Disabled Models Rocked NY Fashion Week For Italian Designer’s Catwalk

Days after Jamie Brewer, the first ever model with Down Syndrome, appeared in Hammer's fashion show, disabled male and female models in wheelchairs and prosthetics have yet again stunned fashion critics in enthusiasts in the New York Fashion Week.

Italian company FTL MODA in partnership with Fondazione Vertical, an Italian research organization for spinal cord injuries showcased how disabled models with leg disabilities and amputated arms can still look beautiful in the Mercedes-Benz New York Fashion Week runway show on Sunday, February 15, US Weekly reported.

According to Daily Mail, The FTL 'Loving You' Fashion Show also collaborated with London-based Models of Diversity which promoted diversity and representation of people from different walks of life including the ones with disabilities.

Pictures found in the news site showed these special models wearing futuristic outfits and makeup. Those who are in wheelchairs were wearing traditional but sophisticated ensembles.

One of the highlights of the fashion show is the participation of British personal trainer Jack Eyers who strutted in the catwalk with one of his amputated knees wearing prosthetics.

Jack Eyers, whose leg was amputated since he was 16, was chosen by the designer, Antonio Urzi, who have a name in dressing up celebrities like Lady Gaga and Beyonce.

In an interview, Eyers expressed his happiness and his being 'overwhelmed' at being selected as one of the models.

"It all feels so surreal. I can't believe this is actually happening. To be the first male amputee model on a New York Fashion Week runway feels amazing - it feels like such a big deal. I have no idea what to expect, so it's pretty overwhelming. I just want to show that having a disability doesn't need to hold you back," he said.

FTL Moda started its fashion line in 2007 with its producer, Ilaria Niccolini, Ticker Report said. One of the fashion line's biggest achievements is its recognition to be the official platform to support Made in Italy in the world. This is mandated by the Italian government of the Region of Lombardy.

The FTL 'Loving You' will also be featured in the upcoming Milan Fashion Week.