Elle Magazine Photo Of Melissa McCarthy Draws Lots Of Attention

CHICAGO (CBS) -- Elle magazine picked four famous women for their annual "Women In Hollywood" feature, but one version of the November edition is drawing a lot of attention.

It's the picture of Plainfield native and "Bridesmaids"/"Mike and Molly" actress Melissa McCarthy, who was photographed in a loose-fitting grey coat.

Penelope Cruz, Reese Witherspoon, Shailene Woodley and McCarthy were picked as the cover girls.

However, some questioned why McCarthy was not photographed in something more fitting. (Witherspoon, for example, was shot wearing a sleek, black dress.)

Some accused the magazine of trying to hide McCarthy's plus-sized figure. Others dismissed that criticism as attention-grabbing claptrap.

Elle issued a statement on Thursday.

"On all of our shoots, our stylists work with the stars to choose pieces they feel good in, and this is no different: Melissa loved this look, and is gorgeous on our cover. We are thrilled to honor her as one of our Women in Hollywood this year."