Fashion's Worrying Trend: A Definitive Backslide in Plus-Size Model Representation

United States - Ekhbary News Agency

Following the Fall-Winter 2023 fashion shows in New York, London, Milan, and Paris, a stark scarcity of plus-size models on the runways has become evident. This development is particularly noteworthy given the concurrent rise and widespread discussion surrounding injectable appetite suppressants and weight-loss medications. For many fashion commentators and diversity advocates, this season's runways represent a disheartening departure from the progress made in recent years towards greater body inclusivity.

Brands that had previously embraced diversity, such as Fendi, Erdem, and Valentino, by featuring models of various sizes, appeared to backtrack this season, with a visible absence of curvier bodies. Data from fashion search engine Tagwalk indicates a 24% drop in mid and plus-size models compared to the Spring-Summer 2023 season. Industry reports highlight that while a significant majority of American women wear a size 14 or above, a disproportionately small percentage of runway looks for FW23 were presented in sizes outside the traditional sample range (US 0-4). IMG model agent Mina White described the situation as a "definitive backslide," expressing frustration that designers who had previously utilized plus-size models were now omitting them. She suggested a disconnect between brands' marketing strategies, which leverage the social influence of diverse models, and their actual runway representation.

Ekhbary News Agency