I like fashion magazines, but many model sizes are in the lower single digits. This season, Project Runway models gave me a glimpse into what is possible for everyone.

I’ve loved fashion, clothes, hair, not so much – makeup, since high school. I’ve always liked experimenting with different looks and styles, even through hair, no hair & spare hair during chemo.  Among my magazine subscriptions is Elle and I’ll pick up Essence or Vogue every now and then. This week I even tried wrapping embroidery thread on a few of my locs, a la Essence magazine’s November issue. You’re never too old (or anything else) to try something new! 😱

Project Runway
Naturally, I have been an avid watcher of Project Runway.  Let me begin by saying for the 1st time model sizes ranged from 2 to 22. Throughout the season designers were randomly given different sized models each week. That in and of itself is amazing!

Watching designers create clothing for women with different shapes and sizes was exhilarating! Although initially, a few were reticent and claimed to not be able to do it. 

This opened my eyes about what could happen if designers and department stores made more stylish clothes for everyone, especially sizes 14 and up.  (The average US women is size 14.)

Real Woman Sizes
“Good night!” as Granna would say. It would be something if plus-sized women had a selection of great fitting clothes to choose from. I mean, effortlessly hugging your curves and affordably priced. Yep, it would make you feel like a million bucks!

Anyway, during the finale of Project Runway Season 16, which sent the top 4 designers to show their collections during NYC’s Fashion Week, I saw something that almost made me cry. Each designer had different sizes of models walk the runway in their collection.

However, the “Piece De Resistance” occurred when one of the plus size models shed her ruffled skirt to uncover a swimsuit. This reveal garnered cheers and a standing ovation. 

The model unfurled her skirt and proceeded to “sashay” down the run way to applause, smiles and the delight of Fashion Week fashion show attendees.

At that given moment, I think the fashion world said, “We can design for all sizes”. At least that’s my hope. Not that I’m going to rush out and buy designer fashions (too costly), but we often see similarities in our closets later. (Remember The Devil Wears Prada.)