Becoming A Fashion Model in the Era of Inclusivity.

The journey toward inclusivity in fashion modeling is still unfolding, but the progress is undeniable.   

By: Pius Daniel

Jessica Bitrus, A Fashion Model and Beauty Influencer.

I am sure if you are tall and skinny, you probably would have been asked, “Why aren’t you a model?” Or “Are you a model?”

Well this is probably because we have been engineered to assume fashion modeling is for skinny and tall individuals,

sometimes we go for the muscular ones too, but they have to meet a certain height requirement.

But there is more to fashion modeling, and this makes us wonder what happens to those fashion enthusiasts that haven’t got the height or are plus sized.

Well, in this piece I am going to discuss what it really takes to be a fashion model and how modern day fashion is taking an inclusive path,

so you can dump that thought of being six feet tall with a skinny or muscular body before modeling.

Becoming A Fashion Model in the Era of Inclusivity.

In recent years, the fashion industry has been shifting from its traditional beauty standards to embrace a more inclusive approach.

Today, fashion modeling is not just about fitting a specific mold; it’s about breaking stereotypes, celebrating uniqueness, and making space for everyone.

This transformation is particularly evident in recent events like the just concluded Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show and the Lagos Fashion Week,

which showcased a broad spectrum of body types, ethnicities, and abilities.

What Inclusivity Means in Modern Fashion Modeling

Inclusivity in fashion means moving beyond the rigid standards that once dominated the industry.

Modern fashion models represent a broader range of body shapes, sizes, ethnic backgrounds, genders, ages, and physical abilities.

Brands like Rihanna’s Savage X Fenty and recent shows such as Lagos Fashion Week demonstrate this commitment to diversity, showing the world that fashion is for everyone.

The recent Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show in New York highlighted this shift.

For years, Victoria’s Secret was known for its narrow focus on slim, tall models.

But this year, the brand took a new approach, bringing in a more diverse lineup by including plus size models to reflect a broader audience.

The likes of Ashley Graham and Paloma Elsesser became the runway focus as they, among other models, represented the plus size community.

Sometimes body size or shape is not always the case before one could feel left out.

There are more reasons why someone with a good body size will still assume fashion modeling is far out of reach.

Issues just like aging or vitiligo, which is caused by the loss or destruction of the cells responsible for producing melanin, can also be reasons for apathy towards modeling.

Well, thanks to modern fashion which has rewritten the pages of the traditional fashion norms.

In the Victoria Secret Fashion Show in 2018, they explored wider, bringing in Winnie Harlow, a model with Vitiligo, to walk the runway.

This act of inclusivity has been reflected in more fashion shows presently.

A very recent show that really redefined modeling in the eyes of Africa and the world at large is the Lagos Fashion Week held between October 23rd to 27th of 2024.

Lagos Fashion Week made strides in championing inclusivity, celebrating African culture and beauty in all its forms,

and featuring models of various backgrounds and disabilities to reflect not only the rich diversity of fashion in Nigeria, but the inclusive nature of fashion itself.

Becoming A Fashion Model in the Era of Inclusivity.

The inclusivity showcased in the Lagos Fashion Week is very impressive as the audience saw amputees take the runway.

This echoes the notion that fashion is for everybody, no matter your physical disabilities.

Since you have understood how inclusivity is being embraced in modern fashion modeling, it is time to get into what it takes to be a good fashion model.

Everyone has the capacity to be a fashion model, but not everyone can be a good fashion model.

What It Takes to Be a Fashion Model Today

As the fashion world grows more inclusive, the requirements for being a model have evolved.

Here’s what it takes:

• Diversity of Looks:

Agencies now seek models with distinct, unique features rather than conforming to a single standard. A model’s individuality has become an asset.

This is the more reason why we see models of different races, and skin colors claim the runway.

• Confidence and Resilience:

With the fact that being a fashion model can lead to becoming a public figure,

coupled with the rejection and criticism, modeling involves confidence and resilience. Inclusive models need confidence to embrace their uniqueness and resilience to face industry challenges.

• Adaptability and Professionalism:

With brands seeking different themes and perspectives, today’s models must be flexible in adjusting to various styles and environments,

this would also require you to embrace creativity.

• Social Media Influence:

Social platforms have become essential for models to build their brand.

For instance, Nigerian models who featured in Lagos Fashion Week have used Instagram to showcase their style and reach a global audience, helping diverse models gain visibility.

It is beneficial to have a good social media backing if you are on the path to becoming a fashion model.

This makes you a big game for fashion brands who are seeking to leverage your network.

Becoming A Fashion Model in the Era of Inclusivity.

Why Inclusivity Matters in Fashion

Genesis 1:27 KJV

[27] So God created man in his own image, in the image of God created he him; male and female created he them.
https://bible.com/bible/1/gen.1.27.KJV

Inclusivity in fashion is more than a trend; it’s a necessary evolution.

When consumers see models who resemble them, it fosters a sense of connection and belonging.

It positively impacts body image, particularly for younger generations who are influenced by the media.

The inclusive runway showcases at events like Lagos Fashion Week and the latest Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show have shown the world that fashion is for all bodies, all backgrounds, and all identities.

This shift inspires individuals to embrace their uniqueness and encourages brands to continue advocating for diversity.

Conclusion

The journey toward inclusivity in fashion modeling is still unfolding, but the progress is undeniable.

Modern brands are beginning to pave the way for a more inclusive future, showing that beauty cannot be defined by one set of standards.

As consumers, we can support brands and designers who prioritize inclusivity, fostering a fashion industry where everyone has a place.

That’s all for now.

What other factors does it take to become a good fashion model, let me know in the comment section what I left out.

Also Read: BAABFEST: Promoting African Culture through Arts. – Diademng

Becoming A Fashion Model in the Era of Inclusivity.