New York Fashion Week seems more interested in models that are size zero rather than representing diversity.
In many of the designer shows, two or three used black models. In over 30 shows attended by a Reuters news service, several designers only used one, while some had no black models.
Tracy Reese, DKNY and Diane von Furstenberg displayed a high number of black models this season while others, such as Vivienne Tam, did not use any.
Implications - New York Fashion Week does not seem too concerned with representing diversity and would rather have models who are white and who are also size zero. Vogue Italia has taken the lead and created a "Black Issue" featuring more than 20 black models, but many people question whether this is tokenization or not.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Size-zero Model Preference
- New York Fashion Week designers are more interested in size-zero models than diversity, this highlights the opportunity for an inclusive fashion industry that caters to all body types, including plus-size and curvy models.
- Black Model Underrepresentation
- The use of black models in New York Fashion Week is minimal, creating a demand for more diversity in the fashion industry modeling industry, making it more inclusive.
- Tokenization Calling Out
- The 'Black Issue' by Vogue Italia featuring more than 20 black models has raised questions about tokenization. This signals an opportunity to address criticism about being authentic and mindful in promoting diversity in the fashion industry.
Where This Applies
- Fashion Industry
- There is a clear need for an inclusive fashion industry that caters to all body types, including plus-size and curvy models.
- Modeling Industry
- The underrepresentation of black models in the modeling industry creates a demand for more diversity and inclusion.
- Publishing Industry
- The 'Black Issue' by Vogue Italia sparks a conversation about tokenism in publishing and advertising industries, presenting an opportunity to promote diversity and authentic representation.
