Ashley Graham Dazzles in 90s PVC Mules and Glam Gold Dress

Ashley Graham Dazzles in 90s PVC Mules and Glam Gold Dress

0:00

Updated on: October 8, 2024 9:04 pm GMT

Ashley Graham Dazzles in 90s-Inspired Clear Mules at New York Fashion Week

On September 4, 2024, Ashley Graham, the renowned model and body positivity advocate, made a striking appearance at the Harper’s Bazaar Cocktail Party in New York City. The event was part of the much-anticipated New York Fashion Week, where Graham sported a captivating gold dress and chic clear mules, echoing a popular fashion trend from the 1990s that has returned to the limelight.

A Star-Studded Affair

The Harper’s Bazaar Cocktail Party took place at the elegant Le Veau d’Or, gathering numerous high-profile guests from the fashion world. Alongside Graham, notable attendees included Tracee Ellis Ross, Solange Knowles, Precious Lee, Naomi Campbell, and Natasha Lyonne, among others. The star-studded event highlighted the pulse of contemporary fashion as it intersected with nostalgic trends.

A Throwback to the 90s: Clear Mules

Ashley Graham at the Harper's Bazaar Cocktail Party wearing clear mules.

Ashley Graham showcasing her clear mules, a revival of 90s fashion, at the Harper’s Bazaar Cocktail Party.

Graham’s footwear choice—a pair of Gianvito Rossi Elle pointed-toe mules—perfectly complemented her sophisticated look. These mules feature clear PVC uppers that provided an alluring visual effect. The Elle style is characterized by its pointed toe and a 105mm stiletto heel, marrying elegance with nods to retro fashion. The clear mules encapsulate a trend that first gained traction in the 90s, often spotted on club-goers and performers.

The Legacy of Clear Hues

Clear heels have experienced a resurgence in recent years, sparked by their nostalgic association with the vibrant 90s fashion scene. Initially popularized by designers such as Gianni Versace, who unveiled a range of transparent shoes in 1993, this trend has periodically returned to the runway. Brands like Prada, Fendi, and Christian Louboutin have also embraced the trend, further cementing the aesthetic in contemporary fashion culture.

The Elegant Ensemble

In addition to her standout footwear, Graham wore a luxurious champagne gold silk halter dress. The gown’s meticulous design featured intricate draping that accentuated her figure while offering a blend of glamour and style. With a plunging neckline, the dress highlighted her décolletage elegantly, showcasing Graham’s confidence and fashion sensibility.

Fashion Choices Reflecting Versatility

Graham’s fashion choices often reflect her dynamic style, ranging from sporty to sophisticated. For formal events, she typically opts for strappy sandals or pointed pumps, often featuring vibrant colors or metallic finishes from luxury brands such as Bottega Veneta and Christian Louboutin. On the other hand, her casual attire often includes trendy sneakers from popular labels like Vans and Adidas, showcasing her adaptable approach to footwear.

Empowerment Through Representation

<pAside from her notable fashion choices, Graham has been an outspoken advocate for body positivity. Earlier this summer, she shared her journey of self-acceptance and the empowerment that comes with embracing one’s own body. In an interview with TIME, she reflected on her experiences with body shaming and the evolution of her self-image over the years.

Fostering Body Positivity

Graham articulated the importance of accepting and celebrating the changes her body has undergone, especially after childbirth. She expressed her commitment to encouraging women to embrace their bodies at every stage of life. “This is my body, and I’m incredibly proud of everything it has accomplished,” she stated, reinforcing her dedication to fostering a positive dialogue around body image.

Looking Ahead in Fashion

As Ashley Graham continues to make waves in the fashion world, her attendance at events such as the Harper’s Bazaar Cocktail Party highlights her influence and status as a role model. By bringing back 90s-inspired trends like clear mules, she not only reflects a sense of nostalgia but also contests traditional beauty standards. Her fashion choices and activism pave the way for a more inclusive and diverse representation in the fashion industry.

For those interested in the latest trends and events, following Ashley Graham and other fashion icons is essential to staying informed about the evolving landscape of style and representation.

Further Reading on Fashion Trends

Snigdha Ahuja is the Managing Editor at The Voice of Fashion, a digital media publication by RISE Worldwide (Reliance Brands Ltd.). She specializes in reporting and editing features that delve into fashion, design, beauty, culture, and intersectional lifestyle topics.