- Stephanie Rosa
Lack of Plus size representation during NYFW
New York Fashion Week (NYFW) is one of the most critical events in the fashion industry, where designers and models from all over the world come to showcase their latest collections. However, there needs to be more diversity in the representation of body types on the runway, particularly for plus-size models. While there have been some improvements over the years, the industry still has a long way to go to represent the diversity of the population truly.
One of the main reasons for the lack of plus-size representation in NYFW is the prevailing belief that only thin models can showcase high fashion. This belief is not only outdated, but it is also harmful, as it reinforces narrow beauty standards that exclude a significant portion of the population. Plus-size models can be just as fashionable as their thin counterparts, and there is a growing demand for more diverse representations of beauty in the fashion industry.
Despite this, the number of plus-size models who walk in NYFW still needs to be increased. In the Fall/Winter 2021 season, only four plus-size models walked in NYFW, a tiny percentage compared to the total number of models participating in the event. This lack of representation is particularly frustrating because many talented plus-size models could bring a unique perspective to the runway and inspire others with their confidence and style.
One of the main challenges for plus-size models is the need for more availability of high-end fashion clothing in larger sizes. Many designers do not create clothes in larger sizes, which makes it difficult for plus-size models to participate in fashion shows. This lack of clothing options reinforces the belief that plus-size models are unsuitable for high fashion and perpetuates the lack of representation.
Another issue is the need for more representation of plus-size models in fashion media. While there has been some progress in recent years, the media still tends to feature thin models as the norm, further reinforcing the exclusion of plus-size models from the industry. By featuring more plus-size models in advertisements, editorial spreads, and other media, the industry can help to normalize diverse body types and challenge narrow beauty standards.
In conclusion, while there have been some improvements in recent years, the fashion industry still has a long way to go to represent the diversity of body types on the runway fully. Plus-size models bring a unique perspective and can inspire others with confidence and style, but they currently need to be represented in the industry. To address this issue, the industry must create more clothing options in larger sizes, feature more plus-size models in media, and challenge outdated beliefs about who can participate in high fashion.
