Paloma Elsesser And Jill Kortleve Make History As Fendi’s First Plus-Size Runway Models
Fashion is talking about a big game when it comes to inclusion, but few brands can actually support it. A breath of fresh air to see the legendary Fendi stepping into more sizing by playing Jill Kortleve and Paloma Elsesser at the 2020 autumn runway show in Milan. They are the first “plus size” models walking in a Fendi show.
With models like Gigi and Bella Hadid and Kaia Gerber, Elsesser made a soft yellow, special jacket with a wide belt that formed a cinch on her waist. After the Fendi track exit, Elsesser opened up what it meant for the moment on Instagram.
“Since I have literally no words, I will preserve the language of the prophet once! I just want to express my gratitude for this monumental moment. Thanks to EVERYONE ATTENDED. ”
Elsesser explained how walking on the show “made him feel protected, safe and seen” and hopes that it will have the same effect for those who normally don’t see them on fashion tracks in cities like Milan. Despite being Elsesser’s first Fendi runway show, New York is no stranger to the indigenous luxury fashion house, and took part in the advertising campaign of the brand in 2018.
Fendi’s fall 2020 runway show was also a first for Michael Kors, Kate Spade, Rag & Bone, Mugler, and other model Jill Kortleve walking for more. Like Elsesser, Kortleve’s Fendi scene was another pinch moment.
“Hello to the first Milan runway show, walking for @fendi Bazen? Sometimes I feel like my life is not real – I am grateful for all the opportunities I have received and all the people who believe me and help make everything happen.”
However, the involvement of Elsesser and Kortleve should not be a “historical” moment, especially in 2020. Milan was a start – do the brands at Paris Fashion Week fit that?