Fashion and modeling industry is not known for its inclusivity of diversity and hence the norms and standards were always set. Famous black female models are making their way through strongly and opening the doors to the runway for the new and younger generations as well. Black models are powerfully making their presence and work acknowledged and recognized. There is a shift in the industry’s standard norms and standards. The industry is evolving and accepting the changes giving chance to every individual irrespective of their differences from the actual beauty standards. The Model Magazine industry has become more inclusive.
Black models have progressed and rewrote history. Naomi Campbell, Tyra Banks, Iman and many more have been groundbreaking and inspiring. These models have become global icons and redefined the beauty standards. These famous black female runway models have had a lasting impact on the industry.
This blog will throw some light on some famous black female models that have been shining and made their way through the industry.
Famous black female models 2024
Naomi Campbell
Naomi Campbell is truly a legend in the industry and is referred to as the Catwalk Queen. Naomi Campbell, a famous black female model is known and loved for her beauty and a powerful and confident runway presence. She is a supermodel and started her modeling career at the age of 8. She has been the first black model to get featured on the covers of Vogue France and Time. Campbell has walked the runway for the most famous and renowned brands like Givenchy Yves Saint Laurent, Prada, Chanel, Dolce & Gabbana, Burberry, Zac Posen, Blumarine, Karl Lagerfeld, Gianfranco Ferré, Versace, Christian Dior, Diane Von Furstenberg, John Galliano, Ralph Lauren, Chloé, Jean Paul Gaultier, Oscar de la Renta, Michael Kors, Anna Sui, Louis Vuitton, Hermés, Tommy Hilfiger, Marchesa, Roberto Cavalli , Valentino. Marc Jacobs and Helmut Lang.
Tyra Banks
Tyra Banks is a well known and recognised black model. She is regarded as a supermodel. She was the first black model to sign a contract with the legendary brand Christian Lacroix and also became an Angel for Victoria’s secret. She broke down barriers in the industry by becoming the first female African American to appear on the covers of sports magazine's Swimsuit Issue and on the cover of GQ.
Iman
Iman is regarded as a timeless beauty. She is known for her elegance and sophistication. She is not just a black supermodel but also is a successful entrepreneur and philanthropist. She has also been given titles as African Queen and Global chic. She is a beautiful African American model.
Jourdan Dunn
Jourdan Dunn is a famous black female model. Dunn is the first black model to walk the runway for Prada. She was the face of Maybelline in 2014. She is the first black women model to feature solo on the cover for Vogue UK. Jourdan has always been very vocal about the discriminations she has faced in the industry.
Grace Jones
Grace Jones is a famous model, songwriter, singer, songwriter, and actress. She is loved for her fearless attitude. She is also considered as a symbol of empowerment. She has been casted in 25 movies, shows and televisions.
Liya Kebede
Liya Kebebe is a famous black female runway model. She has been the WHO's Ambassador for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health since 2005. Kebede's fundraising efforts through the Liya Kebede Foundation landed her an honor on Glamour's Women of the Year list.
Alek Wek
Alek Wek has been Redefining Beauty in the '90s. Refugee-turned-supermodel from South Sudan. She is well known for her unique look and contributions to diversity in fashion.
Conclusion
These are a few famous black female models who have paved their way through the industry and have left a lasting impact. These exceptional dark skin female models have had an impact that goes far beyond the catwalk; they have changed beauty standards, broken stereotypes, and opened doors for upcoming generations. It's important to recognize the continued need for diversity and representation in the fashion industry even as we celebrate their achievements. These women are pioneers who have left a lasting legacy for the fashion industry, inspiring and empowering others outside the world of modeling.
Looking to pursue a career as a runway model? explore our comprehensive guide on how to become a runway model for expert tips.