Christian Siriano shows stunning gowns with matching masks at backyard fashion week show

Model Coco Rocha also made a splash on the runway ... literally.

September 18, 2020, 1:54 PM

A socially distant New York Fashion Week is like nothing we've experienced before, but Christian Siriano knew exactly how to make the most of it.

While some designers opted for virtual shows, Siriano opened up his backyard in Connecticut for the debut of his spring 2021 collection.

The dynamic show featured head-turning moments where models donned mesmerizing looks paired perfectly with matching masks.

Models wore everything from standout plaid designs to puffy sleeves and elongated ruffled skirts that were all accompanied by a mask.

PHOTO: A model walks the runway for the Christian Siriano Collection 37 2020 Fashion Show on Sept. 17, 2020, in Westport, Conn.
A model walks the runway for the Christian Siriano Collection 37 2020 Fashion Show on Sept. 17, 2020, in Westport, Conn.
Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for Christian Siriano

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention highly recommends wearing face masks to help stop the spread of COVID-19, and everyone from models to guests such as Billy Porter followed this guidance in the most stylish way during Siriano's extravaganza.

Siriano's inspiration from the show was drawn from films and moments he loved as a child. "I wanted this to be an escape for everybody -- fantasy, to have fun with fashion," the designer told "Vogue."

Another unforgettable moment was an appearance made by model Coco Rocha where she made a big splash ... literally.

The model, who is currently seven months pregnant wore a full head-to-toe ensemble she wore during the final walk at Siriano. After walking across a bridge as well as the grass, she decided to take a walk into the pool.

PHOTO: Coco Rocha swims in the pool at the runway for the Christian Siriano Collection 37 2020 Fashion Show on Sept. 17, 2020, in Westport, Conn.
Coco Rocha swims in the pool at the runway for the Christian Siriano Collection 37 2020 Fashion Show on Sept. 17, 2020, in Westport, Conn.
Mike Coppola/Getty Images for Christian Siriano

Since this was her only show this season during fashion week, Rocha explained in an Instagram post she wanted to change things up. "So, I decided to get in the pool. Christian said it was warm so why not?"

She posted that once she got her mask wet, she couldn't breathe as much and how she needed assistance to step back out of the pool because of the heaviness of the dress she wore.

PHOTO: A model walks the runway for the Christian Siriano Collection 37 2020 Fashion Show on Sept. 17, 2020, in Westport, Conn.
A model walks the runway for the Christian Siriano Collection 37 2020 Fashion Show on Sept. 17, 2020, in Westport, Conn.
Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images for Christian Siriano

In addition to Rocha's dip in the pool, there was another big standout runway moment where one model wore a black gown and hat which both had "Vote" printed all over -- serving as a reminder to motivate people to get out and vote for the upcoming 2020 election.

In March, Siriano was one of the first designers who had his staff turn their efforts toward creating more protective masks after answering a plea from New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo amid the novel coronavirus pandemic.