Marks & Spencer Advert Banned Over 'Unhealthily Thin' Model
In This Article
HIGHLIGHTS
- Marks & Spencer's advert featuring a model deemed "unhealthily thin" has been banned by the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA).
- The ASA criticized the model's pose, clothing, and camera angles for promoting an irresponsible body image.
- M&S has removed the advert and stated its commitment to inclusive fashion and industry standards.
- Similar ASA rulings have affected other retailers like Next and Warehouse for similar reasons.
- The ASA's actions reflect ongoing concerns about body image representation in the fashion industry.
The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) has banned a Marks & Spencer (M&S) advertisement for featuring a model who appeared "unhealthily thin," sparking renewed debate over body image representation in fashion advertising. The advert, which was displayed on the M&S app, showed a model in slim-fit black trousers and a white off-the-shoulder top, with her pose and clothing choices criticized for emphasizing her slender frame.
ASA's Critique and Ruling
The ASA highlighted that the model's pose, combined with large pointed shoes and a downward camera angle, contributed to an impression of unhealthy thinness. The watchdog noted that the model's head appeared disproportionately large compared to her body, further accentuating her small frame. As a result, the ASA ruled that the advert must not appear again in its current form and urged M&S to ensure future images do not portray models as unhealthily thin.
M&S's Response and Industry Context
In response, M&S removed the advert and emphasized its commitment to promoting inclusive fashion, with clothing sizes ranging from eight to 24. The retailer assured that all models are selected for their health and well-being, adhering to industry standards. This incident is not isolated, as similar ASA rulings have affected other retailers like Next and Warehouse, reflecting broader concerns about the fashion industry's portrayal of body image.
Broader Implications for Fashion Advertising
The ASA's actions come amid fears that the fashion industry is regressing from the body positivity movement of the 2010s, with a shift towards skinnier models. Earlier this year, the ASA banned a Next advert for similar reasons, and Warehouse faced criticism for using a model with a pronounced collar bone and hip bones. These rulings underscore the ongoing challenge of balancing fashion aesthetics with responsible body image representation.
WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN
The ASA's decision to ban the M&S advert highlights the ongoing tension between fashion marketing and body image advocacy. Moving forward, retailers may face increased scrutiny over their advertising practices, prompting a potential shift towards more diverse and realistic body representations. Industry experts suggest that continued pressure from regulatory bodies like the ASA could drive significant changes in how fashion brands approach model selection and advertising strategies. As the conversation around body positivity evolves, the fashion industry may need to adapt to meet both consumer expectations and regulatory standards.
Images from the Web
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Marks & Spencer Advert Banned Over 'Unhealthily Thin' Model
In This Article
Aya Nakamura| Published HIGHLIGHTS
- Marks & Spencer's advert featuring a model deemed "unhealthily thin" has been banned by the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA).
- The ASA criticized the model's pose, clothing, and camera angles for promoting an irresponsible body image.
- M&S has removed the advert and stated its commitment to inclusive fashion and industry standards.
- Similar ASA rulings have affected other retailers like Next and Warehouse for similar reasons.
- The ASA's actions reflect ongoing concerns about body image representation in the fashion industry.
The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) has banned a Marks & Spencer (M&S) advertisement for featuring a model who appeared "unhealthily thin," sparking renewed debate over body image representation in fashion advertising. The advert, which was displayed on the M&S app, showed a model in slim-fit black trousers and a white off-the-shoulder top, with her pose and clothing choices criticized for emphasizing her slender frame.
ASA's Critique and Ruling
The ASA highlighted that the model's pose, combined with large pointed shoes and a downward camera angle, contributed to an impression of unhealthy thinness. The watchdog noted that the model's head appeared disproportionately large compared to her body, further accentuating her small frame. As a result, the ASA ruled that the advert must not appear again in its current form and urged M&S to ensure future images do not portray models as unhealthily thin.
M&S's Response and Industry Context
In response, M&S removed the advert and emphasized its commitment to promoting inclusive fashion, with clothing sizes ranging from eight to 24. The retailer assured that all models are selected for their health and well-being, adhering to industry standards. This incident is not isolated, as similar ASA rulings have affected other retailers like Next and Warehouse, reflecting broader concerns about the fashion industry's portrayal of body image.
Broader Implications for Fashion Advertising
The ASA's actions come amid fears that the fashion industry is regressing from the body positivity movement of the 2010s, with a shift towards skinnier models. Earlier this year, the ASA banned a Next advert for similar reasons, and Warehouse faced criticism for using a model with a pronounced collar bone and hip bones. These rulings underscore the ongoing challenge of balancing fashion aesthetics with responsible body image representation.
WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN
The ASA's decision to ban the M&S advert highlights the ongoing tension between fashion marketing and body image advocacy. Moving forward, retailers may face increased scrutiny over their advertising practices, prompting a potential shift towards more diverse and realistic body representations. Industry experts suggest that continued pressure from regulatory bodies like the ASA could drive significant changes in how fashion brands approach model selection and advertising strategies. As the conversation around body positivity evolves, the fashion industry may need to adapt to meet both consumer expectations and regulatory standards.
Images from the Web
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