Tan France, best known for his role in the hit TV show “Queer Eye,” recently partnered with Lilly to showcase the Changing the Thread Collection. The aim of this collaboration was to tackle the stigma surrounding obesity and explore the relationship between weight and clothing. The collection was unveiled at a pop-up exhibit in New York City on Friday, Nov. 14, and Saturday, Nov. 15. France shared his insights and motivations exclusively with PEOPLE, shedding light on the importance of changing the narrative around body image and self-expression through fashion.
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During his tenure as a member of the Fab Five on Queer Eye, France observed a recurring pattern where individuals associated discomfort with their weight with a lack of stylish clothing options. This realisation played a crucial role in his decision to team up with Lilly and Zepbound, a pharmaceutical company offering an injectable weight loss medication, to address this issue. France stressed the significance of not using clothes as a means to hide but rather as a form of self-expression, advocating for a shift in mindset towards dressing to express oneself authentically.
The Changing the Thread Collection highlighted in the exhibit featured plus-sized clothing adorned with quotes from Zepbound users, sharing their personal struggles with obesity and body image. These quotes painted a poignant picture of how individuals often use clothing as a shield to conceal insecurities and vulnerabilities. France emphasised that the act of getting dressed should not be a burden but a joyous form of self-expression, aiming to empower individuals to embrace their bodies and express themselves unapologetically through their fashion choices.
France’s own experiences growing up in an environment where discussions around weight and body image were prevalent further fuelled his passion for advocating for body positivity and self-acceptance. By collaborating with Lilly on this initiative, France hopes to challenge societal perceptions of obesity and encourage empathy, respect, and compassion towards individuals struggling with their weight. His ultimate goal is to redefine the dialogue surrounding weight and promote a culture of inclusivity and understanding within the fashion industry and beyond.
Dr. Clare Lee, a lead physician on Lilly’s obesity team, highlighted a common misconception surrounding obesity – that it can be simply addressed by eating less. Lee emphasised that obesity is a multifaceted chronic condition that requires comprehensive management and support. By fostering conversations around obesity and body image, the campaign spearheaded by France and Lilly aims to dismantle stereotypes and foster a more compassionate and supportive environment for individuals battling weight-related challenges.
France’s collaboration with Lilly serves as a catalyst for reimagining the intersection of weight and fashion, advocating for a shift towards empowerment and self-expression. By amplifying the voices of those who have grappled with societal expectations and self-image issues, this initiative strives to create a more inclusive and empathetic space within the fashion industry. Through open dialogue, understanding, and acceptance, France and Lilly are paving the way for a more diverse and inclusive representation of body positivity in the realm of fashion and beyond.
In a society where beauty standards often dictate self-worth, France’s advocacy for body positivity and self-expression resonates deeply. By leveraging his platform and influence, France is championing a message of acceptance, self-love, and inclusivity. Through initiatives like the Changing the Thread Collection, France is igniting conversations, challenging norms, and paving the way for a more inclusive and affirming future where individuals of all shapes and sizes feel seen, valued, and celebrated for who they are.