New York fashion isn’t just about the runways—it’s about the sidewalks, stoops, and bodegas. It’s the loud colors in the summer, the layers in the winter, and the girls who always show up and show out, even if they have low funds and two trains to catch. The NYC Dreamgirls photoshoot was about: honoring the culture women of color have created in the world’s fashion capital.
Conceptualized and creatively directed by longtime plus size blogger, influencer, and body positivity advocate Gabriella Lascano, the shoot brought together a cast of native New York baddies who live and breathe this city’s flavor. As a model for this shoot and the press covering for The Curvy Fashionista, I witnessed firsthand how this shoot paid homage to the resilience, resourcefulness, and runway energy of plus size women from all five boroughs.
Gabriella Lascano: The Visionary Behind the Lens
Gabriella Lascano, a trailblazer in the plus-size fashion community, has long championed body positivity and inclusivity. With over 400K followers on Instagram, she uses her platform to advocate for self-love and representation in fashion. Her TED Talk, “Can You Love Your Body — and Still Want to Change It?” delves into the complexities of body image and acceptance. Lascano is now embarking on an exciting new chapter, stepping into the podcasting world with her latest venture, “On the Plus Side,” available on YouTube. Her new show promises to offer listeners fresh perspectives and engaging conversations, marking a thrilling expansion of her creative endeavors. Get ready to tune in and explore what Gabriella is bringing to the airwaves with “On the Plus Side”!
As the creative director of the NYC Dreamgirls photoshoot, Gabriella brought her vision to life, highlighting the beauty and resilience of Black and Brown women in New York’s fashion scene.
The Blueprint: How Black & Brown Women Built New York Fashion
New York fashion owes much of its vibrancy to Black and Brown women who have shaped its identity. From the streets of Harlem to the boroughs beyond, these women have infused style with culture, creating global trends.
The NYC Dreamgirls shoot pays homage to this legacy, showcasing the influence and creativity of women who have long been the heartbeat of the New York fashion narrative.
No Size, No Problem: How NYC Girls Stay Fly with Limited Options
Being a plus size woman in New York has its challenges, especially when it comes to fashion. Limited options in mainstream stores have led many to thrifting, DIY fashion, and mixing high-end pieces with affordable finds.
This resourcefulness isn’t just about necessity—it’s a testament to the creativity and determination of plus-size women who refuse to be sidelined in the fashion world.
Ballin’ On A Budget: How NYC Baddies Mix Runway with Rainbow
In a city known for its high cost of living, New Yorkers have mastered budgeting without compromising style. It’s common to see outfits that pair designer pieces with thrifted gems, proving that fashion isn’t about price tags—it’s about expression.
This ethos is at the core of NYC Dreamgirls, celebrating the ingenuity of women who make fashion statements on any budget.
Dreamgirls Do It Better: A Visual Love Letter to NYC Style
Participating in the NYC Dreamgirls shoot was more than just a modeling opportunity—it celebrated culture, confidence, and community. The shoot captured what it means to be plus size in New York: bold, beautiful, and unapologetically stylish.
Through Gabriella’s direction, the shoot highlighted the diversity and dynamism of the city’s fashion landscape, reinforcing that Black and Brown women are not just part of the narrative—they are the authors of it.
More than a photoshoot, NYC Dreamgirls was a statement: We are the culture. We’ve been the culture. From Harlem to Queens, Bronx to Brooklyn, plus size women have made fashion our playground—even when the industry tried to leave us out. We’ve flipped closets, snatched bargains, and turned sidewalks into catwalks. We do more with less and make it look good every time.
As a plus size girl born and raised in New York, this shoot felt like home. It captured the heartbeat of a city built by women who mix ingenuity with individuality, grit with glam. And in true native New York fashion, we did it in style, and with a little bit of edge.
Are you a fan of New York fashion? Tag your favorite fashionable New Yorker in the comments below!
