VICE x Broadly Meets
The Australian Model Calling Out Fashion’s Size Hierarchy
Stefania Ferrario is leading the charge for a greater diversity and representation in fashion. Last year the Australian model posted a selfie to Instagram using the #DropThePlus hashtag, adding her voice to the online conversation calling on the industry to stop using ‘plus’ and ‘plus size’ when describing models who are larger than a US 4. The image went viral and made headlines everywhere. Since then Ferrario has been a key figure in the global #DropThePlus movement.
In this episode of Broadly Meets, Ferrario explains why she sees the ‘plus’ language as damaging and disempowering. The model talks about the repercussions of limited representation, and how a lack of diversity in body type, ethnicity, and age affects audiences. Ferrario also talks about personal challenges over the course of her career, explaining her journey towards accepting her body and self image within the notoriously cutthroat modelling game. She explains how, to her, modelling is not just a representation of physical appearance, but an opportunity to explore various aspects of her identity.
Actor Brenna Harding on Same-Sex Parenting Rights and Female Collectives
Australian actor Brenna Harding was flung into the spotlight at a young age when she appeared on a segment of popular television program Play School with her two mothers. The portrayal of same-sex parenting in 2004 caused outcry around Australia, and since then Harding has been passionately campaigning for same-sex parenting and adoption rights. The Play School moment also acted as a catalyst for Harding to get into acting. At fifteen, she landed a major role in the television series remake of Australian classic Puberty Blues. Her endearing and relatable take on the role of Sue Knight received critical acclaim, and saw her ride a new wave of fame. These days, the now 20-year-old is pursuing passions off-screen, too. Between studying Film and Media at university, Harding recently launched female collective Moonlight Feminists.
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Via VICE Australia