Plus size model used to think larger women "were not worthy of finding love"

A plus-size model has confessed she used to believe she was 'not worthy' of finding love, as she told a fan "not to correlate weight and dating."

Hunter McGrady, who shot to fame in 2017 after becoming the curviest model to appear in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue at a US size 16 (Australian 20), replied to a question from a fan on Instagram this week.

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They asked for advice, saying they were "too insecure" about their weight to start dating.

McGrady replied, saying: "Weight and love have no correlation."

"I think we have been led to believe that women who are larger are not worthy of dating or finding love. I used to believe this.

"I also think it's important to know that being larger than your partner is okay. I certainly am!

"Don't hide who you are and don't waste time on anyone who has anything to say about your weight."

McGrady has previously condemned the pressure on brides to lose weight for their wedding day.

She said was asked by salespeople when shopping for her gown for her wedding to Brian Keys, whether she'd remain at her current weight.

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"It made my heart sink," McGrady told Glamour.

"I walked in feeling confident and dreaming of a dress that was romantic and whimsical, and suddenly all I could think was, 'Wait a second, should I lose weight?'