New York: At Anna Bolina’s show during New York Fashion Week, model Kazumi showcased a powerful narrative of self-acceptance and freedom, stepping into the limelight with a striking outfit embodying her journey from the adult film industry to high fashion, celebrating individuality and challenging traditional norms.
In the vibrant atmosphere of New York Fashion Week, Anna Bolina’s latest show provided a unique intersection of fashion and identity on February 11, as model Kazumi took to the runway in a striking display of self-expression. The backstage area was alive with energy, filled with the sounds of techno music and the busy commotion of stylists preparing models for the show. Kazumi, adorned in an impressive 30-pound dress and towering heels, reflected on the significant journey that had led her to this moment, noting that despite the haste around her, she felt a sense of calm and readiness due to years of mental rehearsal.
Kazumi’s path to the runway has been unconventional; a promotional photo from her past involvement in the adult film industry served as a visual reminder of her journey, taped prominently on the wall. The model shared how she had often envisioned herself in high-fashion scenarios, inspired by strong female characters in film, yet considered these aspirations unattainable due to societal standards of beauty. “It was a dream for so long because I always thought it was impossible. I’m too short, too curvy, not the right look,” she said, explaining her prior doubts. However, recent trends in fashion, featuring figures like Mia Khalifa for KNWLS and Lana Rhoades for Alexander Wang, have signalled a shift towards embracing individuals with backgrounds in sex work.
At Bolina’s show, Kazumi felt a poignant sense of belonging as she closed the runway, which she described as not merely a walk, but a statement of freedom and self-acceptance. “It was an absolute honour and privilege to carry a vision of freedom of self,” she articulated, positioning her participation on the runway as a form of rebellion against traditional fashion norms.
Following her walk, the backstage atmosphere intensified with celebration as Bolina exclaimed, “We. TORE!” affirming Kazumi’s performance. The model’s next outfit choice, featuring a custom dress by Mowalola paired with archival Helmut Lang heels and a striking Rick Owens coat, reflected her personal style, which she described as always embracing the essence of sexuality with intention and creativity.
As the event drew to a close, Kazumi relished in the attention she garnered, expressing her desire for visibility akin to that of Tinkerbell, stating, “If I don’t get attention, I wither away and die.” The stage—transformed from a mere runway to a platform of cultural integration—signalled more than just an end to Fashion Week for Kazumi; it marked the start of a new chapter. She concluded with a sense of optimism for the future, saying, “Although this was the end of NYFW, for me, this was only the beginning.”
Source: Noah Wire Services
