The Great Tug-of-War: Inclusive Realism vs. High-Fashion Fantasy
For years, the fashion industry has been locked in a psychological battle. On one side is the push for radical inclusivity—showcasing every body type, age, and ethnicity to mirror the real world. On the other is the timeless allure of “aspiration,” the high-glamour fantasy that allows consumers to escape their daily lives.
The recent trajectory of global lingerie giants illustrates this tension perfectly. After facing severe criticism for unrealistic beauty standards and a lack of diversity, many brands pivoted toward “realness.” However, we are now seeing a strategic pivot back toward spectacle. This isn’t a rejection of diversity, but rather an attempt to blend it with the theatricality that originally made these brands iconic.
“exactly what our customers crave – glamour, fashion, fun, wings, entertainment – and all of this through a strong, modern lens that reflects who we are today” Company Representative, via Page Six
This suggests a future where inclusive glamour
becomes the standard. The industry is moving away from a binary choice between “relatable” and “unreachable,” instead opting for a hybrid model where diversity is the foundation, but the presentation remains extravagant.
Redefining the “Ideal” Body in the 2020s
The concept of the “ideal body” is no longer a single silhouette. We are entering an era of pluralistic beauty. Although the “Angel” aesthetic of the early 2000s focused on a particularly specific, lean physique, today’s trends are diversifying.
We are seeing the rise of the power-glamour
look—where strength, athletic builds, and diverse proportions are celebrated within the same high-fashion context. This evolution is driven by the democratization of fashion through social media, where creators define their own standards of beauty rather than waiting for a magazine editor to do it for them.
Industry analysts suggest that the future of lingerie and apparel will rely on hyper-personalization. This means not just offering more sizes, but designing garments that cater to the specific architectural needs of different body types, blending technical engineering with high-fashion aesthetics.
The New Era of Modeling: Professionalism and Global Mobility
The path to success for modern models has shifted. While the “huge break” on a runway still carries immense weight, the career trajectory is now more about global versatility and early professionalization.
Take, for example, the rise of professional models who begin their international careers in their early teens. The ability to navigate multiple markets—moving between Eastern Europe, Asia, and North America—is now a core competency. For models like Lukērija and her sisters, success is built on a foundation of professional training and the ability to adapt to different regional aesthetic demands.
The “discovery” phase has also changed. While agencies still act as gatekeepers, a model’s digital portfolio often serves as their primary resume. The goal is no longer just to be pamanīta
(noticed) by a scout, but to build a personal brand that makes them an asset to a label’s identity.
The Impact of “The Selection” on Career Trajectory
Despite the rise of Instagram influencers, the prestige of a formal “selection” or casting for a major show remains a critical milestone. Being selected by industry professionals provides a stamp of legitimacy that social media followers cannot replicate.
A successful start in a high-profile casting can open doors to:
- International brand ambassadorships.
- Collaborations with luxury fashion houses.
- Increased leverage in contract negotiations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the era of the “Supermodel” over?
Not at all, but the definition has changed. The new supermodels are those who combine physical presence with a strong digital voice and a commitment to social values.
Why is the fashion industry returning to “glamour” after focusing on diversity?
Consumers expressed a desire for the “fantasy” element of fashion. The trend is not to replace diversity, but to wrap that diversity in the excitement and spectacle of traditional high-fashion shows.
How has the age of entry into modeling changed?
Professionalization is happening earlier. Many models now enter the international market in their mid-teens, focusing on building a professional portfolio across different global hubs to ensure a sustainable career.
What do you think: Glamour or Realism?
Do you prefer the high-fantasy spectacle of the runway, or do you believe fashion should strictly mirror real-life diversity? Let us know in the comments below or share this article with a fellow fashion enthusiast!
