Fashion designers are breaking boundaries and challenging traditional notions of femininity by celebrating women’s physical strength on the runway. At the recent Collina Strada fall 2024 show in New York, models proudly flexed their muscles and even did bicep curls with kabocha squash dumbbells, showcasing a fusion of feminine motifs with nods to the gym. Creative director Hillary Taymour emphasized the idea that femininity and strength are not opposing forces, with one model effortlessly carrying her baby down the catwalk with one arm.
This trend of highlighting female strength is not limited to the fashion world. The film “Love Lies Bleeding” stars Kristen Stewart as a gym manager who falls in love with a female bodybuilder, while the novel “Headshot” follows teenage girls finding agency through boxing. Fashion brands like Stella McCartney and Emily Dawn Long are featuring muscular models and incorporating athletic elements into their collections.
This celebration of female brawn marks a shift in the industry, which has historically favored waifish bodies over athletic ones. The focus on physical strength is seen as a statement of inclusivity and empowerment, especially in a time when women’s safety and bodily autonomy are under threat. Designers like Willy Chavarria are creating collections that provide protection and add bulk, reclaiming space and presence in the world for marginalized individuals.
As the fashion world embraces and celebrates women’s physical strength, it sends a powerful message that beauty and strength are not mutually exclusive. This trend reflects a broader cultural shift towards embracing diverse body types and challenging traditional gender norms, making a bold statement about the power and resilience of women.
