In case you missed it, last week the city of Milan had its annual fall fashion week spotlighting the upcoming spring collections. What designers lost without star-studded front rows this year they made up for with an inspiring showing of inclusive model casting. Most notable in making progressive strides was Versace, whose “Under the Sea”-inspired playful designs were shown on models like Precious Lee, Jill Kortleve and Alva Claire. (Yes, that theme really piqued the SI Swimsuit editorial team’s interest.)
Images courtesy of Versace. Models: Jill Kortleve, Precious Lee, Alva Claire.
Former SI Swimsuit cover model Ashley Graham, who gave birth to son Isaac eight months ago, jetted to Milan to take a major part in the shows, walking in ETRO and FENDI. The model shared backstage footage of herself pumping while simultaneously getting her hair and makeup done before hitting the FENDI catwalk. That, everybody, is the modern model at its finest.
Images courtesy of ETRO. Models: Ashley Graham, Valentina Sampaio.
Alongside Graham on the ETRO runway was 2020 SI Swimsuit rookie Valentina Sampaio.
Inclusivity, in all forms, has been long lacking and lagging in high fashion, particularly with the Italian houses. This year, during unusual and difficult times, we are at least left hopeful for a future of inclusive fashion.