HARARE - Super-sized models will sashay down the catwalk on December 22 to take a stand against the fashion world's role in promoting eating disorders. Organiser of the extravaganza, Mercy Mushaninga, who owns the Gossip Link Internet Cafs, and also specialises in fashion for full-figured women – will open the modelling extravaganza on Unity Day. It will feature 20 models.
The models are said to go up to size 46, and they looked curvier than the industry’s standard slim at the launch dinner of the extravaganza last week at the Piccobello Restaurant. Mushaninga, who recently opened a modelling agency, Gossip Models Zimbabwe, said she had taken this unprecedented step because they were aware of the influence the popular celebs catwalk had on young girls’ perception of fashion and ideal bodies.
She explained that they were aiming for healthier-looking models and getting away from the wasting-away appearance of many models which has been heavily criticised. The 20, varying in age from 17 to 23 years, will vie for the crown which will come with a cash prize of US$2,000.00 among other goodies. Mushaninga herself is full-figured and fabulous, a statuesque diva who used to walk the runway like she owned it (see picture).
The modelling industry in Zimbabwe had support about five years ago but now these girls dont know any modelling agencies, she told invited guests. We want to move young women away from drugs, prostitution and other things we witness all the time. We discipline them. These are well disciplined girls.
It would seem the fashion industry and mainstream society are finally catching on to the fact that beautiful women come in all shapes and sizes. Thanks to the increased popularity of full-figured celebrities, a new kind of body pride is taking shape, one in which women who wear bigger sizes and beyond are embracing their figures and demanding as many fashion options as their smaller peers. From the executive suites to the college campuses, full-figured women are strutting their stuff and showing the world that size has nothing to do with style.
The fashion world is taking notice, offering more clothing in larger sizes than ever before. The full-figured trend has created an increased demand for plus-size models, and Mushaninga says her pageant is following this trend.
Post published in: Arts