Size 0 models are now banned from several major fashion shows

Lauren Sharkey
The companies behind Gucci, Saint Laurent, Dior and more brands have vowed to ban size zero models on the catwalk. (Photo: Getty)
The companies behind Gucci, Saint Laurent, Dior, and other brands have banned size zero models on their catwalks. (Photo: Getty)

French fashion powerhouses LVMH and Kering announced today that size zero models will no longer be allowed in their catwalk shows and photo shoots.

The conglomerates — which own the likes of Gucci, Saint Laurent, Louis Vuitton, and Dior — have vowed to stop the promotion of ultra-thin body ideals.

They have unveiled a charter “to ensure the well-being of models.” In addition to banning size zero models from appearing in their fashion shows, LVMH and Kering have also banned girls younger than 16 from doing work where they would be representing adults.

The news comes the day before the official start of New York Fashion Week. Kering CEO François-Henri Pinault said the companies would like to move quickly and make changes, leading many to believe the move will mark a different approach to this season’s Paris Fashion Week.

Paris has typically been home to some of the worst offenders in the size zero debate, making this decision an important one in the fashion industry.

Designers will also be banned from using female models younger than 16 who would be representing adults. (Photo: Getty)
Some designers also banned the use of female models younger than 16 in work where they would be representing adults. (Photo: Getty)

Pinault added that he hoped the ban would prompt others in the industry to follow suit.

France is fast becoming one of the leaders in ensuring the health of models. This year, the country banned the use of unhealthily thin models after the fashion industry was accused of encouraging eating disorders such as anorexia.

Models working in France are now required to provide a doctor’s certificate which states that their BMI (body mass index) indicates they are healthy enough to work.

Paris-based magazines are also now legally obliged to note when a photo of a model has been edited. If they don’t, they could face a fine of as much as $45,000.

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