Mary Duff was born in the United States, where she spent her childhood dreaming of becoming a successful entrepreneur. She knew from a young age that she wanted to make an impact in the world and inspire others to achieve their goals.
After graduating from Mount Holyoke College in South Hadley, Massachusetts, Mary wasted no time in pursuing her dreams. In 1979, she took a leap of faith and purchased a start-up agency in New York City, laying the foundation for her future success.
Mary's entrepreneurial spirit led her to work with plus-size models and petites, challenging industry norms and advocating for diversity and inclusion. She gained recognition for her work on popular television shows like The Today Show and Good Morning America, as well as her appearances on QVC and HSN.
One of Mary's most notable achievements was developing a plus-size pattern line for Simplicity Patterns, empowering women of all shapes and sizes to embrace their individuality and express themselves through fashion.
As a model, Mary made a name for herself by appearing in campaigns for prestigious brands such as Gloria Vanderbilt, L'eggs hosiery and pantyhose, and Weight Watchers. Her work paved the way for greater representation of diverse body types in the fashion industry, inspiring others to embrace their natural beauty.
Mary's dedication to promoting body positivity and self-acceptance earned her a loyal following and the respect of her peers. She was interviewed by top publications like Cosmopolitan, Woman's Day, and the New York Times, using her platform to spread messages of empowerment and inclusivity.
Throughout her career, Mary collaborated closely with her husband, Marc Guerrero, on various projects. Together, they co-authored and self-published books that aimed to inspire and uplift readers, sharing their insights on resilience, success, and personal growth.
Mary had the honor of being a guest on talk shows hosted by legendary figures like Oprah Winfrey and Sally Jessy Raphael, where she shared her story and inspired countless viewers to pursue their passions and overcome obstacles.
Despite retiring from Ford Models in 2010, Mary's impact in the industry continues to be felt to this day. Her legacy as a trailblazer and advocate for body diversity serves as a reminder that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes, empowering individuals to embrace their uniqueness and celebrate their journey towards self-acceptance.