Models With Bionic Arms, a Gold Prosthetic Leg, and Down Syndrome Brought Diversity to Fashion Week

Historically, the fashion industry hasn’t done a fair job of representing models of all shapes and sizes. Despite the fact that it’s built on being aspirational, most couldn’t see themselves in the skinny, white, models slinking down runways in largely unwearable items. Black women working the catwalks didn’t even have proper makeup until recently. But the ivory tower has finally opened its gates just enough so that a few groundbreaking individuals could slip on through.

From women of various sizes and colors to those with disabilities, New York Fashion Week has never been more diverse. There was Rebekah Marine, who was born without her right forearm, who walked in the FTL Moda show with a 6-year-old who was born without her left forearm; Diandra Forrest, an albino black model, closing Gypsy Sport carrying her newborn; plus size models Denise Bidot, Candice Huffine, and Sabina Karlsson; and more amazing moments.

It’s about time! Look out for even more inclusivity come 2017.

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