Hurray Filippa Hamilton - Boo, Thumbs Down to You, Ralph Lauren. Pursue Respect for Women's Bodies

Posted by Jeannie Delahunt Oct 14, 2009

Filippa Hamilton was fired as a model for Ralph Lauren, evidently for alleged weight gain. Yet, an advertisement picture shows comely Hamilton with ridiculously reduced curves, appearing almost anorexic.

According to the article, Lauren says the picture was a mistake, released by accident. Let's backup one step. How could the picture be a supposed mistake, when someone obviously put considerable time and thought into creating it? Obviously there was a motive behind it. C'mon, Mr. Lauren, how about stepping up to the plate and taking some responsibility. You might earn some character/integrity points!

Hmmm, research is showing that young girls and women, and a growing body of men, in general, severely feel pressured to look and be perfect. So much so that disordered eating now has a place in the DSM-IV as a viable diagnosis.

Why can't women be accepted for who they are? How come super fashion icons, like Ralph Lauren can't get the message? How is it they obviously ignore the growing epidemic of disordered eating - disordered eating which can, if not treated, become fatal?

Personally, I applaud Filippa for speaking out and standing up for realistic ideals. And Ralph Lauren, if I could fit into one of your designs, I wouldn't purchase it (even if I could afford it) out of principle! And that goes for any other fashion or makeup icon who abuses, and I consider it a form of abuse, against the female physique. Fortunately, the British government is seeking to do something about this kind of hype. Thumbs up Brits! Well, America? What are you doing?

Thank you Ms. Hamilton for your inner strength and character. I hope any young person reading my blog or who has read what has happened to you may be able to feel empowered knowing that there is deceit portrayed in pictures. Not only are you a fashion model but a strong role model with enough courage to speak out against the abuse.

"I think they [Ralph Lauren] owe American women an apology, a big apology," says Hamilton. "I'm very proud of what I look like, and I think a role model should look healthy."

Filippa, I couldn't agree with you more!