We are
really pleased to see some of the big fashion brands and high street stores
embracing models of real sizes on the catwalks and in-store mannequins instead
of the waif/twig variety held in such high esteem for so many years. This means
there’s been a shift in their approach to better reflect our ‘diverse society’
of consumers. This was highlighted in comments made by Jo Swinson last autumn,
who was at the time Under Secretary of State for Women and Equalities (http://www.libdemvoice.org/jo-swinson-launches-size-16-mannequins-37093.html).
Some men
and women feel pressured into having to conform to model sizes shown in glossy
fashion and lifestyle magazines, and wrongly believe life will be a bed of
roses if they do. Sadly we know that for some, this can lead to eating
disorders, psychological issues and worse.
Sizes also
vary, as we all know only too well, from store to store and brand to brand.
Where we are, say, a size 16 with one retailer, we could be an 18 or 20
elsewhere. Before
the invention of clothing sizes in the early 1800s, all garments were made to
fit individuals by either tailors or makers of clothing in homes. The standard
clothing templates are not adhered to and of course vary with the drape of the
cloth as well as by manufacturer. Sometimes this can even differ within the
same size at the same store!
We say
‘hats off’ to Debenhams for using ‘plus size’ models in their stores, but even
using the term ‘plus size’ has its own connotation that being larger than, say,
a size 14-16 means you need to be in a special category. Retailers like Mango,
H&M, ASOS, Net-a-Porter and many more now have plus size ranges, but Mango
defined ‘plus’ as over a size 12. How does that make the average British size
16 woman feel?!
Why not
ditch the vaguely insulting terminology and celebrate our bodies for what they
are – individual and just as lovely?
Here at the
Get Waisted boutique in Steyning, that’s exactly what we do. We make quality
bespoke made to measure pieces that enhance your shape, no matter what it is,
give you confidence and make you feel special. We’ll give you advice on shape,
fabric, texture, drape, length and fit, as well as accessories. And this applies to men as well as
women.
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We’re not
all made the same shape or size so why should we be expected to conform? After
all, beauty is in the eye of the beholder!
Email: toni@getwaisted.co.uk
Steyning
boutique, 94 High Street, Steyning, West Sussex BN44 3RD
Open
9.30am-5.30pm Tuesdays to Saturdays, closed on Mondays
Tel: 01903
812992
Mobile:
07947 497342
