Body Positivity are two words that are on everyone’s lips nowadays. It is the movement that encourages people to accept and be happy with their bodies no matter their shape, size, gender and skin color. Despite this trend, a recent survey found that 91% of women are unhappy with their body shape and weight, and have resorted to dieting in hopes to achieve their perfect look. However, this can easily lead to unhealthy eating habits; what is more, 33% of people that diet end up falling into pathological eating patterns, and 25% of those develop an eating disorder. And while it’s true that the world is becoming more body positive, it does seem like it’s actually going to take some time before the message hits home, and women in America genuinely start feeling good about themselves.
Clothing for everyone
Despite many companies now using models of different shapes and sizes to advertise their products, there are still not enough clothing options for women that are considered to be “plus size.” According to the market research done by the NPD Group, 67% of women in America are a size 14 or above, yet only 8% of fashion brands manufacture clothing for plus size women. The average American woman is still being discriminated against by companies when it comes to buying clothing, and this is a very negative message indeed. Despite the #bopo movement, it is not easy for everyone to buy fashion-forward clothing – but what can we as the consumer do about this?
Changing our shopping habits
If everyone recycles one soda can, it might seem like a small thing, but on a global scale, it really can make a difference. The same principle applies to our shopping habits – if we show companies that there is a true need for inclusive clothing for all shapes and sizes, they have to listen. You can buy underwear that fits everyone, made to fit all body types. Whether you wear boy shorts or a thong, comfortable underwear is an essential everyday item. Rather than buying from companies that focus only on women of a certain body type, you can choose to make your purchase from a company that supports all women. It might seem like a small act, but if everyone embraced this change, then the manufacturing companies would have to listen to our message of solidarity.
Media representation
We are seeing more body positive messages in marketing and on social media, and it is definitely one step in the right direction. Stretch marks and cellulite are no longer taboo, curvy bodies are beautiful and we are all different. For the #bopo movement to really have an impact though, we need to see this in all industries. How many movies do you watch where the only plus size actor in the cast is portrayed as the funny fat friend? Television series and movies rarely reflect real life, continuing to perpetuate the idea that only certain body types are attractive.
The world is becoming marginally more body positive, but it is sadly still a drop in the ocean. For the #bopo movement to truly sweep the world, every industry needs to embrace the change and move forward.