Tag Archives: size debate

Paris Runways Finally See Some Model Diversity—But Is This “Shock” Casting?

Leonora EpsteinOctober 4, 2010 //

When it comes to size discrimination in the fashion industry, Paris—a place where French women (apparently) don’t get fat—has a particularly stuffy reputation and preference for the pin thin. The fashion capital may be loosening its ideals, however. Designer Karl Lagerfeld has shown particular fondness for Crystal Renn lately, and Louis Vuitton‘s last presentation used models that looked closer to “real women,” although this is debatable depending on your standards. Keep reading »

Is American Apparel Going Curvier?

Leonora EpsteinJune 9, 2010 //

American Apparel usually favors Ms. Skinny No-Boobs and hip-less hipsters to model its products. However, the retailer may be embracing curvier shapes (and not just in some one-off butt campaign). New product shots in the swimwear category (a good place to start if you want to make a statement) show girls in high-waisted bikinis with full butts and hips, muscular arms, and broader bone structures.

Interesting concept—if American Apparel, an already-established arbiter of cool for the masses, continues on this aesthetic path, could the company be the one to begin changing body ideals? Do you think these curvier American Apparel models are there to make a point? (Or do you think they’re even “curvy” at all?) Do you like the non-stick-thin sex appeal that’s going on here? [American Apparel] Keep reading »