Vogue’s recent homage to the musical “Hairspray” featuring model Gigi Hadid sparked controversy for its lack of plus-size representation, deviating from the core message of equality and acceptance championed by the iconic production set in the 1960s. The video, released as part of Vogue’s April cover story, showcased Hadid in a lip-sync performance of the musical’s popular number “You Can’t Stop the Beat.”
While the video encapsulated the retro aesthetic of the era, viewers pointed out the absence of plus-size individuals, a stark departure from the inclusive themes of “Hairspray,” which revolves around a plus-size protagonist striving for integration and pursuing her dreams in the face of societal norms.
Expressing disappointment, social media users, including influencers like Remi Bader and model Bailey Scaman, criticized the lack of representation, highlighting the disconnect between the video’s casting choices and the musical’s message of body positivity and acceptance.
This critique comes amid broader concerns raised by influencers and industry experts regarding a perceived regression in size inclusivity within the fashion world. Vogue Business’s 2025 report on size inclusivity highlighted a concerning trend towards featuring predominantly thin models on runways, signaling a potential shift away from the body positivity movement that advocates for diverse representation.
Gigi Hadid, who has a background in musical theater, shared her enthusiasm for the project, revealing her longstanding admiration for the world of musicals. The video’s director, Bardia Zeinali, who previously collaborated with Hadid on a themed shoot, helmed the production, infusing it with a nostalgic charm reminiscent of the 1960s era.
Despite the backlash, Hadid remained upbeat about the project, emphasizing the joy of revisiting the past through a modern lens and playfully dismissing detractors with a reference to the musical’s enduring message of resilience and empowerment.
As the fashion industry grapples with evolving standards of inclusivity and representation, the debate surrounding Vogue’s “Hairspray” video underscores the ongoing dialogue on body positivity, diversity, and the importance of reflecting a spectrum of body types in media and fashion.
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