Edited by Lester Brathwaite
President of the CFDA Diane von Furstenberg and chief executive officer Steven Kolb sent out a letter Tuesday reinforcing the Health as Beauty and Diversity initiative as well as recommending that models show a valid ID on show day to prove that they are at least 16.
Edited by Kirby Marzec
I am beginning to think that the modeling industry presents more downfalls and less perks as I continue to analyze its professions. Despite the fame, gorgeous fashion, “pampering,” and jet-setting, party lifestyle, models have their body image, complexion, health, drug habit and sanity to worry about. It’s pretty clear to me which list takes precedence in my life, but some girls will do just about anything to get their face in an editorial and the money in their bank account…even surrendering to sexual harassment and exploitation.
As Fashion Indie has made quite evident, we don’t think that a boob here and a butt cheek there is cause for concern, but when you really think about what goes on behind the scenes of what we dub a Fashion Porn spread, there is much room for legal and ethical error. To many, models are “canvases” and for photographers or stylists to perfect their masterpiece, some nudity might be involved. But aren’t the majority of models under the age of 18, non-English speaking foreigners who are looking to enhance their career? Essentially, photographers, stylists, production crew and practically anyone involved with the shoot have full access to manipulating models and getting them to do exactly what they want, if not for the spread, for some carnal, libido driven desire. And many models, hungry for the fame and fortune are willing to give them exactly what they want: a boob, a butt, a whole naked body even.
There are dozens upon dozens of model sexual harassment horror stories, but bringing light to the issue is model and victim, Sara Ziff in her documentary about the “real world” of teen modeling, Picture Me. While the documentary may be somewhat amateur and of home-video caliber, it certainly has potential to inspire the safe, legally strict model union they all deserve. The modeling industry isn’t dying anytime soon, and neither should the self-esteem and will-power of young, successful models.
Thanks NY Mag!
