Company launches ‘thigh gap’ jewelry - but it’s not what you think
(Instagram/triangl)
For those who don’t know, a “thigh gap” references the space between your thighs when you’re standing with your feet touching.
Considered an unhealthy body aspiration – the hashtag was even banned on Instagram – one company has created a line of jewelry to accent this coveted body type – but not for the reason you might think.
When you first visit the website for TGap Jewellery, it looks like any other online retailer. But once you attempt to click on anything on the page, you’re taken to an about page, which tells the story behind TGap.
(photo: TGapJ)
“TGap Jewellery is a fictional company that sells jewelleries designed for thigh gaps. It is launched to catalyze a debate on unrealistic body image social media portrays.”
The page then go on to explain the origin of the thigh gap trend on social media, stats on how trends like this create unhealthy body perceptions and ways to find support.
It also offers the truth behind the thigh gap.
“The bone structure defines whether you can have a thigh gap: the shape of the pelvic girdle and distance between the hipbones. Most women have narrow hips that even with little fat on their legs, there is no gap between their thighs,” says Angela Guarda, Director of Johns Hopkins Eating Disorders Program.
While some were initially disgusted by the website, many have posted their gratitude for the hoax in the comments section.
“I really appreciate the innovation of raising awareness of the misconception of thigh gaps / body image. It’s really a beautiful idea and I hope more people can find about this!” said one commenter.
Another was grateful to learn that bone structure played a factor, saying, “I am considered quite skinny and I don’t have a gap. And it is true that the media has affected me thinking that I should have a thigh gap because all the skinny people on media have it.”
What do you think of TGap Jewellery being used to promote awareness over body image issues? Let us know by tweeting to @YahooStyleCA.
