When people think of the word supermodel, Tyra Banks is probably one of the first people who comes to mind. She's been in the industry since she was a teenager and was one of the busiest working models of all time. But if you ask her, Tyra Banks would say that the modeling industry is harsher today than it was during her time. Why? Because models can never really "turn off," thanks to social media.
Last month, the talented and savvy businesswoman and model posted a Throwback Thursday photo—her Instagram is famous for her smizing photos—showcasing her in all of her '90s glory and gorgeousness. But it wasn't the only notable aspect of the photo. It came accompanied by what could be considered a criticism of the current industry as well as a message of support to current and aspiring models. In the post, Banks wrote:
Models have so much pressure today. They have to look good on AND off the set. They have to arrive backstage at fashion shows looking and dressed as if they are already ON a runway. They have to be slimmer than slim. Skinnier than skinny. They have to compete with actresses, recording artists and reality stars for magazine covers and ad campaigns. They have to have tons of followers on social media to book top notch jobs. And they have to do selfies that make them look relatable, but not TOO relatable, because then people may comment that they don’t understand, “Why the heck is THAT girl a friggin’ model??!!!!
Banks definitely has a point. People follow models on Instagram to get a sneak peek into their seemingly glamorous life, but that doesn't allow models a chance to actually turn off their work life, and that's exactly what Banks said at the premiere of America's Next Top Model Season 22. She explained that while many people singled out the commentary on thinness, that wasn't her posts focus. She says, "It's so interesting. I did this how long this about modeling in general and how hard it is for models these days and everybody picked up like two little lines. They're way too thin!I guess that's like the headline thing."
Now, Banks is setting the record straight about the purpose behind her post. She tells E!:
The thing for me that was way bigger than that was that these girl gotta be famous all the time. When I went to a fashion show, I could look like crap. I could have on mom jeans, a washed face and some Timberlands and it was no problem. These gals gotta walk in and look like they're about to do the fashion show. They have to post pictures of themselves constantly on social media. They have to make sure they have a lot of likes because if they don't have a lot of likes they're not going to get booked for the job even though they're the best model."
Social media is a huge part of the entertainment and modeling industries, and Banks definitely has a point. Models today don't have much of an opportunity to take a break from their day job. They're expected to be flawless in each image they post, and while social media is meant to be a fun way to network with friends and fans, models today have to be continually conscious of their online image.
In her earlier post though, Banks did give encouragement to upcoming and current models writing, "I'm sending love and hugs to all working, aspiring and super models worldwide. You all have lots to live up to. And I'm here cheering for you every single day. Stay strong girls." Models deserve a break like everyone else, and maybe expectations should be lowered for their off duty looks and online snaps.
Images: Tyra Banks/Instagram (2)
