Obesity is NOT beautiful! :(

[Asclepias]

I am getting tired of hearing these obese people try to make it sound as if obesity is some kind of "fashion statement." Obesity is bad for our health, costs us billions of dollars in medical expenses and is just as bad as smoking! Encouraging obesity is like encouraging smoking or any other bad habit. Obesity is NOT fashionable and for a very good reason!

While I think the CEO's comments about obese people were rather crude, I think this woman is even worse to push such an unhealthy lifestyle. If a 10-year-old is on a diet because he or she is overweight, then that is a GOOD thing!

'Attractive & Fat' and Abercrombie controversy - CNN.com



Jes Baker is cutting retailer Abercrombie & Fitch down to size.

Baker, who blogs under the name "The Militant Baker" and wears a size 22, changed the brand's A&F logo to "Attractive & Fat" in a mock, black-and-white Abercrombie ad to challenge the line's branding efforts.

The photos come as a provocative response to contentious comments Abercrombie CEO Mike Jeffries made in a 2006 Salon article about the multibillion-dollar brand's target audience.

"In every school there are the cool and popular kids, and then there are the not-so-cool kids," Jeffries said. "Candidly, we go after the cool kids. We go after the attractive all-American kid with a great attitude and a lot of friends. A lot of people don't belong [in our clothes], and they can't belong. Are we exclusionary? Absolutely."

The divisive remarks resurfaced earlier this month after a series of protests went viral, from Greg Karber's video of himself giving homeless people Abercrombie clothing to a Change.org petition for larger sizes by a teenage eating disorder survivor.

The plus-size community particularly took umbrage to the CEO's business model because the retailer currently does not offer clothes above size 10 or large for women.

"I challenge the separation of attractive and fat, and I assert that they are compatible regardless of what you believe," Baker, 26, wrote in a public letter addressed to the CEO.

Jeffries has since apologized in a statement: "While I believe this 7-year-old, resurrected quote has been taken out of context, I sincerely regret that my choice of words was interpreted in a manner that has caused offense."

Baker spoke to CNN about Jeffries' comments and her motivations to address them. The interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.

CNN: You start your letter with a preface that Jeffries' opinion "isn't shocking; millions share the same sentiment." The comments are from 2006 -- what motivated you to act on them?

Jes Baker: It really wasn't upset or outrage at all. I've been an art major for the majority of my academic life, and so I am always trying to find opportunities to do something artistic.

I just thought we don't see the juxtaposition of typical and atypical bodies in advertising specifically. Since I am a woman and I am fat and that's what I have to work with, I wanted to show that contrast by finding a male model.

Really, it just came because I wanted to not be angry about it. I wanted to not say, "This is an outrage, I've never heard of this before," but say, "OK, well, look at this. Look at how awesome this is."

And, I think when you're talking about really serious subjects, and this is kind of serious, it's important to be a little bit cheeky and pull in a little bit of humor so that it's approachable -- and it worked.

Obesity in itself is not attractive just like being slim and fit is not always attractive. I have seen some attractive obese women. Attractiveness is not necessarily a physical trait. Its how you hold yourself and how you make others feel. Hopefully no one is telling people to become overweight in order to become more attractive. I think the general message is telling people that dont conform to what society considers "ideal" that its ok to feel confident about yourself no matter what your size. You dont have to look like a male preteen with breast implants in order to be attractive.

Since when is being slim and fit not attractive? Lol. Being slim and fit is definitely preferable to being a fat blob. Just because you like giant arses doesn't mean they are good for the women who have them!

Its not at all attractive for a grown woman to look like preteen male with boobs. A big butt stores excess fat and nutrition for child bearing and protects me from hip bone injuries.

 

[ChrisL]

I am getting tired of hearing these obese people try to make it sound as if obesity is some kind of "fashion statement." Obesity is bad for our health, costs us billions of dollars in medical expenses and is just as bad as smoking! Encouraging obesity is like encouraging smoking or any other bad habit. Obesity is NOT fashionable and for a very good reason!

While I think the CEO's comments about obese people were rather crude, I think this woman is even worse to push such an unhealthy lifestyle. If a 10-year-old is on a diet because he or she is overweight, then that is a GOOD thing!

'Attractive & Fat' and Abercrombie controversy - CNN.com



Jes Baker is cutting retailer Abercrombie & Fitch down to size.

Baker, who blogs under the name "The Militant Baker" and wears a size 22, changed the brand's A&F logo to "Attractive & Fat" in a mock, black-and-white Abercrombie ad to challenge the line's branding efforts.

The photos come as a provocative response to contentious comments Abercrombie CEO Mike Jeffries made in a 2006 Salon article about the multibillion-dollar brand's target audience.

"In every school there are the cool and popular kids, and then there are the not-so-cool kids," Jeffries said. "Candidly, we go after the cool kids. We go after the attractive all-American kid with a great attitude and a lot of friends. A lot of people don't belong [in our clothes], and they can't belong. Are we exclusionary? Absolutely."

The divisive remarks resurfaced earlier this month after a series of protests went viral, from Greg Karber's video of himself giving homeless people Abercrombie clothing to a Change.org petition for larger sizes by a teenage eating disorder survivor.

The plus-size community particularly took umbrage to the CEO's business model because the retailer currently does not offer clothes above size 10 or large for women.

"I challenge the separation of attractive and fat, and I assert that they are compatible regardless of what you believe," Baker, 26, wrote in a public letter addressed to the CEO.

Jeffries has since apologized in a statement: "While I believe this 7-year-old, resurrected quote has been taken out of context, I sincerely regret that my choice of words was interpreted in a manner that has caused offense."

Baker spoke to CNN about Jeffries' comments and her motivations to address them. The interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.

CNN: You start your letter with a preface that Jeffries' opinion "isn't shocking; millions share the same sentiment." The comments are from 2006 -- what motivated you to act on them?

Jes Baker: It really wasn't upset or outrage at all. I've been an art major for the majority of my academic life, and so I am always trying to find opportunities to do something artistic.

I just thought we don't see the juxtaposition of typical and atypical bodies in advertising specifically. Since I am a woman and I am fat and that's what I have to work with, I wanted to show that contrast by finding a male model.

Really, it just came because I wanted to not be angry about it. I wanted to not say, "This is an outrage, I've never heard of this before," but say, "OK, well, look at this. Look at how awesome this is."

And, I think when you're talking about really serious subjects, and this is kind of serious, it's important to be a little bit cheeky and pull in a little bit of humor so that it's approachable -- and it worked.

Obesity in itself is not attractive just like being slim and fit is not always attractive. I have seen some attractive obese women. Attractiveness is not necessarily a physical trait. Its how you hold yourself and how you make others feel. Hopefully no one is telling people to become overweight in order to become more attractive. I think the general message is telling people that dont conform to what society considers "ideal" that its ok to feel confident about yourself no matter what your size. You dont have to look like a male preteen with breast implants in order to be attractive.

Since when is being slim and fit not attractive? Lol. Being slim and fit is definitely preferable to being a fat blob. Just because you like giant arses doesn't mean they are good for the women who have them!

Its not at all attractive for a grown woman to look like preteen male with boobs. A big butt stores excess fat and nutrition for child bearing and protects me from hip bone injuries.

There is a happy medium between bone thin and having an arse the size of Texas!

 

[Asclepias]

I am getting tired of hearing these obese people try to make it sound as if obesity is some kind of "fashion statement." Obesity is bad for our health, costs us billions of dollars in medical expenses and is just as bad as smoking! Encouraging obesity is like encouraging smoking or any other bad habit. Obesity is NOT fashionable and for a very good reason!

While I think the CEO's comments about obese people were rather crude, I think this woman is even worse to push such an unhealthy lifestyle. If a 10-year-old is on a diet because he or she is overweight, then that is a GOOD thing!

'Attractive & Fat' and Abercrombie controversy - CNN.com



Jes Baker is cutting retailer Abercrombie & Fitch down to size.

Baker, who blogs under the name "The Militant Baker" and wears a size 22, changed the brand's A&F logo to "Attractive & Fat" in a mock, black-and-white Abercrombie ad to challenge the line's branding efforts.

The photos come as a provocative response to contentious comments Abercrombie CEO Mike Jeffries made in a 2006 Salon article about the multibillion-dollar brand's target audience.

"In every school there are the cool and popular kids, and then there are the not-so-cool kids," Jeffries said. "Candidly, we go after the cool kids. We go after the attractive all-American kid with a great attitude and a lot of friends. A lot of people don't belong [in our clothes], and they can't belong. Are we exclusionary? Absolutely."

The divisive remarks resurfaced earlier this month after a series of protests went viral, from Greg Karber's video of himself giving homeless people Abercrombie clothing to a Change.org petition for larger sizes by a teenage eating disorder survivor.

The plus-size community particularly took umbrage to the CEO's business model because the retailer currently does not offer clothes above size 10 or large for women.

"I challenge the separation of attractive and fat, and I assert that they are compatible regardless of what you believe," Baker, 26, wrote in a public letter addressed to the CEO.

Jeffries has since apologized in a statement: "While I believe this 7-year-old, resurrected quote has been taken out of context, I sincerely regret that my choice of words was interpreted in a manner that has caused offense."

Baker spoke to CNN about Jeffries' comments and her motivations to address them. The interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.

CNN: You start your letter with a preface that Jeffries' opinion "isn't shocking; millions share the same sentiment." The comments are from 2006 -- what motivated you to act on them?

Jes Baker: It really wasn't upset or outrage at all. I've been an art major for the majority of my academic life, and so I am always trying to find opportunities to do something artistic.

I just thought we don't see the juxtaposition of typical and atypical bodies in advertising specifically. Since I am a woman and I am fat and that's what I have to work with, I wanted to show that contrast by finding a male model.

Really, it just came because I wanted to not be angry about it. I wanted to not say, "This is an outrage, I've never heard of this before," but say, "OK, well, look at this. Look at how awesome this is."

And, I think when you're talking about really serious subjects, and this is kind of serious, it's important to be a little bit cheeky and pull in a little bit of humor so that it's approachable -- and it worked.

Obesity in itself is not attractive just like being slim and fit is not always attractive. I have seen some attractive obese women. Attractiveness is not necessarily a physical trait. Its how you hold yourself and how you make others feel. Hopefully no one is telling people to become overweight in order to become more attractive. I think the general message is telling people that dont conform to what society considers "ideal" that its ok to feel confident about yourself no matter what your size. You dont have to look like a male preteen with breast implants in order to be attractive.

Since when is being slim and fit not attractive? Lol. Being slim and fit is definitely preferable to being a fat blob. Just because you like giant arses doesn't mean they are good for the women who have them!

Its not at all attractive for a grown woman to look like preteen male with boobs. A big butt stores excess fat and nutrition for child bearing and protects me from hip bone injuries.

There is a happy medium between bone thin and having an arse the size of Texas!

I agree but the medium should never be flat. I start at your "medium" and go up. Its just as unhealthy physically and mentally to be under weight.

 

[ChrisL]

I am getting tired of hearing these obese people try to make it sound as if obesity is some kind of "fashion statement." Obesity is bad for our health, costs us billions of dollars in medical expenses and is just as bad as smoking! Encouraging obesity is like encouraging smoking or any other bad habit. Obesity is NOT fashionable and for a very good reason!

While I think the CEO's comments about obese people were rather crude, I think this woman is even worse to push such an unhealthy lifestyle. If a 10-year-old is on a diet because he or she is overweight, then that is a GOOD thing!

'Attractive & Fat' and Abercrombie controversy - CNN.com



Jes Baker is cutting retailer Abercrombie & Fitch down to size.

Baker, who blogs under the name "The Militant Baker" and wears a size 22, changed the brand's A&F logo to "Attractive & Fat" in a mock, black-and-white Abercrombie ad to challenge the line's branding efforts.

The photos come as a provocative response to contentious comments Abercrombie CEO Mike Jeffries made in a 2006 Salon article about the multibillion-dollar brand's target audience.

"In every school there are the cool and popular kids, and then there are the not-so-cool kids," Jeffries said. "Candidly, we go after the cool kids. We go after the attractive all-American kid with a great attitude and a lot of friends. A lot of people don't belong [in our clothes], and they can't belong. Are we exclusionary? Absolutely."

The divisive remarks resurfaced earlier this month after a series of protests went viral, from Greg Karber's video of himself giving homeless people Abercrombie clothing to a Change.org petition for larger sizes by a teenage eating disorder survivor.

The plus-size community particularly took umbrage to the CEO's business model because the retailer currently does not offer clothes above size 10 or large for women.

"I challenge the separation of attractive and fat, and I assert that they are compatible regardless of what you believe," Baker, 26, wrote in a public letter addressed to the CEO.

Jeffries has since apologized in a statement: "While I believe this 7-year-old, resurrected quote has been taken out of context, I sincerely regret that my choice of words was interpreted in a manner that has caused offense."

Baker spoke to CNN about Jeffries' comments and her motivations to address them. The interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.

CNN: You start your letter with a preface that Jeffries' opinion "isn't shocking; millions share the same sentiment." The comments are from 2006 -- what motivated you to act on them?

Jes Baker: It really wasn't upset or outrage at all. I've been an art major for the majority of my academic life, and so I am always trying to find opportunities to do something artistic.

I just thought we don't see the juxtaposition of typical and atypical bodies in advertising specifically. Since I am a woman and I am fat and that's what I have to work with, I wanted to show that contrast by finding a male model.

Really, it just came because I wanted to not be angry about it. I wanted to not say, "This is an outrage, I've never heard of this before," but say, "OK, well, look at this. Look at how awesome this is."

And, I think when you're talking about really serious subjects, and this is kind of serious, it's important to be a little bit cheeky and pull in a little bit of humor so that it's approachable -- and it worked.

Obesity in itself is not attractive just like being slim and fit is not always attractive. I have seen some attractive obese women. Attractiveness is not necessarily a physical trait. Its how you hold yourself and how you make others feel. Hopefully no one is telling people to become overweight in order to become more attractive. I think the general message is telling people that dont conform to what society considers "ideal" that its ok to feel confident about yourself no matter what your size. You dont have to look like a male preteen with breast implants in order to be attractive.

Since when is being slim and fit not attractive? Lol. Being slim and fit is definitely preferable to being a fat blob. Just because you like giant arses doesn't mean they are good for the women who have them!

Its not at all attractive for a grown woman to look like preteen male with boobs. A big butt stores excess fat and nutrition for child bearing and protects me from hip bone injuries.

There is a happy medium between bone thin and having an arse the size of Texas!

I agree but the medium should never be flat. I start at your "medium" and go up. Its just as unhealthy physically and mentally to be under weight.

We aren't talking about people who are "underweight." We are talking about people who are obese who cost us tons of money with their health problems.

 

[ChrisL]

I am getting tired of hearing these obese people try to make it sound as if obesity is some kind of "fashion statement." Obesity is bad for our health, costs us billions of dollars in medical expenses and is just as bad as smoking! Encouraging obesity is like encouraging smoking or any other bad habit. Obesity is NOT fashionable and for a very good reason!

While I think the CEO's comments about obese people were rather crude, I think this woman is even worse to push such an unhealthy lifestyle. If a 10-year-old is on a diet because he or she is overweight, then that is a GOOD thing!

'Attractive & Fat' and Abercrombie controversy - CNN.com



Jes Baker is cutting retailer Abercrombie & Fitch down to size.

Baker, who blogs under the name "The Militant Baker" and wears a size 22, changed the brand's A&F logo to "Attractive & Fat" in a mock, black-and-white Abercrombie ad to challenge the line's branding efforts.

The photos come as a provocative response to contentious comments Abercrombie CEO Mike Jeffries made in a 2006 Salon article about the multibillion-dollar brand's target audience.

"In every school there are the cool and popular kids, and then there are the not-so-cool kids," Jeffries said. "Candidly, we go after the cool kids. We go after the attractive all-American kid with a great attitude and a lot of friends. A lot of people don't belong [in our clothes], and they can't belong. Are we exclusionary? Absolutely."

The divisive remarks resurfaced earlier this month after a series of protests went viral, from Greg Karber's video of himself giving homeless people Abercrombie clothing to a Change.org petition for larger sizes by a teenage eating disorder survivor.

The plus-size community particularly took umbrage to the CEO's business model because the retailer currently does not offer clothes above size 10 or large for women.

"I challenge the separation of attractive and fat, and I assert that they are compatible regardless of what you believe," Baker, 26, wrote in a public letter addressed to the CEO.

Jeffries has since apologized in a statement: "While I believe this 7-year-old, resurrected quote has been taken out of context, I sincerely regret that my choice of words was interpreted in a manner that has caused offense."

Baker spoke to CNN about Jeffries' comments and her motivations to address them. The interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.

CNN: You start your letter with a preface that Jeffries' opinion "isn't shocking; millions share the same sentiment." The comments are from 2006 -- what motivated you to act on them?

Jes Baker: It really wasn't upset or outrage at all. I've been an art major for the majority of my academic life, and so I am always trying to find opportunities to do something artistic.

I just thought we don't see the juxtaposition of typical and atypical bodies in advertising specifically. Since I am a woman and I am fat and that's what I have to work with, I wanted to show that contrast by finding a male model.

Really, it just came because I wanted to not be angry about it. I wanted to not say, "This is an outrage, I've never heard of this before," but say, "OK, well, look at this. Look at how awesome this is."

And, I think when you're talking about really serious subjects, and this is kind of serious, it's important to be a little bit cheeky and pull in a little bit of humor so that it's approachable -- and it worked.

Obesity in itself is not attractive just like being slim and fit is not always attractive. I have seen some attractive obese women. Attractiveness is not necessarily a physical trait. Its how you hold yourself and how you make others feel. Hopefully no one is telling people to become overweight in order to become more attractive. I think the general message is telling people that dont conform to what society considers "ideal" that its ok to feel confident about yourself no matter what your size. You dont have to look like a male preteen with breast implants in order to be attractive.

Since when is being slim and fit not attractive? Lol. Being slim and fit is definitely preferable to being a fat blob. Just because you like giant arses doesn't mean they are good for the women who have them!

Its not at all attractive for a grown woman to look like preteen male with boobs. A big butt stores excess fat and nutrition for child bearing and protects me from hip bone injuries.

Again, she is not fat. Look at how small her waist is. She works out.

 

[Asclepias]

Obesity in itself is not attractive just like being slim and fit is not always attractive. I have seen some attractive obese women. Attractiveness is not necessarily a physical trait. Its how you hold yourself and how you make others feel. Hopefully no one is telling people to become overweight in order to become more attractive. I think the general message is telling people that dont conform to what society considers "ideal" that its ok to feel confident about yourself no matter what your size. You dont have to look like a male preteen with breast implants in order to be attractive.

Since when is being slim and fit not attractive? Lol. Being slim and fit is definitely preferable to being a fat blob. Just because you like giant arses doesn't mean they are good for the women who have them!

Its not at all attractive for a grown woman to look like preteen male with boobs. A big butt stores excess fat and nutrition for child bearing and protects me from hip bone injuries.

There is a happy medium between bone thin and having an arse the size of Texas!

I agree but the medium should never be flat. I start at your "medium" and go up. Its just as unhealthy physically and mentally to be under weight.

We aren't talking about people who are "underweight." We are talking about people who are obese who cost us tons of money with their health problems.

Underweight people cost us money as well with their health problems. Bulimia and anorexia are huge problems.

 

[ChrisL]

I am getting tired of hearing these obese people try to make it sound as if obesity is some kind of "fashion statement." Obesity is bad for our health, costs us billions of dollars in medical expenses and is just as bad as smoking! Encouraging obesity is like encouraging smoking or any other bad habit. Obesity is NOT fashionable and for a very good reason!

While I think the CEO's comments about obese people were rather crude, I think this woman is even worse to push such an unhealthy lifestyle. If a 10-year-old is on a diet because he or she is overweight, then that is a GOOD thing!

'Attractive & Fat' and Abercrombie controversy - CNN.com



Jes Baker is cutting retailer Abercrombie & Fitch down to size.

Baker, who blogs under the name "The Militant Baker" and wears a size 22, changed the brand's A&F logo to "Attractive & Fat" in a mock, black-and-white Abercrombie ad to challenge the line's branding efforts.

The photos come as a provocative response to contentious comments Abercrombie CEO Mike Jeffries made in a 2006 Salon article about the multibillion-dollar brand's target audience.

"In every school there are the cool and popular kids, and then there are the not-so-cool kids," Jeffries said. "Candidly, we go after the cool kids. We go after the attractive all-American kid with a great attitude and a lot of friends. A lot of people don't belong [in our clothes], and they can't belong. Are we exclusionary? Absolutely."

The divisive remarks resurfaced earlier this month after a series of protests went viral, from Greg Karber's video of himself giving homeless people Abercrombie clothing to a Change.org petition for larger sizes by a teenage eating disorder survivor.

The plus-size community particularly took umbrage to the CEO's business model because the retailer currently does not offer clothes above size 10 or large for women.

"I challenge the separation of attractive and fat, and I assert that they are compatible regardless of what you believe," Baker, 26, wrote in a public letter addressed to the CEO.

Jeffries has since apologized in a statement: "While I believe this 7-year-old, resurrected quote has been taken out of context, I sincerely regret that my choice of words was interpreted in a manner that has caused offense."

Baker spoke to CNN about Jeffries' comments and her motivations to address them. The interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.

CNN: You start your letter with a preface that Jeffries' opinion "isn't shocking; millions share the same sentiment." The comments are from 2006 -- what motivated you to act on them?

Jes Baker: It really wasn't upset or outrage at all. I've been an art major for the majority of my academic life, and so I am always trying to find opportunities to do something artistic.

I just thought we don't see the juxtaposition of typical and atypical bodies in advertising specifically. Since I am a woman and I am fat and that's what I have to work with, I wanted to show that contrast by finding a male model.

Really, it just came because I wanted to not be angry about it. I wanted to not say, "This is an outrage, I've never heard of this before," but say, "OK, well, look at this. Look at how awesome this is."

And, I think when you're talking about really serious subjects, and this is kind of serious, it's important to be a little bit cheeky and pull in a little bit of humor so that it's approachable -- and it worked.

Obesity in itself is not attractive just like being slim and fit is not always attractive. I have seen some attractive obese women. Attractiveness is not necessarily a physical trait. Its how you hold yourself and how you make others feel. Hopefully no one is telling people to become overweight in order to become more attractive. I think the general message is telling people that dont conform to what society considers "ideal" that its ok to feel confident about yourself no matter what your size. You dont have to look like a male preteen with breast implants in order to be attractive.

Since when is being slim and fit not attractive? Lol. Being slim and fit is definitely preferable to being a fat blob. Just because you like giant arses doesn't mean they are good for the women who have them!

Its not at all attractive for a grown woman to look like preteen male with boobs. A big butt stores excess fat and nutrition for child bearing and protects me from hip bone injuries.

WTF is wrong with you? Do you not know the difference between muscle and fat?

 

[Asclepias]

I am getting tired of hearing these obese people try to make it sound as if obesity is some kind of "fashion statement." Obesity is bad for our health, costs us billions of dollars in medical expenses and is just as bad as smoking! Encouraging obesity is like encouraging smoking or any other bad habit. Obesity is NOT fashionable and for a very good reason!

While I think the CEO's comments about obese people were rather crude, I think this woman is even worse to push such an unhealthy lifestyle. If a 10-year-old is on a diet because he or she is overweight, then that is a GOOD thing!

'Attractive & Fat' and Abercrombie controversy - CNN.com



Jes Baker is cutting retailer Abercrombie & Fitch down to size.

Baker, who blogs under the name "The Militant Baker" and wears a size 22, changed the brand's A&F logo to "Attractive & Fat" in a mock, black-and-white Abercrombie ad to challenge the line's branding efforts.

The photos come as a provocative response to contentious comments Abercrombie CEO Mike Jeffries made in a 2006 Salon article about the multibillion-dollar brand's target audience.

"In every school there are the cool and popular kids, and then there are the not-so-cool kids," Jeffries said. "Candidly, we go after the cool kids. We go after the attractive all-American kid with a great attitude and a lot of friends. A lot of people don't belong [in our clothes], and they can't belong. Are we exclusionary? Absolutely."

The divisive remarks resurfaced earlier this month after a series of protests went viral, from Greg Karber's video of himself giving homeless people Abercrombie clothing to a Change.org petition for larger sizes by a teenage eating disorder survivor.

The plus-size community particularly took umbrage to the CEO's business model because the retailer currently does not offer clothes above size 10 or large for women.

"I challenge the separation of attractive and fat, and I assert that they are compatible regardless of what you believe," Baker, 26, wrote in a public letter addressed to the CEO.

Jeffries has since apologized in a statement: "While I believe this 7-year-old, resurrected quote has been taken out of context, I sincerely regret that my choice of words was interpreted in a manner that has caused offense."

Baker spoke to CNN about Jeffries' comments and her motivations to address them. The interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.

CNN: You start your letter with a preface that Jeffries' opinion "isn't shocking; millions share the same sentiment." The comments are from 2006 -- what motivated you to act on them?

Jes Baker: It really wasn't upset or outrage at all. I've been an art major for the majority of my academic life, and so I am always trying to find opportunities to do something artistic.

I just thought we don't see the juxtaposition of typical and atypical bodies in advertising specifically. Since I am a woman and I am fat and that's what I have to work with, I wanted to show that contrast by finding a male model.

Really, it just came because I wanted to not be angry about it. I wanted to not say, "This is an outrage, I've never heard of this before," but say, "OK, well, look at this. Look at how awesome this is."

And, I think when you're talking about really serious subjects, and this is kind of serious, it's important to be a little bit cheeky and pull in a little bit of humor so that it's approachable -- and it worked.

Obesity in itself is not attractive just like being slim and fit is not always attractive. I have seen some attractive obese women. Attractiveness is not necessarily a physical trait. Its how you hold yourself and how you make others feel. Hopefully no one is telling people to become overweight in order to become more attractive. I think the general message is telling people that dont conform to what society considers "ideal" that its ok to feel confident about yourself no matter what your size. You dont have to look like a male preteen with breast implants in order to be attractive.

Since when is being slim and fit not attractive? Lol. Being slim and fit is definitely preferable to being a fat blob. Just because you like giant arses doesn't mean they are good for the women who have them!

Its not at all attractive for a grown woman to look like preteen male with boobs. A big butt stores excess fat and nutrition for child bearing and protects me from hip bone injuries.

Again, she is not fat. Look at how small her waist is. She works out.

I've heard plenty of people claim women like her are fat. None of them were Black guys but....

 

[ChrisL]

Since when is being slim and fit not attractive? Lol. Being slim and fit is definitely preferable to being a fat blob. Just because you like giant arses doesn't mean they are good for the women who have them!

Its not at all attractive for a grown woman to look like preteen male with boobs. A big butt stores excess fat and nutrition for child bearing and protects me from hip bone injuries.

There is a happy medium between bone thin and having an arse the size of Texas!

I agree but the medium should never be flat. I start at your "medium" and go up. Its just as unhealthy physically and mentally to be under weight.

We aren't talking about people who are "underweight." We are talking about people who are obese who cost us tons of money with their health problems.

Underweight people cost us money as well with their health problems. Bulimia and anorexia are huge problems.

No, sorry. Those problems are not NEARLY as extensive as our obesity problem. Anorexia and bulimia are psychiatric issues too. WRONG thread.

 

[Asclepias]

I am getting tired of hearing these obese people try to make it sound as if obesity is some kind of "fashion statement." Obesity is bad for our health, costs us billions of dollars in medical expenses and is just as bad as smoking! Encouraging obesity is like encouraging smoking or any other bad habit. Obesity is NOT fashionable and for a very good reason!

While I think the CEO's comments about obese people were rather crude, I think this woman is even worse to push such an unhealthy lifestyle. If a 10-year-old is on a diet because he or she is overweight, then that is a GOOD thing!

'Attractive & Fat' and Abercrombie controversy - CNN.com



Jes Baker is cutting retailer Abercrombie & Fitch down to size.

Baker, who blogs under the name "The Militant Baker" and wears a size 22, changed the brand's A&F logo to "Attractive & Fat" in a mock, black-and-white Abercrombie ad to challenge the line's branding efforts.

The photos come as a provocative response to contentious comments Abercrombie CEO Mike Jeffries made in a 2006 Salon article about the multibillion-dollar brand's target audience.

"In every school there are the cool and popular kids, and then there are the not-so-cool kids," Jeffries said. "Candidly, we go after the cool kids. We go after the attractive all-American kid with a great attitude and a lot of friends. A lot of people don't belong [in our clothes], and they can't belong. Are we exclusionary? Absolutely."

The divisive remarks resurfaced earlier this month after a series of protests went viral, from Greg Karber's video of himself giving homeless people Abercrombie clothing to a Change.org petition for larger sizes by a teenage eating disorder survivor.

The plus-size community particularly took umbrage to the CEO's business model because the retailer currently does not offer clothes above size 10 or large for women.

"I challenge the separation of attractive and fat, and I assert that they are compatible regardless of what you believe," Baker, 26, wrote in a public letter addressed to the CEO.

Jeffries has since apologized in a statement: "While I believe this 7-year-old, resurrected quote has been taken out of context, I sincerely regret that my choice of words was interpreted in a manner that has caused offense."

Baker spoke to CNN about Jeffries' comments and her motivations to address them. The interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.

CNN: You start your letter with a preface that Jeffries' opinion "isn't shocking; millions share the same sentiment." The comments are from 2006 -- what motivated you to act on them?

Jes Baker: It really wasn't upset or outrage at all. I've been an art major for the majority of my academic life, and so I am always trying to find opportunities to do something artistic.

I just thought we don't see the juxtaposition of typical and atypical bodies in advertising specifically. Since I am a woman and I am fat and that's what I have to work with, I wanted to show that contrast by finding a male model.

Really, it just came because I wanted to not be angry about it. I wanted to not say, "This is an outrage, I've never heard of this before," but say, "OK, well, look at this. Look at how awesome this is."

And, I think when you're talking about really serious subjects, and this is kind of serious, it's important to be a little bit cheeky and pull in a little bit of humor so that it's approachable -- and it worked.

Obesity in itself is not attractive just like being slim and fit is not always attractive. I have seen some attractive obese women. Attractiveness is not necessarily a physical trait. Its how you hold yourself and how you make others feel. Hopefully no one is telling people to become overweight in order to become more attractive. I think the general message is telling people that dont conform to what society considers "ideal" that its ok to feel confident about yourself no matter what your size. You dont have to look like a male preteen with breast implants in order to be attractive.

Since when is being slim and fit not attractive? Lol. Being slim and fit is definitely preferable to being a fat blob. Just because you like giant arses doesn't mean they are good for the women who have them!

Its not at all attractive for a grown woman to look like preteen male with boobs. A big butt stores excess fat and nutrition for child bearing and protects me from hip bone injuries.

WTF is wrong with you? Do you not know the difference between muscle and fat?

Thats not muscle. Trust me.

 

[martybegan]

I am getting tired of hearing these obese people try to make it sound as if obesity is some kind of "fashion statement." Obesity is bad for our health, costs us billions of dollars in medical expenses and is just as bad as smoking! Encouraging obesity is like encouraging smoking or any other bad habit. Obesity is NOT fashionable and for a very good reason!

While I think the CEO's comments about obese people were rather crude, I think this woman is even worse to push such an unhealthy lifestyle. If a 10-year-old is on a diet because he or she is overweight, then that is a GOOD thing!

'Attractive & Fat' and Abercrombie controversy - CNN.com



Jes Baker is cutting retailer Abercrombie & Fitch down to size.

Baker, who blogs under the name "The Militant Baker" and wears a size 22, changed the brand's A&F logo to "Attractive & Fat" in a mock, black-and-white Abercrombie ad to challenge the line's branding efforts.

The photos come as a provocative response to contentious comments Abercrombie CEO Mike Jeffries made in a 2006 Salon article about the multibillion-dollar brand's target audience.

"In every school there are the cool and popular kids, and then there are the not-so-cool kids," Jeffries said. "Candidly, we go after the cool kids. We go after the attractive all-American kid with a great attitude and a lot of friends. A lot of people don't belong [in our clothes], and they can't belong. Are we exclusionary? Absolutely."

The divisive remarks resurfaced earlier this month after a series of protests went viral, from Greg Karber's video of himself giving homeless people Abercrombie clothing to a Change.org petition for larger sizes by a teenage eating disorder survivor.

The plus-size community particularly took umbrage to the CEO's business model because the retailer currently does not offer clothes above size 10 or large for women.

"I challenge the separation of attractive and fat, and I assert that they are compatible regardless of what you believe," Baker, 26, wrote in a public letter addressed to the CEO.

Jeffries has since apologized in a statement: "While I believe this 7-year-old, resurrected quote has been taken out of context, I sincerely regret that my choice of words was interpreted in a manner that has caused offense."

Baker spoke to CNN about Jeffries' comments and her motivations to address them. The interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.

CNN: You start your letter with a preface that Jeffries' opinion "isn't shocking; millions share the same sentiment." The comments are from 2006 -- what motivated you to act on them?

Jes Baker: It really wasn't upset or outrage at all. I've been an art major for the majority of my academic life, and so I am always trying to find opportunities to do something artistic.

I just thought we don't see the juxtaposition of typical and atypical bodies in advertising specifically. Since I am a woman and I am fat and that's what I have to work with, I wanted to show that contrast by finding a male model.

Really, it just came because I wanted to not be angry about it. I wanted to not say, "This is an outrage, I've never heard of this before," but say, "OK, well, look at this. Look at how awesome this is."

And, I think when you're talking about really serious subjects, and this is kind of serious, it's important to be a little bit cheeky and pull in a little bit of humor so that it's approachable -- and it worked.

Obesity in itself is not attractive just like being slim and fit is not always attractive. I have seen some attractive obese women. Attractiveness is not necessarily a physical trait. Its how you hold yourself and how you make others feel. Hopefully no one is telling people to become overweight in order to become more attractive. I think the general message is telling people that dont conform to what society considers "ideal" that its ok to feel confident about yourself no matter what your size. You dont have to look like a male preteen with breast implants in order to be attractive.

Since when is being slim and fit not attractive? Lol. Being slim and fit is definitely preferable to being a fat blob. Just because you like giant arses doesn't mean they are good for the women who have them!

Its not at all attractive for a grown woman to look like preteen male with boobs. A big butt stores excess fat and nutrition for child bearing and protects me from hip bone injuries.

 

[ChrisL]

I am getting tired of hearing these obese people try to make it sound as if obesity is some kind of "fashion statement." Obesity is bad for our health, costs us billions of dollars in medical expenses and is just as bad as smoking! Encouraging obesity is like encouraging smoking or any other bad habit. Obesity is NOT fashionable and for a very good reason!

While I think the CEO's comments about obese people were rather crude, I think this woman is even worse to push such an unhealthy lifestyle. If a 10-year-old is on a diet because he or she is overweight, then that is a GOOD thing!

'Attractive & Fat' and Abercrombie controversy - CNN.com



Jes Baker is cutting retailer Abercrombie & Fitch down to size.

Baker, who blogs under the name "The Militant Baker" and wears a size 22, changed the brand's A&F logo to "Attractive & Fat" in a mock, black-and-white Abercrombie ad to challenge the line's branding efforts.

The photos come as a provocative response to contentious comments Abercrombie CEO Mike Jeffries made in a 2006 Salon article about the multibillion-dollar brand's target audience.

"In every school there are the cool and popular kids, and then there are the not-so-cool kids," Jeffries said. "Candidly, we go after the cool kids. We go after the attractive all-American kid with a great attitude and a lot of friends. A lot of people don't belong [in our clothes], and they can't belong. Are we exclusionary? Absolutely."

The divisive remarks resurfaced earlier this month after a series of protests went viral, from Greg Karber's video of himself giving homeless people Abercrombie clothing to a Change.org petition for larger sizes by a teenage eating disorder survivor.

The plus-size community particularly took umbrage to the CEO's business model because the retailer currently does not offer clothes above size 10 or large for women.

"I challenge the separation of attractive and fat, and I assert that they are compatible regardless of what you believe," Baker, 26, wrote in a public letter addressed to the CEO.

Jeffries has since apologized in a statement: "While I believe this 7-year-old, resurrected quote has been taken out of context, I sincerely regret that my choice of words was interpreted in a manner that has caused offense."

Baker spoke to CNN about Jeffries' comments and her motivations to address them. The interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.

CNN: You start your letter with a preface that Jeffries' opinion "isn't shocking; millions share the same sentiment." The comments are from 2006 -- what motivated you to act on them?

Jes Baker: It really wasn't upset or outrage at all. I've been an art major for the majority of my academic life, and so I am always trying to find opportunities to do something artistic.

I just thought we don't see the juxtaposition of typical and atypical bodies in advertising specifically. Since I am a woman and I am fat and that's what I have to work with, I wanted to show that contrast by finding a male model.

Really, it just came because I wanted to not be angry about it. I wanted to not say, "This is an outrage, I've never heard of this before," but say, "OK, well, look at this. Look at how awesome this is."

And, I think when you're talking about really serious subjects, and this is kind of serious, it's important to be a little bit cheeky and pull in a little bit of humor so that it's approachable -- and it worked.

Obesity in itself is not attractive just like being slim and fit is not always attractive. I have seen some attractive obese women. Attractiveness is not necessarily a physical trait. Its how you hold yourself and how you make others feel. Hopefully no one is telling people to become overweight in order to become more attractive. I think the general message is telling people that dont conform to what society considers "ideal" that its ok to feel confident about yourself no matter what your size. You dont have to look like a male preteen with breast implants in order to be attractive.

Since when is being slim and fit not attractive? Lol. Being slim and fit is definitely preferable to being a fat blob. Just because you like giant arses doesn't mean they are good for the women who have them!

Its not at all attractive for a grown woman to look like preteen male with boobs. A big butt stores excess fat and nutrition for child bearing and protects me from hip bone injuries.

Again, she is not fat. Look at how small her waist is. She works out.

I've heard plenty of people claim women like her are fat. None of them were Black guys but....

Did you read the link to my OP and see the picture of the woman who wrote the article we are discussing?

 

[ChrisL]

I am getting tired of hearing these obese people try to make it sound as if obesity is some kind of "fashion statement." Obesity is bad for our health, costs us billions of dollars in medical expenses and is just as bad as smoking! Encouraging obesity is like encouraging smoking or any other bad habit. Obesity is NOT fashionable and for a very good reason!

While I think the CEO's comments about obese people were rather crude, I think this woman is even worse to push such an unhealthy lifestyle. If a 10-year-old is on a diet because he or she is overweight, then that is a GOOD thing!

'Attractive & Fat' and Abercrombie controversy - CNN.com



Jes Baker is cutting retailer Abercrombie & Fitch down to size.

Baker, who blogs under the name "The Militant Baker" and wears a size 22, changed the brand's A&F logo to "Attractive & Fat" in a mock, black-and-white Abercrombie ad to challenge the line's branding efforts.

The photos come as a provocative response to contentious comments Abercrombie CEO Mike Jeffries made in a 2006 Salon article about the multibillion-dollar brand's target audience.

"In every school there are the cool and popular kids, and then there are the not-so-cool kids," Jeffries said. "Candidly, we go after the cool kids. We go after the attractive all-American kid with a great attitude and a lot of friends. A lot of people don't belong [in our clothes], and they can't belong. Are we exclusionary? Absolutely."

The divisive remarks resurfaced earlier this month after a series of protests went viral, from Greg Karber's video of himself giving homeless people Abercrombie clothing to a Change.org petition for larger sizes by a teenage eating disorder survivor.

The plus-size community particularly took umbrage to the CEO's business model because the retailer currently does not offer clothes above size 10 or large for women.

"I challenge the separation of attractive and fat, and I assert that they are compatible regardless of what you believe," Baker, 26, wrote in a public letter addressed to the CEO.

Jeffries has since apologized in a statement: "While I believe this 7-year-old, resurrected quote has been taken out of context, I sincerely regret that my choice of words was interpreted in a manner that has caused offense."

Baker spoke to CNN about Jeffries' comments and her motivations to address them. The interview has been edited for clarity and brevity.

CNN: You start your letter with a preface that Jeffries' opinion "isn't shocking; millions share the same sentiment." The comments are from 2006 -- what motivated you to act on them?

Jes Baker: It really wasn't upset or outrage at all. I've been an art major for the majority of my academic life, and so I am always trying to find opportunities to do something artistic.

I just thought we don't see the juxtaposition of typical and atypical bodies in advertising specifically. Since I am a woman and I am fat and that's what I have to work with, I wanted to show that contrast by finding a male model.

Really, it just came because I wanted to not be angry about it. I wanted to not say, "This is an outrage, I've never heard of this before," but say, "OK, well, look at this. Look at how awesome this is."

And, I think when you're talking about really serious subjects, and this is kind of serious, it's important to be a little bit cheeky and pull in a little bit of humor so that it's approachable -- and it worked.

Obesity in itself is not attractive just like being slim and fit is not always attractive. I have seen some attractive obese women. Attractiveness is not necessarily a physical trait. Its how you hold yourself and how you make others feel. Hopefully no one is telling people to become overweight in order to become more attractive. I think the general message is telling people that dont conform to what society considers "ideal" that its ok to feel confident about yourself no matter what your size. You dont have to look like a male preteen with breast implants in order to be attractive.

Since when is being slim and fit not attractive? Lol. Being slim and fit is definitely preferable to being a fat blob. Just because you like giant arses doesn't mean they are good for the women who have them!

Its not at all attractive for a grown woman to look like preteen male with boobs. A big butt stores excess fat and nutrition for child bearing and protects me from hip bone injuries.

WTF is wrong with you? Do you not know the difference between muscle and fat?

Thats not muscle. Trust me.

That IS muscle. OMG. You are more than welcome to start a thread about anorexia. However, anorexia is not nearly as prevalent a problem as obesity in this country. Maybe in France or something. I don't know, but here in America . . . no.

 

[sealybobo]

I agree with the premise.
Its like the way society treats transsexuals. It is NOT normal.

She tries to say she has an "atypical" body type, but the problem is her weight. She is discouraging young girls from dieting and trying to be in shape. I agree with the dieting thing if the girl is doing it on her own, but a lot of these young overweight girls are on diets recommended by their pediatricians. I understand that this woman feels bad when she hears these kinds of comments, but it does not change the fact that obesity and being overweight are not considered "healthy" way to be!

And of course we will have those who are offended by the topic, but it isn't about a personal slam. It is about how these people are wrong for pushing their obesity as being a type of normal variation of the human body. Sorry, not attractive.

I remember Howard Stern caught grief for saying in a year after the movie Precious Gabourey Sidibe would disappear because no one would cast her for any other roles other than a morbidly obese woman, and no one wants to see that.



I was happy to see she lost weight but then read this might be a photoshop? Did she lose any weight? I hope so.

 

[DGS49]

It is worth noting that modern medical science has developed pharmaceuticals that can prolong the lives of obese people by "managing" heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension. A generation ago, you didn't see many "fatty's" in nursing homes, because they didn't live long enough to get there. Today, fat old people can live well into their 80's.

Ironically, "science" has largely contributed to the obesity epidemic by making it possible to live a completely sedentary life. You can do almost everything you need to do from the comfort of your living-room couch, while watching any of a hundred different programs, movies, videos, or performances on your computer or television. If you want to interact with friends or even strangers, it's all right there on your tablet, notebook, PC, or even just your smartphone.

Suburban life has also done a lot to promote unhealthy lifestyles, as EVERYTHING you do outside your home is facilitated by a ride in a car. You walk to NOTHING; everything is by car. Living in The City makes it more likely that you will walk to stores, restaurants, coffee shops, or even the bus stop.

If you want to lead a healthy lifestyle, you have to take the initiative and do it. Most people simply are not willing.

 

[sealybobo]

Obesity in itself is not attractive just like being slim and fit is not always attractive. I have seen some attractive obese women. Attractiveness is not necessarily a physical trait. Its how you hold yourself and how you make others feel. Hopefully no one is telling people to become overweight in order to become more attractive. I think the general message is telling people that dont conform to what society considers "ideal" that its ok to feel confident about yourself no matter what your size. You dont have to look like a male preteen with breast implants in order to be attractive.

Since when is being slim and fit not attractive? Lol. Being slim and fit is definitely preferable to being a fat blob. Just because you like giant arses doesn't mean they are good for the women who have them!

Its not at all attractive for a grown woman to look like preteen male with boobs. A big butt stores excess fat and nutrition for child bearing and protects me from hip bone injuries.

WTF is wrong with you? Do you not know the difference between muscle and fat?

Thats not muscle. Trust me.

That IS muscle. OMG. You are more than welcome to start a thread about anorexia. However, anorexia is not nearly as prevalent a problem as obesity in this country. Maybe in France or something. I don't know, but here in America . . . no.

 

[Asclepias]

Obesity in itself is not attractive just like being slim and fit is not always attractive. I have seen some attractive obese women. Attractiveness is not necessarily a physical trait. Its how you hold yourself and how you make others feel. Hopefully no one is telling people to become overweight in order to become more attractive. I think the general message is telling people that dont conform to what society considers "ideal" that its ok to feel confident about yourself no matter what your size. You dont have to look like a male preteen with breast implants in order to be attractive.

Since when is being slim and fit not attractive? Lol. Being slim and fit is definitely preferable to being a fat blob. Just because you like giant arses doesn't mean they are good for the women who have them!

Its not at all attractive for a grown woman to look like preteen male with boobs. A big butt stores excess fat and nutrition for child bearing and protects me from hip bone injuries.

Again, she is not fat. Look at how small her waist is. She works out.

I've heard plenty of people claim women like her are fat. None of them were Black guys but....

Did you read the link to my OP and see the picture of the woman who wrote the article we are discussing?

Yes I did. I didnt see anything I would object to nor did I see her encouraging people to become obese. She was talking about what I spoke of earlier. The perception you have to look a certain way in order to be allowed to consider yourself attractive. For starters not everyone is attracted to skinny women. There are guys that actively hunt down and enjoy medically obese women.

 

[Asclepias]

Obesity in itself is not attractive just like being slim and fit is not always attractive. I have seen some attractive obese women. Attractiveness is not necessarily a physical trait. Its how you hold yourself and how you make others feel. Hopefully no one is telling people to become overweight in order to become more attractive. I think the general message is telling people that dont conform to what society considers "ideal" that its ok to feel confident about yourself no matter what your size. You dont have to look like a male preteen with breast implants in order to be attractive.

Since when is being slim and fit not attractive? Lol. Being slim and fit is definitely preferable to being a fat blob. Just because you like giant arses doesn't mean they are good for the women who have them!

Its not at all attractive for a grown woman to look like preteen male with boobs. A big butt stores excess fat and nutrition for child bearing and protects me from hip bone injuries.

WTF is wrong with you? Do you not know the difference between muscle and fat?

Thats not muscle. Trust me.

That IS muscle. OMG. You are more than welcome to start a thread about anorexia. However, anorexia is not nearly as prevalent a problem as obesity in this country. Maybe in France or something. I don't know, but here in America . . . no.

No thats not muscle. Muscle doesnt move. i bet if I smacked that ass it would ripple like the waves on the ocean.

 

[ChrisL]

It's hard to tell with "professional" photos. All of the photos are edited in one way or another.

I agree with the premise.
Its like the way society treats transsexuals. It is NOT normal.

She tries to say she has an "atypical" body type, but the problem is her weight. She is discouraging young girls from dieting and trying to be in shape. I agree with the dieting thing if the girl is doing it on her own, but a lot of these young overweight girls are on diets recommended by their pediatricians. I understand that this woman feels bad when she hears these kinds of comments, but it does not change the fact that obesity and being overweight are not considered "healthy" way to be!

And of course we will have those who are offended by the topic, but it isn't about a personal slam. It is about how these people are wrong for pushing their obesity as being a type of normal variation of the human body. Sorry, not attractive.

I remember Howard Stern caught grief for saying in a year after the movie Precious Gabourey Sidibe would disappear because no one would cast her for any other roles other than a morbidly obese woman, and no one wants to see that.



I was happy to see she lost weight but then read this might be a photoshop? Did she lose any weight? I hope so.

If so, good for her! However, all professional photos are edited, so it is photo shopped in a sense.

 

[ChrisL]

Since when is being slim and fit not attractive? Lol. Being slim and fit is definitely preferable to being a fat blob. Just because you like giant arses doesn't mean they are good for the women who have them!

Its not at all attractive for a grown woman to look like preteen male with boobs. A big butt stores excess fat and nutrition for child bearing and protects me from hip bone injuries.

WTF is wrong with you? Do you not know the difference between muscle and fat?

Thats not muscle. Trust me.

That IS muscle. OMG. You are more than welcome to start a thread about anorexia. However, anorexia is not nearly as prevalent a problem as obesity in this country. Maybe in France or something. I don't know, but here in America . . . no.

No thats not muscle. Muscle doesnt move. i bet if I smacked that ass it would ripple like the waves on the ocean.

Sorry, but it is. That is a result of squats and lunges, especially squats with weights.