A greater mix seems rudimentary "especially in New York City, the capital of the word, where all types of cultures and classes come together. Fashion in New York City should naturally represent that," she said.

When casting for her show, Kai Milla said she looks for someone interesting and who fits into her clothes. "I think great models are of all ethnicities. We're living in the real world and the real world exists with a real mixed group of people. What we as fashion designers show in magazines and on the runway is really important to young girls because it affects their self image," she said.

Maybe the borderless business is being interpreted in unusual ways.

One executive at a major design firm noted matter-of-factly, "We use all types of girls: English, Irish, American, Swedish. There is always a mix."

Mark Badgley said, "It's true I see many collections where it's one certain look or the girls are made up to look exactly the same. We like a little variety. I think it's nice to use some of the young girls, some of the more established girls. That's always what our shows are kind of about."

After modeling for Temperley, Rosa Cha and others, Solange Wilvert said she didn't think the casting in Bryant Park was drastically different than in seasons past. "Maybe there aren't many black models," she suggested.