Clothing retailer Urban Outfitters is hawking a new T-shirt featuring a skinny model and the phrase “Eat Less.” It’s not going over well. Here’s what some sources are saying: Amelia McDonnell-Parry, the Frisky: Another stunt from these guys? “You know what I want? For Urban Outfitters to STFU.” Cleveland Leader: “Perhaps some of the American population could stand to take the shirt’s advice, but for those impressionable teens who shop at Urban Outfitters, it’s message is more pro-anorexia than anything, especially when worn by an emaciated model.” Huffington Post: It says Eat Less on the shirt, but the full description reads ‘Eat less or more or however much you’d like in this seriously soft knit tee cut long and topped with a v-neck.’ “Perhaps they should have printed all of that on there.” Anna N., Jezebel: “Perez Hilton may have pulled his anorexia-promoting t-shirt, but Urban Outfitters has stepped in to fill the void in customers’ closets, if not their bellies, with this charming number.” Article by Newser * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * I’ve never been a huge fan of Urban Outfitters, but I have purchased things from them in the past and do think they make attractive clothing. This shirt really pissed me off, though. I’m disgusted that they created this shirt to make themselves look like a “controversial, cutting edge” brand at the expense of those who might be heavily influenced by this message. This shirt has gotten some bad press, so I’m not surprised to see that the company has taken the image off its website. This wasn’t an innocent saying they just decided to print on a shirt – they knew damn well what they were doing. T-shirts and clothing have commonly become platforms for self-expression on views such as politics, sexuality, heritage, relationship status, etc. – but pointing it at a disorder just doesn’t seem right. What do you guys think? Do you think this is awful or are we being too critical? Will this discourage you from purchasing Urban Outfitters clothing in the future?
About The Author
Patricia Colli, Editor of Beutiful Magazine, is a human rights activist, equality advocate, and promoter of health, acceptance and wellbeing. Having experienced disordered eating, unhealthy exercise patterns and poor body image, she is especially passionate about shedding light on eating disorders and the power of body acceptance.
Leave a Comment