LVMH and Kering join hands to ban size zero models
Two of the largest luxury conglomerates, LVMH and Kering, have decided that they will stop hiring size zero models, throughout all their brands. Marking the first time that the two competitors work together, both brands will establish a charter for the well-being of models hoping that other brands will follow soon.
The charter applies to all brands of both luxury groups from the upcoming fashion weeks that start in New York on Thursday, implying that models must have a valid medical certificate, attesting to their good health and ability to work, obtained less than six months before the shooting or the fashion show. Further, models below the age of 16 must not be hired by brands to take part in shows or shootings representing an adult. The charter was set up following allegations made against Balenciaga in February during Paris Fashion Week, a brand in the Kering portfolio which reportedly left over 150 models waiting for hours in a dark stairwell while they went for lunch.
‘Respecting the dignity of all women has always been both a personal commitment for me and a priority for Kering as a Group. Through the establishment of this charter and our commitment to abide by its terms, we are once again manifesting the importance of this core value in a very concrete manner. We hope to inspire the entire industry to follow suit, thus making a real difference in the working conditions of fashion models industry-wide’ said Francois-Henri Pinault, Chairman and CEO of Kering.
‘I am deeply committed to ensuring that the working relationship between LVMH Group brands, agencies and models goes beyond simply complying with the legal requirements. The well-being of models is of great importance to us. As the leader in the luxury sector, we believe it is our role to be at the forefront of this initiative. We have the responsibility of building new standards for fashion and we hope to be followed by other players in our sector,’ added Antoine Arnault, member of LVMH Board of Directors, Chairman of Loro Piana and Chief Executive Officer of Berluti.
The charter, which is applicable worldwide, reflects high standards of integrity, responsibility and respect for those concerned. According to both brands it will guarantee ‘the well-being of models’. All of their fashion brands have committed to banning models below French size 34 for women and 44 for men. Size 32 in France corresponds to size 0 in the United States. A monitoring committee, made up of representatives of the brands, agencies and models, will meet each year (once every six months for the first year).
Follow Fashion Model Directory on Pinterest, Facebook, Linked In and Twitter!
