A woman from Leeds, England named Ruth Clemens somewhat ruled the Internet just recently, and it has to do with a pair of fabulous H&M jeans… which she thought were “unrealistically small”. The pants’ state got into the girl’s nerves that she made a Facebook post about it, addressed to the famous retail store itself. Here’s the content: Dear H&M, I was browsing your sale items in your Leeds store and spotted this pair of kick flare jeans. They were only a tenner – bargain! – and a size 16. I’m normally a size 14 on my hips (occasionally 16 if buying trousers) so I thought I’d try them on. It did not go well. As I’m sure you’re aware, size 16 is the largest size you stock (apart from in your plus size range, which is very limited in store and does not offer the range of styles for the fashion-conscious that are available in smaller sizes). I am not overweight (not that that should matter) and although I’m 5 foot 11 my body is pretty average shape-wise. It’s already difficult enough for me to find clothes that fit well because of my height, why are you making jeans that are unrealistically small? Am I too fat for your everyday range? Should I just accept that accessible and affordable high street and on-trend fashion isn’t for people like me? You might recognise the top I’m wearing – it’s one of yours and it’s a size Medium. Sort it out would you. ‪#‎whatdoesplussizeevenmean‬ ‪#‎bodypositive‬ ‪#‎fashionforall‬ Also vote remain The post has already garnered bajillions of “likes” and “shares”, and continues to spark conversations regarding body image issues. Ruth is happy with the response her post has been receiving lately. In an interview with TODAY Style, she stated, “I’ve had some lovely and affirming messages from women telling me they have the same problem, that they left the changing room in tears, that they starved themselves, that it really affected their body image.” H&M has since replied to her clamor, thanking her for her feedback and being sorry for the experience she had to put up with. “At H&M we make clothing for all our stores around the world, so the sizing can vary depending on the style, cut and fabric. We value all feedback and will take on board the points you and other customers have raised.” But, Ruth thought the courteous reply from the company wasn’t enough. She want real change to happen. “On another day it could have really shaken my self-confidence… If my body is too big, too tall, takes up too much space for H&M’s clothes, then it’s them who need to change, not me. And the same goes for everyone else out there,” she said. Though that pair of size 16 H&M jeans may not fit you, know that you are an inspiration, Ruth Clemens!
