Why Are All the Big Models Trading the Runway for the Front Row?

It seems that when it comes to supermodel spotting, it’s no longer the catwalk that’s got it down: These days, it’s all about the front row. It appears that established names have earned the right to enjoy the view from their seats, and lately, they’ve been taking the opportunity to experience fashion from the other side. Suki Waterhouse and sister Immy have made the rounds at shows like Sonia Rykiel and H&M, while Liu Wen showed up at Fendi looking sensational. The front row at Givenchy had almost as many models as the catwalk did with Soo Joo Park, Ana Beatriz Barros, and Karen Elson all sporting Tisci gowns.

Taking a break from walking in order to actually view the collections has become a key way for models to remain in the spotlight without having to dive into the hustle and bustle of show castings, rehearsals, and fittings. The collective obsession with who and what models are wearing has opened the door for their style to be as obsessed over as any starlet’s—and ditto their cultural sway. Starlets may have snapped up many a model’s hotly desired ad campaigns, but it looks like they’re striking back in their own way. Here, a look at the models who have been sitting pretty during fashion month.

Posted in: Fall 2016 Ready-to-Wear, Givenchy, Jourdan Dunn, Karen Elson, Liu Wen, New York Fashion Week, Sonia Rykiel, Suki Waterhouse