Due to dangerous high heels and lighting that was far too low, the catwalks became small battle fields for some of the models participating in the Fall 2009 New York Fashion Week.
At Bryant Park, the Hervé Léger runway for designer Max Azria looked like an obstacle course when at least three models spilled all over the dark and slippery catwalk.
Two of the victims were newcomers 15-year-old Monica "Jac" Jagaciak, and 17-year-old German model Karolin Wolter. For his part, Azria said that people should focus on his clothes and not the model wipe outs. Really?
You’d have to wonder how much thought goes into protecting the models with their slender and fragile frames. To me, it is really amazing that we don’t hear much about models twisting or breaking their ankles because of those incredibly dangerous shoes with which they strut up and down the runways.
Ah, the vagaries of fashion.
Hazardous Runways
Models Bite the Dust in Dangerous Heels At NY Fashion Week
Trend Themes
1. Model Safety - Opportunity for developing safer runway environments for models during fashion events.
2. Footwear Innovation - Opportunity for designing high heels that are both stylish and safe for models and runway participants.
3. Fashion Event Infrastructure - Opportunity for improving lighting and runway surfaces to prevent accidents during fashion shows.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion Industry - The fashion industry can explore innovative measures to ensure the safety and well-being of models during runway events.
2. Footwear Industry - The footwear industry can capitalize on the need for safer high heel designs that prioritize both style and comfort.
3. Event Production Industry - The event production industry can focus on improving the infrastructure and safety measures of fashion shows to prevent accidents and injuries.