Recently, Lane Bryant launched its #ImNoAngel campaign, taking a bold stand against the conventional beauty standards often portrayed by brands like Victoria’s Secret, which typically celebrate a narrow definition of sexy — ultra-thin bodies paired with ample bosoms. The campaign’s mission is clear: to showcase that women of all shapes and sizes can embody sexiness.
While the response to this campaign has been largely positive, some critics argue that it still objectifies women. As someone who identifies strongly with feminist ideals, I find myself appreciating these images for several reasons.
Lane Bryant caters to women who often struggle to find fashionable clothing in the limited sizes offered by mainstream retailers. As a woman who wears a size 12-14, I can personally attest to the frustration of shopping where options are scarce because the average American woman wears a size 14. Yet, we’re often made to feel like we don’t belong in the “norm.”
This is where Lane Bryant shines. They offer stylish clothing starting at that common size 14, empowering women by providing garments that fit well and look good. When I see their promotional images, I think, “That bra looks fantastic on her! I bet it would look great on me too.” There’s a sense of camaraderie and support in these visuals. In contrast, when I flip through a Victoria’s Secret catalog, I can’t help but feel disheartened, thinking, “That looks amazing on her, but I’ll just end up feeling inadequate.”
Not long ago, Sports Illustrated received a wave of online accolades for featuring a “plus-size” model in its pages, yet the reality is that this model doesn’t truly represent what we consider plus-size today. Can we agree that the Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue is primarily aimed at men? It’s not designed as a guide for women but rather as eye candy for the majority of its male subscribers.
In stark contrast, the Lane Bryant imagery is crafted for women. It conveys a powerful message: “Your body may have changed, or it might not fit the mold, but that’s perfectly okay. You look amazing.” This is a message that resonates with many of us. After having my two children, there are days when I barely recognize my own body. Seeing these images reminds me to embrace who I am and to invest in clothing that fits comfortably. It’s a liberating sentiment.
For more insights on similar topics, check out this engaging post on our blog. If you’re considering home insemination, you should also explore reputable options like at-home insemination syringe kits available at Make A Mom. Additionally, for comprehensive information on family-building choices, visit this excellent resource on pregnancy and home insemination.
In essence, the differentiation between objectification and empowerment is crucial. It’s about celebrating diverse bodies and fostering self-love, rather than reducing women to mere objects of desire.
Leave a Reply