Looking back on this year’s New York Fashion Week, it seems the fashion industry is finally initiating a more diverse, body-friendly image.
Story by Samantha Favela
Over the past couple of years, the fashion industry has gradually made progressive strides in promoting a diverse, body-positive image. Designers have noticed the lack of diverse models in their shows and have made an effort to fix the issue. Many models have defied the strict stereotype that the fashion industry has portrayed for so long and have laid the path for future models.
Model Ashley Graham struts the runway at Michael Kors’ NYFW show. Photo courtesy of Style Bistro.
This year’s New York fashion week was full of firsts for the models and collections. Ashley Graham, an unapologetic advocate for body diversity, was the first plus-size model to walk Michael Kors’ runway. In previous seasons, she suggested that his clothing sizes be extended to size 16.
Model Madeleine Stuart made history in Hendrik Vermeulen’s 2016 Spring collection show. Photo courtesy of American Superstar Magazine.
But this is only one of the many firsts in Graham’s career, and others have made progress as well. In 2015, Madeline Stuart became the first professional model with down syndrome to walk the catwalk. Two years later, she has successfully launched her own fashion label.
Model Halima Aden in Yeezy Season 5. Photo courtesy of Heat Street.
Recently, IMG Models made history by signing 19-year-old Halima Aden. She is the first hijab-wearing model to be signed by the company. Aden walked in Yeezy Season 5 during this year’s New York Fashion Week. Other designers, such as Anniesa Hasibuan, decided to cast only immigrants and second-generation children of immigrants for her fall 2017 show, a far-reaching move from what is usually seen during fashion week shows.
With each passing year, designers are expanding the runway to include more diversity in order to reflect everyday people in modern society. Individuals of different ethnic backgrounds and sizes can be represented in fashion. With an ever-changing environment, fashion has started on the much-needed path of inclusion and authenticity.
