B2 – Upper Intermediate
Fashion giant Zara is facing backlash after several of its advertisements were banned for featuring models described as “unhealthily thin.” The decision, made by advertising regulators, has reignited debates about body image and the fashion industry’s responsibility to promote healthy beauty standards.
Read this article to learn more about the controversy and its impact on fashion advertising.
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cp941z3nnnxo
Discussion Questions:
- What does “gaunt” mean? “The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) said shadows and a slick back bun hairstyle made one model appear “gaunt” while the pose and low cut design of a shirt in another image showed the model’s “protruding” collarbones.” Give 2 synonyms and make a sentence with this word.
- What is a “focal feature“? “The other banned advert was for a shirt and the model was said to be in a position that made “protruding” collarbones a “focal feature” of the advert.” Use this in a sentence.
- Define “carousel of images“. “The two banned adverts previously appeared on the retailer’s app and website in a carousel of images showing clothes on and off models.” Make a sentence with this phrase.
Discussion Questions:
- Share your opinion about these bans on some brands’ adverts with seemingly “unhealthily thin models”.
- What impact might these bans on these brands’ adverts have on their business and their image?
- How can advertising influence people’s ideas about beauty and body image?
- What impact can unrealistic body images have on young people?
- Have you ever seen an advertisement that made you feel uncomfortable or unrealistic? Why?
- What changes would you like to see in fashion advertising in the future?
- Do you think fashion brands should be responsible for promoting healthy body standards? Why or why not?