[Opinion] Brandy Melville’s one size only stores are detrimental to young girls body views

Sophomore+Maeghan+Koury+walks+up+the+stairs+wearing+Brandy+Melville+clothing.+The+Brandy+Melville+brand+markets+their+clothing+as+one+size+fits+all+but+as+of+late+has+received+much+backlash+for+their++marketing.+%28Photo+illustration%29

Rayne Welser

Sophomore Maeghan Koury walks up the stairs wearing Brandy Melville clothing. The Brandy Melville brand markets their clothing as “one size fits all” but as of late has received much backlash for their marketing. (Photo illustration)

Ava Jurick, Writer

Brandy Melville is an Italian fashion brand that has established itself across the United States, primarily in California. Brandy Melville has earned the title of being one of the most popular, trendy and cool brands for young women and teens. However, the one-size-fits-all brand image they represent has stimulated body dysmorphia and shaming in these girls.

Brandy Melville’s lack of size diversity has developed self-esteem issues and body dysmorphia in teens across the country. The truth is, one size does not fit most. There are a variety of body types and Brandy Melville only caters to the smallest size, essentially excluding those who are even average size, making them feel excluded like their body is too large to wear trendy clothing.

In addition to the body shaming they represent, Brandy Melville is not as inclusive as they promote themselves. Their clothing only caters to small-waisted and small-chested girls. They do not have any plus-size or even medium-size models on their website which excludes the vast majority of the teenage population.

In this day and age, eating disorders and body dysmorphia are only getting worse. Brand name stores such as Brandy Melville or Pacsun only having one-size-fits-all clothing items are only a catalyst for mass body image issues in today’s youth. A brand that targets teenagers should promote inclusivity and body diversity since body inclusivity and positivity are such large influences of this generation.

This company is fueling eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa because they only show the brand’s version of an “ideal” body type. Brandy Melville’s website states Women of every age can find something at Brandy Melville to fit their style, closet and budget.” However, a large portion of these people cannot fit into their clothing.

Brandy Melville should definitely expand their size range. This would significantly benefit their brand by selling more clothes to a wider audience and also promoting body positivity to young girls everywhere.