in who I am, regardless of the standards society often imposes. I believe every woman deserves to feel powerful in her own skin, and through my work, I hope to inspire others to embrace their true selves unapologetically.
Diversity is something I’m passionate about, especially in the modeling industry, where for too long, certain looks and body types were prioritized over others. I’m proud to be part of a movement that celebrates all forms of beauty. For me, diversity isn’t just about appearance—it’s about backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. We all have something unique to bring to the table, and it’s beautiful to see the industry finally starting to reflect that.
Authenticity is the foundation of everything I believe in. I’ve learned that true confidence comes from being authentic, from being honest with yourself and the world around you. I’ve never wanted to conform to anyone else’s version of beauty or success. Instead, I’ve worked hard to build my career on my own terms, and I want to encourage others to do the same. In a world where there’s so much pressure to fit into molds, I think it’s more important than ever to stay true to who you are.
These values—empowerment, diversity, and authenticity— align with everything I stand for. I’m grateful to represent them through this platform, and I hope that my presence on the cover of Soigné Middle East will inspire others to embrace their individuality and pursue their dreams with confidence.
Inclusivity has become a buzzword in fashion, but the lived reality can sometimes fall short. What do you believe is still missing, especially for modest and plus-size women in the industry?
Inclusivity is a powerful and important conversation in fashion, but as you said, the lived reality often doesn’t quite match the buzzwords. For modest and plus-size women, the industry still has a long way to go. While we see some progress, there are a few key areas that still feel lacking.
First, there’s the issue of true representation. It’s not enough to have a few plus-size or modest models in a campaign or on the runway. For inclusivity to be genuine, we need to see a wide variety of body types, skin tones, and cultural backgrounds represented all the time, not just as a token gesture. Modest fashion, in particular, still struggles to gain the visibility it deserves. There’s this misconception that modest clothing can’t be fashionable or stylish, which is simply untrue. Modest women want to express their personal style just as much as anyone else. The industry needs to stop treating modest fashion as a niche and recognize it as a legitimate and beautiful part of global fashion.
Second, sizing is another major challenge. While some brands have started to offer more extended sizing, the variety and fit still don’t match what’s available in more mainstream collections. Plus-size women often find themselves relegated to certain styles or sections, which limits their choices and, frankly, their sense of belonging in the fashion world. The industry needs to be more thoughtful and intentional about creating clothing that fits all body types—clothing that’s not just bigger, but also designed with curves and different proportions in mind.
Lastly, there’s the need for more representation in leadership roles—designers, photographers, stylists, and decision-makers who truly understand and value the needs of modest and plus-size women. Representation behind the scenes is just as important as representation on the runway. When the people creating and shaping fashion understand the diversity of bodies and cultural perspectives, it leads to more inclusive designs, better marketing, and a more authentic industry overall.
Inclusivity should never feel like an afterthought. It needs to be woven into the fabric of fashion at every level. I believe in a future where modest and plus-size women aren’t an exception, but an integral part of the story—where fashion is not just about fitting into a mold, but about celebrating every woman’s individuality and identity.
Soigné aims to be a voice for the underrepresented— modest women, plus-size women, women of color, women of all backgrounds. How important do you think platforms like this are in reshaping the industry?
Platforms like Soigné are incredibly important in reshaping the fashion industry, especially when it comes to amplifying the voices of underrepresented groups—modest women, plus-size women, women of color, and women from all walks of life. For so long, fashion has been dominated by a narrow, often exclusionary standard of beauty. But publications like Soigné are challenging that and creating space for women to see themselves reflected in a way that feels authentic and empowering.
What makes Soigné and similar platforms so crucial is that they go beyond just showcasing diversity for the sake of it—they actively celebrate the richness of different identities, cultures, and experiences. When we see women of various backgrounds, body types, and styles being celebrated, it sends a powerful message that beauty is not a one-size-fits-all concept. This type of representation isn’t just about appearances—it’s about embracing the diversity of women’s voices, stories, and contributions to the world.
In the fashion world, where trends often define what’s ‘in’ and what’s ‘out,’ platforms like Soigné are helping to redefine those standards. They’re putting a spotlight on women who have been historically marginalized and elevating their stories. It’s not just about fashion; it’s about creating a cultural shift where all women feel seen, valued, and empowered to express themselves fully and unapologetically.
For me personally, seeing publications like Soigné thrive is inspiring. It gives me hope that the industry is moving in the right direction. These platforms aren’t just reshaping fashion—they’re reshaping how we view beauty, identity, and worth, and that’s a movement I’m proud to be part of.
This debut issue is about creating a bold narrative around modesty and inclusivity. What do you hope readers take away from your story and this cover feature?
For me, this debut issue is a chance to challenge the conventional narratives around modesty and inclusivity, and I hope that readers take away a deeper understanding of both. Modesty is often misunderstood, but it’s important to remember that it’s not about restriction—it’s a choice, a powerful form of self-expression that reflects confidence and individuality. I want readers to see that modesty can be bold, stylish, and empowering. It’s not about hiding who you are; it’s about owning your identity in a way that feels true to you, regardless of societal expectations.
In terms of inclusivity, I hope my story resonates with women who may feel overlooked or underrepresented in the fashion industry. We all deserve to see ourselves reflected in media, and I want women to feel that they can be their authentic selves without compromising on their values, their style, or their body. I want my cover feature to serve as a reminder that inclusivity is not just about fitting into a standard mold, but about embracing the diversity of all women, celebrating our unique beauty, and standing strong in who we are.
Ultimately, I hope readers walk away from this issue feeling empowered—whether they relate to my story or not—knowing that they don’t have to conform to anyone else’s version of beauty or success. The bold narrative around modesty and inclusivity is about showing up authentically, being unapologetic in your choices, and living life on your own terms.
If you could collaborate with a designer to create a collection that reflects your values, who would it be and what would that collection look like?
If I had the opportunity to collaborate with a designer to create a collection that reflects my values of inclusivity, modesty, and empowerment, I would love to work with someone like mugler or Versace —designers who have consistently pushed boundaries in terms of sustainability, inclusivity, and challenging traditional beauty standards.
Together, we would create a collection that embodies timeless elegance while celebrating individuality. The collection would feature pieces that combine modest fashion with modern, chic silhouettes—something that both empowers and allows women to express themselves confidently, no matter their size, shape, or cultural background. I’d want the designs to reflect diversity— not just in the models who wear them, but in the clothing itself, offering a range of fits, cuts, and styles that cater to different body types and lifestyles. The use of eco-friendly fabrics would be essential, as sustainability is something I deeply value.
There would be versatile pieces that can transition from day to night, with playful yet sophisticated elements—like beautifully embroidered blouses, tailored pants, and floor-length dresses that flow and move with you, all while maintaining a sense of modesty. Accessories would also play a key role—statement scarves, wide-brimmed hats, and minimalist jewelry to complete the look. Ultimately, the collection would be a celebration of women embracing their individuality, no matter where they come from or how they choose to present themselves.
What are some of your favourite brands?
International: Jean Paul Gaultier, Mugler, Versace, Tom Ford and Loro Piana. Arab: Georges Hobeika, Ali Karoui, Lili Blanc.
If we peeked inside your wardrobe right now, what’s the one piece you can’t live without?
My Jean Paul Gaultier Morphe collection dress!
You’ve walked the runway and graced international campaigns. What’s been your proudest fashion moment so far?
My ambassadorship with Jean Paul Gaultier and walking Paris Fashion Week.
What’s next for Ameni Esseibi?
Looking ahead, I’m excited about continuing to push the conversation around inclusivity, representation, and self- expression in fashion. There’s still so much work to be done, and I want to use my platform to help amplify voices that often go unheard, whether it’s women of diverse body types, women from different cultural backgrounds, or women who choose modest fashion. I believe that the future of fashion is inclusive, and I want to contribute to that change, not just as a model, but as an advocate for real diversity and authenticity.
In the coming years, I’d love to expand my involvement in campaigns and initiatives that focus on empowering women and breaking down the outdated beauty standards that still dominate the industry. I want to partner with brands that are committed to true inclusivity—not just in terms of size or skin tone, but in creating spaces where every woman feels she belongs. Additionally, I’m passionate about using my voice to encourage self-love and confidence, especially for younger women who may feel marginalized or pressured by society’s beauty ideals. I hope to continue to share my own journey of embracing my body and my choices, showing that it’s possible to be both confident and authentic, no matter where you’re from or how you look.
Ultimately, my goal is to inspire women to feel empowered, to challenge the traditional narratives that limit us, and to remind them that true beauty comes from being unapologetically themselves. Whether it’s through my work as a model, my advocacy, or simply sharing my story, I want to be part of a movement that encourages women to embrace their individuality and celebrate their unique beauty.
This article originally appears in Soigné Middle East’s debut print issue
Editor & Creative Director
Laiba Babar
Cover Photography
Aqib Anwar
Art Direction
Richa Khonde
Styling
Monique Spearman
Hair
Sebastian Iskander/ Dyson
Makeup
Elie.B/Charlotte Tilbury
Lighting Assistant
Ajay Valsaraj
Location
Stu Studios
Project Manager
Sherdil Khan
