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Size Matters
Spain's government has introduced a measure to enforce that shop window mannequins should be be displayed wearing clothing of a larger size.
Authorities in Madrid say the new interdiction is "part of a government drive to ease pressure on young girls over their body size".
In other words, the powers that be are telling you how to dress - and what not to wear. It's funny that the new rules do not mention any regulations as to the style of masculine attire.
This is the first time that a western nation has initiated pressure on fashion retailers to re-organise what is shown in their store windows.
Most Spanish fashion houses in Madrid and Barcelona have agreed, or have had to agree, to the new edict.
The current modus vivendi, enunciated by Madrid's ministry of health, is that it is to "discourage eating disorders such as anorexia".
This topsy-turvy situation is already causing a flummox. Head designers in Spain are wondering which way to turn. Big, small, middle-sized blouses or trousers? Or what version of flamenco costumes ?
To help the government, Spain's National Consumer Institute will measure Spanish females - more than 8,000 - between the ages of 12 and 70, to determine exact fashion information.
So the next time you are strolling down the Ramblas in Barcelona, do not be surprised to see an array of all shapes, sizes and big girl's blouses.
But their companions will still be wearing their dark sharp suits adorned with colourful ties.
