Last Friday, Sept. 11, New York Fashion Week witnessed a historic moment for fashion. A finalist of "Project Runway Season 14" featured an entire show with plus-size ladies as its models. This is the first time any designer from any label has ever attempted such a bold move.
The finalist's identity was kept anonymous to avoid spoilers. "Project Runway" is still airing on Lifetime, with eight more episodes to go. However, many speculate that the collection belongs to contestant Ashley Nell Tipton, who is known for her plus-size designs.
The full-figured models confidently strutted down the ramp wearing cropped tops, high-waist shorts, and flirty dresses. Pretty pastels, floral patterns, and dainty lace were apparent in the designs.
The show wowed the crowd and received positive reviews from the audience, including judges Heidi Klum, Nina Garcia, Zac Posen, and celebrity guest judge Carrie Underwood.
Zac Posen didn't hide his excitement and told the Daily News: "It's a big moment for not only the runway, but New York Fashion Week."
Prior to the show, Liris Crosse, one of the models who walked the runway, announced her glee on her website: "Well, I can finally let my secret out!!! For the first time ever, 'Project Runway' is having plus models walk in their designer finale runway show and I'm one of them!! I'm so thankful to be a part of this historic moment especially since it's going to be at the official New York Fashion Week tents."
"I'm praying that this helps opens more doors for plus models on the major fashion runways at NYFW & around the world," the model added.
This year's New York Fashion Week has been eventful so far. Mashable.com has noted that a model with a bionic arm and another with Down syndrome have also appeared on the catwalk for different designers.
