The spotlight at New York Fashion Week 2025 fell intensely on actress Lily Collins, but not solely for her fashion choice. The 'Emily in Paris' star attended the Calvin Klein Fall 2025 show in a sequined two-piece outfit that revealed her midriff. While the ensemble was dazzling, it was her noticeably slim frame that quickly became the focal point of online discussions, pulling her past struggle with the eating disorder anorexia back into public conversation.
From Red Carpet to Concern: The Viral NYFW Moment
Photos from the prestigious event spread rapidly across social media platforms. Fans and fashion commentators were divided; some admired the bold look, while a significant number expressed deep concern, describing her as looking "painfully thin." This reaction was deeply rooted in Collins' own well-documented history. The actress has been remarkably open about her teenage battle with anorexia, a topic she detailed in her 2017 memoir, Unfiltered: No Shame, No Regrets, Just Me.
Collins has previously explained that during her youth, she felt immense pressure to achieve a perceived "perfection" often portrayed in media, leading her to exert strict control over her diet and body image. This context made her recent appearance a trigger for worry among those familiar with her story.
A Candid History and a Delicate Role
Lily Collins' openness about her eating disorder has made her a relatable figure for many. Her decision to star in the 2017 Netflix film To the Bone, where she played a character battling anorexia, was a particularly courageous step. To prepare for the role, she lost a reported 20 pounds or more, a process she undertook with extreme caution by working closely with nutritionists and medical professionals to safeguard her health.
She has reflected that portraying such a character, while daunting, ultimately aided her personal healing and empowered her to speak publicly on the issue. Collins has consistently emphasized that recovery is an ongoing process, not a destination with a clear finish line. She has stated that while one can reach a healthier relationship with food, the internal pressures may never fully vanish, but their influence can be managed.
The Path Forward: Recovery, Family, and Ongoing Vigilance
The actress has also shared the profound fears that accompanied her disorder, including concerns about its long-term impact on her ability to have children—a common anxiety for those with eating disorders. In a joyful turn, Collins and her husband, director Charlie McDowell, recently welcomed a baby girl, Tove, via surrogacy.
As of now, Lily Collins has not publicly addressed the reasons behind her current weight or confirmed any health-related issues. There is no official medical statement clarifying whether the change is role-related, personal, or otherwise. However, her appearance serves as a stark reminder of the complexities of eating disorders.
Health experts universally stress that sustainable recovery hinges on a multifaceted approach: continuous therapy, professional nutritional guidance, cultivating self-acceptance, and a strong support system. True health extends far beyond physical appearance, encompassing profound mental, emotional, and relational well-being. Collins' journey continues to highlight the importance of this holistic understanding.
