Elle covers plus-size actress Melissa McCarthy on cover

Plus-size comedic actress Melissa McCarthy graces the cover of Elle Magazine's November issue, inciting applause from women everywhere.

But not so fast: The magazine also decided to give the honor to Reese Witherspoon, Penelope Cruz, and Shailene Woodley in celebration of Elle's "Women in Hollywood" issue.

In an industry where skinny and sexy sells magazines, we have to admit that Elle took a chance by putting McCarthy on a cover. What we don't understand is why she is almost entirely covered up. McCarthy is simply drowning in that oversized Marina Rinaldi coat, and you can only the part of her face that isn't covered up by her hair.

It draws a sharp contrast to Reese Witherspoon's powerful, curvaceous pose and Shailene Woodley's scantily clad body and come hither gaze. Penelope's cover photo is close up and intimate, while McCarthy is the only cover girl looking away from the camera.

We commend Elle for their effort to diversify, but come on. Melissa McCarthy is a beautiful (plus-size) woman with a fresh personality. Don't cover her up.