Forces of Fashion, an event happening on October 16 this year, will focus on the history and influence of the runway. In anticipation of the event, Vogue editors are sharing their favorite fictional fashion shows from movies and television shows. One such iconic moment comes from the TV show Sex and the City, in season four episode two, titled “The Real Me.” In this episode, protagonist Carrie Bradshaw finds herself in a precarious position as she is asked to participate in a fashion show wearing revealing Dolce & Gabbana panties, surrounded by actual models. Despite her initial doubts, Carrie is swayed by the promise of free clothes and peer pressure. The scene unfolds in true SATC fashion, with comedic mishaps leading to Carrie taking a tumble on the runway, inspiring her friends to be brave in their own lives.
Carrie’s fall in the fashion show offers a mix of emotions for viewers. On one hand, it is heartwarming to see her recovery from the embarrassing moment inspire her friends to confront their own insecurities and fears. Miranda stands up to a guy who ghosted her, Samantha embraces her body, and Charlotte gains confidence in her own femininity. However, there is also a sense of schadenfreude that viewers may experience, similar to the feeling when watching shows like Girls and Veep, where characters seem to have worse luck than we do. Despite the comedic aspects of Carrie’s fall, her ability to pick herself up and keep walking embodies a resilient spirit that resonates with real-life challenges and setbacks.
In today’s fashion industry, nontraditional casting is becoming more common, with a mix of models and “normals” appearing on runways and in campaigns. This shift in representation reflects a push for diversity and inclusivity within the fashion world, breaking away from traditional beauty standards. In a nod to this trend, Cathy Horyn, a respected fashion critic, walked the runway for Demna’s spring 2024 collection for Balenciaga, highlighting the evolving landscape of fashion and the importance of broadening perspectives on who can be a part of the industry. With more inclusivity, fashion shows are becoming more reflective of the diverse world we live in.
The iconic scene from Sex and the City illustrates the challenges of stepping out of one’s comfort zone and facing fears head-on in pursuit of personal growth. Carrie’s decision to push through the embarrassment and continue walking the runway despite her stumble serves as a metaphor for resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. Her realization that real people fall down in life but must get back up and keep going resonates with viewers who have experienced setbacks and challenges of their own, emphasizing the importance of resilience and determination in achieving one’s goals.
As Forces of Fashion explores the art, drama, and influence of the runway, the fictional fashion shows that have captivated audiences in movies and TV shows serve as a window into the creative and often chaotic world of the fashion industry. From humorous mishaps to inspiring moments of self-discovery, these representations of fashion shows offer a glimpse into the larger themes of confidence, identity, and resilience that shape the narratives of characters like Carrie Bradshaw and influence real-life individuals navigating their own challenges and triumphs in the world of fashion and beyond.
