Ashley Graham Walked in Dolce and Gabbana’s Show

Dolce and Gabbana recently held their Alta Moda show at Lake Como, Italy. As you can probably guess from those details alone, the show did in fact deliver; showcasing a bright and colorful collection that did deliver on the expectations that usually come with the label of high fashion.

However, perhaps one of the highlights of the show was Ashley Graham, who walked down the runway sporting a black sheath dress with lace embellishments. Adorned with a matching black cape, red roses, and huge chandelier earrings; the model looked every bit as ethereal as the setting.

Graham’s appearance has naturally drawn much excitement from many people; the 30-year-old model has been viewed as a champion of plus-sized representation and body positivity. Her appearance in such a high-profile fashion show could, in fact, be viewed as an overall victory for a group that is often excluded from the industry.

However, this decision has sparked some talk of controversy; though, through no fault of Graham’s own. The fact of the matter is that in recent news, designer Stefano Gabbana has courted his fair share of controversy and public disapproval. The designer was most recently called out for commenting that Selena Gomez was “so ugly” on Instagram.

But this is not the only time the designer has been accused of shaming women. His brand, to the criticism of many, released sneakers stating “I’m so thin and gorgeous” last year. Gabbana himself once posted a video of himself dancing on Instagram; the caption stating “Fat and full of cholesterol.” It is notable that there has been no incidence of Gabbana apologizing for any one of these actions.

Miss Graham posted photos of herself walking at the show on her own page. The post received many positive reactions from commenters, many praising how she looked. But of course, there were a number of people who expressed concern over her working with someone who has openly fat-shamed, among other degrading and problematic behaviors. One person commented, “Why walk for a designer who unreasonably shames women?”

Graham’s appearance in these shows would usually be something to be celebrated, it is certainly something of a step in the right direction. However, the model aside, this perhaps does not mean that one should simply forget the problematic actions of these designers. In the case of Gabbana in particular, there should be more work on their part to be conscientious of their influence of the field of fashion. Especially if they seek to somehow “remedy” past wrongdoing.

Featured Image via Wikimedia Commons 

1 Comment
    • Maya Asregadoo
    • July 13, 2018
    • Reply

    The fact that models like Graham are starting to be included in fashion shows is definitely a step in the right direction! I think it’s strange that women Graham’s size are considered to be “plus-sized,” however. Graham is a pretty average weight, I think.

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