Asian And Black Models Who Redefined Runway Beauty Standards

The fashion industry has long held rigid, Eurocentric standards of beauty, often overlooking the diverse identities shaping global culture. Over recent decades, groundbreaking Asian and Black models have challenged these norms, bringing new perspectives and redefining what is considered beautiful on runways worldwide. Their influence has sparked more inclusive casting and authentic representation, as highlighted by The Business of Fashion and Vogue, forever transforming the narrative of beauty in fashion.

1. Naomi Campbell

Naomi Campbell is a trailblazer who shattered racial barriers in the modeling industry, becoming one of the first Black supermodels to achieve global fame. Renowned for her powerful walk and magnetic presence, Campbell fronted campaigns for luxury brands like Versace and Chanel, breaking ground for models of color. Her relentless advocacy for diversity and inclusion has made her a role model for generations. Naomi’s enduring legacy and transformative impact on fashion have been widely celebrated, as noted by Vogue.

2. Liu Wen

Liu Wen broke significant ground as the first Chinese model to walk in the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show and to appear on Forbes’ list of highest-paid models. Her remarkable achievements have helped normalize and elevate Asian representation in the luxury fashion world. Liu’s distinctive style and professionalism have landed her major campaigns with brands such as Estée Lauder and Chanel. Her career has paved the way for countless Asian models, encouraging the global industry to embrace greater diversity, as covered by CNN Style.

3. Tyra Banks

Tyra Banks made history as the first Black model to grace the covers of Sports Illustrated’s Swimsuit Issue and GQ, challenging industry norms and expanding opportunities for Black women in modeling. Beyond her runway success, Banks became a media mogul by creating and hosting the influential reality show America’s Next Top Model, which empowered diverse aspiring models. Her entrepreneurial spirit and advocacy for inclusivity have redefined the industry’s standards. Tyra’s multifaceted impact on fashion and entertainment is well documented by Biography.

4. Adut Akech

Adut Akech, a South Sudanese-Australian model, is renowned for her striking features and commanding presence on the runway. She has become a muse for top fashion houses such as Valentino and Chanel, captivating audiences with her elegance and confidence. Beyond modeling, Akech uses her platform to advocate for refugee representation and inclusivity in fashion, drawing from her own experiences as a former refugee. Her influence extends far beyond the catwalk, as she pushes for meaningful change in the industry, as highlighted by The Guardian.

5. Fei Fei Sun

Fei Fei Sun made history as the first East Asian model to appear solo on the cover of Vogue Italia, a milestone that challenged and expanded beauty ideals within the global fashion industry. Known for her refined elegance and versatility, Sun has graced the runways of iconic brands such as Dior and Prada. Her presence has paved the way for greater Asian visibility in high fashion, inspiring a new generation of models worldwide. Fei Fei’s remarkable career and impact are profiled by Vogue.

6. Alek Wek

Alek Wek, hailing from South Sudan, revolutionized the fashion industry in the late 1990s by boldly embracing her dark skin and natural hair. At a time when Eurocentric beauty standards dominated, Wek’s presence on international runways was both groundbreaking and empowering. She became a symbol of diversity and a source of inspiration for countless individuals, encouraging the industry to celebrate a broader spectrum of beauty. Alek Wek’s influence has been widely recognized, with her career and impact on redefining beauty standards documented by BBC.

7. Imán

Imán, born in Somalia, is celebrated for her regal elegance and trailblazing entrepreneurship. Her striking beauty made her a muse for iconic designers such as Yves Saint Laurent, and her influence extended beyond modeling when she founded a pioneering cosmetics line tailored for women of color. Imán’s vision and advocacy for diversity in beauty products have inspired countless individuals and set new industry standards. Her legacy as both a fashion icon and businesswoman continues to empower future generations, as highlighted by The New York Times.

8. Soo Joo Park

Soo Joo Park, a Korean-American model, captivated the fashion world with her striking platinum blonde hair and bold, avant-garde style. Her unique look and fearless approach to beauty helped her break barriers, ultimately becoming L’Oréal’s first Asian-American global ambassador. Park’s presence marks a turning point in the industry, celebrating individuality and pushing against conventional standards. Her influence is a testament to the evolving definition of beauty in high fashion, as she continues to inspire others to embrace their differences. Learn more about her journey in Allure.

9. Joan Smalls

Joan Smalls, a trailblazing Puerto Rican model, is recognized as one of the most sought-after faces in the fashion industry. She made history as the first Latina model to become the face of Estée Lauder, breaking barriers for Latinx representation in beauty. Smalls is celebrated for her versatility on the runway and in campaigns for top designers, as well as her outspoken advocacy for greater diversity and inclusion within fashion. Her influential career and dedication to changing industry standards are featured in Harper’s Bazaar.

10. Fernanda Ly

Fernanda Ly, an Australian model known for her signature pink hair and distinctive style, has become a standout on runways for luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton and Chanel. Her bold look challenges conventional Asian beauty standards and redefines what it means to be a modern fashion icon. Ly’s presence in the industry represents a shift toward greater individuality and inclusivity, inspiring others to embrace their uniqueness. Her journey and influence in confronting and reshaping stereotypes are profiled by Vogue Australia.

11. Duckie Thot

Duckie Thot, an Australian-Sudanese model, has become a global sensation thanks to her striking features and powerful runway presence. She has fronted major campaigns for brands like Fenty Beauty and Balmain, using her platform to champion self-acceptance and the beauty of natural hair. Thot’s journey highlights the importance of representation and the evolving standards within the fashion industry. Her willingness to embrace and celebrate her identity has inspired many, as detailed in her interview with Teen Vogue.

12. Yoon Young Bae

Yoon Young Bae, a standout South Korean model, is celebrated for her fresh, modern beauty and her regular appearances on the world’s most prestigious runways. She has walked for leading fashion houses such as Prada and Dior, contributing significantly to the increased visibility of Asian models in high fashion. Bae’s success and distinctive look have challenged longstanding industry norms, inspiring a new generation of talent from Asia. Her influential role in shaping contemporary beauty standards is profiled by Elle.

13. Beverly Johnson

Beverly Johnson made fashion history in 1974 when she became the first Black woman to appear on the cover of American Vogue. This landmark moment helped shift industry standards and expanded opportunities for models of color worldwide. Johnson’s iconic breakthrough inspired countless aspiring models and challenged the prevailing norms of beauty within fashion. Her enduring influence continues to resonate, as she remains a symbol of progress and empowerment for future generations. Johnson’s trailblazing achievements and their impact on the industry are chronicled by Smithsonian Magazine.

14. Sui He

Sui He, a Chinese model renowned for her ethereal beauty and grace, made history as the first Asian model to open a show for Ralph Lauren. Her elegance and poise have also earned her a spot on the prestigious Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show runway multiple times, further raising the profile of Asian models on the global stage. Sui He’s impressive career has helped to challenge and expand traditional beauty ideals within the industry, as detailed in her profile by WWD.

15. Maria Borges

Maria Borges, an acclaimed Angolan model, broke new ground when she confidently wore her natural hair on the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show runway. Her powerful statement resonated across the fashion industry, igniting important conversations about representation, inclusivity, and embracing one’s authentic self. Borges’ decision challenged conventional beauty norms and inspired many to celebrate their natural features. Her career continues to be a beacon of empowerment and progress for models of color. The impact of her bold runway moment is highlighted by CNN.

Conclusion

The pioneering journeys of these Asian and Black models have profoundly transformed the fashion industry, advancing diversity and authentic representation on the world’s runways. By boldly challenging and redefining traditional beauty standards, they have opened doors for future generations and inspired global audiences to embrace individuality. Their collective influence continues to shape a more inclusive, dynamic vision of beauty, celebrated by industry leaders and media outlets such as The Business of Fashion and Vogue.