Plus-size fashion in the media and entertainment, has developed into a substantial and powerful discussion that shapes societal acceptance of body diversity. A shift has occurred in culture and we are observing the representation of a wider diversity of body shapes in television, film, and advertising. This represents a significant systemic alteration which impacts societal perceptions, conversations and acceptance of size.
A brief overview
A New Landscape of Presence
The media landscape has transformed meaningfully in the last few years. Plus-size people are represented, in an empowering, multifaceted manner. Television shows such as This Is Us, exemplifies this change. The portrayal of Kate (Chrissy Metz) is multifaceted, as the viewer observes her navigate body image and self-worth candidly and honestly, while actively defying outdated and irrelevant depictions.
Plus-size models are challenging this concept of representation in the world of fashion as well. Brands such as Savage X Fenty by Rihanna is recognized for its runway show, featuring models of all shapes and sizes, which directly challenged outdated notions of beauty and comprised an inclusive runway environment.
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How Representation Shapes Society
The portrayal of plus-size people can impact the way society views and interacts with body image. A study conducted by the University of Cambridge discovered that different level of appetite-regulating centers, between their brains of people classified with overweight and/classified with obesity compared to lean individuals demonstrates the biological complexity of weight, and ultimately that weight is not simply discussing self-control.
When the portrayal of plus-size people is favourable and authentic, media representation can lessen stigma and promote mental health outcomes and positively influence overall health and wellbeing.
The Role of the Fashion Industry
The fashion industry is crucial to changing the social perception of body size, as we have observed an emerging shift toward inclusive design and campaign diversity over the last few years in the media. It is encouraging to see high-end fashion start to navigate complex social responsibility issues, though they are not without limitations.
A significant number of plus size consumers face limited options, and higher prices that render them feeling excluded from mainstream fashion. The gap in availability of relevant and fashionable clothing, can create further exclusion, even from inclusive brands, if their clothing lines do not include fashionable affordable pieces that reflect a person’s identity in their body.
Moving Forward
The representation of plus size individuals in the media is highly connected to social attitudes, mental health, and industry standards. We are seeing changes of a movement, but there work to be done in the realm of showing authentic, empowering representations of people without stigma.
Consumers can add to this change, by supporting brands that embrace size inclusivity as well as to those on the cusp of size standards, who are moving away from outdated standards that continue not to serve a diverse world and acceptable for modern expectations.
