# Plus-Size Esteem Killers Study Finds that Even Size 12 Models Negatively Impact Confidence By Jacqueline Parrish | Published 2009-10-22 | Fashion Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/size-12-models References: [nymag](http://nymag.com/daily/fashion/2009/10/non-plussed_study_says_even_fu.html?f=most-commented-cut-7d5) & [newser](http://www.newser.com/story/71881/plus-size-models-hurt-self-esteem-too.html) According to a recent study that was conducted by researchers in the United States, Germany, and the Netherlands, it does not matter if they are size zero or size 12 models, when ordinary women see them, the images have a [negative effect on self-esteem](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/dove-super-bowl). The study found that even size 12 models have negative impacts on female confidence which is especially interesting due to the [recent campaigning](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/limitless-campaign) to have ‘[real sized women](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/curve-by-the-shirt-company)’ grace catwalks and glossies. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 6.9/10 - Popularity: 99% | Activity: 99% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 10% men, 90% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Fashion](https://www.trendhunter.com/fashion) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **Body Positivity Movement:** The movement promotes size inclusivity and is an opportunity for the fashion industry to showcase different body types. - **Virtual Try-on Technology:** Technology that allows customers to see how clothes fit on different body types can help boost confidence and reduce returns. - **Sustainable & Ethical Fashion:** The industry can pivot towards sustainability by making clothes for all sizes and adopting ethical practices, which can lead to positive social impact. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Fashion:** The industry can shift towards size inclusivity and sustainable/ethical practices, which can lead to increased customer satisfaction. - **Beauty:** Beauty companies can promote self-love and confidence, instead of perpetuating unrealistic beauty standards, which can result in loyal customers. - **Technology:** Technology can disrupt the fashion industry by innovating solutions such as virtual try-on and body scanning, leading to improved customer experience. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Body Confidence Coaching Programs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/body-confident-sport.md) - [Body Positivity Campaigns](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/nobodylikeyou.md) - [Body Neutrality Movements](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/health-at-every-size.md) - [Body-Positive Brand Campaigns](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/doves-super-bowl-ad.md) - [Nostalgic Beauty Campaigns](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/unseenbeauty-initiative.md) - [Esteem-Boosting Campaigns](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/dove-super-bowl.md) - [Mental Health-Protective Films](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cost-of-beauty-a-dove-film.md) - [Mock Social Good Fashion Ads](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/not-models-own.md) - [Empowering Body-Confidence Sports Ads](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/doves-2024-super-bowl.md)