Is Body Positivity the New Standard?

October 13, 2024 - As young girls, we’re constantly exposed to images of the “perfect” woman, the “perfect” body type, and, essentially, the “perfect” everything. As we grow into adulthood, this unrealistic idea of perfection tends to stick with us. From the supermodels we see in the media to the clothes on the racks at our favorite stores, the concept of “perfect” can feel haunting. So here’s the real question: How does the fashion industry continue to push this idea, and when will “body positivity” finally become the norm?

Growing up, we all figure out our personal style, from favorite colors to the silhouettes that complement our bodies. But let’s be real—it also comes with a mental battle. What we want to wear doesn’t always feel “acceptable” by society’s standards. Why do we need to conform to the fashion industry’s typical sizing when the industry itself should be embracing realistic body types?

Let’s face it: Most of us don’t have the idealized “supermodel thin” or “hourglass” figure, and it’s hard to feel confident in our skin when the media we consume contradicts that. As time moves forward and the world changes, we can only hope that the fashion industry does too. The constant inner dialogue of “Am I skinny enough?” or “I can’t try on that dress, I know it won’t fit” is something many of us experience in silence—and that’s okay. It’s normal to struggle with these thoughts when the industry has been projecting impossible standards on us for so long.

Thankfully, we’re starting to see progress. The battle between traditional beauty standards and the push for body positivity is in full swing. Many brands are expanding their size ranges beyond the typical zeros and twos, offering sizes from XXL to 6XL and even custom sizing. Slowly but surely, the industry is starting to realize that there isn’t a “perfect” woman—all women are beautiful, and that diversity deserves to be celebrated.

For us, this shift is exhilarating. Not because the fashion industry is creating something new, but because it’s finally catching up with the reality of today’s world. Body positivity is vital, especially in an industry that exists to make people feel beautiful. Fashion is art, and just like art, it should embrace different looks, sizes, and styles. At the end of the day, no one’s going to remember whether we were a size two. What we will remember are the parts of ourselves we and others loved, and that’s what the fashion industry should focus on showcasing.

P.S.

Just a reminder: Everyone is beautiful in their own way. There’s no such thing as a “perfect” person, and it’s those so-called imperfections that make you who you are. Refusing to let a dress size or trend define you is the most perfect thing you can do.

With love and confidence,

Gabrielle Ramos, Intern