Fashion Garments

In my 24 years on earth so far, I can honestly say that seeing an average-size woman in a fashion magazine has rarely happened. As a girl growing up with some weight issues, this was disheartening to say the least. Stick think models were always in vogue, and for the most part, they still are.

But dare I hope that the size-zero obsessed industry is turning around and giving real women with real bodies the chance to share some of the spotlight?

Recent evidence suggests that more and more women with curves are becoming popular with editors, fashion designers and fashion-loving women everywhere.

Just check out Glamour for instance. The women’s magazine published a photo of plus-sized model Lizzie Miller looking comfortable and classy in her underwear on page 94 of a recent issue that caused a frenzy of support among readers. Now, the magazine has declared it time for a “body image revolution.” They’ve now published a photo gallery of beautiful women baring it all on their Web site. The magazine is also making a conscious effort to discuss negative body image in their pages and focus instead on a healthy lifestyle and the diversity of beauty.

But Glamor isn’t the only fashion player to step up to the plus-sized plate. Fashion designer Mark Fast stirred controversy at London Fashion Week when he used 3 women sizes 12 and 14 in his runway show. He even had a stylish walk out on him due to his decision to stick to his vision. Fast said: ““We wanted women to know they don’t have to be a size zero to wear a Mark Fast dress- curvier women can look even better in one.” Fast is also behind the All Walks Beyond the Catwalk campaign which strives to promote a woman’s beauty beyond the confines of age and dress size.

And in pop culture, more curvy ladies are taking front and center. Whitney Thompson, a size 10-12 girl, won America’s Next Top Model in 2008 and has had a contract with Elite Model Management. She’s done numerous fashion spreads since her win. And The Gossip lead singer, Beth Ditto, is becoming somewhat of a fashion darling with her edgy style. She even scored the cover of LOVE Magazine earlier this year.

I think it is an important initiative to give women with a wide range of body shapes exposure and promote how beautiful diversity is. It is important to note that none of these magazines or designers are promoting an unhealthy lifestyle. But celebrating shapes and bumps and curves is honestly a breath of fresh air.