Just how low can you go?

When it comes to numbers on a scale, the fashion world is realizing that their portrayal of beauty on the runway is causing a ripple effect on ‘real people' in a negative way. More and more, the push to be thin is constantly ‘in,' however certain organizations are trying to put a stop to low self-esteem amongst youth by eliminating skeletal figures on the catwalk altogether.

Montreal Fashion week took place earlier this month, and organizers of the show prohibited any models with a low body mass index (a calculation based on a person's weight to height ratio) or those who show signs of an eating disorder. They even went as far as encouraging models that did not reach healthy weight standards to seek professional help.

“We believe that our actions can contribute to the well-being of the public and the success of the fashion industry in general,” said Montreal Fashion Week organizer, Chantal Durivage in a written statement.

This decision was based upon the poor nutrition and eating disorders in the fashion industry, as there have been many fatalities in past years of anorexic and bulimic models.

Organizers in London, England said they would not ban ultra-thin models from their shows, but instead stress to all designers to use only ‘healthy' people for the events. “Banning stick-thin models — as fashion weeks have done in Madrid and Milan is neither desirable nor enforceable,” said The British Fashion Council.

NYC Fashion council also decided against the ban and one member claimed, “eating disorders are emotional disorders that have psychological, behavioural, social and physical manifestations, of which body weight is only one.”

The council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) claimed they would not follow the European and Canadian authorities, who have set body mass index requirements for models, but instead plans to educate the industry on early warning signs of eating disorders. They also plan to focus on underage drinking and smoking amongst models to improve their overall heath.

While admiring the couture on the catwalk it's hard to ignore what's under the fabric to the serious problem that faces many professional models and young girls alike. It should be common knowledge that healthy hair, teeth, skin and mind frame comes from proper nutrition; because dying to be thin can, in some cases cost you your life.