T-shirts for healthier bodies

In Spain last year, models whose body mass index fell below 18 were banned from the runways at Madrid fashion week, and in London this season, catwalkers younger than 16 may not get to strut their stuff either. While the waifs await their fate for the Spring ’08 season, one clothing company is splashing the message for more meaty models across T-shirts.

Project E, and Atlanta sportswear maker, has emblazoned a T-shirt with the phrase, “Feed the Models Save the World,” and is donating 100% of the sales to the Eating Disorders Information Network. The company kicked off the T-shirt in Los Angeles on Tuesday night, inviting a model-heavy crowd to Hollywood’s Parc bar.

“People need to be aware” of the dangers of eating disorders, said Michael Hecht, the president of Project E. “Hopefully we are making Hollywood aware.”

Feeding models will not save the world (and who knows about that cheerleader?) but attempting to draw attention to the issue with a T-shirt is a good idea, especially in L.A.

Of course, despite the message on the shirt, food was not exactly flowing at this fete. Sporadic trays of tuna tartare and egg rolls were followed by bite-size raspberry cheesecakes. The guests, models included, looked a little hungry.