Ashlee Simpson has blasted critics who attacked her sister Jessica's figure.

U.S. actress Jessica Simpson (L) and her singer sister Ashlee Simpson. [File Photo]

The 24-year-old singer has defended her older sibling - who was photographed wearing unflattering high-waisted jeans at a recent Florida concert with a seemingly fuller figure - insisting the comments about Jessica's weight are "embarrassing and belittling".

She wrote on her blog: "I am completely disgusted. Since when did a woman's weight become newsworthy? How can we expect teenage girls to love and respect themselves in an environment where we criticise a size or figure?"

"A week after the inauguration of U.S. President Barack Obama and with such a feeling of hope in the air for our country, I find it completely embarrassing and belittling to all women to read about a woman's weight or figure."

"All women come in different shapes, sizes, and forms and just because you're a celebrity, there shouldn't be a different standard."

DJ Scott Simon, who interviewed Jessica during the Florida show on Sunday, has dismissed claims the 28-year-old has lost her good looks.

He said: "People are saying she put on a few pounds. But she looked fabulous. Confident, healthy and happy."

Even her former personal trainer Harley Pasternak has slammed claims that Jessica is fat, saying: "She has curves where a woman needs to have curves. She's still sexy. She's still a beautiful woman. And I have no problem with the way she looks."

Jessica's American football star boyfriend Tony Romo is also a fan of her sexy figure.

A source said: "He thinks Jess is hot no matter what. He wants to date a girl who can have a few beers, ribs, fries and dessert."

(CRI/Agencies February 2, 2009)