Inclusive Ads: How to Feature All Body Types Right Now!

Brands are increasingly recognizing the importance of representation. Ads including all body types are no longer a trend, but a necessary evolution in how products and services are marketed. Dove’s commitment to real beauty and its impact on marketing demonstrate the power of inclusive advertising. For those seeking guidance, the Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) provides regulations ensuring ads including all body types avoid harmful stereotypes. Embracing body positivity movements challenges conventional beauty standards, influencing how marketers portray diverse physiques in ads including all body types.

Image taken from the YouTube channel NYDJ , from the video titled Introducing Curves 360 by NYDJ .

Crafting Inclusive Ads: A Guide to Featuring All Body Types

Creating ads that authentically represent a diverse range of body types isn’t just a trend; it’s a responsibility. This guide breaks down how you can immediately begin featuring all body types in your advertising.

Understanding the Importance of Body Diversity in Ads

Why is this important? Simple: everyone deserves to see themselves reflected in the media they consume. Ads have the power to shape perceptions and contribute to self-esteem.

Challenging Existing Beauty Standards

• Traditionally, ads have promoted a narrow and often unattainable ideal of beauty.
• This can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-worth for individuals who don’t fit this mold.
• Including diverse body types helps challenge these unrealistic standards and promotes a more inclusive view of beauty.

Reaching a Wider Audience

• A significant portion of the population does not fit the "traditional" advertising model.
• By showcasing a wider range of body types, you can connect with a larger and more diverse audience, increasing brand relevance and engagement.
• People are more likely to support brands that understand and represent them.

Practical Steps to Featuring All Body Types

Moving beyond the ‘why’ and into the ‘how’, these steps will give you actionable advice.

Representation in Visuals

This is the most obvious, and arguably most impactful, step.

• Casting: Actively seek out models of all shapes, sizes, and body types. Don’t just include one "plus-size" model; ensure a variety within that category as well.
• Photography and Videography:
  • Use inclusive language when giving direction to your models.
  • Avoid angles and poses that intentionally slim or alter body shapes. Embrace natural poses and authentic expressions.
  • Work with photographers and videographers who have experience working with diverse body types and understand the importance of authentic representation.
• Stock Photos: Use stock photo websites that prioritize diversity and representation. Be mindful of the keywords you use when searching (e.g., "real bodies," "diverse bodies," "unretouched").

Language and Messaging

The words you use are just as important as the visuals.

• Avoid Body-Shaming Language: Refrain from using language that promotes weight loss or implies that certain body types are "better" than others.
• Focus on Inclusivity: Craft messaging that celebrates all body types and promotes self-acceptance.
• Highlight Functionality over Appearance: Instead of focusing solely on physical attributes, highlight the strengths and abilities of individuals. For example, "These pants are perfect for hiking, comfortable, and durable for any body."

Transparency and Authenticity

People can spot insincerity a mile away.

• Avoid Excessive Editing: Reduce or eliminate the use of filters and Photoshop to alter body shapes and sizes. Aim for authentic representation.
• Be Honest About Product Fit: Provide accurate sizing information and avoid using misleading language to describe product fit.
• Feature Real Customers: Consider featuring real customers in your ads, rather than solely relying on professional models. This can help build trust and credibility.

Navigating Potential Challenges

Creating inclusive ads isn’t always easy, but the reward of increased customer loyalty and a more positive brand image is worth the effort.

Addressing Concerns About "Unrealistic" Expectations

Some might argue that featuring diverse body types promotes unhealthy lifestyles. This is a misconception.

• Focus on Health and Well-being: The goal is not to promote unhealthy habits, but to celebrate the diversity of bodies and promote self-acceptance at any size.
• Partner with Health Professionals: If you’re promoting products related to health or fitness, consider partnering with qualified health professionals to ensure accurate and responsible messaging.

Measuring Success

How do you know if your inclusive ads are working?

• Monitor Engagement: Track metrics such as click-through rates, social media engagement, and website traffic.
• Gather Feedback: Solicit feedback from your audience through surveys, polls, and social media comments.
• Track Sales: Monitor sales data to see if your ads are driving purchases from a wider range of customers.

Example Scenarios in Various Industries

Let’s imagine how this can be applied in practice:

So, there you have it! I hope this gave you some food for thought when it comes to creating ads including all body types. Now go out there and make some seriously awesome and inclusive campaigns!