Diverse representation is an expectation, but as individuals no longer allow themselves to be defined in singular terms, there's mounting pressure on brands to understand and sensitively reflect how the intersections between race, gender, class, and ability impact people's everyday lives.

Getting ‘real women’ to model beautiful lingerie wasn’t the done thing back in 2009, but then Lonely Lingerie came along. Now, after ten years in the business, the underwear brand has become a leading light for body positivity and an industry force to be reckoned with.

The fashion world is acclimating to a ‘new normal’ as people push for greater inclusivity through the body positivity movement. Universal Standard is embracing these ideals by offering high-end basics in sizes 00-40, ensuring that women of all shapes can get clothes that look and feel just right.

As body ideals broaden to incorporate a range of shapes, colors, ages, and abilities, people are more exacting about the ways in which companies approach diversity. How can brands go beyond token gestures to satisfy these demands and show they have inclusivity written into their DNA?

From magazine covers to small screens, media producers are striving to meet public demand for a level of diversity that reflects reality – but are their efforts enough? Canvas8 spoke to eight Americans about whether they believe mainstream media fairly represents all parts of society.