Fashion Equality Takes Center Stage: The World Fashion Parade

​For many, Fall represents the changing of the guard, but this year, the season ushered in more than just cute cardigans and boots. A page was turned towards peace and fashion equality at the World Fashion Parade, held at Gotham Hall in New York City on September 25, 2016.

The World Fashion Parade is a humanitarian event that brings designers, models, industry leaders and dignitaries together to promote peace and harmony around the world, all while raising money and awareness for a charitable cause. #FashionForPeace was the theme of this year's World Fashion Parade, which brought awareness to the devastating 7.8-magnitude earthquake that occurred in Nepal in April 2015.  A much-needed call for tourism was emphasized by highlighting the art and culture that vibrates throughout Nepal.

Front Right, Iwona Alfred | Yona New York | Photography by David Guerrieri

​This year's event also included a silent undercurrent of inclusiveness.  Plus-size fashion was introduced in the show for the first time.  It was a bold and refreshing move for the World Fashion Parade to open their doors to innovative lines like Yona New York and ChubiiLine.  We took particular note of Yona New York, as it was the first strictly plus-size line (sizes 14 to 24) ever invited to participate in World Fashion Parade, and they did not disappoint.

Stephanie Mallick | Yona New York | Photography by David Guerrieri

Yona New York captured the elegance and refinement craved by plus-size fashionistas who are looking for upscale fashion.  The clothes popped on stage as each model graced the runway.  The line was well-received, and Designer Yona Love was met with great applause as she took the stage.

Maggie Hightower | Yona New York | Photography by David Guerrieri

Contributing Photographer David Guerrieri commented, "It felt like the beginning of an ongoing trend -- incorporating more sizes.  It made me think to myself, why has it taken this long to express and welcome other body types?  It was an Ah-ha moment, and I really think the crowd enjoyed and supported the fashion all the way!"

Desiree Jenkins | Yona New York | Photography by David Guerrieri

Beyond the fashion, there was an air of authenticity that radiated from the runway.  After each show, every designer appeared humbled by the crowd.  #FashionForPeace was definitely at the forefront of everyone's mind.  It was a celebration of culture and fashion, for peace and love. The World Fashion Parade was a great moment for fashion equality, and an even bigger, much-needed moment for Nepal.

Designer Yona Love of Yona New York | Photography by David Guerrieri

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Additional Looks From the Show

(Click on the Image to enlarge the picture.)

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About the Author
​Chelsea Dixon
​
Chelsea Dixon is the Founding Editor and Editor-in-Chief of Love U Magazine. Chelsea also works as a freelance writer and content marketer when she is not serving up body-positive content for all of you! To learn more about Chelsea and the vision behind Love U Magazine, read her Editor's Letter on our About Page.