We don’t want plus size

Indian designers veto plus-size models on the ramp, calling instead for ‘fitter’ women.

Will the ramp always remain the home of anorexic figures? While the international fashion world is debating the pros and cons of plus-size models on the runway, Indian designers veto the idea.

HT Image

A remark by Welsh designer and Britain’s Next Top Model judge, Julien McDonald, has caused a rift in the international fashion industry. As McDonald called plus-size models a “joke”, supermodel Elle Macpherson and actor Charley Speed called for models with ”realistic” figures.

With Couture Week around the corner, HT City asked Indian designers if they would consider plus-size models for their shows.

“I support McDonald because I think on similar lines,” says designer Varun Bahl. “Many girls get inspired by slim models. Plus-size women don’t fit into the fashion business.”

“McDonald was talking realistically. Do we really want to see plus-size women walking the ramp?” asks designer Rina Dhaka.

Stylist Ranjunee Chakma explains that the first requirement of every garment is a well-toned body that can carry it off well. “You can’t be fat and a supermodel,” she says.

“No one is saying models should be size zero. Size eight is a healthy, toned and fit figure,” says model Sonalika Sahay.

Fashion photographer Vikram Bawa has a different take: “These designers can’t make good clothes for plus-size models, that’s why they come up with such comments. With right clothes, confidence and designer, even the curvier women can be successful models.”

(This (Britain’s Next Top Model) is a serious show. you can’t have a plus-size girl winning — it makes it a joke... if you are a size 14 in a room full of size eights, you’re in the wrong room. -Julien McDonald, designer and judge on the show)