TOW #11- You Are Not A Sketch

            Eating disorders have become a growing problem, especially in the fashion industry, throughout recent years. In 2013, Star Models, a modeling agency based in Brazil, released ads that each show two side by side images: a picture of a model in a fashion design sketch and a picture of a "real" model. Through this comparison and the words next to these images, this anti-anorexia ad campaign effectively raises awareness.

For each ad, the sketched model is drawn with the exaggerated proportions and long lines typical of fashion illustration. The "real" models to their right are depicted with the exact same proportions. The visual affect is quite disturbing, revealing the scary similarities that are seen on the catwalk during fashion week. The sketches brought to life are nothing more than skin and bones that resemble the unhealthy standards that can pressure women and men. In addition to the images, the visual text is emphasized with the tagline, "You are not a sketch. Say no to anorexia." It sends a powerful message to encourage a healthy body image and to expose the detrimental standards seen in the fashion industry.

As widespread as the problem of underweight models is, graphic anti-anorexia ad campaigns like this one have effectively raised awareness. As the fashion industry changes, our society must do the same. We need to be more accepting of all body types and embrace our differences that make us unique.