Most of the people we see modeling clothes these days still look like they skipped lunch.
However, we have seen an emphasis on body positivity in the fashion industry and some representations of different body types.
After all, most women aren't a size two, so it makes sense that we'd like to see the clothes we're interested in buying being worn by someone whose body we can actually relate to.
That's why sports and outdoor clothing brand Academy has teamed up with plus-size model Anna O'Brien to offer a line of activewear for the more voluptuous of us.
While most people were thrilled to find out that there was a line of workout clothing especially for plus-size women, others were not as kind.
It wouldn't be the first time a plus-size model was cruelly shamed by an internet troll. This time, however, the brand itself stepped in to come to Anna and all plus-size women's defense.
As a plus-size model who posts plenty of photos on Instagram, Anna is no stranger to bullies.
That being said, the model was excited to team up with Academy to promote a line of clothing that will help women of all shapes and sizes stay active.
Anna shares:
I am so excited to be partnering with @Academy on the launch of their new plus size activewear BCG Plus. Let’s quickly talk about why this is so important. For many people when starting a fitness journey, a sporting goods store is the first place they think to buy workout gear.
Imagine what happens when a plus size woman does just that, and finds nothing in her size? An opportunity to find joy in movement is lost. I am so happy Academy recognized this need and is now providing affordable plus options in store and online at academy.com
Anna raises a good point, that the lack of activewear available for women like her is a barrier to a healthy lifestyle in itself.
Again most people were thrilled to see this inclusive line of clothing being modeled by Anna.
Users sing Anna's praises by saying things like, "finally a plus sized fitness ambassador, thank you."
Unfortunately, other users had nothing nice to say. That's to be expected, but what was a little more unusual is how Academy reacted.
The initial mean comment said, "This is disgusting you are making being fat a good thing people should be ashamed of being fat not proud."
Luckily, Anna didn't even have to fire back herself. Academy responded on their own Instagram by saying:
Hi James, at Academy, we truly believe every woman should have the same opportunity to enjoy sports and the outdoors. As a result, we will continue to represent a wide range of body types. We’re all different, but our access to an active lifestyle shouldn’t be.
Of course, that's not the only nice thing Academy had to say about Anna.
We think you did an incredible job putting yourself out there, showing our line and being such an ambassador for us. You are amazing and an inspiration, and we appreciate you! We hope you saw all the positive comments on this and how much you have touched and inspired women.
Most of us can agree that clothes should be available to everyone no matter how big or small they are.
Brands like Academy are paving the way towards a more inclusive fashion industry.
Be sure to SHARE this story with anyone you know who loves body positivity!