Debenhams Oxford Street Store Introduces Size 16 Mannequins

Debenhams’ Oxford Street store made history by becoming the first on the high street to permanently introduce size 16 mannequins.

Says Debenhams Director Ed Watson, “The average British woman is a size 16, but the high street has been showing them clothing on a mannequin that is three sizes smaller…   until now.
“And what better way to showcase our commitment to promoting body confidence than by making the mannequins central to our new Oxford Street flagship, which will be an example of best practice for our stores in the UK and internationally when it launches next month.

Equalities Minister, Jo Swinson, who has been leading a Government drive to promote body confidence among women, was on hand to welcome the mannequins to Debenhams’ store on Europe’s busiest shopping street today.
Minister for Women and Equalities Jo Swinson said:   “The images we see in the world of fashion are all pretty much the same – it’s as if there’s only one way of being   beautiful. Yet nine in 10 people say they would like to see a broader range of body shapes shown in advertising and the media. That’s why the government has fought hard to challenge our looks-obsessed culture. Our Body Confidence campaign has been working with the retail industry and others to encourage a diverse range of models.
“Debenhams are setting a great example by celebrating a wide range of women in its fashion imagery, recently including a paralympian and a model in her sixties. They are also leading the way by introducing size 16 mannequins into their flagship store.