Are Models Too Thin?

The fashion industry has received criticism that models are too thin, to the extent that some have called for a ban on models that fail to weight a minimum amount. While such a plan of action would be extreme and unfair, The Council of Fashion Designers of America - CFDA- realized something had to be done to demonstrate that it is serious about the issue of eating disorders. In January 2007, the CFDA launched a health initiative to raise awareness about eating disorders and encourage models and society at large to be aware of the signs of eating disorders, treatment options, and long-term problems if eating disorders are not treated. While the procedures are intended to raise awareness, there is no actual policing going on. Models are not required to give the CFDA a full medical report with a doctor’s permission to pursue a career in modeling, since there may be many reasons why a woman is thin, among them, genetics.

"Are Fashion Models Too Thin?" 

When a woman is extraordinarily tall or thin, she often receives the comment,” You should be a model!” She might be asked what strenuous exercise routine she undertakes to maintain her svelte physique or what restricted diet she recommends. I recall the shock listeners experienced when one particularly thin actress confessed that she did “nothing at all” to become so thin. “I’m just thin!” she smiled.

That actress certainly has a healthy attitude to her career and her looks and found that acting and modeling just happened to be the right fit for her personality, talent and the body she was given naturally. However, the fashion industry has received much criticism and even accusations that its models are in fact bad role models for young girls. It is alleged, more often than not, without proof, that certain models have eating disorders and starve themselves to look good.

The CFDA has educated its members to be on the lookout for classic warning signs of a potential eating disorder and to urge treatment immediately. If a model is found to have an eating disorder, she must seek professional medical advice, and resume work only with the permission of her therapist. The CFDA is also working on preventative measures, such as education about healthy food choices. Food is provided at every event and the options available should be nutritious and easy to eat in a hurry.

Unfortunately, many parents blame the fashion industry for their daughters’ eating disorders and claim that models are too thin, while there may be other socioeconomic factors contributing to the problem. This is one reason the CFDA needs to encourage the idea that “health is beautiful” and confront any prejudices people might have about the fashion industry. The CFDA has also resolved not to hire models under the age of thirteen and not to allow models aged 18 and under to work past midnight.

The question should not be if models are too thin, but if the fashion industry is providing models for a life beyond the runway. If a young girl lets go of the impression that it is necessary to starve or over-exercise to have a career in the fashion industry, the CFDA and society will benefit.  The CFDA is doing its part to promote a healthy and beautiful future for all young women. 

 

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