Plus Model Magazine goes controversial…

It’s no secret that here at FFG we’re huge advocates for change when it comes to the way the world views fashion and health. For years now I’ve taken every possible chance to talk about body image and the importance in fashion in being comfortable in wearing what will fit you, not in changing yourself to fit the trends. 

“Thin” has always been in. However, in the past decade we’ve taken thin and run to a new level. While we seem to be recovering somewhat from the “anorexic” trend, we still see models on the catwalk that look like they barely eat anything at all. Last season I overheard one too many conversations about diets and tricks of the trade to staying thin. Conversely, I also saw some models stuffing themselves with pizza, bagels, soft drinks and candy. The truth of the matter is that there are some of us that are born naturally thin and there are others that do have to starve themselves to stay svelte to work in this industry. Sadly, that doesn’t just apply to runway models anymore. Even fashion bloggers are falling into the “must be thin category”. When faced with having to wear sample sizes for photoshoots, even I feel like giving up at times. The fashion world works against you if you don’t check a certain size box.

And so we come to the topic at hand. Plus Model Magazine has printed an article in their latest issue that has the masses talking. The images tell the tale on their own…just look above as what is considered an “average sized” woman hugs an “average sized” model. However, the facts that are stated in the magazine alongside the images are where we really learn a lot….

– Twenty years ago the average fashion model weighed 8% less than the average woman. Today, she weighs 23% less.

– Ten years ago plus-size models averaged between size 12 and 18. Today the need for size diversity within the plus-size modeling industry continues to be questioned. The majority of plus-size models on agency boards are between a size 6 and 14, while the customers continue to express their dissatisfaction.

– Most runway models meet the Body Mass Index physical criteria for Anorexia.

– 50% of women wear a size 14 or larger, but most standard clothing outlets cater to sizes 14 or smaller.

Amazing and scary, right? It’s time for a change. I’ve often preached to any retailer that will listen that big dollars are now being spent by women that wear a size 14 and over. I, for one, am a 14 and have the money to spend and guess what, I’m limited. The clothing for anyone over a size 10 is, for the majority, is less than impressive!

I will say it now and repeat it a thousand times… do not let the fashion world tell you what size or shape is beautiful. Yes, they use virtual clothes hangers as models to send looks down the catwalk but those dresses more often than not come alive on real women! And for those designers that choose not to dress any size above a ten, they are not only missing out on dressing some of the most beautiful women in the world but they’re also missing out on making a hell of a lot of money!

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