Truth on the runways.
(Even more) truth on the streets.
Ah, New York Fashion Week. The special time that comes around only twice a year, where the finest and most extravagant (and sometimes the most ridiculous) creations are sent down the runway – all to the watchful eyes of critics, buyers, stylists and hoards of eager fashionistas. This season, however, it was less about the outlandish, and more about the political. No, I stand corrected. It was completely about making a statement.
SARTORIALLY & POLITICALLY SPEAKING
In as much as (some) of the designs that walked down the runway took my breath away, it was how designers and models and influencers stood united in sending a message about social and political justice (or perhaps a sad lack thereof) that really stood out for me.
Because let’s face it, people.
Fashion can be one mother of a catty world.
Let’s not attempt to sugarcoat things, shall we? Catty and bitchy and, more often than not, blatantly cruel and manipulative. And it is precisely because of this volatile environment that the solidarity presented by its key citizens left such an impression on me. If they could set aside blog rankings and statistics, and comparing the number of zeros in their cheques, albeit for that one week, perhaps it’s something I can try to emulate on ground level, in my muggle world.
Although, I must add, those over-the-top, grandiose public displays of unity do beg the question of whether they’re merely acts of grandstanding. Of posturing and peacocking, purely for the benefit of cameras snapping away.
Cynical, you say?
Somewhat.
Optimistic that I’ll be proved wrong and that these are, in truth, genuine acts of solidarity? Cautiously very much so. I want to be wrong. I want to see people doing things without an agenda.
One thing is undeniable though.
I’m not doing nearly enough on my own.
I’ve always believed that if I stay true to myself and do what I think is right, when presented with a platform, I should speak. Loudly and clearly, and stand up for what I believe to be true. And at this particular moment in our history, nothing rings with more clarity than the need to foster sisterhood unity regardless of ethnicity, race, age, size.
O N E N E S S
In the words of Jeremy Scott, “Our voice is the only thing that will protect us.”
I’m not sure what it is precisely that I intend to do but I do know I want to do more. Be it in terms of what I write or the items I clothe my body with, or both. I’m still thinking of how I can actually contribute towards being a part of the voice of change. If you’re of the same mind, let me know? Perhaps we can do something together.
From a fashion perspective, this is what I wore for my first day of New York Fashion Week (one of the coldest days I’ve ever experienced, 9th February). I wore it to the Tadashi Shoji and Noon by Noor runway shows. I’m not including a review of the collections because, well, I’m writing this a month later but if you’d like a look at the designs, you can see their individual pieces here and here. They were both MAGNIFICENT.
On a separate note, I want to thank everyone for your kind words concerning my grandfather. His demise hit me harder than I’d expected, to be honest. We weren’t particularly close the last few years because of distance as well as the fact that he no longer recognised anyone. Yet when he passed, there was a big hole inside of me, and I felt empty, unable to write, hence the absence of blog posts. Thank you again.
Love, Sheela
Finally made the transition to AV and am now on YouTube as well as Snapchat (sheela.goh), would adore your support through subscribing to my channel/adding my snaps.
Pretty please?
p/s my photos are by Sofia Touassa
I link up here.
Sheela Writes 
I am with you on these political and social views – and I often worry that I can’t do enough to make a change. I try to talk to anyone who sits next to me about the Way Things Are, and what we can do. You’re an inspiration and a gorgeous one! xox
-Patti
http://notdeadyetstyle.com
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Oh my god, it feels like ages that You posted! Or did I miss something ? We have here in the Netherlands the electronische on Wednesday! There has to change something over here! Its all too anti social!
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Interesting post, Sheela, and you look fabulous. I’m so sorry to hear about your grandfather; this is the first I’ve heard of it. I have a particularly amazing one who is still alive and well, and I am grateful every single day for him… he’s sort of a second father to me, because the first one I was given was pretty rubbish! I’m sending you healing and peace and love and strength. xx
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You bring up some really great points. I’m with you on trying to stay true to myself. I don’t know what the answer is but I think it’s inspiring that you’re putting it out there! This outfit is fabulous. I love the blush color of your coat and those shoes are such a stunning blue color! Sorry to hear about your grandfather :(. Thank you so much for sharing with us at On Mondays We Link-Up!
Sarah
Trendy & Tidy
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I, too, wish to do things without an agenda. An inspiring and uplifting post, while pointing out some cruel truths. Thank you!
Your outfit is stunning and these shots give me chills! I am deeply sorry about your grandfather. There are no words of consolation for this type of situation.
Thank you for linking up with us this week.
–Roxanne
http://glassofglam.com
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This look is so amazing Sheela! The coat and booties are so chic and cool. One of my fave looks on you. So sorry about your grandfather. Saying a prayer for you and him.
http://www.kathrineeldridge.com
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You always have the best fur pieces. Love this color -XO
Shauna
http://www.lipglossandlace.net
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Your message is a powerful one. It’s unfortunate that so much of what we are seeing and hearing in the news are such bad examples of how to lead a responsible life and those that try to question or bring attention to issues are shamed and mistreated. But we mustn’t give up. You look divine, Sheela, in spite of it all. My condolences to you and your family on your loss.
Rena
http://www.finewhateverblog.com
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I love your jacket. The colour looks beautiful. Great look, love your jeans too 🙂 Thanks for sharing at Creative Mondays.
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I’m so sorry to hear of the loss of your grandfather Sheela 😦
That coat is simply stunners and would go so fab with a certain short of mine!
XO
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I love your pants! They’re so retro.
xo Logan
https://peculiarporter.com
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Hi Sheela! I’ve never been to NYFW, but honestly, have never had the urge to. I could totally seeing it being catty like you said. Nonetheless, you made a statement with this coat and you’re looking so gorgeous! So sorry to hear about your grandpa, though 😦
Tina
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Looking beautiful in this stylish outfit!
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I am sorry for your loss, Sheela and wish you a long life. I always enjoy reading your posts, you speak of matters that should be close to everyone’s heart. Your outfit is fabulous
https://lookingfabulousat50.blogspot.com.au
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I think it’s good to have a cautiously optimistic attitude about these things.. because both the fashion world and the political world have a tendency of acting like everything is hunk-dory.
I’m new to your blog, so I didn’t know about your grandfather.. sorry to hear that!
YouTube | Blog: Geekette in High Heels | Instagram
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So sorry to hear about your Grandfather Shiela x
If anyone could be a good writer for getting views of any sort out there, you are the lady for this. I look forward to reading what you come up with. Thank you so much for linking up to Celebrating Style. It means a lot xx
http://www.vanityandmestyle.com
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I’m so sorry for your loss. I really loved your honest insight into NYFW. Also, that fur coat is so gorgeous! The color is stunning. xx
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So sorry to hear about your grandfather Sheela. For someone who’s never attended a fashion show I find your take on NYFW refreshing. It’s good to hear an honest account instead of the magazine coverage. Thank you for linking up to Style With a Smile 🙂
Emma xxx
http://www.style-splash.com
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