Lane Bryant plus size model commercial -This Body. Image: Screenshot
BY KAZAD
FLORIDA-Lane Bryant, a prominent clothing retailer renowned for its focus on plus-size fashion, has sparked controversy with its 30-second advertisement titled This Body, which has faced rejection from certain television networks.
The Lane Bryant commercial showcases an ensemble of plus-size models, including Ashley Graham, Precious Lee, Tara Lynn, Denise Bidot, and Georgia Pratt. The models, some dressed in underwear while others confidently bared it all, radiate self-assurance and empowerment. The advertisement even features an image of a model engaging in breastfeeding, capturing the natural beauty of motherhood.
Within the realm of this plus-size model ad, the women unabashedly express their pride in their bodies. Ashley Graham, a prominent figure in the campaign, encapsulates this sentiment eloquently: “This Body is meant to be seen… “Unapologetic, strong, and beautiful.” Graham’s inspiring words resonate with plus-size women, encouraging them to boldly showcase their bodies to the world.
Despite the commercial’s uplifting tone, a representative from Lane Bryant has reported that major networks like ABC and NBC rejected the ad outright, without thorough consideration.
NBC, in response, refutes the claim of outright rejection. The network clarifies that while they did not reject the ad, they requested minor edits to adhere to broadcast indecency guidelines. This interaction emphasizes the importance of aligning advertisements with established standards.
Lane Bryant, unwavering in its commitment to celebrating the beauty of plus-size women, has chosen not to alter the ad despite NBC’s suggested edits. The company maintains that the ad is a “beautiful and appropriate expression of the women’s body.” As an alternative to NBC, Lane Bryant will broadcast This Body across its own media and digital channels, where the ad’s content is deemed acceptable.
The controversy surrounding the Lane Bryant commercial has ignited a firestorm on social media. Dubbed “the commercial” and “the networks didn’t want you to see,” the ad has garnered substantial attention across various platforms.
The commercial’s resonance extends to Facebook and YouTube, where thousands have viewed and supported the plus-size model ad. The appeal lies not only in its aesthetic beauty but also in its redefinition of societal standards of attractiveness.
NBC faces criticism for its role in the ad’s rejection. The hashtag #ThisBody trends on Twitter, with users expressing their displeasure and defending Lane Bryant’s stance. Critics argue that the network’s rejection attempts to enforce a particular notion of beauty.
This incident isn’t the first time Ashley Graham and Lane Bryant have clashed with television networks. In 2010, ABC and Fox initially refused to air a Lane Bryant lingerie ad, citing its provocative nature. Eventually, the networks reversed their decision, highlighting the gradual evolution of perceptions toward body positivity and diverse beauty standards.
Lane Bryant’s This Body commercial continues to champion the beauty of plus-size women while challenging societal norms. The controversy it has sparked underscores the need for greater inclusivity in media representation and the ongoing struggle to reshape conventional ideas of attractiveness.