Plus Size Fashion Label
Carolyn De La Drapiere
Supports Diversity Catwalk Show
28 Mar 12
British plus-size women’s fashion brand Carolyn de la Drapiere is helping change attitudes in the fashion industry after taking part in a special ‘diversity’ catwalk show. The independent label supported the campaign against the unhealthy size-zero culture by providing a range of “stunning” outfits for top plus-sized models Emily Carenza and Lucy Moore at the Models of Diversity Catwalk Show in London earlier this month.
The retailer – which specialises in bespoke upmarket women’s wear for sizes 12-28 – was invited to dress the models by acclaimed modelling agency and fashion industry campaigners Models of Diversity, as part of a drive to promote “more natural” bodyshapes.
Designer Carolyn Draper said she was “honoured” to take part in the high-profile event, which was held as part of the Ideal Home Show at Earl’s Court Exhibition Centre on March 17 and 18. Speaking from her boutique in Barnes, London, Carolyn said: “It is always a privilege and great fun to work with Models of Diversity, who advocate equality of models of all shapes and sizes, ages and nationalities.
“It was an important show because it is helping change attitudes within the fashion industry. The average UK dress size is now 16 but there is still a tendency to promote size-zero models rather than celebrating ‘real’ women. The audience certainly appreciated the fact that plus-size models were present, representing the large proportion of women who often find it difficult to find beautiful, well-cut clothes that show off their figures to advantage.”
The Models of Diversity Catwalk Show was styled, choreographed and staged by acclaimed anti size zero campaigners Models of Diversity, who last November achieved recognition for their Curves in Couture fashion show, supported by the British Fashion Council. It promoted the latest designs aimed exclusively for “more natural” body shapes and featured an “exciting and diverse” group of models promoting beauty and style in race, size, shape and disability.
Among them were size 14 model Emily Carenza, who was recently in the news after returning to her modelling career following a major car accident where doctors told her she would never walk again. She was joined by Lucy Moore, the size 16 student who last month was unveiled as the new face of Ann Summers after winning a competition to find the “sexiest face in the UK”.
“It was a real honour to dress such stunning plus-size models,” said Carolyn.
“Lucy Moore is totally serene and a real gem. I dressed her in the most stunning green shot silk dress and she looked nothing but heavenly as she appeared on the runway, with the audience clapping loudly as she walked to the end. Emily Carenza, meanwhile, is a stunning model and fantastic advocate for modern, stylish women who are proud of their curves. She is a real star and a complete inspiration.”
“I dressed her in a number of pieces that I thought would best capture her character, including a black chiffon top with big luscious red roses and a sumptuous beaded evening dress that she smouldered in.The gasps that was heard in the crowd as she walked out showed the appreciation the audience had for her and also the natural beauty of curvaceous women.”
