The size-12 model initially received backlash when the ad was released and quickly spoke out against her critics.
A size-12 teenager is proudly showing off her curves for Aerie's latest swimwear ad.
The American Eagle loungewear extension is continuing to make waves with its #AerieREAL campaign, which depicts real women as they are.
Model and social media maven Barbie Ferreria confidently dons string bikinis in the latest photoshoot for the campaign, noting during a behind-the-scenes video that women need to be proud of their bodies.
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“What makes me 'Aerie Real' is that I am unapologetically myself no matter what anybody’s opinion of me is,” the 19-year-old bombshell says during the video, entitled ‘Real Talk With Barbie.’
“Not being retouched in the images is something that’s very important to me. People knowing that that’s what I look like without anyone’s perception of what my body needs to look like. The world needs more women who are so strong.”
The size-12 model initially received backlash when the ad was released and quickly spoke out against her critics.
“Have to remind myself that ppl r so cruel n wrong bout bodies bc they never see average bodies on their screens n it's new to them,” Ferreria wrote on Twitter on January 24.
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“Body perceptions are so warped that people think MY body is unhealthy and obese bc it's on camera. I get literally ppl worried bout society,” she continued, going on to write: “Ppl are so used to photoshop they think it’s real life.”
Aerie has declined to edit or retouch photos of models in their ads for many years, saying it celebrates a woman’s natural body.
“The Real You is Sexy,” the company’s most recent campaign notes.
Watch: Millions Praise Curvy QVC Lingerie Models: 'Real Women, Real Curves!'
