During New York's Fall 2015 Fashion Week, Madeline Stuart was the second model with down syndrome to ever walk this prestigious runway. Determined to follow in the footsteps of TV Actress, Jamie Brewer who modeled in NYFW last season, Madeline was ecstatic to find out that she was given this unbelievable opportunity. In 2014, Madeline fell in love with modeling when her mom took her to her very first fashion show. After creating a Facebook profile, her pictures quickly went viral bringing her ultimate goal, the ending of discrimination against people with disabilities, to light. While representing FTL MODA, Madeline modeled two looks both designed by Hendrik Vermeulen.
Her first look, pictured below, was a detailed and stunning white gown with one strap and textured skirt with feathers and unique triangular peplum accentuating her tiny waist.
In order to complete her runway look, she had her hair styled in a crimped and braided fashion balanced with intricate makeup resembling face paint.
While we all are well aware of the Fashion Industry changing at a rapid rate, who could have possibly predicted that the industry would make such a groundbreaking change by allowing special needs and disabled models walk down the runway?
This exact change is what has allowed countless others to be not only accepted into what has been previously described as a cut-throat industry but has allowed them to thrive. Models in addition to Ms. Stuart, like Jack Eyers, Rebekah Marin and Shaholly Ayers have overcome intense obstacles to prove themselves to be the gorgeously talented models that they are.
Breaking down the walls and barriers which society has built up for centuries has quickly proven to appeal to the general public. This transformation is allowing for true beauty, in whatever shape or size it may come in, to be showcased and celebrated.
As always, stay beautiful and keep reading...
Your gal pal,
xoxo
Meg
