Fashion-fest won't be heavied on models

Georgina Safe, Fashion editor

THE debate over too-skinny models has overshadowed the launch of the Melbourne Fashion Festival.
While young models at the opening of the week-long festival last night appeared much healthier than their overseas counterparts, the Australian Medical Association demanded the federal Government introduce a minimum body mass index for models.
"Body image and self-esteem among teenagers and young women in particular are heavily influenced by models," said AMA president Mukesh Haikerwal. "We need to do something soon to prevent young people, especially girls, harming themselves in the pursuit of a false idea."
While the Australian fashion industry has so far refused to introduce a minimum BMI for models, MFF organisers had a nutritionist on hand at its castings to advise on any issues relating to models' weight and height.
"The (festival) takes a positive stance on fashion, and supports aspiring models who are healthy," said MFF director Karen Webster.
Organisers from the rival Australian Fashion Week denied the need for government regulation.
"We don't believe that legislation is required at this time," said AFW founder Simon Lock.
Mr Lock said AFW would release its own policies relating to underweight models later this month.
The MFF, which presents runway shows from today until Saturday, is Australia's largest retail fashion festival. Tina Kalivas, Life with Bird, Alice McCall and Marnie Skillings are among the labels taking part this week.
While Sydney's Australian Fashion Week targets critics and buyers, the MFF sells tickets to the public.
Kathy Ward, the director of Chic modelling agency, said she supported the AMA's call to action.
"It's good to investigate getting some people together and working out what the best plan of action is," Ms Ward said. "I don't believe (poor body image) is totally fashion industry-driven, but we are happy to accommodate some discussions on it."
She would be "happy to entertain a minimum BMI", but said "what really has to change is the standard sample size that the fashion industry uses".