Fashion models are often admired for their slender and attractive appearance, but many people wonder how they achieve and maintain such a low body weight. In this article, we will explore some of the possible reasons why models are so skinny, as well as some of the health risks and ethical issues associated with this industry standard.
The fashion industry’s preference for skinny models
One of the main reasons why models are so skinny is because the fashion industry prefers and demands this body type. Many designers believe that their clothing looks better on skinnier models, so they send samples for catwalks and photo sessions that can only be worn by women who fit into a small size. When showing off their newest fashions, designers want their outfits to look as beautiful as possible. For that to happen, the clothes need to drape and flow, which happens naturally when they are placed on a tall, skinny frame. That is why most mannequins come in such a small size. When the clothes are draped over a small frame in a store window, they look more appealing.
Another reason why the fashion industry favours skinny models is that they want their models to look similar, models who will not draw too much attention and become a distraction. They don’t want their models to stand out because they want audiences to pay more attention to the clothing the woman is wearing than to her overall look. That means the fact that other companies are using skinny models gives them the incentive to use skinny models too—to fit the trend, to avoid standing out.
The methods that models use to stay skinny
Some models will keep their weight on the lower side with the help of a healthy diet and exercise. They will squeeze workouts into their busy schedules, sometimes hitting the gym multiple times in one day, and they will eat healthy carbs and lean protein while limiting their sugar intake. They might even hire personal trainers who can create a fitness plan that fits their individual needs or hire a nutritionist who can encourage them to eat clean.
However, some models have taken their diet too far. They might cut solid food out of their diet and only drink liquids, which fail to give them all of the nutrients they need to stay healthy. Others might severely limit the amount of food they consume to keep their calorie count low. Some models have admitted to eating a single apple over the day. Only having a slice at a time, with no other meals to fill their stomachs. Unfortunately, there are more and more fashion models being diagnosed with eating disorders like anorexia and bulimia because the industry encourages them to ‘keep their figure’. Someone chauffeured some models to hospitals where they placed them on IVs before sending them right back to work after they collapsed during photo shoots.
The consequences of being too skinny
Being too skinny can have serious consequences for one’s health and well-being. Some of the possible risks include:
- Low blood pressure
- Weak immune system
- Osteoporosis
- Infertility
- Hair loss
- Dry skin
- Brittle nails
- Dental problems
- Heart problems
- Kidney problems
- Liver problems
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Low self-esteem
Moreover, being too skinny can also have negative impacts on one’s social and professional life. Some of the possible challenges include:
- However, struggling with body image issues or dissatisfaction with one’s appearance can have negative effects on mental health and well-being.
- Facing discrimination or harassment from peers or employers who judge one’s appearance or abilities based on weight
- Struggling with body image issues or dissatisfaction with one’s appearance
- Having difficulty finding clothes that fit well or flatter one’s figure
- Experiencing stress or pressure from trying to maintain a low weight or meet unrealistic expectations
The alternatives to being too skinny
Being too skinny is not a requirement for being a successful model or a beautiful person. Many alternatives to being too skinny can promote one’s health, happiness, and self-confidence. Some of the possible alternatives include:
- Adopting a balanced diet that provides enough calories and nutrients for one’s needs and preferences
- Engaging in regular physical activity that is enjoyable and suitable for one’s fitness level and goals
- Seeking professional help if one has signs or symptoms of an eating disorder or other mental health issue
- Finding role models or mentors who have positive attitudes towards their bodies and themselves
- Celebrating one’s unique features and qualities
