Anyone who takes an interest in the fashion world would be forgiven for thinking that feminism had never happened at all. After all the protests and discussions we still live in a social climate in which women are encouraged to slim until they waste away to nothing, achieving the size zero physique that is currently in vogue. Despite all the rhetoric based on notions of individuality and self-love, to those of us with natural curves the concept of size zero is seemingly nothing more than a modern-day corset.
The constant commercialism surrounding (junk) food products juxtaposed with scarily skeletal glamour models is unsurprising causing a disturbing dose of disgust and confusion in the younger generations when it comes to their body image. You only need to saunter down to the Oxford Street branch of Top shop, and you will find an extensive pick "n" mix sweet range stocked not too far away from the size six jeans which is frighteningly still one size above the highly controversial size zero (the equivalent to a UK size 4).
Verbal protests have come from conscientious celebrity candidates such as Kate Winslet and Cameron Diaz who are more than aware of media pressure to maintain a certain type of image for the spotlight and furthermore blame the fashion world for the rising trend in tightening the belt.
In contrast, Naomi Campbell, has relentlessly defended the industry that has brought her international fame and unimaginable fortune claiming that there is no pressure on models to be skinny, it is in fact their own psychological disorders that are to blame. Perhaps she has a point, but she should also take some time out to question what has prompted these disorders in the first place.
Size Zero originally gained notoriety when a young model named Luisel Ramos died during Uruguay's Fashion Week. It was revealed that the Ramos had died of heart failure at the Catwalk show as a result of starving herself for several days. A report into her death was made public late last year that thankfully led Italian Fashion Designers to ban size zero models from showcasing their latest collections. Baring in mind the damage size zero is causing to young people, we can only hope that it won't be long before the rest of the world follows suit.
