Olandria Carthen Makes Empowering Debut on the Catwalk at New York Fashion Week

Olandria Carthen—television personality, business professional, and proud HBCU alumna—commanded the runway at New York Fashion Week, marking her first appearance at one of the world’s most prominent fashion events. Carthen’s walk was more than a showcase of style; it was a powerful statement on representation, self-worth, and the ongoing drive for inclusivity within the fashion industry .

Born and raised in Decatur, Alabama, Carthen first gained national attention as a standout contestant on the seventh season of "Love Island USA." Known to fans as the “Bama Barbie,” she quickly established herself as a figure of confidence, warmth, and determination. As a proud Black woman and the eldest daughter in her family, Carthen has spoken candidly about the pressures and expectations she’s faced, both on and off screen .

Graduating from the historically Black Tuskegee University, Carthen built her professional career as a sales associate in the elevator and escalator industry before entering the public eye . Her journey from the halls of an HBCU to the lights of New York Fashion Week is marked by resilience and a commitment to uplifting marginalized voices.

Carthen’s appearance at New York Fashion Week was met with enthusiastic support, particularly from queer advocates and allies who have long called for greater diversity on the world’s most visible stages. Wearing a custom look that blended Southern flair with contemporary elegance, she took to the runway with poise and purpose, drawing cheers from the audience and a flurry of supportive messages on social media .

“I’m here now and I do know my worth. I do know my value, and I am confident, and you’re not going to strip this from me ever again,” Carthen shared in a recent interview, highlighting the personal journey that shaped her confidence and her outlook on representation .

Carthen’s rise reflects a broader trend: the growing demand for intersectional representation in fashion, entertainment, and media. Her story resonates not only with Black women but also with LGBTQ+ individuals who recognize the importance of seeing diverse identities celebrated on major platforms. As a self-described “villa therapist” during her reality TV tenure, Carthen has also become a confidante and inspiration for viewers navigating their own identities and aspirations .

Social media engagement around her runway debut was substantial, with posts tagged #BamaBarbie and #NYFWInclusion trending across Twitter and Instagram. Many fans cited her as a role model for self-love and authenticity, regardless of background or orientation .