Thin privilege is never being called a “slob” when you’re in your best job interview outfit.

The other day, I went to an employment agency to ask if they could help me out with writing application letters. The lady there did help. But she also asked me if I could show her the outfit I wear to job interviews, just in case I was wearing the wrong thing.

The next day, I went back to the employment agency in my job interview outfit (dress shoes, a business shirt, and a suit jacket and skirt) and after looking me up and down in a very condescending manner, she finally said, “Oh, I see the problem. You don’t look professional enough!”

What the hell? I’m dressed in my best suit (not a cheap one, by the way. It was tailored) and she’s telling me I don’t look professional?! I’ve had important office jobs in the past, so I know how to dress for a job interview!

When I asked what she meant, she elaborated: “Well, you look a bit slobbish. You don’t look like you’re ready for a job interview”. Then she gestured at my body, as if to say that was the problem.

Oh, I get it. It’s not my clothes that makes me look “slobby”. It’s my body shape. Yes, I know I don’t have a classic hourglass figure and I know fat women can have trouble finding decent clothing (especially office-appropriate clothing) that fit our shape. But that doesn’t mean I look “slobby”! I look no less professional than a thin woman wearing a similar outfit!

Come to think of it….thin privilege is also being able to go to an employment agency, and get help from the staff without having your appearance insulted.