Careese,+Marina

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Abstract: This article tells about the new Halloween costume, Anna Rexia. Say it out loud, and it is obvious as to what this costume is about. This costume is on the Halloween market and is considered "sexy." However, CNN"s Katie McLaughlin sees a controvery in how an eating disorder can be even considered a costume. She touches upon the topic of annorexia and discusses the controversey between this eating disorder and Halloween costumes.

Discussion Questions: 1. What do you think of the new costume Anna Rexia? 2. Do you agree with what Katie McLaughlin is saying? 3. How do you feel this affects Halloween as a holiday, as well as the children and teens who purchase costumes 4. At what point do you think the costume industries are taking the "dress up" part of Halloween too far? 5. How do you think this affects women and their selfesteem?

Marina's Response: When reading this article, I was shocked to see that the costume industry would even come up with the idea of taking an eating disorder and turning it into a costume. It is almost as if they are mocking the disorder. Although annorexia is a choice, I feel that even though many women struggle with eating disorders, and they can be cured, they should not be publicized. Although many girls do want to look cute for halloween, I feel that this costume is more offensive, and I would feel that the person wearing the costume isn't very considerate. I feel that the main problem and challenge most women face today does involve their weight, and I feel that the costume industries have no right to design a costume that revolves around this issue.

Careese's Response: Once again, media creates an image for girls that is unreachable. I am a little shocked that the title of this costume, "Anna Rexia," was even allowed. With Halloween around the corner, many young girls are looking for costumes that are appealing in a sexy way. The costume "Anna Rexia" adds to the unobtainable body image that girls are trying to reach. I feel like this costume encourages eating disorders. The model in the image showing the costume is no help either- she is skinny and has big breasts with a pretty face. The costume industry and media portrays the wrong image for attractiveness or appealing or sexy for girls. On the other hand, this costume may have some satire. The costume is of a skeleton body figure, which is doesn't make sense because even a girl that is anorexic is not //that// skinny. Maybe the fashion industry is indirectly making fun at girls with eating disorders. I can see why this costume would be offensive to a girl that is anorexic because anorexia is a disorder. I am glad that manufacturers saw the negative and bad image in this costume and discontinued selling the costume. It makes be think that there is a little hope in our dark and cruel society.