It is a clear and valid assumption that models whose ribs can be counted while wearing a designer outfit are too thin. However, the fashion industry just got the memo.

In the past several weeks, models have walked down the prestigious catwalks of Fashion Weeks across the world donning the wares of the world’s most renowned designers.

Wispy models, usually with pouts on their faces, because it takes too much energy to smile, act as living hangers to glorious pieces of haute couture.

Recently at Madrid Fashion Week, officials on the organization board instituted a new rule that if a model weighed less than 125 lbs. she (and in some cases, he) was not allowed to work.

A week later, members of the Parliament in England strongly urged organizers of London Fashion Week to follow the same guidelines set in Madrid. During Milan Fashion Week in Italy, weight issues did not seem to influence the flow of models down the runway. Ultimately, it was the choice of specific designers to use a model based on physical appearance and not a thorough inquiry into her health.

According to The New York Times, there appears to be more concern among the elite in the fashion industry as to whether it is appropriate to probe into the personal lives of models.

For example, Kate Ford, chief executive of Ford Models told The Times, “do I think because you’re thin that you’re anorexic? No. The runway represents a very small segment of the entire fashion business. On the runway, model size has been frequently a representation of the designers’ image at that point of time.”

Just one hitch: while the runway may only be fraction of the fashion world, it is still among the most photographed and discussed in the media. Fashion magazines such as Vogue and Vanity Fair feature the latest styles and the newest advertising campaigns featuring rail-thin models. These features are what the public is seeing and trying to emulate.

It is an old yet unfortunate issue: the number of eating disorders among women and men are on the rise, especially among college students. According to a recent article written by Dr. Carolyn Costin on WebMD.com, a questionnaire administered in Wisconsin last year found out that out of 226 college students (98 males and 128 females), 26 percent of males and 48 percent of females describe themselves as overweight.

Yes, men and women can think for themselves and censor what they deem truthful or blasphemous, but the message the fashion industry is sending to the public is that although some models and even celebrities are obviously emaciated, they are still allowed to strut down the runway.

There is a common saying that it’s better to look good than feel good. Arguably, it is much more beneficial to be healthy and, in turn, look good.

Kudos to the officials at Madrid Fashion Week for trying to change the requirements for runway models.

Hopefully, these regulations will improve the standards of beauty in the fashion industry and alter public perception.