MONTREAL – In a time when multiculturalism seems so celebrated, one Instagram account is bringing attention to the persisting lack of ethnic models in the fashion industry.
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The @moremodelsofcolor account is taking to social media to promote models of colour – and their portfolios – to overcome the idea of “tokenism” – having one ethnic model on a runway or in a photo shoot to “fill a quota.”
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The blog was started by a fashion design student, who told Global News they didn’t want to give their name, age or location because the point of the page was to remain anonymous.
“I really like Grace Bol. She’s beautiful, regal and is an absolute sweetheart,” the creator told Global News in an e-mail.
“I have many favourite models – Issa Lish, Pooja Mor, Fei Fei Sun, Kayla Scott, Tschan Andrews, Amilna Estevão, Bhumika Arora, Aamito Lagum. I’m happy for any model of colour.”
The creator admits the account was started to ask Alexandra Shulman, British Vogue’s Editor-In-Chief, why there hadn’t been a black model on the front page of the magazine since Naomi Campbell graced the cover in 2002 (Jourdan Dunn was recently put on the cover in February).
“The UK is such a multi-diverse country and their Vogue is so whitewashed,” they said.
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Though the inspiration behind the blog isn’t rooted in a personal experience in the industry, the creator of More Models of Color said they still take it to heart when a coloured model is left out in the cold.
“There is still a long way to go and lots to change,” they said.
“The difference should not only be on the runways, but also on campaigns, magazine covers, everything.”
Models from Naomi Campbell to Jourdan Dunn have already come out strongly against the lack of ethnic diversity in the industry.
“There are many races. With all the models that are out there, it’s possible to have a very diverse casting,” wrote More Models of Color.
rachel.lau@globalnews.ca
Follow @rachel_lau
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