First off, I used to work as an in store model in the
London store of Abercrombie and Fitch. I didn't go for the job because i loved the store or the clothes(actually i'd never even been in!), i got scouted and thought i'd have a go as i need some extra
money. At the interveiw/casting we had our pictures taken and then sat in a group and were asked questions. One of which was "why do you think diversity is important in the work place?"i answered the question and didn't give it another thought until I got the job and went for the training
day. We sat in a small room waiting to start and i look around. Every single
girl in the room was over 5'8", thin and gorgeous. Every
guy was muscular tanned and very attractive. As the
day went on and the rules came out it got more and more clear that they didn't want even the tinest
bit of diversity. They have a mold and the expect you to stick to it. Everyday before you work you are checked by the "visual" team. If they deem you unfit to take the floor, you get put in the stock room underground. I completely agree with some of the
people saying "it's just a store! let
people wear what they want!" but at the end of the
day it's not. It's a brand image that makes kids believe you're nothing if you're not perfect.
