V., J.D. V., J.D.

B.A.F.F.L.E.D. Fashion Law

France Takes A Stand Against Unhealthy Modeling--

Just as U.S. Congresswoman Meng (D-NY) is working to address child labor issues in the United States, France is working to improve the culture of fashion modeling in one of the industry's oldest markets.


To ensure the reforms are real, France is requiring doctors' approval for models to participate in shows, proving they are not too thin, and healthy enough to take the catwalk.  This is a major step in an industry that's been fighting labor health and image issues for so long.  The bill passed by the French National Assembly also requires photos which have edited a model's appearance to note what edit was made.  

Similar to the laws already in place in Italy, Spain, and Israel, France's law includes fines for modeling agencies and advertisers in non-compliance.  While there is no law of this kind in America, we hope this is the start of a trend to promote not only healthy bodies in the modeling industry--of all sizes, but positive body images and high self-esteem, too.

Cheers to France on this move. 



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V., J.D. V., J.D.

B.A.F.F.L.E.D. Fashion Law

DVF Urges Fair Treatment of Models--

Diane von Furstenberg is such a fashion icon.  She's a trailblazer in so many ways.  She brought us the wrap dress, has been a major supporter of anti-piracy legislation for fashion on Capitol Hill, and worked with fashion law leader Susan Scafidi in establishing the Fashion Law Institute. Now, she's commanding fair treatment of models as NYFW gets rolling this Wednesday.

Sure, fair treatment of models is nothing new.  We've talked about labor issues models face and the work Stand Up For Fashion (STUFF) has done.  The push from such a fashion powerhouse just might be, though.  For years, major fashion week participants have been scrutinized for their lack of diversity in runway shows and the self-esteem damaging atmosphere for the models they do choose.  As longtime President of the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), Ms. von Furstenberg is saying loudly--no more!

Along with CFDA CEO Steven Kolb, Diane has penned a letter, encouraging this upcoming fashion week be just as much about debuting new trends and styles as it is debuting new attitudes.  She continues to remind us, beauty and fashion start on the inside.  

Check out the letter for yourself.

We love DVF, don't you?!


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