From the looks of the runways this season, diversity has finally become a priority for fashion.

From the mix of street-casting kids with models at Koché to the dazzling multigenerational faces at H&M Studio, Paris Fashion Week has begun with an eye to the importance of keeping model selection diverse. Fall 2016 has even allowed for previously monochromatic runways to embrace difference, but while other brands play catch-up, Balmain has been leading the way for years. Since the beginning of his tenure at Balmain, Olivier Rousteing has made it clear that filling his lineups with models from an array of backgrounds isn’t just a trend that he’s looking to follow—it’s a priority.

Rousteing has gone on record regarding the importance of representation in fashion, and his shows continually reflect those values with its lineup of sexy, global beauties. The hair color switch-up between Kendall Jenner and Gigi Hadid is certain to make headlines, but having a runway where nearly half the models are women of color sends a message that reaches far beyond a sight gag, and one that shouldn’t go unnoticed. Elegant newcomers Genesis Vallejo and Dilone walked alongside stars like Ming Xi, Jourdan Dunn, and Maria Borges, proudly rocking her short ’fro, while Lineisy Montero tried on one of the show’s image-altering wigs. Bhumika Arora continued her action-packed season, while house favorites like Ysaunny Brito, Riley Montana, and, of course, Gigi Hadid continued their roles as members of Rousteing’s Balmain army. Even with identity-obscuring hairpieces, the cast made for a powerful statement about diversity, as well as what a modern runway ought to look like.