After the June 2011 'The Curvy Issue,' Vogue Italia continues the shocking editorial series about women's self-perceptions, but the September 2011 'Avant-Garde' goes to the other extremes.
The 'Discipline of Fashion' editorial photographed by Steven Meisel, and modeled by a stunning Stella Tennant, pays hommage to Ethel Granger. A much talked about fetish diva of the 1950s who represented the curvy female body image to the extremes with wearing corsets in an outrageous way -- day and night -- until her waistline reached an absurd 13 inches. In the name of female beauty, elegance and fashion, and to the request of husband William Arnold Granger, Ethel went ahead of her time wearing high heels and piercings as a true avant-garde diva.
The Meisel-Tennant duo showcases powerfully and brilliantly the world of Ethel Granger, adding a hint of realistic pain to the September 2011 Avant-Garde series.
Killer Corsets
Stella Tennant's Severely Thin Waistline Shocks in Vogue Italia
Trend Themes
1. Extreme Body Modification - There is a growing trend of individuals pushing the boundaries of body modification, such as excessively thin waists, as a form of self-expression and avant-garde fashion.
2. Redefining Beauty Standards - Fashion editorials that challenge traditional beauty standards and showcase unconventional beauty ideals are gaining popularity and influencing the fashion industry.
3. The Influence of Fashion History - Fashion designers and stylists are drawing inspiration from historical fashion figures, like Ethel Granger, and incorporating their unique styles into modern fashion.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion and Apparel - The fashion and apparel industry has the opportunity to cater to the growing demand for unconventional and body-modifying fashion trends, offering innovative and daring designs.
2. Cosmetic Surgery - As more individuals seek extreme body modifications, the cosmetic surgery industry can capitalize on this trend by offering specialized procedures that cater to unconventional beauty ideals.
3. Photography and Art - Photographers and artists can explore the concept of redefining beauty standards and pushing the boundaries of self-expression through their work, creating thought-provoking and impactful visual content.