Zurich, Switzerland – A growing trend celebrating extremely small clothing sizes – particularly XS – is facing criticism from Swiss influencer Emma, known online as “Wemmse.” The 22-year-old content creator is pushing back against what she sees as a resurgence of unrealistic body standards on social media, sparking a wider conversation about body image and self-acceptance.
Wemmse, who has around 200,000 followers, voiced her concerns in a recent TikTok video that quickly went viral, garnering three million views within three days. She highlighted accounts where women were seemingly “flexing” – showing off – their ability to wear size XS clothing, with captions like “Blessed given that I live in Zurich and I’m a size XS.” Her response was pointed: “Is your brain also size XS, or what?”
The influencer’s message resonated with many, with users commenting in support, stating that when a clothing size defines a person, something is wrong. Wemmse urged her followers to ignore the trend and “just eat some chocolate,” emphasizing that “Your clothing size is simply not a flex.”
This isn’t a new phenomenon, but the renewed emphasis on thinness is particularly concerning, according to experts. The pressure to be slim has long been amplified by platforms like TikTok, through outfit inspiration, diet videos and the pervasive feeling that one must conform to a certain aesthetic. Wemmse’s critique taps into a broader anxiety about the erosion of body positivity movements that gained traction in recent years.
A social media expert, as reported by 20 Minuten, confirmed a decline in the body-positivity movement, warning about the influence of social media on beauty ideals. The idea of thinness, the expert noted, has never truly gone away, but is being actively reinforced through online content.
Wemmse’s platform extends beyond social commentary. She also works as a teacher, instructing 20 children, and has even collaborated with tennis legend Roger Federer on a project, demonstrating a diverse range of activities and a significant reach. She uses her online presence to also offer lessons in Swiss German, further connecting with her audience.
The conversation sparked by Wemmse highlights a critical issue: the potential for social media to perpetuate harmful beauty standards. Even as platforms can be spaces for inclusivity and self-expression, they can also contribute to feelings of inadequacy and pressure to conform. Her message serves as a reminder that self-worth should not be tied to clothing size or external validation.
The debate over body image and social media influence is ongoing, but Wemmse’s voice adds a significant perspective, particularly for young women navigating these pressures. Her call for body acceptance and a rejection of superficial “flexes” is a message that clearly resonates with a large and engaged audience.
Wemmse is reportedly earning more than the median salary as an influencer, according to Tagesanzeiger, demonstrating the financial viability of content creation and the potential for influencers to build successful careers. This financial success allows her to amplify her message and reach a wider audience.
The next step for Wemmse is continuing to create content and engage with her followers, fostering a more positive and inclusive online environment. She has not announced any specific upcoming projects, but her consistent voice on social issues suggests she will continue to challenge harmful trends and advocate for self-acceptance.
What are your thoughts on the pressure to conform to certain body standards on social media? Share your opinions in the comments below.
