FASHION FRENZY

“Strike a pose, there’s nothing to it!”... is there?

The shockwaves that were caused recently when a 5ft 3 inches tall 300 lb model adorned the cover of a very famous fashion magazine were felt throughout the industry, social media and dinner tables around the world. Was this due to her size? Was it to do with the potential health issues associated and glamorizing this? Were people in awe of her ability to ooze sex appeal despite being over double the average weight for a woman? This peaked my interest to muse about the implications of the fashion world and society as a whole. Within every faith the general consensus is that God loves infinite variety and man emulates this in the different forms he takes. However, in some circumstances , such as fashion, there is a necessity for regularity and a standard form. Models must provide a blank canvas upon which ‘artists’ can adorn textures, shades, vibrant hues and styles according to trend and season. Voluptuousness or obesity have never been something which has played a part in the world of haute couture where Size 0 reigns supreme. This may be down more to designers and stylists requiring this uniform figure in order to make ranges and new season lines for shows. Is it therefore more to do with logistics and business rather than a statement about body type or size?

Although it can be damaging to create such unattainable physical icons, such as those in the fashion world, it can also be equally unhealthy to suggest that someone who is at an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, blood pressure, high cholesterol levels and stroke should be heralded as a role model. Words such as ‘acceptance’, ‘celebration’ and ‘embrace’ pin balled around social media and news programmes and the debate that ensued was a fascinating insight into sizeism and how different groups are perceived in society. Naturally the usual suspects wagged fingers in the direction of lifestyle and fashion magazines, suggesting that a variety of shapes and sizes was just as important as colour or ethnicity. Fashion will always be about striving for the ideal in terms of design and quality. Models must be chameleon-like and be able to change their skins according to the designer or range. It is also imperative that there is a consistency and ‘standard’ with which designers can work. There are parameters set which allows them to showcase their work to the very best of their ability. Although this does not mean that the industry is suggesting that everyone should adhere to these parameters. Just the professionals whose job it is to bring fabric to life! Should we embrace difference and variety? Of course ! The problem comes when people go a step too far and create an issue when they are actually trying to dispel one. In trying to highlight something positive, due to lack of thought it becomes something negative and causes outrage instead of celebration or acceptance. If only it was as uncomplicated as Madonna originally suggested …