Group to look at how designers can build up positive body images

A TASK force looking at models’ body image aims to put new guidelines for catwalk shows in place by the next London Fashion Week.

It will publish its recommendations in the summer, ahead of the September event.

The task force is being set up by the British Fashion Council (BFC) with the support of the London Development Agency (LDA).

Its purpose is to look at ways for designers to promote a positive body image during their shows. BFC chairman Stuart Rose led a preliminary meeting with the LDA last week to discuss setting up the task force.

LDA director Helen Keenan said the next step would be to appoint a chairman who would then appoint other members.

Ms Keenan said: “We will very specifically address the question of how does the BFC and the industry ensure that healthy models are used on the catwalk, so the catwalk isn’t promoting unhealthy body images.”

The team will also recommend issues for consideration by government and other bodies to tackle the broader problems surrounding eating disorders.

London Fashion Week receives funding from the LDA.