When it comes eating disorders in fashion, designers, models and editors can host all the panels and write up all the guidelines they want. But sometimes a powerful image is the most effective way to drive the point home.
Star Models, a modeling agency based in Brazil, released new ads that use just two images each: a picture of a model in a fashion design sketch and a picture of a "real" model. Each sketched model is drawn with the exaggerated proportions and long lines typical of fashion illustration. The "real" models to their right are depicted with the exact same proportions.
The staggering visual affect is underscored by the tagline, "You are not a sketch. Say no to anorexia." And while the models have been airbrushed to mimic the unrealistic sketches, it's scary how closely they resemble actual runway models seen every season at Fashion Week.
As widespread as the problem of underweight models is, graphic anti-anorexia ad campaigns like this one have effectively raised awareness. Most famous was a 2007 ad for Italian fashion brand Nolita starring model Isabelle Caro, who was openly suffering from anorexia at the time. Her skeletal image, with vertebrae and facial bones protruding, shocked viewers and drew worldwide attention. She passed away three years later at age 28. (You can see the graphic ads here.)
These new ads from Star Models are less graphic, but perhaps equally effective. Check them out below and tell us what you think -- and click here to see more powerful anti-anorexia ad campaigns.
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These ads stirred up controversy: