Lauren Moller Makes A Splash

One of London's biggest department stores is using a size 12 model to launch its new range of swimwear. John Lewis will also change all its mannequins to a size 10. The store said its decision - which has been seen as a victory in the campaign against unhealthy size-zero models - was about being "honest" with its customers.

A recent survey carried out by the store found that 80 per cent of its swimwear was bought by women who were size 12 and larger. Photographs of South African model Lauren Moller in a selection of swimsuits, sarongs and bikinis will be used in John Lewis stores and accompanying publicity material.

At 5ft 8in, Moller has a body mass index of 19.8 - which falls within the healthy range recommended by the World Health Organisation. John Lewis spokesman Mark Forsyth said: "We wanted a realistic image and body shape in our shots. The photographs show you can be size 12 and be healthy and beautiful. "You don't have to be super-skinny to model clothes in an attractive way." "This is about being honest by showing the garments worn on the shape and size of a woman who is more typical of our customers."

I applaud the fashion industry for starting to take a stand for health. I read recently that in the 70's the standard "catwalk size" was a size 6 or size 8. Today the standard size is ZERO.

Source: ASL