Pool Party: Chromat ‘Wavy’ Fall/Winter 2018 text by Valerie McPhail

Expanding boundaries with bungee cord designs and body types, Chromat’s Fall/Winter 2018 Collection continues as a progressive force within fashion. This season the “future forward bodywear” label laced the elastic straps through high waisted pants, scuba dresses and combat boots. One-piece swimsuits accented with mesh and cutouts as traditional bikinis were but select styles, alternatively paired with track pants and netted cover-ups. After all, orthodox never defined designer Becca McCharen-Tran.

Models broke the fourth wall by whipping their bungee cords, blowing kisses and snacking on Flaming Hot Cheetos. With the support of K Rizz’s final performance, the crowd responded with claps and cheers – applauding unconventional models while they walked. As Chromat continues to be recognized for a diversified runway, including models of different body types, skin colors and cultural identities the stigmas of swimwear will start to wash away. McCharen -Tran uses her platform as an embrace for every person. This is feminist fashion: advocating clothing for all women and empowering their spirits of expression. It is fashion worth celebrating.

Valerie McPhail

Valerie McPhail is a New York-based writer on things of style and artistic expression. She has a portfolio of writing for both fashion and art publications. Although she enjoys covering fashion news and supporting new designers, her favorite subject to explore is the experience of fashion and how life is communicated through clothing. She believes there is a lot to be said about this.