Over the past ladies ready-to-wear collections in Europe, much outrage was voiced over the thinness of the models used during the runway shows. These voices were heard throughout the industry and were used to express growing disapproval of the chosen few used to present the next Spring/Summer 2007 fashions from Paris, London and Milan and to some extent, New York and Barcelona.

Many of the models were judged as being far too skinny even for the fashion industry’s tastes. However at this time, runway models are not the only ones who are catching the heat because of their size. Many Hollywood actresses and television stars too have come under the line of fire because of their size. Many suspect eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia as the principal culprits.

During the recent October Barcelona shows, some designers refused to work with models who they judged as far too skinny. Some even insisted that models working for them eat backstage before the shows, while some vendors made free food available to all models.

As an editor, I tend to agree that designers must choose models best suited to place a positive light on their creations. That is only normal. People in the public should not expect for designers to compromise the overall successful presentation of a collection. However, designers and editors alike also have the duty of making responsible decisions, which respect the general public.

Generally, I like to see thin models. I love the way long, stunning gowns hang from the bodies of the super tall and super thin clothes hangers like Debra Shaw. Models like that can make anything slinky and glamorous. And it is amazing to see majestic gazelles such as Ms. Shaw hit the runways because they create fantasies of glamour as soon as they appear on it. But this season did prove to be too much even for my tastes. This all came to a head for me this season as I saw one model strolling down the runway of Paris’ greatest heroine in fashion. Upon seeing one far too skinny model in show, I found myself thinking, “Dear Lord! That child looks as if she is about to die! Can someone please get her off of the runway and into a health clinic?” ...

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