Powerhouse fashion giants, Kering and LVMH, have paired to protect runway models from mistreatment.
In 2015, the French government passed a law that detailed a ban on unhealthily thin models from the catwalk & photoshoots. This would also include any airbrushing added to appear thinner/larger unless accompanied by a clear label of ”retouched photograph” from October of this year.
According to the legislation in question, models would thereafter have to be healthy akin to their respective medical certificate. This would include their BMI measurement. Non-compliant companies, magazines or designers would face a hefty fine of approximately $82,000. Maybe even a 6 month spell in jail!
However, this has taken some time to come into practice. Recent news from companies KERING and LVMH whom own some of the biggest fashion brands e.g. , Gucci, Dior etc. have declared they will abide by the ruling. This means the relevant brands will legally be adhering to the French law passed in 2015. Any models or ambassadors used by them will have to be of a certain condition. In a fairly detailed charter released on Wednesday last, the two companies stated:
Our groups strongly believe that it is our ethical and social responsibility to ensure the well-being of all models working with our Houses. This belief echoes our strong commitment to human rights, respect for diversity and gender equality. Therefore, after consulting industry professionals, we have jointly developed guidelines, which go beyond the legal requirements, in order to ensure that fashion models are always provided with proper working conditions. We hope to see the whole fashion industry follow suit…
The news comes after a series of reports this year regarding mistreatment or false advertising. This was reported of brands that included Yves Saint Laurent, Balenciaga and . You can read Kering and LVMH’s full statement/guidelines here.
What do you think about these new laws? Let us know!
