In Colombia, a fashion show has taken the opportunity to show off plus-sized designs, to give consumers a different look from the usual seen on the catwalk. Our correspondent Michelle Begue has more from Medellin.

 

Some Colombian women may be known for their curvy body shapes. But on the fashion runways of Colombia's largest fashion expo, Colombiamoda, the same skinny trend was strutting down the catwalk. But this year for the first time in its history, the Colombian runway was responding to consumer needs. Plus Size models walked the catwalk for the new Colombian plus size label Elena.

 

NATALIA FRANCO VALENCIA DESIGNER, ELENA PLUS SIZE CLOTHING "We wanted them to be rebellious women in fashion. Break all those rules and forget about it and just feel good about themselves and we wanted to communicate all those messages through the clothes so people really get it. "  

 

The collection named "size revolution" was a refreshing change for not only the audience but its models. One plus size model says local retailers don't have much of a clothing selection for women sizes 14 and up.

 

MONICA PATRICIA CUARTAS PLUS-SIZE MODEL "There is a poor selection. You only find clothing for women 50 to 60 years old. Jeans and clothing for grandmas. So it is very frustrating when you feel like you don't fit in this world and you have to settle for what there is."

 

And there is a market for plus size women. According to government statistics, 51 percent of Colombia's population is overweight or obese. The Elena team also started the first plus size boutique in Medellin called Casa Plus where they shared a space with three other plus size brands.By having a brand like Elena that designs for curvy body types, the Elena team hopes to give women a label that allows them to express themselves.

 

DANIELA MARIN MANAGER, ELENA PLUS SIZE CLOTHING "We want them to feel like they have clothing they can choose from and take with them what they like, not what is left. They should be able to more than just dress themselves, but express themselves, liberate themselves through fashion."

 

The Elena label says they have received lots of positive reaction locally and internationally. They hope this will not only propel their small brand but encourage the market to dream big. Michelle Begue CGTN Medellin.