From the Runway to the World: Black Models Who Made Their Mark

At Black Girl Prose, we love celebrating the stories and achievements of black women. Today, we're highlighting some incredible black and African American models who have not only made significant impacts in the fashion industry but have also paved the way for future generations. Their journeys are a testament to their strength, beauty, and resilience.

Naomi Campbell

Naomi Campbell is one of the original supermodels and has been a trailblazer in the fashion industry since the late 1980s. She was the first black model to appear on the covers of TIME magazine, French Vogue, and Russian Vogue. Naomi's career spans over three decades, and she continues to be a powerful presence on runways and in fashion campaigns. Her striking allure and undaunted confidence have secured her place as an incomparable figure in fashion.

Tyra Banks

Tyra Banks is not only a supermodel but also a television personality, producer, and entrepreneur. She was the first African-American woman to be featured on the covers of GQ and the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. Tyra is also known for creating and hosting the reality TV show "America's Next Top Model," which has helped launch the careers of many aspiring models. Her influence extends beyond modeling into television and business.

Iman

Iman, a Somali-American model, actress, and entrepreneur, was discovered by photographer Peter Beard in Nairobi. Her striking features and elegance quickly made her a favorite among top designers and photographers. Iman has worked with iconic photographers like Richard Avedon and Helmut Newton and has been honored by Yves Saint Laurent with his “African Queen” collection. Beyond modeling, she became a business powerhouse with Iman Cosmetics, catering to women of color.

Jourdan Dunn

Jourdan Dunn is a British model who has been a prominent figure in the fashion industry since she was discovered in 2006. She has walked the runway for major fashion houses and appeared in numerous high-profile campaigns. Jourdan is known for her striking features and has been a vocal advocate for diversity in fashion. Her fresh vibe and innate talent have garnered her widespread recognition.

Alek Wek

Alek Wek, originally from South Sudan, has changed beauty standards with her career breakthroughs. Her striking features, including her rich skin coloration and bald head, have made waves in the fashion industry. Alek's success has encouraged many aspiring models and has helped to redefine conventional beauty standards.

Beverly Johnson

Beverly Johnson made history as the first black model to grace the cover of American Vogue in August 1974. Her groundbreaking Vogue cover paved the way for diverse models in fashion magazines and on designer runways. Beyond modeling, Beverly has appeared in television shows and films, including her reality series "Beverly’s Full House" on OWN, which focused on her life and family

Veronica Webb

Veronica Webb was the first black model to land a major beauty contract. In 1992, Revlon signed Webb as a brand ambassador, making history. Veronica has appeared on the covers of Vogue Italy, ELLE, and Essence Magazine, cementing her place in fashion. Her success opened doors for many black models in the beauty industry.

Chanel Iman

Chanel Iman is an American model who has worked as a Victoria's Secret Angel and appeared on the covers of various magazines. She has walked for top designers like Dior, Valentino, and Gucci. Chanel's career began at a young age, and she quickly rose to prominence in the fashion world. Her elegance and versatility have made her a standout figure

Joan Smalls

Joan Smalls is a Puerto Rican model who became the first Latina model to represent Estée Lauder cosmetics. She has walked for major fashion houses like Chanel, Prada, and Marc Jacobs. Joan's career took off after she was signed by IMG Models, and she has since become one of the highest-paid models in the world. Her dedication and talent have made her a role model for many aspiring models

Slick Woods

Slick Woods, known for her bald head, gapped teeth, and tattoos, has become a distinctive figure in the fashion industry. Discovered by model Ash Stymest, Slick has worked for brands like Fenty Beauty, Marc Jacobs, and Calvin Klein. Her unique look and bold personality have made her a favorite in the fashion world

Leomie Anderson

Leomie Anderson is a British model, activist, and entrepreneur. She has walked for Victoria's Secret and has been featured in campaigns for Fenty Beauty and Pat McGrath Labs. Leomie is also the founder of LAPP The Brand, a clothing line that promotes female empowerment. Her advocacy for diversity and women's rights has made her a powerful voice in the industry

Anok Yai

Anok Yai is an American model of South Sudanese descent who made history as the first model of South Sudanese heritage to open a Prada show. Discovered at Howard University's homecoming, Anok has graced the covers of major fashion magazines and walked for top designers. Her rise to prominence has been swift, and she is celebrated for her striking beauty and groundbreaking achievements

These models have not only graced the covers of magazines and walked the runways of top fashion shows but have also used their platforms to advocate for greater diversity and representation in the fashion industry. Their success stories are truly inspiring and remind us of the power and beauty of black women. At Black Girl Prose, we're committed to amplifying the voices and stories of black women everywhere.

Who are some of your favorite black models? Share with us in the comments below!