The Mannequin Debate, Bigger the Better?

When was the last time you walked into a store and saw a plus size mannequin? Chances are that you've never seen one that was more than a size 8. Well, recently Debenhams launched plus size mannequins claiming they represent the size of the average shopper. Which was labelled a decision in the right direction in promoting body confidence. However, some extreme views claim this new launch of the size 16 mannequin is appropriating obesity. Whilst others would claim the size 8 mannequins promote the pressure of a skinny-as-beautiful ideal which is disseminated throughout modern society. Which ever your standing on the subject, it is certainly a bold move by the brand and should be applauded.


This public acceptance of mannequins is highly overlooked, yet everyday we enter shops and are bombarded by images that pressure women to look a certain way. Yes, labels are beginning to introduce plus size ranges and promote them alongside the so called 'average' sizes. However, when was the last time you picked up a catalogue with a 'plus size' model on the front. Hell, it seems derogatory for me to even label women plus size, when many are not. Yet, many modern fashion stores can overwhelm you with guilt when you spot a sparkly frock only to realise they only hold a size range of 6-12, 14 if you're lucky!

On the other hand, the argument of plus size mannequins encouraging obesity could be a logical argument, if you considered size 16 obese. Many women are pressured to lose weight nowadays, yet I can't help but think if this pressure was null and void, society would not have a wide spread issue of weight at both ends of the spectrum. However, the world of fashion is stigmatized with the image of pretty skinny girls walking down the runways, parading the latest designer labels and the lowest body fat percentage in the process. But would we have it any other way? Would you see fashion differently if it were size 16 rather than size 8? 

What do you think? leave your views below!

x