As the biggest names in fashion, journalism, and art gather in New York City for its iconic Fashion Week, one thing is clear: Representation matters. This week-long celebration of artful style has become an event for furthering inclusion and progress on all fronts—from the runway to Forbes Magazine. Join us as we explore why representation matters and how New York Fashion Week is changing the game.
1. A Fashionable Night Out: Making Representation Count at NYFW
New York Fashion Week (NYFW): It is certainly the catwalk event of the season, and the perfect place to show off the season’s biggest trends. But, this year, the show is about more than just couture and designer pieces, it is about striking a stance for inclusivity and representation.
The designers that went the extra mile in casting their shows – from genderless presentations, racially diverse models, size-inclusive castings and a refreshing reserve of age-diverse models – elevated the bar even higher. The looks shifted beyond traditional fashion ideals with styling that celebrated individuality, and it was clear with every look that the designers had taken the time to make an effort in pushing boundaries and appreciating diversity.
Not to mention the iconic silhouettes that caught our eye, from intricately designed pantsuits to annual fall favorites like knitted jumpers and velvet pumps. There was an assemblage of inspiring designs for everyone. A fashionable night out that celebrates representation and individuality, and looks good doing it.
2. Emerging Voices: Celebrating Diversity on the Runway
The world of fashion is no stranger to embracing diversity. From plus-size models to runway stars from all ethnic backgrounds, the industry has made strides in recognizing the beauty and talent of all. In recent years, there has been a surge of new, diverse voices gracing the catwalk. Here are some of the most inspiring emerging voices today:
- Ashley Graham: One of the first plus-size models to gain widespread recognition, Ashley Graham has made a lasting impression in the world of fashion. She has been featured in campaigns from major brands like Lane Bryant and Sports Illustrated, and has recently been named the host of the 2019 Miss Universe competition.
- Winnie Harlow: Born with vitiligo, a skin pigmentation condition, Winnie Harlow has since become a household name in fashion. She was the first vitiligo sufferer to ever walk for a major fashion designer and has since been featured in major editorials and campaigns for brands like Harper’s Bazaar.
- Adwoa Aboah: Supermodel Adwoa Aboah is shattering beauty standards and inspiring a generation with her outspoken support for inclusivity in the fashion world. Aboah was named Model of Year at the 2017 Fashion Awards for her influence, and is the founder of the non-profit organization Gurls Talk, which encourages young women to share their stories.
The fashion industry is continually breaking barriers and celebrating the beauty of diversity. With rising stars like Ashley Graham, Winnie Harlow, and Adwoa Aboah, the industry is sure to become ever more inclusive of different looks, sizes, and backgrounds in the years to come.
3. Taking a Stand: How Representation is Transforming the Fashion World
The fashion world today is more diverse and inclusive than it has ever been before. Historically, fashion models were largely white and thin, and there was little diversity among them. Now, brands are making strides to make fashion more representative of real people.
- More body types: We are now seeing more sizes, shapes, and body types represented in runway shows and magazines. This is making fashion accessible and attractive to all kinds of consumers.
- Multi-cultural models : A number of brands are featuring models from different cultural backgrounds and communities in their campaigns. These models have their own unique stories and styles that are bringing more culture and diversity to the fashion industry.
- Fashion for everyone: Plus-size fashion and gender-neutral fashion is becoming increasingly important in the fashion industry. Brands are changing their sizing policies, and offering more gender-neutral options. This is making fashion more accessible to everyone.
The fashion world is embracing new ideas and new perspectives. Seeing more variety and diversity in the fashion industry is helping to break down social barriers and promote acceptance and understanding. Diversity in fashion is a positive development that is transforming the way we perceive beauty.
4. From the Front Row to the Catwalk: Recognizing Inclusivity Through Fashion
In today’s fashion landscape, its not enough to just host a catwalk full of diverse sizes, races and identities. The industry needs to make sure every individual on the runway and in the audience feels seen and included. Here are few ways fashion is recognising inclusivity through the front row to the catwalk:
- Bigger Seats – Very often, seats in the front row are so small that those plus sized have to squeeze or can even be excluded from the front row altogether. That’s why many brands and show organisers are creating front-row seating fit for everyone, so those of all sizes feel welcome and free to attend and experience the show.
- Accessible Show Invites – Another barrier to inclusion on the runaways and in the front rows is exclusive invite-only shows. Some designers are beginning to expand their invites including models with disabilities, influencers from various cultural backgrounds, and members of the LGBTQ+ community to create space in the industry for those who traditionally would not have had access.
- Inclusive Makeup Wallace – Makeup artists are beginning to pull inspiration from a variety of countries in their use of colours, textures and techniques. Now beauty lovers of all shades can not only be seen but feel represented in the fashion industry.
By providing positive visibility fashion is sending a powerful message to all its audience members. Each of these inclusivity steps won’t just make a fashion show more diverse, but it will create an atmosphere of acceptance, of belonging and of empowerment. Fashion is a tool used to inspire and make a statement. Now more than ever, it’s time to use that power to include and welcome every identity.
At the end of the day, it is undeniable that representation matters in the fashion industry and the world alike. New York Fashion Week offered us invaluable insight into how this representation can lend itself to both the fashion industry and ultimately help shape it, as we look forward to the next season. Representation has the power to bind us, to move us, and to give our stories a chance to be told. When the industry is given the chance to mirror the diversity, beauty, and creativity of our society – we all come out winners.
