Two members of  the creative team at a popular Canadian fashion house recently quit over the  designer’s decision to use size 12 and 14 models in his catwalk shows during London’s Fashion Week.   The Canadian designer, Mark Fast showcased his Spring/Summer collection in front of a star-studded audience using only ‘normal’ sized women.  Though the dresses were somewhat on the mini side, a statement had surely been made.  It was revealed that his decision to avoid super-skinny models led to the resignation of two members of his creative team just two days before the show.  A freelance stylist and a casting director quit over the casting of what are now commonly referred to as plus-sized models. Says managing director Amanda May,  ‘We’re glad we stuck to our vision. We wanted to know that they don’t have to be a size zero to wear a Mark Fast dress. In fact, curvier woman can look even better in one.’

Among those on the catwalk are size 14 models  Hayley Morley, Gwyneth Harrison and Laura Catterall – who work for the modelling agency 12 + UK.

Providing a new look on the runway is nothing new. Publicity stunts can prompt some pretty radical views of what sells.  The Daily Helping doesn’t see this as a stunt or a statement going out of fashion.

Meet Crystal Renn.  She’s considered one of the most high profile, plus sized models appearing on the International fashion scene.  She’s more than curves and a pretty face, for her path was not an easy one and at one time she suffered from anorexia and was slowly killing herself in order to achieve what many considered perfection.  She’s written a book about her rise to success called “Hungry” and addresses her weight, health and self-image. One can’t help but believe such a book would do a world of good for aspiring models around the world.