Whistles has apologised for the “unintended offence” caused by the use of a controversial mannequin at one of its stories.
The issue came to light when Instagram user @sinkvenice posted an image of mannequin, adding the message “because having a mannequin specifically made with a protruding breast bone will definitely solve women’s body issues”.
The post sparked a major backlash on social media, with shoppers branding the mannequin “hideous”, “revolting” and “nasty”, forcing the store to release a statement in apology.
“We are sorry for any unintentional offence caused by this mannequin. Our mannequins are supplied by a company which has been working with leading retailers for over 30 years. The headless mannequins are a stylised tool for visual merchandising and standing at 177cm tall are not a direct representation of the average female form,” it read.
“It is made from elongated solid fibreglass in order for clothing to be carefully slipped on and off. However, we do take customer feedback very seriously and will be removing this style mannequin from shop windows.”
However, the apology received a muted response, with people accusing the chain of failing to take responsibility for their actions.
The controversy comes in the middle of National Eating Disorder Week, which runs until March 1st.
For more information, see www.bodywhys.ie.
