Models at Prabal Gurung Fall 2021; Image: Imaxtree
We’re always cautiously optimistic when it comes to diversity in fashion. Sure, we’ve been let down a time or two. But like any worthwhile relationship, we hang in hoping that, at some point, the good outweighs the bad. Sadly, we’re going through a rough patch right now as evidenced by New York Fashion Week Fall 2021.
Obviously, the pandemic had a direct impact. Fewer designers participated and actual runway shows were few and far between. Although, we faced similar challenges during the Spring 2021 season and New York delivered its most diverse season ever. So what happened?
RACE
We reviewed 229 model appearances across 41 presentations compared to 287 model appearances across 48 presentations last season. The shrinking pool may account for some of the downturn for Fall 2021. This season boasted 50.7 percent models of color. While that may seem impressive, it’s down from 57.1 percent for Spring 2021. The constraints of showing…