Diversity Takes Over Christian Siriano’s Runway

Images by NY Mag

The world of fashion is changing with every season, and while plus size models have been given a slight spotlight over the recent years, they have yet to be part of a RTW runway show. That is of course until Maryland designer, Christian Siriano decided to reveal his 2017 RTW  collection at the Artbeam Studios, which counted an array of models that went from the norm 5’10 and size 2, to plus size models all under one catwalk.

This season’s theme was “Isle of Capri”. Siriano stated this became his inspiration  after seeing various candids of former first lady, Jacky Kennedy Onassis vacationing on the Italian island. Everything about the collection immediately transported everyone to a summer day in Capri. Siriano is consistent with creating eye-catching garments that make women feel and look great. It was therefore a no-brainer, that he would incorporate more than sample sizes in his show, taking him to begin a change in the fashion industry in order to make it more inclusive for the regular, everyday woman.

Siriano’s keen eye for mixing elegance with vivid colors was present one more time during this show, when he presented a collection filled with the brightest colors in the color wheel in breathtaking silhouettes. Oranges, turquoises and whites graced the runway along with notes of black and light greys.  All the clothes seemed to take a live of their own as they moved along with each of the model’s hips and  were adorned with raffia, crystal dangly bits and heavy ruffles.

Form-fitting dresses with double cut-outs and double high-slits were modeled by Sabina Carlson, while plenty of cut-out shoulders with oversized ruffles fluttered all over the catwalk. The evening gowns were absolutely stunning in crepe organza and satin that were adorned with larger-than-life capes. When it came to the shoes, the designer once again collaborated with Payless to create beautiful chunky mules, along with strappy sandals and pointy pumps with oversized embellishments, that equally matched the entire collection.