AS the world's highest-profile fashion event, New York Fashion Week typically features women no larger than a size six. But last night history was made when "plus-sized" models were sent down the catwalk for the first time.
Dozens of models, all over a size 16, wore a range of outfits from cargo shorts and cropped trousers to dresses and jeans.
The audience, which included Precious actress Gabourey Sidibe, rose to its feet to applaud the models at the end of the show.
It was organised by American fashion label OneStopPlus.com, which caters for women a UK size 16 and up.
"We hope that it's just the beginning," said the company's president, Stephanie Sobel. "Yes, this is just the first show, but hopefully we'll look back and be shocked that it took this long."
Zahir Babvani, vice president of design at OneStopPlus.com, said: "This show is a collaborative effort to provide the extraordinary community of plus-size women with the uncompromising style that they have always deserved but never received.
"No more seeing what you can't have; this is a fashion party that invites and inspires everyone."
Whitney Thompson, winner of America's Next Top Model, said: "There is no reason a size 16 model should not hold their head up high like everyone else."
Organiser Nancy Le Winter said: "It's simply about time that fashion speaks to all women. It is the first time that women can look around and say, I can wear that!'"
But many of the top designers still appear reluctant to offer larger sizes, claiming it is more difficult to make them, more material is needed — and that they simply do not sell as well.
London Fashion Week begins tomorrow, with designer Mark Fast expected to again fly the flag for larger models by using them in his catwalk show.
