“Chic is Chic”: Christian Siriano’s Take on Plus-Size Fashion and Reality TV

As New York Fashion Week gets underway, designer Christian Siriano is making waves with his distinctive approach to fashion and his involvement in reality TV. At just 38, Siriano’s achievements are noteworthy: he’s the founder of a successful fashion label, a go-to designer for celebrities like Michelle Obama and Zendaya, and a co-host of “Project Runway,” a staple in reality TV. Siriano’s journey began with a deep passion for fashion, which he describes as an obsession necessary for success in the industry.

Siriano’s impact extends beyond his impressive clientele and TV presence. From his debut runway collection in 2008, he has been a vocal advocate for body inclusivity in fashion. His commitment to creating stylish clothing for plus-size individuals has set him apart. When comedian Leslie Jones faced difficulties finding a designer to dress her for the “Ghostbusters” premiere in 2016, Siriano stepped up. He designed a striking black off-the-shoulder dress that not only fit Jones perfectly but also went viral, showcasing his dedication to inclusive fashion. Since then, Siriano has dressed other prominent figures, including Oscar nominee Danielle Brooks, Doja cat in the streets video and supermodel Ashley Graham.

Siriano recognized early on that size should not dictate the availability of fashionable clothing. He notes, “Chic is chic, right?” His philosophy stems from personal experience; his mother is curvy, and his sister is petite. Both desired the same elegant dresses, which inspired Siriano’s belief that high fashion should be accessible to all body types. Despite this, department stores were reluctant to stock plus-size evening gowns in the same quantities as smaller sizes, leaving many customers disappointed. In response, Siriano shifted his focus to direct sales from his Manhattan studio about five years ago, allowing him to offer a full range of sizes.

This shift proved to be a savvy move. Siriano challenges the misconception that curvy women are not interested in luxury fashion, a myth he has dispelled through significant sales and success. His evening gowns, some priced over $12,000, cater to a market that values both style and size inclusivity.

In addition to his work in fashion, Siriano has made a mark in the political realm. Notably, Siriano’s artful designs for plus-sized women have become increasingly popular with celebrities, including Oprah  Gail Winfrey.  Siriano’s political engagement is part of his broader commitment to authenticity, which also includes his role in making Dr. Jill Biden’s “Vote” dress during the 2020 campaign. “I’ve always been kind of a political designer,” Siriano says, emphasizing that supporting causes and individuals he believes in is integral to his work.

Despite his succesces criticism, particularly regarding his flamboyant design style and his presence on reality TV. Some critics dismiss his use of voluminous fabrics as outdated or overly dramatic. Siriano acknowledges that these critiques initially affected him personally, but he remains steadfast. “I worked really hard, I made clothes, people bought them. What made people so mad about that?” he reflects.

Looking ahead, Siriano is contemplating new creative ventures, including designing a Broadway show and ballet costumes. He expresses a desire to focus more on the artistic side of fashion, which sometimes gets overshadowed by the demands of running a large fashion house. “Making clothes is the best part of my job,” he asserts. “Running a fashion empire sometimes takes away from being an artist.”

Siriano’s story highlights the evolution of fashion, where personality and authenticity can coexist with creative brilliance. Reality TV, once considered a hindrance to serious fashion careers, is now part of the industry’s fabric, with many influential figures, like Victoria Beckham, embracing it. For Siriano, maintaining his distinctive personality is crucial to his brand’s growth, but ultimately, his focus remains on creating designs that make people feel beautiful.

As he juggles deadlines and projects, Siriano’s dedication to his craft is evident. “I’m probably going to be sleeping in the studio,” he admits, reflecting the reality of pursuing one’s passion in the competitive world of fashion. His journey underscores the blend of creativity, resilience, and authenticity needed to redefine industry standards and connect with a diverse audience.