After Fashion Week swept the streets of New York City a few weeks ago, Fashionistas everywhere rejoiced and embraced these new trends dictated by all the major designers. More dedicated and style-obsessed men and women made sure to catch the live streams of all the major shows.
I watched, clad in pajamas, as cameras panned across the faces of all the big names in the industry. I sat with Instafamous celeb-models in the front rows, seas of iPhones trying to Snapchat every moment; I watched in awe as each stunning model glided down the runway; I counted how many—or rather how few—non-white models graced the catwalks.
Of course names like Kanye, despite the blistering reviews of his show, not only incorporated non-white models into his show, but exclusively used black or mixed models. After seeing countless designers try to include one or two non-white models out of a show of 40 and try to call it “diversity”, seeing shows like Kanye’s are a breath of fresh air on the runways. Designers need to begin to truly notice the talent of young models of all races in this industry. Melanin should not make or break a career; it’s important for this generation to be the one to break this racist trend still dominating runways in 2016.
There’s no way to discuss NYFW and ignore the permeating racism in the industry. All this having been said, Fashion Week is still the iconic and ever-glamorous gala taking over New York City that dictates which trends are to follow in coming seasons. Hopefully the fashion industry will outgrow this grotesque stage of institutionalized racism we are still stuck in.
I support Kanye and his use of all black models in his Season 4 collection, so my look above was inspired by the signature Yeezy neutrals. I also fell in love with Nicole Miller’s feminine Spring 2017 collection—especially this look pairing a menswear button down with summery shorts. I completed my look with chunky boots to revel in the spirit of fall fast approaching. I also incorporated delicate accessories to this look with a high ponytail for a girly finish.
