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by Reena Daruwalla, guest writer for Nancy Hayssen.com

I think quite arguably, there is a shift in perception with regard to the concept of beauty in the fashion industry at least as far as photographic modeling is concerned. The meaning of beauty is no longer as straitjacketing as it was and is now more inclusive, more broad (pun unintended) and more comprehensive, encompassing a wider variety of body types and sizes. However I didn’t think that this shift in perception had carried over to ramp modeling, where I felt that the hanger variety of model still reigned supreme.

Then I read about the Art of Curves, which is an Annual Plus-Size Fashion Extravaganza Themed ‘The Movement’ in New York. This made me think that perhaps on the ramp as well, perceptions may be shifting, that designers are themselves waking up to the fact that they should perhaps be promoting a more real and healthy ideal of beauty rather than the often sunken eyed and hollow cheeked models (no offence to anyone but it just seems that way to me sometimes) that seem to be de rigueur for catwalk fashion shows.

So what is the Art of Curves? It is a company ‘dedicated to showcasing the works of up and coming designers as well as the development of aspiring models in the plus size fashion industry. Our staff of industry professionals looks to change the perception of plus size women in the main stream. We exemplify all things curvy in the fashion industry. Our movement works to show the fashion, entertainment and media, genres that beauty, talent and artistry are not one dimensional. We work to represent the multiple levels of plus size fashion. The measure of one’s beauty, does not ride on the measurements of one’s waist band.’

And they have already made a great start with the success of their show last year in New York’s Westside Loft which ‘brought curvy back’. If the success of last years’ show is anything to go by, then the second event scheduled for September of this year will be even more so. Slated for the 19^th of September, this event will take place at Manhattan’s Studio 450. Here some of the Plus Industry’s best designers and also the designs of up and coming designers will be showcased. Other highlights of the event will be networking and vendors, with a Shop-n-Soiree, pre and post show. Some of the designers plan to sell clothes off the runway as well.

If you want to see what last year’s show was like, look here. While something like this won’t turn the fashion industry on its head all at once, it is a good beginning!