If selling clothes is the object of fashion shows, then why are the models so tall and thin? The average Northern American woman is a size 14 at 5’4” and weighs 152 pounds (according to the department of Health and Human Services).The average model is a size 6 and is 5’10” (with measurements of 34, 24,34). (Nikki Taylor, right)

Fashion designers and beauty editors will use the excuse that the height and weight ratio of professional models show off their creations in the most flattering light. When one looks at the silver screen beauties of the 40s, 50’s and 60’s, we aren’t seeing 6’, 108lb. women.

Most of the actresses of this era were an average of 5’4” tall, yet they never appeared short and dumpy and the clothes we see them in still exude the essence of fine apparel. The primary reason for this is a true understanding of a woman’s body, it’s proportions and the use of tailoring and fitting techniques to enhance those natural attributes. Even older and fuller figured women of these time periods cut fine figures. (Joan Crawford, below, 5’1”)

True beauty isn’t necessarily being seen in the latest Dolce and Gabbana or Gucci, unless it fits your body type. Rather, the true fashionista absorbs what she sees in print and in the stores and translates it into a look that’s flattering for her.

One would think that with the majority of women not fitting the standards projected on the runway that more designers would actually address the reality that is the figures of the women who are really out there. After all they’re in the business to make money, and what better way to make money than to expand your client base.