The models on Athleta's "plus" page look around the same size as this mannequin in one of the brand's stores. Neilson Barnard/Getty Images for Athleta
The INSIDER Summary:
The models on the "plus" section of fitness brand Athleta's website appear no larger than a size 2 - 4.
Athleta explains that its "plus" range is "for those larger than a size XL," with clothes "all created with the same proportions as [its] regular size range, only larger."
Other retailers have also been criticized for using "straight-size" women to model "plus-size" clothing.
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The fitness clothing brand Athleta has been criticized for using "straight-size" models to sell its "plus-size" range of clothes.
The models featured on the "plus" section of Athleta's website appear to be between a size 2 to 4, according to Racked.
Take a look at the page for yourself:
None of these models look like they're above a size 4. Athleta
The website explains that its "plus" range is "for those larger than a size XL," with clothes "all created with the same proportions as [its] regular size range, only larger."
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As Racked points out, this is problematic; if you wear clothes in a larger size, it doesn't necessarily mean that you're taller. The article also explains that Athleta's "plus" section is comprehensive, and searchable by size, which makes it even more troubling that the brand doesn't use "plus-size" models.
Athleta's "plus" range is searchable by size. Athleta
It's worth mentioning that, in addition to the images of slender models, the language Athleta uses on its "plus" page — bolding the words "for those larger than a size XL" — is hardly confidence-boosting to customers, either.
But some retailers — including big names like ASOS, which has stopped Photoshopping models' stretch marks — are making strides to show more realistic images of women's bodies in their clothes. Hopefully, brands like Athleta are taking note.
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Athleta did not immediately reply to INSIDER's request for comment.