Two Sides of the Fashion Coin (Part 1)
As a model in the tough and critical world of second life fashion, one would come across many difficult and sensitive situations that may be hard for them to handle in the heat of the moment. Several moral and professional questions would then arise out of that situation and make us question our very natures and the nature of the industry itself. It would put into question our boundaries, limits, ethics, acceptable working conditions, and politics. Where do a designer’s rights end and a model’s rights begin I wonder. It’s a tough question and I’m sure many would have several views and opinions to add on the subject of this article. But shouldn’t there be a standardized boundary, not just the personal boundary that we set for ourselves? When applying with agencies or for modeling positions I’m sure we are all familiar with the application question: “Would you be willing to change your appearance to fit the clients needs?” And I’m sure that most of us have probably put down yes with slight variations of parts of themselves they would not change. Some of us have that boundary that we do not feel we could cross morally for ourselves and I believe that’s entirely respectable and their personal right. I personally would not change my race to fit an image just as I could not do it in real. There are some that do not believe in changing other parts of themselves- eyes, hair color, shape, size, bust, height, etc., and I think all of that is fine but when does it become interference? When can a model refuse? Should a model refuse? Do they have the right to refuse, and if so under what circumstances?
These are a few questions I will try to delve into for everyone. You may not agree with my thoughts and opinions, but I’m sure that they will invoke serious thought on past, present and future situations that may arise for everyone. When a designer hires a model, it is under contract and that model is to be their “hanger” or “live manikin”. I personally do think that a designer has a right to say how they would like their clothing to be presented no matter what venue or medium- i.e. runway show, magazine advertisement, live model, etc. I also do agree that it is the model’s right to refuse to do something or look a certain way, in which case that model would give up the right to their contract and the designer would then have reason and right to terminate that contract. Does a model get to question why a designer wants a certain thing? I think it really depends on the situation and how drastic the request is. If the designer is asking or telling a model to go bald and naked or walk down the runway with their model AO off and no poses, then I do believe a model has a right to ask the thought behind this. If it is something small and inconsequential such as an accessory or having your hairstyle changed then why should a model have to question that? Why would something so small matter?
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