Curvy models reigned supreme during the 2018 New York Fashion Week. In shows such as Christian Siriano, Prabal Gurung, Gypsy Sport and Chromat, curvier models could be seen strutting their stuff on the runway and we are all for it!
PHOTO: Yahoo
At Chromat’s show, one simple white t-shirt with the words "Sample Size" repeated three times caused a stir from those who saw it on the curvy model who fiercely dominated the catwalk. Some may see the shirt and ask, "what’s the big deal?", but to make this type of declaration in this industry is still seen as bold. In a post on their Instagram page, Chromat denounced the exclusivity some designer portray in the name of sample sizing:
"'Sample sizing' tends to be an excuse that other designers cite as a reason why they don't feature a range of sizes in their runway shows. At #Chromat, we know that the designer has the power to choose what size they prototype their collection in."
And designer Becca McCharen-Tran did not stop there; she also sent out an array of diverse models including amputee Mama Cax and breast cancer survivor Ericka Hart.
PHOTO: Elle
To close out the show, all the models took to the runway one more time and several rocked the "sample size" tee proudly while walking to Uniiqu3’s "Do What I Want!"
In addition to dismantling the idea of sample sizes, Tran also showed fun-funky swim styles for all sizes that have us ready to restart summer 2018 or at least jumpstart summer 2019. You can also rock your own "sample size" tee for $60 from the Chromat site.
theCURVYcon also took place during NYFW and created a space for "plus size Brands, Fashionistas, Shopaholics, Bloggers and YouTubers into one space, to chat curvy, shop curvy and embrace curvy." During theCURVYcon festivities, Dia & Co. and the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) announced a new campaign entitled #TeeUpChange.
PHOTO: TeeUpChange
They created five t-shirts to celebrate the plus-size community with quotes from women like Venus Williams, Tracy Reese and Lizzo. The shirts exclusively come in sizes 0X-5X and they profits are all donated to "fund size-inclusive design education programs at CFDA partner universities." For just $35 you can get your hands on one and support the cause.
While curvy models were not seen in every show, we hope shows like Chromat’s and campaign such as the #TeeUpChange continues to push the narrative that all bodies are beautiful and can represent high fashion.
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