Advocating for Diversity: the Case for Plus-Sized Models

The fashion industry has long been criticized for promoting unrealistic and often unhealthy standards of beauty. How do you feel when you see women starving themselves to fit a particular mold? It's a distressing image, one that might evoke concern for the well-being of these women, who could include our mothers, sisters, or best friends. This essay, drawing on sources such as Top Science, Consumption Markets & Culture, The Wall Street Journal, Phys World, and HeinOnline, argues for the inclusion of more plus-sized models in fashion.

The focus will be on the challenges faced by models, the irrelevance of size in defining personal worth, and actionable steps to support and accept models of all sizes.

Challenges in the Modeling World

The daily life of a model is often glamorized, yet behind the scenes, many face grueling regimes to maintain their image. The pressure to conform to a specific body type leads to extreme dieting and unhealthy practices. Models are expected to have flawless skin, perfect nails, and a consistent weight, often achieved through drastic measures. For instance, excessive dieting can harm a model's life and career more than it helps, as highlighted in Ian Halperin's Bad and Beautiful: Inside the Dazzling and Deadly World of Supermodels. The reality is, dieting will not transform someone into a supermodel, as noted by The Lancet: "Supermodels are both tall and curvaceous, and that dieting will not make you look like a Vogue cover girl."

Tragically, the pressure to conform can lead to life-threatening behaviors. Sannie Pederson recounts witnessing a 16-year-old model who nearly killed herself by consuming cotton balls to stave off hunger, as reported by the New York Post. This story, while extreme, underscores the dire consequences of the industry's narrow standards. It is imperative to question these norms and advocate for healthier, more inclusive representations of beauty.

Size and Self-Worth

Size should not define a person's value or accomplishments. Consider the emotional toll of striving for a smaller size at the expense of personal relationships and mental health. Imagine achieving the "perfect" body, yet finding no one to share your success with because the journey alienated loved ones. This scenario reflects the experiences of many who pursue superficial goals at the cost of deeper connections.

The story of Nevaeh Torres, a native of the Eastern Shore, illustrates this point. Once considered "fat" in elementary school, she dieted through high school to fit in with a smaller clique. Initially supported by friends, she eventually lost those relationships as she prioritized her new social circle over old friendships. In hindsight, Nevaeh regrets valuing size over meaningful connections, expressing a desire to change her past actions if given the chance.

In reality, the average American woman is a size 14 or above, yet fashion often fails to represent this demographic. Using average-sized, attractive models in advertising could alleviate body image concerns among women, fostering a healthier self-image. As Nia Shanks asserts, "The appearance of your body does not define you." Beverly Cutlip echoes this sentiment, embracing her own body despite societal pressures: "I was who I was, and I loved me just the way I was."

Supporting All Models

Promoting diversity in modeling requires concrete actions. First, we must support aspiring models of all sizes, offering encouragement and validation. Simple gestures, like attending auditions or offering words of encouragement, can make a significant difference. By showing up with flowers, pictures, or a warm embrace, we reinforce the idea that all models, regardless of size, are valued.

Additionally, the fashion industry must embrace diversity by showcasing a wider range of body types. This shift would not only reflect the reality of society but also inspire confidence in those who have long felt marginalized. The inclusion of plus-sized models is not merely a trend but a necessary evolution towards authenticity and inclusivity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the fashion industry has a responsibility to represent the diversity of society and promote healthy standards of beauty. By highlighting the struggles models face, challenging the notion that size defines worth, and advocating for inclusive practices, we can foster a more accepting and supportive environment. Remember the words of wisdom often passed down from generation to generation: true beauty and value come from within. Let us champion this belief and work towards a future where all models are celebrated for their uniqueness.

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