How The New Runway is changing the game in fashion

by Dana Vernot

Imagine a runway where women of all figures and frames dominate the catwalk. Women of various shades, mirroring genuine diversity. Imagine a runway where you recognized the models because they looked like you. No need to imagine because this runway is The New Runway.

This vision turned into a reality on Feb. 7 at the New York Fashion Week 11 Honoré show. Patrick Herring, founder and CEO of 11 Honoré, stated, “We have a vision that anyone who has the desire to participate in fashion and express themselves sartorially should be seen, heard and included.” Uliana Urubzhilova, a graduate luxury and fashion management student, said, “I believe not too many designers do it but when they do it, not too many buyers pick the extra sizes. I don’t know if the problem is with buyers or the stores, but stores haven’t provided too many selections. I believe we will see more size inclusion in retailers but happening a bit slowly.”

Only 2 years old, 11 Honoré is a size inclusive online retailer that carries statement dresses and gowns, classic basics, tailored separates, work wear essentials and more from top designers around the world. 11 Honoré works to provide luxury ready-to-wear garments in sizes 10 to 24 and, for some designers, up to size 26. Their motto is “The runway edited.”

They also offer foundational tools for designers to create extended sizing. These tools include graders, fit technology and plus-sized fit models. Mahnoor Fatima, a luxury and fashion management graduate student, commented, “Body positivity should be seen more often. It is important that we get a wide variety of sizes in areas such as lingerie and we haven’t seen too much of that yet.” Lauren Anderson, a fourth-year fashion student brings up the point that “Size inclusion should be on both ends. Petite matters as well. Stores that offer styles in petite lengths are appreciated”.

The brand has coined the phrase and hashtag #thenewrunway serving as a powerful declaration. The New Runway showcased at the 11 Honoré show is a body positive celebration. The showcase included designers such as Joseph Altuzarra, Christopher Kane, Zac Pose, Brandon Maxwell and Prabal Gurung. The beauty of this show was not just shown in the garments, but shown in the model cast. The cast included Candice Huffine, Marquita Ring, Precious Lee, Stella Duval, Tara Lynn and Laverne Cox. These models lit up the runway with their smiles and high energy poses and struts. This exceptional show also allowed for a shoppable experience through Shopify as the show took place.