The fashion industry has a reputation for not being the most inclusive of spaces, but things are changing. theFashionSpot's recent diversity report stated that the Spring 2017 runway shows were the most diverse in history, and we are seeing more and more campaigns that give people of various backgrounds representation.
We still have a ways to go in terms of boosting diversity on and off the runway, but in anticipation of New York Fashion Week (NYFW) on Feb. 9, we'd like to call attention to a range of designers from all different backgrounds helping the fashion world veer away from the #OscarsSoWhite issue. Some of these designers have long roots in America, others are first generation, some are immigrants, while others have ties to countries throughout the world.
It is designers' different backgrounds and unique histories that they often draw inspiration from, and the reason why we get so many unique collections at NYFW.
Check out just a few of these designers we are excited to see this coming fashion week.
1. Jason Wu
Jason Wu was born in Taiwan before his family moved to Canada. Now in New York, he shows his ready-to-wear collections regularly at New York Fashion Week.
2. Tracy Reese
Fashion designer Tracy Reese's ready-to-wear collections are a mainstay at New York Fashion Week. Her mission statement is to "Make every women feel beautiful."
3. Naeem Khan
Naeem Khan is an Indian-American designer based in New York. He will be presenting his collection of elegant eveningwear at the Fall 2017 shows.
4. Bibhu Mohapatra
New York-based fashion and costume designer Bibhu Mohapatra was born in Rourkela, Odisha, India. His NYFW is a cannot miss event if you want to see glamorous evening looks.
5. Anna Sui
Asian-American designer Anna Sui is a longtime veteran of New York Fashion Week. She presented her first runway show in 1991 and she is recognized for her playful designs and prints.
6. Prabal Gurung
Prabal Gurung was born in Singapore and raised in Kathmandu, Nepal. He launched his label in the United States in 2009 and he has shown regularly at New York Fashion Week since then.
7. Derek Lam
Derek Lam founded his namesake label in 2003 and his ready-to-wear collections are a harmonious blend of simplicity, modernism, and special details.
8. Tadashi Shoji
Born and raised in Sendai, Japan, Tadashi Shoji is now based in New York and presents his womenswear collections regularly at NYFW. If you're looking for elegant eveningwear, his show is a must-watch.
9. Anniesa Hasibuan
After making history as the first designer to show a full hijab collection at the Fall 2016 shows, Indonesian designer Anniesa Hasibuan will present once again.
10. Brandon Maxwell and Dao-Yi Chow
Designers Brandon Maxwell and Dao-Yi Chow of Public School return to NYFW after taking a break in 2016. The duo's show will be one of the most anticipated events of the season.