'It's dangerous': Woman's viral tweet about 'inclusive' Fabletics mannequin sparks backlash
A political journalist and commentator did not hold back after spotting a curvy mannequin displayed in a store window.
On Thursday, Isabel Oakeshott took to Twitter to share a photo of a plus size mannequin wearing a chartreuse velour athleisure look in the window of a London Fabletics.
While the brand, co-owned by actress Kate Hudson, caters to sizes XXS-4X, Oakeshott took issue with the brand's inclusive marketing.
"This, in a Regent St fitness store, is what obesity looks like. Flabby curves highlighted in hideous lime green velour. The so-called 'body positivity' movement is not 'inclusive,' it’s dangerous," she tweeted.
This, in a Regent St fitness store, is what obesity looks like. Flabby curves highlighted in hideous lime green velour. The so-called “body positivity” movement is not “inclusive”, it’s dangerous. pic.twitter.com/OjWcGaYtNS
— Isabel Oakeshott (@IsabelOakeshott) January 6, 2022
Oakeshott's post was immediately met with widespread backlash on Twitter. Dr. Jaclyn Siegel, a female social psychologist, pointed out that the mannequin accurately represents the average-sized person and that size is not an accurate representation of health.
"This is a mannequin of an average-sized person wearing clothes that work with their body," Siegel wrote. "Tons of people have this body shape, and that's fine. 'Obesity' is a body size—a calculation of weight divided by height—not a disease. And not something to be ashamed of."
"The body represented is not even close to 'dangerous' it’s a regular human body. It’s not a new body type either," another chimed in. "In reality, the concept that thin represents health and beauty is not only new, it’s entirely unfounded. You’re the one being dangerous."
Another tweeted that if Oakeshott thinks the people who represent said body type are obese and need to exercise, they should be able to shop for workout clothes without being criticized.
"One of the most effective ways to combat obesity is through exercise, which won't happen if the countless women and men of this shape are ridiculed in this way," they wrote.
I bought the dangerous outfit!! https://t.co/BARryVQVvC pic.twitter.com/ACXJWF9Ysn
— ሶፊያ (@SophiaTassew) January 9, 2022
One Twitter user named Sophia Tassew user actually purchased the outfit and shared a selfie wearing the look in question.
"I bought the dangerous outfit!" they wrote.
Twitter erupted in praise for Tassew for expertly shutting down Oakeshott in style.
"This has made my day," one woman replied. "You have absolutely demolished Oakeshott and you look amazing. I thank you!"
"You are my Twitter hero," another echoed.
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