Zara has had several of its advertising campaigns banned by the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) after the watchdog determined that models featured in the ads appeared unhealthily thin. The ruling follows complaints regarding the portrayal of women in the fashion retailer’s promotional material, with the ASA concluding that the images were socially irresponsible and could promote an unhealthy body image.
This action by the advertising regulator is not an isolated incident within the fashion sector. The ASA has previously issued bans against other major high-street brands, including Marks & Spencer and Next, for similarly featuring models who were judged to be excessively thin. These repeated interventions highlight an ongoing industry-wide discussion and regulatory focus on body image representation in advertising and the responsibility of brands to promote healthy standards. The decisions underscore a clear message to retailers about adhering to guidelines that prevent the glorification of unhealthily slender physiques.
