Influencers and Weight Loss: Mixed Reactions from Fans
Followers of plus-size influencers are feeling a sense of abandonment as many of their role models choose to lose weight. Some fans express disappointment, wondering why their influencers no longer embrace their previous body types. As one influencer pointed out, the feedback often revolves around these feelings of betrayal.
Kelly Osbourne, who has faced her own challenges with weight and alcoholism, has experienced significant public scrutiny. Celebrities like Lizzo have recently made headlines for their weight loss, with Lizzo celebrating a milestone she hadn’t seen on the scale since 2014.
Some people, however, are looking for someone to blame. Ray Serna, founder of a clothing brand, voices concern over societal pressures to conform to an ideal body image. He perceives this trend as deeply rooted in patriarchal and racist ideals, suggesting that the fashion industry has not always served its community well.
Serna reflects on the shift he’s seen, saying that discovering inclusive sizing changed his perspective on fashion positively. This newfound belief has fostered a sense of community and acceptance among those who have often felt excluded.
As observers note, trends focusing on weight loss, sometimes dubbed “Skinnytok,” can drive dangerous behaviors around food. Celebrities like Kelly Clarkson and Adele are among those on weight loss journeys, sparking discussions about the mixed messages being sent to followers.
Okello, another influencer, points out the irony in how some creators who once promoted body positivity are now focusing on weight loss. This shift feels contradictory and conflicts with the values they once stood for. “It just seems odd to flip the narrative so drastically,” Okello mentions, expressing discomfort with this change.
Emma Zack, founder of a vintage plus-size clothing store, echoes these sentiments, noting the strangeness of plus-size influencers moving away from their original messages while still gaining a platform from them. It raises questions about authenticity and commitment to the body-positive messages previously promoted.
