As previously reported, Sports Illustrated recently released a round of three different covers for its highly anticipated Swimsuit Issue, featuring UFC fighter Ronda Rousey;, full-figured model Ashley Graham; and the face of Dsquared2, Jill Stuart and Gucci, Hailey Clauson. While many celebrated the mag’s decision to feature a variety of women with real curves, others weren’t exactly feeling the publication’s decision to feature Graham.
On Wednesday, Feb. 24, Cheryl Tiegs, who has been featured on Sports Illustrated’s covers multiple times, voiced her disappointment at the 13th annual Global Green USA pre-Oscar party telling E! News, “I don’t like that we’re talking about full-figured women because it’s glamorizing them because your waist should be smaller than 35 [inches]. That’s what Dr. Oz said, and I’m sticking to it,” she explained. “No, I don’t think it’s healthy. Her face is beautiful. Beautiful. But I don’t think it’s healthy in the long run.”
As you can imagine, Tiegs’ comments accusing the mag of promoting what she believes is an unhealthy lifestyle, didn’t sit well with fans who responded to her in kind, giving Graham and “S.I.” props for their groundbreaking work. “Your life is about 2 explode N2 amazing-ness, @theashleygraham. @SI_Swimsuit covergirl, TyTy is proud of u!” tweeted Tyra Banks.
“Wow @theashleygraham thank you for giving us hope and showing that beauty is not a certain size?? she slays ?” said another user.
Meanwhile, Lane Bryant, who Graham has collaborated with many times in the past added, “It’s official: #ThisBody is made for the cover…of the 2016 @SI_Swimsuit Issue! Major congrats, @TheAshleyGraham! ?”
Even former reality star Chad Ochocinco had a few encouraging words to share, “Ashley Graham is fine, hoping her success opens up the flood gates for the rest of the worlds curvy goddesses… ??”
Following the backlash, Tiegs used Twitter to clarify her comments writing, “To clarify re body weight. Being anorexic/bulimic/overweight all connected to health problems. I want all to be as healthy as they can.”
What are your thoughts on Tiegs slamming plus size models in general? Sound off in the comment section below.
