Embracing Humanity: The Importance of Real Models in Fashion

Beyond Shallow Practices: Celebrating Diversity and Connection through Real Models.

In this blog post, we'll explore the significance of embracing diversity in fashion representation, considering age, size, shape, ability, or ethnicity.

By delving into how this inclusivity makes us feel, we deepen our understanding of the importance of real models and reject shallow fashion practices.

Welcome to our world of SS Boutique fashion, where we love to use real models. Here diversity is celebrated and close to our hearts because it connects us with our humanity and we love challenging the shallow practices of mainstream fashion.

Our brand was created as a break out from the fashion industry where our designer and artist Terri had worked as part of for eight years. During her time in the industry she specialised in working with gay, disabled or dark skin models.

She loved the creativity of working with diverse models but was shocked at how it was seen as being cheap, unprofessional or unflattering to big brands. It wasn't seen as being trendy, fashionable or sensible for a photographer or designers portfolio.

Model Kay wearing size Medium

She also noticed how the attitude seeped into other professionals she worked with as they became judgmental of models who didn't conform to and industry standard of tall, slim, white and able bodied.

She noticed how her young sister would judge herself as being ugly and refused to have her picture taken thinking she wasn't good enough.

She saw models develop eating disorders and damage their health or self harm through self loathing of not quite being perfect enough, despite being already very beautiful.

It didn't feel right for her so she stepped away from the industry and directed her love for creation into her artistry.

Years later, as technology advanced and realising we don't have to follow the same old rules the fashion industry have pushed for decades that we the consumers and creatives can choose diversity, reality and appreciate fashion for everyone.

The use of real models in our fashion brand is a powerful step towards inclusivity, connection, and celebrating humanity. By embracing diversity in age, size, shape, ability, and ethnicity, we reject shallow practices that perpetuate narrow beauty ideals.

Real models remind us that beauty and style come in a multitude of forms, and are always all around us, representing the richness and diversity of the world we live in.

Sadly over the years the fashion industry hasn't changed much. Some special brands like ours make an effort to offer more inclusive models to represent the reality of their clothes but we invite you to consider a bit more deeply.

Model Kim wearing size Large

Take some time to browse fashion sites or magazines and consider the level of diversity represented. Pay attention to the representation of age, size, shape, ability, and ethnicity.

How does this make you feel? Notice any feelings of exclusion or underrepresentation.

Do you feel represented? If you do imagine yourself looking like one of the people not represented and consider how that would make you feel.

Model Saira wearing size Medium

By reflecting on these experiences, we gain insight into the significance of diverse representation in fashion and we can be more aware of the brands we want to support.

We might consider the ethics and ethos of those we might not want to, see more clearly what these shallow brands represent in society.


Fashion should be for everyone. It should be an enjoyable expression of who we are. A practical support in our everyday lives. Something that is a right not a luxury.

Each of our sample products are photographed with several real world models so you can see how they look and fit in the real world!

So we do things differently and we love these pictures of our model Mari, wearing our clothing range!

Exuding an adventurous spirit at 70 years old, Mari represents the energy of mystery as she embraces her mature years. From exploring the Arctic circle to reading tarot, she uncovers the mysteries that life has to offer.

By showcasing real models like Mari, we celebrate the beauty of age, experience, and individuality, challenging narrow beauty standards and fostering connection with our audience. We hope by reflecting on fashion representation together and considering the impact of inclusivity, we deepen our understanding of the importance of real models in every day fashion brands.

Want to see more?

Browse our range to see more models like Mari and celebrate the beauty of age and experience.

Join us in rejecting shallow fashion practices and embracing the power of real models.

Action - Yoga Leggings

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Power - Unisex Bomber Jacket

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Earth - Bomber Jacket

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Grief - Crop Tee

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Magic - Fitted Dress

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Manifestation Skater Skirt

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Mystery - Tank Top

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Moon - Padded Sports Bra

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Transmute - Unisex Hoodie

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Numb - Unisex Sweatshirt

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Mystery - Bomber Jacket

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Fantasy - Fitted Dress

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We value your thoughts! Share your opinions in the comments below on our choice to use real models.

What do you think about the importance of diversity and inclusivity in fashion representation?

Join the conversation and let's celebrate the beauty of humanity together.