Britain Bans Tiny Models

Inquiry recommends random drug tests, no under-16s on runway

(NEWSER) - Vulnerable young models should be subject to mandatory health checks and backstage drug testing, a British Fashion Council study said today, citing "startling" evidence of their lack of education about health problems and eating disorders. Models would have to provide a signed health certificate from a doctor experienced in recognizing eating disorders before performing, the Guardian reports. More»

Crystal Renn recalls battle back to good health

(NEWSER) - In her teens, Crystal Renn punished herself relentlessly in pursuit of her dream of becoming a model. After years of self-inflicted hell, the 5-foot-9, 165-pound Renn has found success by being herself—she is now the world's highest-paid plus-size model. Time chats with her:

• On her introduction to modeling: "One day a scout came up to me and said 'Oh my gosh, you're going to be the next supermodel.' I didn't even know what that meant. He pulled out a picture of Gisele and said, 'This is who you can be.' But he said I had to lose nine inches off my hips."

It's not all our fault, they say

(NEWSER) - Designers have lashed back at a Vogue editor who accuses them of forcing ultra-thin models on magazine covers by sending "minuscule" photo-shoot clothes no normal woman can wear. British Vogue editor Alexandra Shulman complained in a letter to top designers that the clothing is so tiny magazines are forced to use excessively skinny models with "jutting bones" and "no breasts or hips." Designers argue it's not entirely their fault, reports the Guardian. More»

Anti-eating disorder bill cites 'death messages,' could affect fashion

(NEWSER) - France’s lower legislative body today approved a law banning the promotion of anorexic behavior, the Guardian reports. Applicable to magazines, advertising and the web, the law can impose up to a $47,000 fine and two years in prison for “excessively inciting others to deprive themselves of food." Directed chiefly towards pro-anorexic websites, the bill could have broad repercussions for fashion. More»

Up to 25% of anorexics and 40% of bulemics are male

(NEWSER) - Men affected by eating disorders have few options—with research, diagnosis, and treatment all geared towards women. A new study reveals that a quarter of all anorexics in the US are men, as are up to 40% of all binge eaters. "Society sees this as a girl's disease," says LynnGrefe, an eating disorders specialist. More»