1 of 97

Yes

Write now Article Tools

Plus size clothing modeled by anyone but plus size models is equivalent to false advertising. A duplicate of the plus sized item has to be created to fit the regular sized model. The actual item available for purchase is not the same as the item advertised. In retail circles this is referred to as "bait and switch," and manufacturers and retailers in other industries would be penalized for such practices.

A high percentage of our population is larger than average. The prejudice against our plus size population is rampant, and in most cases goes unnoticed, or uncared about. We think we've come a long way by having more fashionable styles in larger sizes. However, continuing to use smaller models to advertise and sell plus sizes negates the progress.

Perhaps the time has come to stand up for the rights of the plus size population. Everyone wearing larger sizes is not obesely overweight. Large boned individuals and very tall persons also encompass the plus size category. By using reed thin models to advertise their clothing choices we are sending the message thin is the only way

It is an insult to the intelligence of a large person to pretend an article of clothing displayed on a regular size model will look the same on them. They have mirrors; they know better. Perhaps if clothing designers used appropriate sized models, their creations would improve, and actually enhance the look of plus fashions, as they are applied in real life. Most clothing styles are designed for smaller individuals, and then just made bigger to accomodate the plus sized. This method does not always translate into "good fashion." This is keenly apparent in trendy clothing. Smaller individuals can "get away" with the more extreme designs, and larger persons can seldom find anything else in their retail stores.

In order to do justice to the fashion needs of larger persons, designers must:

* Enlist feedback from the plus sized population about their specific wants and needs

* Design styles intended exclusively for the plus size population

* Use fabrics and colors which enhance the plus size figure

* Use plus size models to display and advertise plus size creations

If clothing designers and manufacturers were to follow these suggestions catering to the larger segement of our society, they would quickly realize a successful bottom line profit. The plus sized population would benefit from the respect, and consideration of their needs, and derive confidence knowing their value in our society is notable enough to warrant equal treatment in the fashion industry.

The impact on all of society could be immeasurable, as the entertainment, media and business industries would soon follow suit and put their prejudice aside in an effort to compete in the arena of political correctness. Soon we would see plus sized persons represented equally, not merely in a token capacity, in all segments of society, and we could safely say one more minority issue of discrimination was put to rest.

Learn more about this author, Carol Gioia.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Should plus-size clothing be modeled by plus-size models??
We want to hear your view. Write now!