It’s a sensitive subject. And that is precisely why I think it is worth talking about.
For many years, fashion was associated with extremely thin bodies. Today, thankfully, we see much more diversity: different sizes, ages, heights and body types. I see this as a positive evolution. Women are different, and fashion exists for real women.
But I also believe there is something that has become increasingly difficult to say: a brand has its own visual identity and should be free to choose how it presents its designs.
When I design a swimsuit or bikini, I think about proportions, lines, cuts, necklines, leg heights and how every element interacts with the body. So when it comes to presenting a collection, I look for a body type that allows those lines and details to be seen as I originally envisioned them.
Personally, I am drawn to bodies that look healthy, balanced and cared for. And that does not necessarily mean being thin.
A woman can have curves and be fit. She can wear a size M, L or XL and have a strong, beautiful body. In the same way, being very thin does not automatically mean being healthy.
I think this is an important distinction that we sometimes forget: size and health are not the same thing.
Supporting body diversity should not mean presenting every physical condition as an ideal of health. Being underweight, overweight or living with obesity can all be associated with health concerns. But acknowledging that should never become an excuse to judge someone or decide which body deserves to wear a certain piece of clothing.
Because a woman does not need a perfect body to wear a bikini.
Or to feel attractive.
Or to enjoy the beach.
Or to wear whatever she likes.
As a designer, however, when I create a campaign, I am also creating an image. I choose a model just as I choose a location, the lighting, the styling or the photography. All of these elements are part of a brand’s visual language.
And I believe brands should be able to make those choices without every decision automatically being interpreted as a statement about which bodies are valid and which are not.
In my case, I am not looking for extreme thinness. I am interested in an image that feels feminine, natural, healthy and strong. A body that complements the garment without becoming the sole focus of the photograph.
Because ultimately, my job is not to decide what a woman’s body should look like.
My job is to design for it.
And perhaps real progress is not about replacing one beauty ideal with another. Perhaps it is about reaching a point where we can care about our health, accept that bodies are different and, at the same time, allow every woman — and every brand — to have their own vision of beauty.