http://www.styleite.com/runway/alexandra-owens-spring-2011/?pid=1457#image

PHOTOS: Shrouded Models Walk New Zealand Runway

by Verena von Pfetten | 12:58 pm, September 22nd, 2010

Fashion designers do not merely design clothes, they create art. And as such, the purpose of a show is not to sell said clothes, but to make a statement. New Zealand designer Alexandra Owens chose to make her statement by having her models wear knit shrouds and fencing masks while walking down the runway.

Perhaps the masks were intended as commentary on the lack of diversity in the industry, or perhaps to underscore the idea that models are just breathing, walking hangers and you should be focusing on the clothes — not their doll-like features. Or maybe she just liked them.