New York Fashion Week has always been a stage for the extraordinary and the unique, and this year was no exception. Amidst the glitz and glamour of the runway, Dylan Mulvaney, a 26-year-old trans star, made a striking appearance that left the audience in awe. She graced the catwalk for The Blonds Spring Summer 2024 fashion show, showcasing not only her impeccable style but also her extraordinary transformation.
Dylan Mulvaney donned a mesmerizing light blue bedazzled dress, accentuated by matching sparkly blue stilettos. Her presence on the runway was a testament to her confidence and charisma, captivating the audience in New York City. However, what truly stole the spotlight were her remarkably chiseled cheekbones, a result of her transformative journey.
Mulvaney has undergone extensive facial feminization surgery, a procedure that involves reshaping the facial structure to achieve a more feminine appearance. It involves intricate steps, including the careful removal of portions of the skull, followed by meticulous contouring to create softer and more delicate features. While the details of any further surgeries remain uncertain, her radiant presence at the fashion show spoke volumes about her resilience and her unwavering commitment to embracing her true self.
After the show, Mulvaney mingled with fellow celebrities attending The Blonds fashion show, sharing moments with luminaries like Queer Eye’s Jonathan Van Ness and model Dominique Jackson. It was a gathering of talent and diversity, emblematic of the fashion industry’s evolving landscape.
Behind the scenes at New York Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2024 @DOMINIQUE T. THE BUTTERFLY @Dylan Mulvaney #nyfw
Mulvaney’s journey through 2023 has been a tumultuous one, marked by both triumphs and challenges. Earlier in the year, she received an award for ‘breakout creator’ at the 2023 Streamy Awards, a recognition of her significant impact in the digital realm. During her acceptance speech, she courageously addressed the “extreme amount of transphobia and hate” she had encountered along her path. It was a poignant reminder of the barriers that still exist for trans individuals, even in an increasingly inclusive society.
However, much of Mulvaney’s year was overshadowed by her association with Bud Light in April, a partnership that stirred controversy and backlash. As part of Bud Light’s March Madness campaign, Mulvaney dressed up as Holly Golightly and was presented with a can of the light beer adorned with her image. While the intention was to celebrate a year of her living as a woman, the campaign ignited a firestorm of criticism.
Prominent figures, such as musician Kid Rock, publicly voiced their dissent by shooting at cases of Bud Light, and country singers John Rich and Travis Tritt severed their ties with the brand. A wave of consumers felt that Bud Light was attempting to impose progressive beliefs upon them, leading to a significant backlash. This nightmare promotional campaign inflicted substantial damage on parent company Anheuser-Busch, resulting in a staggering $27 billion loss in market value, corporate layoffs, and the loss of its title as America’s favorite beer.
Despite the chaos that ensued, Anheuser-Busch did not publicly apologize for the campaign, leaving many to question its commitment to its LGBTQ+ initiatives. CEO Brendon Whitworth cautiously navigated the issue in interviews, avoiding direct confrontation.
@Dylan Mulvaney ALWAYS SUCH A PLEASURE TO SEE YOU 💝@TheBlondsNY 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰 #nyfw #fashion #model #beauty #girlslikeus
♬ bow chika wow wow – cristine
In response to the tumultuous aftermath of the campaign, Mulvaney criticized the company in June, stating that, “For a company to hire a trans person and then not publicly stand by them is worse than not hiring a trans person at all.” She highlighted the importance of supporting trans individuals and expressed the profound impact of facing ridicule and loneliness in the public eye.
Bud Light responded indirectly, emphasizing its dedication to employee and partner privacy and safety. They affirmed their commitment to their core mission: brewing great beer and participating in moments that matter to consumers.
During the crisis, Anheuser-Busch placed Group Vice President of Marketing Daniel Blake and Bud Light Marketing Vice President Alissa Heinerscheid on leaves of absence. Heinerscheid, the driving force behind the Mulvaney campaign, had aimed to steer the brand away from its ‘fratty’ image and attract a more diverse and younger audience.
Heinerscheid advocated for inclusivity and a lighter, brighter, and more appealing approach in Bud Light’s marketing strategy. She believed that Bud Light’s previous image was dated and skewed towards a male audience, necessitating a shift in tone and message.
In the ever-evolving world of fashion and marketing, Dylan Mulvaney’s journey remains a testament to personal transformation, resilience, and the pursuit of authenticity. Her appearance at New York Fashion Week was a striking reminder that beauty transcends boundaries and that self-expression knows no limits. As society continues to grapple with issues of inclusion and acceptance, figures like Mulvaney pave the way for a more diverse and compassionate future.
