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I don’t understand the current hype of including plus-sized models into runway shows. Unless it’s a show for a label designed specifically for the niche, I do not understand whether it is a marketing strategy to boost company image, a publicity stunt or if the designer is just following societal trends, I really just don’t get it. Don’t get me wrong, I have nothing against those of a larger size, I’m purely concerned with the aesthetic value of this. Watching the Mark Fast show and seeing the show being opened by a larger model, I wondered why on earth the model was dressed in skimpy, sheer number. Number one; it didn’t do the dress any justice, the dress is quite sexy and it doesn’t look sexy on the model. Number two; it didn’t do the model any justice, it’s not flattering nor is it attractive on her. Finally, will this increase sales or popularity for the label? I’m sure that I’m not alone on this one seeing as Fast’s own stylist quit over the notion.
I’m sure the majority of you have made comments about people dressed in unflattering clothing; something that is just a little too tight or makes someone look ‘fat’, I don’t see how this is any different – besides the fact that this person in particular is in a runway show – does the fact that it’s on a runway automatically make it attractive? Fast said that “A lot of people think it’s not appropriate to use plus-size models, but I met these girls and I loved their charisma. They’re just jewels, you know?” People are frequently saying that it’s all about personality and confidence, but really do these characteristics change the fact that the garment is accentuating every flab, every roll on the wearers body? I personally was disappointed to the point that I couldn’t include some looks into my coverage because the image didn’t do the garments justice. I’ll stress that I have nothing against larger sizes, I’m all for positive body image, but from a design perspective the notion was put frankly, unflattering.
Good on Fast for encouraging the notion of a healthier body image, but is it really necessary to introduce the concept into fashion shows, do fashion shows dictate what is acceptable in society? I’m pretty sure it doesn’t make a difference if a regular model walked down the runway with the dress on, those who are confident enough about their body image would buy the dress and wear it anyway. I don’t think it is necessary to incorporate larger-sized models into runway shows when there are plenty of television shows, magazines and self help books that encourage body image related motivation. Really, why else do we have such particular requirements to become an editorial model?
update: according to frockwriter, fast’s original stylist didn’t quit but was fired.
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