Why Are Models in Paris So Skinny?

By Alice Nichols

If you’ve ever seen a fashion show in Paris, you may have noticed that the models tend to be extremely skinny. This has led to a lot of criticism and concern about the impact this may have on young people’s body image.

But why are models in Paris so skinny? Let’s explore some of the reasons behind this trend.

High Fashion Standards

Paris is known as one of the fashion capitals of the world, and the designers who show their collections there are held to incredibly high standards. These designers often want their clothes to be seen on a specific type of body, and that body type tends to be very thin. In fact, many designers create clothes with very limited sizes and proportions, which can only fit very lean models.

Cultural Ideals

In addition to high fashion standards, cultural ideals also play a role in why models in Paris are so skinny. In many parts of Europe, including France, being thin is considered desirable. This is partly due to historical factors – in the past, being overweight was associated with lower social status because it was seen as a sign that someone couldn’t afford enough food.

The Pressure to Stand Out

Another reason why models in Paris are so skinny is because there is a lot of pressure on them to stand out from their peers. There are thousands of aspiring models who would do anything for a chance to walk in a runway show during Paris Fashion Week. In order to get noticed by designers and bookers, many models feel like they need to be as thin as possible.

The Impact on Body Image

While there may be multiple reasons why models in Paris are so skinny, it’s important not to overlook the impact this trend can have on young people’s body image. When young girls see images of extremely thin women being held up as the epitome of beauty, it can be harmful to their self-esteem and lead to a distorted perception of what is healthy or attractive.

Conclusion

So why are models in Paris so skinny? It’s a complex issue that involves high fashion standards, cultural ideals, and pressure to stand out.

While there may be some benefits to having a specific body type for runway shows, it’s important to remember that this trend can have negative consequences as well. By being aware of the reasons behind this trend, we can start to have more nuanced conversations about body image and representation in the fashion industry.