GLP-1s Fuel Return to Extreme Thinness on Runways
The modeling industry is witnessing a setback in size inclusivity due to GLP-1 weight-loss drugs such as Ozempic. According to the Vogue Business report for Fall-Winter 2026, representation of mid- and plus-size models has reached its lowest point in three years. Since the FDA approved these medications in 2021, one in eight Americans has utilized a GLP-1. In January, Wegovy was released in pill form at $150, and Eli Lilly's Foundayo received FDA approval. This trend resembles the pre-2006 standards prior to BMI reforms. The 2017 model charter by Kering and LVMH, which aimed to eliminate strict size limitations, is losing effectiveness. Models like Brooks Nader and Lottie Moss have spoken about their experiences with GLP-1, with Moss even requiring emergency care. IMG director Mina White describes the situation as a "homogeneous Gattaca of talent," while former model Samantha Benjamin criticizes the fashion scene as "more boring."
Key facts
- GLP-1s like Ozempic are contributing to a return to extreme thinness in modeling.
- Fall-Winter 2026 Vogue Business report shows declines in mid- and plus-size runway representation.
- One in eight Americans has taken a GLP-1 since FDA approval in 2021.
- Wegovy became available in pill form for $150/month in January; FDA approved Foundayo (Eli Lilly) this month.
- 2006-2007 model deaths led to BMI reforms; 2017 Kering-LVMH model charter banned stringent size requirements.
- Body-positivity movement of 2010s featured Ashley Graham, Paloma Elsesser, Tess Holliday.
- Brooks Nader and Lottie Moss have spoken about GLP-1 use; Moss was hospitalized after abuse.
- Grace Breuning (Chanel shows 2022-2023) says casting for size 10-12 has declined.
- Mina White (IMG) calls current talent pool a 'homogeneous Gattaca.'
- James Scully says designers and casting directors dictate thinness, not customer demand.
Entities
Artists
- Samantha Benjamin
- Zoe Latta
- Grace Breuning
- Brooks Nader
- Lottie Moss
- Kate Moss
- Ashley Graham
- Paloma Elsesser
- Tess Holliday
- Precious Lee
- Mina White
- Kyle Hagler
- Ashley Mears
- James Scully
- Tom Ford
Institutions
- Eckhaus Latta
- Vogue Business
- Kering
- LVMH
- IMG Models
- No Smoking: Management and Consultancy Firm
- Chanel
- Gucci
- Yves Saint Laurent
- Jamestown Hudson
- Pas de Calais
- Aspesi
- Eli Lilly
- Sports Illustrated
Locations
- Los Angeles
- New York
- United States