Last year, Aerie launched a spring campaign titled “Aerie Real,” showcasing unretouched and unairbrushed models. In an effort to challenge current beauty standards and promote healthy body image among their key demographic (girls between ages 15 and 21), Aerie is adding some star power to their campaign. Earlier this week, the popular intimates and loungewear brand released photos of their first celebrity promoter: Emma Roberts.
At 24 years old, the Scream Queens actress is no stranger to public scrutiny. While most celebrities would probably shy away from a campaign that exposes their natural imperfections, Emma is embracing them (and we love it)! “Partnering with Aerie was a natural fit for me because #AerieREAL is a message I personally identify with, particularly being in an industry that is quick to judge flaws,” Emma said in a recent statement. Modeling Aerie’s super cute flannel tops, bras, and undies, Emma exudes confidence in the campaign ads.
Aside from encouraging consumers to embrace their natural bodies, this campaign has personal significance for Emma. “I have a little sister who’s 14, and I see how insecure she gets looking at photos on Instagram and Twitter. People post photos that aren’t real. So to be able to be like, ‘This is me as Emma, not Emma Roberts,’ was important to me. As an actress, who’s always doing shoots getting their hair and makeup done, putting on these outfits that aren’t necessarily you, I felt it was important to do something that was me,” Emma said.
We can only hope that more celebrities take Emma’s cue and opt for unretouched photoshoots. “I feel so honored to be part of a movement that reassures women that real doesn’t mean flawed—real is sexy, real is cool,” Emma shared. Personally, we can’t wait for Aerie’s fall collection to hit the shelves!