Work it!

Folks strut their stuff at Fashion for EveryBODY

By: Madison Murray

Published On: November 29, 2010

In the midst of the first annual Nashville Fashion Week, it was incredibly refreshing to see that folks were celebrating fashion the way it should be—for everybody. It’s no secret that it can be hard to escape the pin-thin female body images splattered all across today’s media. But the Eating Disorders Coalition of Tennessee is fighting back by embracing all shapes and sizes at their annual Fashion for EveryBODY.

As guests entered the Commodore Ballroom at the Vanderbilt Student Life Center, they were immediately given star treatment. A pink carpet, complete with a bevy of Nashville paparazzi (aka photogs from your favorite local media outlets), beckoned the fashion-forward attendees to strike a pose. The EDCT strives to banish all the common misconceptions many people have about their body image. With powerful slogans like “It’s not what you wear, it’s how you wear it—with confidence” and “real beauty shines from within,” this relevant organization is making a difference in how people judge themselves and others.

Local celebrities and everyday Nashvillians modeled on-trend outfits during the fashion show, emceed by HGTV’s Shane Tallent. Local purveyors including Ivey, d. marlene jewelry, Blush, Emmaline, Hemline and Gent were featured in the show. Hilary Williams (daughter of you know who), Arthur Kirkby (hairstylist extraordinaire) and Kia Jarmon (PR maven) walked the catwalk to prove that anyone can strut their stuff. You hear that, Kate Moss?!?

All of us who are not a size 0 should be thankful for the positive work that the EDCT is doing. Founded in 2003, they are the only statewide organization in the Southeast that focuses on awareness, education and prevention of eating disorders. This night, their message of hope rang loud and clear. For that, we are grateful.

—photographs by brooke rainey