I think Karlie Kloss is quite well-spoken for sixteen.

 Reply

I know it's probably not your intention, but dismissing someone's voice because of their physical appearance cuts both ways.

Just because these women look the way they do shouldn't diminish their voice. And for me, I'd rather have them talk about eating disorders, problems, airbrushing, success, than just sit there and be "fierce."

oh except for Adriana Lima. pls.never.let.her.speak.again.

[men.style.com]

 Reply

@IrockIroll: I don't dismiss them because of their physical appearance. I do dismiss them because they appear to have no problem participating in an industry that promotes impossible standards of beauty and then complaining when that industry comes back and bites them on the ass.

@AthertonMerriweather: See above.

@LaComtesse: true, but I feel dirty.

 Reply

I would also argue that Those Who Conform To Patriarchal Standards Of Beauty are a MUCH larger group than just models. Should I not be allowed to speak because I throw hundreds of dollars a year toward fashion magazines? I mean, that's essentially feeding the monster.

 Reply

However, I do think models, particularly those who are thoughtful and honest and have historical perspective, like some of the women in this clip, can offer an insider's view of the industry in all its insanity and hypocrisy that's valuable to the rest of us, and an insight into what it can cost psychically to actually BE the woman who's held up to others as an ideal. If more people had a realistic view of these things, it might actually serve as an antidote to model-envy.

Then, too, there are a few models like Carre Otis, a very recognizable face in the '80s who developed an eating disorder trying to maintain the body necessary to get work, finally said fuck it and allowed herself to gain a healthy amount of weight, and started talking about it:

[www.lilith-ezine.com]

Basically, anyone who's been there and will tell it like it is, is worth hearing from in my book.

 Reply

Bottom line: models are paid to look like prepubescent girls without actually being prepubescent. Any argument that this is empowering is a reach.

 Reply

@AmericanSplendor: I think this is where most of the problems with EDs/drugs come into play. Because girls are entering the industry so young, before their bodies have even fully developed.

 Reply