Models In Fashion Advertising

Body image is defined as the objective picture or mental image of one’s own body. Models in fashion advertisements are a major influence of body-image in today’s society. Since the beginning, models have been used in the fashion industry to promote new styles and trends. Over the years these models have changed in appearance, depending on the “perceived aesthetic preferences of the public.” For example, from the 1930’s to the 1950’s, the ideal body was considered “fuller-figured.” Some characteristics would have included larger breasts, a slimmer waist, a curvy stature, and an hourglass shape. That being said, models are notoriously known for being extremely thin and standing taller than the average woman’s height. Cara Delavigne, Naomi Campbell, Heidi Klum, and Miranda Kerr are well-known supermodels that all stand at 5’8” or taller. Young girls and women feel pressured to fit the measurements of these supermodels, causing adverse psychological effects that …show more content…
In order for the issue to be resolved, the medias portrayal of women must be altered. No longer should they just advertise the body type of only a small fraction of women. The “narrow standard of beauty” that the media presents must be widened. Consumers must be able to relate to the images they are being exposed to. Fashion advertisements need to celebrate diversity and uniqueness because it is a fundamental feature of society. A great campaign created to help young girls with self-esteem is the NYC Girls Project. Geared toward girls ages 7-12, the campaign presents ads with a diverse set of girls doing activities like playing sports, reading, and drawing. Every ad contains the words, “I’m a girl. I’m smart, a leader, adventurous, friendly, funny. I’m beautiful the way I am.” Initiatives inspiring girls to be unique, confident, and proud to be themselves, like the NYC Girls Project, are paramount solutions to the long-lasting body-image