Bothell High seniors to host fashion show for students of all sizes

Kelsey Brobeck admits she struggled with an eating disorder in the past. For her Bothell High senior project, she’ll be shedding a positive light on body image in her “Rock Your Body” fashion show from 7-9:30 p.m. Jan. 11 in the school commons.

Kelsey Brobeck admits she struggled with an eating disorder in the past.

For her Bothell High senior project, she’ll be shedding a positive light on body image in her “Rock Your Body” fashion show from 7-9:30 p.m. Jan. 11 in the school commons.

Fellow senior Alexa Stampanoni will help Brobeck emcee the event and feels fortunate to be on board with her friend.

“It’s a good project. A lot of girls and boys in high school are uncomfortable with their bodies,” Stampanoni said. “It’s (the fashion show) a real smart idea. It’s a real positive thing to bring out at school and in the community.”

Brobeck said the fashion show will feature boys and girls of all sizes and may even include their grandparents and siblings. Sporting outfits from Plato’s Closet — a gently used clothing franchise — the participants will walk the stage while Stampanoni and Brobeck discuss what they’re wearing, their body type and a note of interest about each person.

“I hope to raise awareness (about body image) in the community. It’s not something to be ashamed with,” said Brobeck, who has contacted the National Eating Disorders Association and hopes to have a spokesperson at the show.

“As a personal goal, I feel that drugs and alcohol are always-talked-about topics and body image and eating disorders are just looked over.”

Brobeck noted that she helped start an advanced-leadership class on body image at Bothell High to act in tandem with her fashion show. Valerie Spagnolo teaches the class of 25 students and Brobeck assists.

As she passionately discusses her project, Brobeck offers some advice to those seeking comfort when in doubt about their bodies.

“Some things can be solved through nutritionists and counselors — and talk to people who care about you,” she said.

Along with the fashion show, there will be a service auction (featuring baskets with meal recipes and other gifts) and dessert prepared by the Bothell High food-management class.

A $5 donation is suggested at the door.