For much of the history of contemporary fashion, there has only been one definition of beauty: young, white, able-bodied and size zero. But as someone who wants to build their future in the world of fashion communications, the SS20 runway at New York Fashion Week reinforced my faith in an inclusivity revolution that the fashion industry desperately needs and seems finally ready to welcome. Here are five designers whose SS20 collections made me proud and excited for the future of high fashion:
1. Kate Spade
 Source: Vogue | Creative director Nicola Glass wanted every customer to see themselves on the Kate Spade runway this season. In a show honoring the brand's late founder, models of all races and body types walked, in addition to featuring a push for diversity that few designers have explored: age. The star of the show was the "Accidental Icon" herself, Lyn Slater. While Slater is 66 years-old, she is very vocal about not being defined by her age. Her blog speaks to women who are intelligent, curious and compassionate, characteristics that should be given much more value than the superficial beauty standards commonly touted by fashion. |
2. Chromat
| For the last ten years, Chromat has made swim and activewear for the future. Founder Becca McCharen-Tran celebrated the anniversary of her brand with updated classics and modern designs, all of which were showcased on one of the most diverse groups of models in New York. Chromat was one of the first lines to highlight inclusivity in their mission statement, and they have certainly honored their commitment to it. |  Source: Vogue |
3. TommyxZendaya
 Source: Harper's Bazaar | Actress and Gen Z style icon Zendaya brings a youthful flare to Tommy Hilfiger's classic American designs in the pair's second collaboration. Zendaya has been known to speak up for diversity, especially on behalf of the African-American community, and this show was no different. In addition to nods like hosting the show in Harlem, the runway boasted models of all ages, races and religions. Among them was plus-sized model Ashley Graham, proudly displaying her baby bump. |
4. Christian Siriano
| Christian Siriano is no stranger to diversity. He designs for all types of women, especially those ignored by other designers, from the runway to the red carpet. This season's show featured a diverse cast as well as highlighted portraits of inclusive icons like Laverne Cox and Lady Gaga. A culmination of popular culture, art and couture, Siriano's Spring 2020 collection is a testament to making inclusivity a fashion standard. |  Source: Vogue |
5. Savage X Fenty
 Source: Vogue | Victoria's Secret is dead, and Robyn Rihanna Fenty took the final shot. Rihanna vowed that "every woman deserves to feel sexy," and every kind of woman was represented in her runway spectacular. Setting a new standard for inclusion in lingerie and the fashion industry as a whole, Rihanna gave music and fashion fans a new understanding of runway. The future is Rihanna's, and we're all just living in it. |
2020 is the start of a new golden age of fashion, but there is still so much room to grow. As fashion month comes to a close, we've seen some of the most inclusive runways yet, but some of the giants remain hesitant to stray from their long-standing ideals. As Gen Z reaches the workforce, it will be our responsibility to keep the momentum strong within the fashion industry.
What do you think will be the next movement to hit fashion? Who do you want to see embrace diversity with their next collection? Share your thoughts below!
What do you think will be the next movement to hit fashion? Who do you want to see embrace diversity with their next collection? Share your thoughts below!
