Diversity, representation and intersexuality matter.
Now more than ever.
It’s beyond empowering to witness all the brave individuals using their voices to stand firm in their beliefs to go against the grain to be the change they want to see. Regardless of what mainstream media prefers to show us, we are creating change!
New York Fashion Week is slowly, but surely, becoming a conscious fashion event to showcase the importance of representing a variety of body types, ethnicities and political stances on the runway.
NYFW ended yesterday, now let’s reflect on a few designers who used their runway as a megaphone to make a powerful statement that’s bigger than clothes. From bold messages printed on tees to subtle accessories, this year it’s all about breaking the rules, in style of course.
Christian Siriano
Is a rising designer who strives for inclusivity on and off the runway. He’s known for casting a diverse group of women from all backgrounds and body types. This year his Fall/Winter 2017 collection included 10 styles worn by plus size models ranging from a size 2 to 16. One of the models made statement rocking a black T-shirt printed with the phrase “People Are People.” It was designed by his husband, Brad Walsh, with the entire proceeds from each one sold going to the ACLU.
Especially with what’s happening in our world, it was just important today to show as many different shapes, cultures, everything…and just to celebrate women.
Prabal Gurung
Sometimes the loudest statements, don’t make a sound. Prabal Gurung was inspired by the Women’s March to use his platform to declare justice and speak his truth. He sent a diverse group of models down the runway that sported political messages such as “The Future is Female” Revolution Has No Borders” and “We Will Not Be Silenced” celebrating intersexuality and feminism paired with style and grace.
I don’t just do T-shirts. I don’t just tweet. I do make an effort. I hope the next step is that people are actually getting their hands dirty and going to organizations that might need their help or the audience that they can share.
Anniesa Hasibuan
The Indonesian fashion designer Anniesa Hasibuan made a political statement at New York Fashion Week this week by exclusively casting immigrant models for her show. Last year, she made history when she unveiled the first all-hijab collection in New York to prove that all women can be stylish and glamorous no matter your religious beliefs.
I believe everyone should be presented with equal opportunities, especially if he or she has passion, talents, and skills, because not all immigrants are ‘bad.’ We’ve proved they are beautiful and a great contribution to the States.
Halima Aden
Model, Halima Aden, also made history last year for being the first contestant to run for Minnesota’s Miss USA competition proudly rocking a hijab and a burkini. Recently, she signed with IMG models and made her debut at Kanye West’s Yeezy show flaunting her hijab and a fabulous full length fur coat, stealing the show to also break barriers for Muslim women.
Don’t ever change yourself … Change the game.
It’s refreshing to see progress being made on and off the runway and how designers and models are utilizing the power of their platform to shine a light on public oriented-issues that effect all of us. I hope this isn’t only a trending topic, but a stepping stone toward the new revolution where everyone is represented.
