Australian Fashion Founder Defends Her Body Against Online Harassment

Abby Burrows, the founder of Australian fashion brand Dust & Bullets Western, has spoken out against online body shaming after a stranger made deeply personal and cruel comments about the size of models featured in the brand's advertisements.

The incident began when a customer commented on a Facebook ad for the brand, questioning why clothes were not advertised on "decent sized" people and referring to one model as an "elephant."

Initially, the brand responded by asking for clarification on what constituted a "decent size." The commenter replied, "8–10." Dust & Bullets explained its commitment to showcasing clothing on a diverse range of body types so customers could accurately see how garments fit.

However, the exchange escalated when the commenter wrote, "I don't know how I'm meant to see what the jeans look like when you put them on elephants?? It put people off, I was interested in the jeans but couldn't get a perspective of how they'd look on me?"

In response, Burrows revealed that she was the model in question and that such comments were "incredibly disappointing." She stated that Dust & Bullets Western "is, and always will be, a size-inclusive brand that celebrates and supports women of every shape and size."

"If you'd taken a moment to visit our website, you'd see that every product is photographed on multiple women of different sizes, heights and body shapes, so our customers can see how our clothing fits across a range of bodies," Burrows wrote. "Your comments aren't constructive, they're body shaming."

Burrows later shared screenshots of the exchange on the brand's Facebook page, explaining her decision to address the situation. "Never in a million years did I think I'd have to defend my body while running my own clothing brand," she posted. "Nor would I ever bring these comments to light or post them... but this is a reminder of what I and DBW stand for."

Speaking to the Daily Mail, Burrows described the experience as "deeply hurtful," admitting she did not initially understand the comment about "decent size" until further remarks were made about her body. "I don't usually respond to negativity but being called an elephant was just horrid," she said.

Dust & Bullets Western, founded in 2021 by Burrows after she struggled to find clothing for her tall frame, aims to create "premium western clothing for real people." The brand now offers sizes ranging from 6 to 28 for women, XS to 7XL for unisex items, and children's clothing.

Burrows expressed hope that sharing her story would help challenge body shaming and encourage kindness. "If sharing my story helps challenge body shaming, encourages more kindness, and reminds even one person that they are worthy exactly as they are, then that's a conversation I'm proud to have," she stated.

Thousands of people have offered support online, praising Burrows' response and the brand's dedication to size inclusivity. Many customers expressed gratitude for finding a brand that represents diverse body types.