The first episode of Australia’s Next Top Model is sure to spark controversy and re-ignite the debate over accountability and weight discrimination in the fashion industry, as well as the media's influence on body image. During a catwalk challenge, several of the show’s contestants are “benched” – not allowed to participate – because they’re said to be “too big.”

“A psychologist specializing [sic] in eating disorders, Dr. Vivienne Lewis, said the program was sending a ‘dangerous message that even being rake-thin isn’t good enough.’ Dr. Lewis called for view warnings on programs which promote an unhealthy body image.” [Source: Adelaide Now]

One of the models who was forced to sit out the competition, Ashlea Monigatti, said she’d never worried about her weight until that day. And at a healthy size 8, there’s been no reason for weight to be an issue for her.

Labels: fashion, modeling, shame

Posted By: Stefanie Hamilton