Dua Lipa’s New "Universal" Clothing Range Doesn’t Have Plus-Size Options, and That Matters

She isn’t making any "new rules" when it comes to her new clothing line.

Dua Lipa has contradicted herself and particularly left female fans heated with the release of her collaboration with popular H&M brand /Nyden, revealing it won’t cater to plus-sized women.

Apparently, after creating a name for herself with hits like "New Rules" and her recent mix with Calvin Harris, "One Kiss", the English singer-songwriter has turned to fashion.

There’s no denying she has an eye for clothing styles and brands, especially since she began working as a model at a young age, so few were surprised to see her go down this path.

But what really shocked them was her clothing line’s lack of inclusivity, despite her Instagram post stating how it is suited "for [her] fans".

 

My first love is music, but fashion also plays an important role in my life because I believe it’s so vital to self-expression. I look for clothes that reflect strength and fearlessness, but also match up to today’s fast pace. So I’m excited to be co-creating with /Nyden on my designs – it’s going to be a collection that’s completely suited to me, both onstage and off, and for my fans. First drop this fall. Hold tight xx @wearenyden sign up on Nyden.com for updates

A post shared by DUA LIPA (@dualipa) on May 24, 2018 at 12:31am PDT

Many of these fans have called out the star after discovering her "universal" range of clothes only goes up to size 16.

Yes what ive wanted to do with this collection is so that its universal and accessible for everyone. https://t.co/2CUqVLCqHS

— DUA LIPA (@DUALIPA) May 24, 2018

too bad half of us can’t fit a uk 16 😳✌️ https://t.co/5EwkxHTGI5

— lena (@colorstripped) May 24, 2018

Though it may seem like an oversight—or an unimportant exclusion—moves like this can be damaging for young people.

In a survey conducted by Mission Australia in 2016, it was found that about 30 per cent of young Australians aged 11 – 24 are coping with "body image" as one of their "top three issues of personal concern."

Dr Fiona Barlow, Director for the Centre for Research in Social Psychology in Queensland, believes influencers have a large and meaningful impact on how young people, and people in general, view themselves.

"Research suggests that we are very social beings, who carefully assess our environments," she told Student Edge

"Being excluded (by way of size) from clothing lines, or activities, sends a clear message: you are not okay, your body is not okay, you are not welcome."

Beginning with movements like 'Health at Every Size' from the 60’s, young people are at least being supported and educated today (especially in Australia) with growing campaigns like The Butterfly Foundation's "Love Your Body Week", focusing on bringing an end to body shaming, as well as the Australian government's "Girls Make Your Move" initiative, which inspires young women to get active.

It’s not just about looking healthy; it’s about being mentally healthy too, and celebrating the characteristics about yourself that you love and that stand out for you.

How’s that for a new rule?

Photo: YouTube (CalvinHarrisVEVO)