In the ever-evolving world of fashion, diversity, and representation are no longer just buzzwords but powerful movements reshaping the industry. A new wave of African models, both male and female, is not only making their mark on the runway but also creating a profound impact on the world of fashion. These individuals are more than just models; they are trailblazers, breaking barriers and inspiring change. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the rise of African models and the transformative influence they’re having on the fashion world.
1. A Changing Landscape: The Emergence of African Models The traditional standards of beauty in the fashion industry have been challenged and redefined. Black Top models have risen to prominence, commanding attention with their unique looks, charisma, and talent. This shift in the industry signals a broader acceptance of beauty in all its forms and colors.
2. Breaking Stereotypes: Pioneers of Diversity Black Top models are not only diversifying the runway but also challenging stereotypes and preconceptions. They’re proving that beauty knows no boundaries and can be found in the myriad of shades, shapes, and sizes that make up the world’s population.
3. Redefining Beauty Standards: An Inclusive Vision The presence of African models in major fashion campaigns, runway shows, and editorials is redefining the standards of beauty. Their prominence sends a message of inclusivity, inspiring people of all backgrounds to embrace their unique beauty.
4. Advocacy Beyond the Catwalk: The Power of Influence Many African models are using their platform and influence to advocate for social and racial justice causes. They’re not only changing the face of fashion but also working towards a more equitable world.
5. Shaping the Future: Inspiring the Next Generation One of the most significant impacts of African models is their ability to inspire the next generation. Young aspiring models, regardless of their background, can now look up to these trailblazers as proof that dreams can become a reality.
6. Celebrating the Diversity of African Beauty African models represent the rich tapestry of black beauty, from different African countries to the African diaspora. They are celebrated for their individuality and cultural backgrounds, contributing to a more diverse and representative fashion landscape.
7. The Road Ahead: Continual Progress While progress has been made, there is still work to be done. The fashion industry must continue to promote diversity, inclusivity, and equality, ensuring that the influence of African models remains a catalyst for positive change.
Catwalk Royalty – Elegance Unveiled: Black Top Models Redefining the Runway
MARIA BORGES from Angola
She is a global ambassador for L’Oreal Paris. Maria was the first black woman to do a catwalk for Victoria’s Secret’s fashion shows with natural hair; after that, she modeled for them on many occasions. She was also in the fashion shows of Balmain, Etro, Dior, Gap, Oscar de La Renta, Tom Ford, and Zac Posen. Her life story is amazing. She was an orphan girl working in a supermarket to survive and now she is a super requested model!
BAKAY DIABY from Guinea
He has walked in shows for Michael Kors, Commes des Garcons, MSGM, Zegna, Kenzo, Margiela, Fendi, Missoni, Ferragamo, Marni, and Hermes. He’s also been in campaigns for Gucci, Balmain, Barneys, and Benetton.
ADWOA ABOAH from Ghana
Adwoa was born in London to a British mother and a Ghanaian father. She’s a model in high demand. She has worked for Burberry, Calvin Klein, Fendi, DKNY, Alexander Wang, Theory, H&M, Aldo, Versace, Topshop, Rihanna x Puma, Kenzo, Simone Rocha, Chanel, Dior and Erdem and many other big names. Her caramel skin and freckles are her special future and her trademark.
Unfortunately, she made a suicide attempt; from the trauma, she was in a subsequent coma. She was depressed and addicted to drugs but came out triumphant. Her triumph would be the founding of an online platform, to help girls like her deal with their sexuality, mental health, and body image.
ADONIS BOSSO from Ivory Coast
He is the face of one of the most notable brands in the industry: Dolce & Gabbana. He also walked for the streetwear brand Hood By Air and for Jeremy Scott. More recently, he participated in Theory, Levis, John Elliott, Express, and Ikiré Jones campaigns.
FATIMA SIAD from Somalia and Ethiopia
After placing third in the fashion TV series, America’s Next Top Model, Fatima’s career began. She posed for American and Spanish Vogue, Elle, Australian and Indonesian Harper’s Bazaar, Marie Claire, and Cosmopolitan. She’s worked for Giorgio Armani, Hermés, Ralph Lauren, Dries Van Noten, Max Azria, Ralph Lauren, Marc Jacobs, Hervé Léger, Tiffany & Co., Armani Exchange, BCBG, and Liz Claiborne. She has an emotional life story. Fatima experienced female genital cutting in her youth and she went to the United States for her safety and to be finally free.
STANIEL FERREIRA from Guinea Bissau
Staniel has posed for Joe’s Jeans and Pyer Moss Campaigns. He’s been seen in Paper and King Kong Magazine editorials and he’s hit runways for The Blonds, Carlos Campos, and Rideau.
IMAAN HAMMAM from Morocco and Egypt
Imaan prides herself on being an African-Arab and Muslim model opening doors for girls like her. She’s covered American Vogue on two occasions and has received Anna Wintour’s applause many times. She’s worked for Burberry, Alexander McQueen, Maison Margiela, Givenchy, Marc Jacobs, Prada, Michael Kors, Moschino, Chanel, DKNY, Jean Paul Gaultier, Hugo Boss, Stella McCartney, Oscar de la Renta, and many more. Her career is going great!
AKINTAYO OGUNKOYA from Nigeria
He was placed on the map by a Benetton campaign. Akintayo is distinguished by his cat-like green eyes and messy afro. He has walked for Dior, Versace, Belstaff, DKNY and Etro and can be found in lookbooks for Abercrombie & Fitch, Hermes, and The Kooples with his new bride.
ADUT AKECH from South Sudan
Born in South Sudan, she moved to Australia when she was 6. After modeling in local fashion shows, Adut was cast exclusively by Saint Laurent and walked the Spring/Summer 2017 show, then she signed with Elite Model Management in Paris. She has walked for Valentino, Dior, Givenchy, and Versace and shot campaigns for Fendi, Moschino, Saint Laurent, Valentino, and Versace, working with renowned photographers Steven Meisel and Inez & Vinoodh. She also appeared in many Vogue covers. She was the second black model in history to land the bridal spot in a Chanel couture show, closing the house’s Haute Couture Autumn 2018 show.
ABDULAYE NIANG from Senegal
He is a newcomer on the scene, but this model has already walked for Fenty, Louis Vuitton, Coach, Theory, Y-3, Lanvin, Fendi, JW Anderson and Comme des Garçons. He’s been in an Adidas lookbook, too. His style is perfect for the streetwear editorial and he exudes the confidence of someone who has been in the industry for a long time.
