BugBuffalo
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The fashion industry's efforts towards size inclusivity seem to have taken a drastic turn for the worse, with the number of plus-size models featured in recent shows dwindling significantly. A report by Vogue Business found that only 0.9% of the 9,038 looks presented across 198 women'swear collections earlier this month were shown on plus-size models, while mid-size models made up just 2%. This drastic decline has left experts and industry insiders expressing concern about the industry's direction.
The use of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, such as Ozempic, among celebrities is believed to be a contributing factor to the trend towards thinness. The widespread normalization of thinness beyond the catwalks has led to shortages for patients and created a parallel market for unregulated weight loss products. This phenomenon is described by psychotherapist and writer Susie Orbach as "the latest commercialisation of the body."
The influence of reality TV and social media on consumer expectations and beauty standards is also being cited as a factor in the industry's shift towards skinny models. Celebrities such as the Kardashians have perpetuated a culture that values thinness, which has now been massified. This trend is further exemplified by designers like Rick Owens, who included 16 plus-size models in his show last season but none this year.
As demand for plus-size models declines, insiders are describing instances of models losing weight to secure more work in the mid-size market or feeling pressure from designers and brands to conform to a thin ideal. The impact on the high street is also being felt, with brands removing dedicated plus-size sections from their stores and making them available online only.
The value of the plus-size market in the UK is estimated to be over ยฃ4bn, but it's becoming increasingly inaccessible to consumers. Industry insiders are calling for greater representation and inclusivity, as seen in British Vogue's recent efforts to feature a diverse range of models on its covers. However, the pendulum has swung back towards skinny models, leaving many wondering if plus-size models are now being used as tokenism rather than genuine opportunities for representation.
The use of GLP-1 weight-loss drugs, such as Ozempic, among celebrities is believed to be a contributing factor to the trend towards thinness. The widespread normalization of thinness beyond the catwalks has led to shortages for patients and created a parallel market for unregulated weight loss products. This phenomenon is described by psychotherapist and writer Susie Orbach as "the latest commercialisation of the body."
The influence of reality TV and social media on consumer expectations and beauty standards is also being cited as a factor in the industry's shift towards skinny models. Celebrities such as the Kardashians have perpetuated a culture that values thinness, which has now been massified. This trend is further exemplified by designers like Rick Owens, who included 16 plus-size models in his show last season but none this year.
As demand for plus-size models declines, insiders are describing instances of models losing weight to secure more work in the mid-size market or feeling pressure from designers and brands to conform to a thin ideal. The impact on the high street is also being felt, with brands removing dedicated plus-size sections from their stores and making them available online only.
The value of the plus-size market in the UK is estimated to be over ยฃ4bn, but it's becoming increasingly inaccessible to consumers. Industry insiders are calling for greater representation and inclusivity, as seen in British Vogue's recent efforts to feature a diverse range of models on its covers. However, the pendulum has swung back towards skinny models, leaving many wondering if plus-size models are now being used as tokenism rather than genuine opportunities for representation.