Shein Apologizes for Unrealistic Maternity Model Photo
Controversy Erupts Online
In a recent move, fast-fashion giant Shein has given moms everywhere a good laugh, but not for the right reasons. A maternity model for the brand posed in blue compression tights and a matching long sleeve workout top, sparking widespread ridicule online.
Reactions are in
The social media post, which has since been removed from the company’s website, has elicited a variety of responses, ranging from hilarious to scathing. One user jokingly commented, "I love this. This is exactly how a pregnant woman looks." Meanwhile, others were more critical, pointing out the unrealistic depiction. "Do they know that the uterus expanding pushes all the other organs up and out of the way?" one person replied. "Those organs have to go somewhere."
The Backlash
Other notable reactions include:
- "What a blessing when you and your ass are pregnant at the same time. Your babies already have a built-in best friend."
- "My favorite feature of these leggings is the built-in no-show bowling ball fanny pack."
- "As someone who works at an OBGYN office, I can confirm every pregnant patient looks like this."
Shein Issues Apology
In response to the backlash, Shein has apologized for the image and removed it from their website. A company spokesperson stated, "We sincerely apologize for the recent product image from our supplier that was shared on our social media channels. Representing pregnancy in such a manner does not reflect our values, and when we learned about the images, we immediately removed them. We are committed to updating our product review process to help prevent issues like this from happening in the future."
Context
This is not the first time the fashion industry has faced criticism for its unrealistic depictions of pregnancy. In 2019, British model Louise Boyce went viral on Instagram after she called out the industry for using fake bumps. Boyce was pregnant at the time and couldn’t get work.
Conclusion
The debate surrounding the use of unrealistic pregnancy models has been ongoing for years. It’s clear that the fashion industry has a long way to go in terms of representation and accuracy. As one writer so eloquently put it, "There needs to be more honesty in maternity advertising. Retailers have to recognize that bumps come in all different shapes and sizes and we gain weight in other places than just our tummies. Your boobs, bum, and ankles get bigger, too."
FAQs
Q: What did the model wear in the controversial photo?
A: The model wore blue compression tights and a matching long sleeve workout top.
Q: How did the public react to the photo?
A: The public reacted with a mix of humor and criticism, with many pointing out the unrealistic depiction of pregnancy.
Q: What did Shein say in their apology?
A: Shein apologized for the image and removed it from their website, stating that it did not reflect their values and that they are committed to updating their product review process.
Q: Who went viral in 2019 for calling out the fashion industry for using fake bumps?
A: British model Louise Boyce went viral in 2019 for calling out the fashion industry for using fake bumps.
