FridayOL

London-based curve model Isabella Moore is fiercely advocating against the damaging impact of unrealistic body standards on young people, particularly in the wake of concerning trends like weight loss drugs gaining popularity. Moore, a New Zealand size 16-18, refuses to succumb to pressure to alter her body and is using her platform to spark a vital conversation about body positivity and self-acceptance.

Growing up in the 1990s, Moore witnessed the rise of the “heroin chic” aesthetic, a dangerously thin ideal that permeated fashion and media. This era significantly shaped her understanding of beauty and the pressures it placed on individuals, especially young women. “It was a really tough time,” she recalls. “You were constantly bombarded with images of extreme thinness, and it felt like that was the only way to be considered beautiful.”

Today, the landscape of beauty ideals has shifted, but the underlying message remains the same: that bodies need to be smaller, thinner, and more sculpted to be deemed worthy. The recent surge in popularity of weight loss drugs among young people is a particularly alarming consequence of this ongoing pressure. Moore believes this demonstrates a desperate desire to conform to unattainable standards and highlights the urgent need for a change in societal attitudes.

“It’s heartbreaking to see young people feeling like they need to resort to drastic measures to feel good about themselves,” Moore states. “Their formative years should be about exploring who they are, developing their passions, and building confidence. Instead, they're being told they're not good enough as they are.”

Moore’s work as a curve model is a direct response to this pervasive issue. She believes in representing a wider range of body types and challenging the narrow definitions of beauty. “I want to show young people that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes,” she explains. “It’s about embracing your individuality and celebrating what makes you unique.”

Her message isn't just about body positivity; it’s about fostering a culture of self-acceptance and challenging the systems that perpetuate harmful beauty standards. Moore’s perspective is particularly poignant for New Zealanders, given the country’s diverse cultural landscape and the importance of embracing inclusivity. She emphasizes the need for media literacy, encouraging young people to critically analyze the images they consume and to recognize that many portrayals of beauty are heavily filtered and manipulated.

Moore’s commitment extends beyond modeling. She actively engages in conversations about body image and mental health, working to empower young people to develop a healthy relationship with their bodies. She hopes that by sharing her own experiences and advocating for change, she can inspire a generation to prioritize self-love and reject the pressure to conform to unrealistic ideals. “We need to teach our kids that they are enough, just as they are,” she concludes. “Their worth isn’t defined by their size or shape.”

The conversation surrounding body image and its impact on young people is far from over, but Isabella Moore’s voice is a powerful force for positive change. Her dedication to promoting self-acceptance and challenging harmful beauty standards is a crucial step towards creating a more inclusive and supportive society for all.