A Healthy Model is a Beautiful Model

Roxana Callejas, International Studies Academy, Wat it do, ISA? (Fall 2006):

Before, everybody thought that a beautiful woman had to be thin. The models are the image of that perfect woman. Because they represent the fashion, they have to look healthy. But the Association of Fashion Designers of Spain said during the last week of fashion (September 2006) that they don’t want skinny models anymore. They want to protect “an image of beauty and health.”

“I think that the models are too thin. They’re supposed to be examples and should represent healthy people.” Said Mr. Meggido, a teacher at ISA.

Fashion sends a message. It is a mirror and many teenagers imitate what they see on the catwalk. Teens want to be in style. They think that to be popular it is important to look a certain way.

This certain way could sometimes be dangerous to their health. Trevor, a student at ISA said, “Well I don’t think that it‘s very healthy for these women to be pressured at such a young age. I think that it is good that they are in shape, however I draw the line when their beauty interferes with their health.”

What is the message that models send, showing a completely skinny body? People often complain that skinny models have a negative effect on teen girls' and women's body images.

Miss Moret, an ISA teacher said, “I think most models these days are too thin. Sure there are naturally skinny people but models, whether they like it or not, are role models too. Other young men and women look up to them. If they are modeling poor nutrition then that is what young people may look up to. I don’t think the majority of the world is as thin as these fashion models today. I think real men and women should be shown on the runway. A healthy size is what I’d like to see.”

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