Scandal in the fashion world: Ex-model opens up about the pressure!

Scandal in the fashion world: Ex-model opens up about the pressure!

In a sensational post, Dominik Wachta, founder of 1st Place Models, made serious allegations against the international fashion industry. The trigger for his criticism was a conversation with a former model who ended her career after a stay in Milan. The young woman was publicly exposed by a high-ranking representative of a fashion label because of her “big butt” and was then confronted with ridicule from her colleagues. This eventually led to her withdrawal from the industry to forestall an eating disorder, reports vol.at.

Wachta not only criticizes the pressure that is put on models, but also the practices that are often used in the industry. He calls the use of “alibi models” for diversity campaigns hypocritical and points to questionable medical tricks used for weight control. For example, models in France drink large amounts of water before weighing in order to meet BMI limits. Such approaches show that diversity is often just a facade behind which the pursuit of unattainable body ideals hides, as Wachta emphasizes.

Criticism of the ideal dimensions

Wachta describes an incident in Asia in which a model with a hip circumference of 88 cm would only have been booked if she had reduced it to less than 85 cm. This is just one of many examples that illustrate the rigorous standards that prevail in the industry. Wachta also criticizes the expectation that tall models have to adhere to the same measurements as smaller models. “I advocate a new approach in which models should be viewed like competitive athletes,” he explains. The focus should be on health and training, rather than on unhealthy measurements.

The modeling company 1st Place Models takes a different approach. It keeps the squad small, offers coaching and intervenes if there are signs of disordered eating behavior. However, despite these positive approaches, two former models struggled with self-destructive ways. Wachta sees it as its duty to change the industry and wants to make it more humane.

The development of ideals of beauty

The context of Wachta's statements becomes more understandable given the development of beauty ideals over the last few decades. Loud ajoure.de These ideals reflect social, cultural and historical contexts. From the 1920s to today, beauty standards have changed greatly, influenced by various political and social events and personalities.

In recent years there has been a trend towards greater diversity and acceptance. The 2000s saw greater acceptance of plus-size models and diverse body types, while recent years reflect a strong focus on inclusivity and self-love. The body positivity movement has significantly advanced this development and permanently changed the way beauty is perceived.

Diversity on the catwalk

The fashion industry has recognized that diversity plays an important role. A report from glowstaff.de shows that the proportion of models of color in fashion shows increased from 34.5% in 2019 to 48.6% in 2022. However, the reality remains sobering: only 2.34% of models featured in 2022 fashion shows were plus-size models, and only 0.52% of models were over 50 years old.

The influence of influencers active on social media platforms has helped promote different body types and ethnic backgrounds. However, these changes are often slow and the industry continues to face the challenge of creating a more inclusive and accepting environment.

Overall, Dominik Wachta's statements and the accompanying analyzes show that the pursuit of a fair and healthy fashion industry is far from over. It remains to be seen how the industry will develop and whether words will be followed by actions.