Photo: Stock.Xchng

As the fashion world lies divided on the issue of what models should look like, retailer Debenhams has taken a stand against what it sees to be unrealistic standards in advertising. Following the introduction of size 16 models in some Debenhams stores, branches across the UK will now be displaying advertising material that features models whose images haven’t been airbrushed. Is this a step in the right direction for a healthier attitude to body image?

Picture perfect

In a statement, Debenhams said that, ‘As a rule we only airbrush minor things like pigmentation or stray hair and rely on the natural beauty of models to make our product look great.’ The model in the picture certainly does look beautiful – even without retouching she looks toned, tanned, and healthy. The model is shown before and after retouching, and what’s striking is that there really isn’t a huge difference between the two – showing that natural beauty is attainable.

Less is more?

As Debenhams has pointed out, it makes sense for retailers to lose the airbrush. Not only is this kind of campaign a move that may well attract more customers, but it also saves on costs – retouching doesn’t come for free.

Bigger can be better – but not always

The changes at Debenhams will surely make a positive change to women’s self-esteem, but the idea of plus-size mannequins raises a worrying concern: that being overweight is coming to be seen as normal, even though it carries as many health risks as being too thin. While size 16 isn’t overweight for everyone, it may be larger than is healthy for women with a naturally smaller build. It’s advisable to find out what weight is healthy for your height and use a healthy diet and regular exercise to keep within the weight range that allows you to be fit and healthy, and look your best.

Tags: exercise, Healthy diet