We’ve seen a string of plus-sized empowerment campaigns. But have we also neglected women who suffer from anorexia too?
Just recently a Brazil-based modeling agency, Star Models released a powerful anti-anorexia campaign with the help of Photoshop, turning models into life-size fashion illustrations.
Titled: ‘You Are Not A Sketch’, the ad shows models airbrushed to mimic the unrealistic fashion illustrations crafted by fashion designers. The running tagline ‘Say no to anorexia’ show a fashion illustration with typically exaggerated proportions next to a model wearing the same outfit, and with the same measurements as the illustration.
The ad campaign has been lauded as ‘powerful’ with critics hopeful that it ail send an effective anti-anorexia message against thinspiration blogs and pro-anorexia websites.
And while we believe that this would encourage women to lead healthier sites, some also believe that the ads may promote thinspiration. A commentor wrote: “Unfortunately I think some women could look to these images for thinspiration”.
Another commoner believes that the Star Models ad is a ‘move in the right direction’, however it would be better if modeling agencies actually practiced what they preached.
Consumers of the fashion and beauty industry are at war with themselves because they obsess about looking like the women magazines and television. Although it can be good to have a role model, beauty still comes from the inside. Anorexia and obesity is both unhealthy, and we should all opt for the healthier option. Not the skinniest.
You Are Not A Sketch isn’t the first anti-anorexia public service campaign to convey the message. In 2007, Italian fashion brand, Nolita starred model Isabelle Carro, who was also suffering from anorexia at the time. Her skeletal image shocked viewers and anorexia drew worldwide attention. She passed away at the age of 28.
