The fashion world is a kaleidoscope of colors and cultures, and Black models have always been at the forefront, slaying runways and gracing magazine covers.
But with so many talented faces to follow, who should you add to your #FashionInspo feed? Worry not, fashion fam, because we’ve curated a list of the top 10 Black models to follow in 2024, each one a unique blend of beauty, style, and unstoppable energy. Get ready to be inspired!
Top 10 Black Models To Follow in 2024
The fashion scene is bursting with melanin magic, and these 10 Black models are the epitome of that fire. From runway royalty to social media slayers, get ready to add a dose of fierce fashion and unstoppable energy to your Instagram feed:
1. Anok Yai (@anokyai)
This Sudanese goddess isn’t just a model; she’s a phenomenon. With her captivating gaze and statuesque physique, Anok has stormed the runway for Valentino, Chanel, and countless others. Follow her for a glimpse into a life of luxury, globetrotting adventures, and fierce poses that will leave you speechless.
A lone star in a constellation industry, Yai flights to redefine beauty standards, challenging the status quo for representation on the runway.
2. Joan Smalls (@joansmalls)
This Puerto Rican-born beauty is a veteran of the industry, gracing the covers of Vogue and walking for every major fashion house imaginable. But Joan’s not just about high fashion – her infectious laugh and down-to-earth personality make her a true delight to follow. Though hailed for her statuesque figure, Smalls battles for acceptance beyond her form, striving to break the mold of expected beauty.
Get ready for a mix of stunning photoshoots, workout motivation, and glimpses into her jet-set lifestyle.
Also Read: A Comprehensive Guide to Men’s Clothing Sizes
3. Adut Akech (@adutakech)
With her electrifying smile and captivating features, South Sudanese stunner Adut Akech is a rising star who’s already taken the fashion world by storm. Follow her journey from refugee camps to catwalks around the globe, and get inspired by her unwavering spirit and fierce sense of style.
From refugee to runway royalty, Akech grapples with the weight of expectation, forging her own path while inspiring underrepresented voices.
4. Paloma Elsesser (@palomija)
Elsesser is an American plus-size model and activist who is challenging traditional beauty standards. An advocate for body positivity and inclusivity, she has walked for major brands like Fenty Beauty and graced the cover of Vogue. Elsesser’s Instagram is a celebration of self-love and acceptance, showcasing a variety of body types and styles.
In a world obsessed with size, Elsesser defies limitations, advocating for body positivity and challenging narrow ideals of what constitutes fashion.
5. Alton Mason (@altonmason)
Forget the stereotype of male models—Alton Mason redefines masculinity with his androgynous features and captivating presence. This history-making model was the first Black man to exclusively walk a high-fashion runway season, and his Instagram chronicles his journey of breaking boundaries in the fashion world. Expect a mix of stunning photoshoots, behind-the-scenes glimpses, and a healthy dose of self-confidence.
Breaking through a veil of invisibility, Mason fights for the rightful recognition of Black male excellence in the realm of high fashion.
Also Read: Plus Size Modelling & Sample Size Modelling
6. Precious Lee (@preciousleexoxo)
This Jamaican-American beauty is a breath of fresh air in the industry. A vocal advocate for body positivity, Precious embraces her curves and inspires self-love with every stunning photo.
Lee stands tall against unrealistic expectations, promoting self-love and shattering the myth of the singular body type within the industry.
Follow her for a dose of confidence, fierce fashion moments, and a peek into her life as a fashion game-changer.
Also Read: 10 Famous Plus-size Models on Instagram
7. Leomie Anderson (@leomieanderson)
Confined by preconceived notions of beauty, Anderson pushes for creative freedom and dismantles limited definitions of what it means to be a Black model. British model Leomie is a true triple threat – model, singer, and entrepreneur! Her infectious energy and playful personality come through on her Instagram, with glimpses into her jet-setting modeling career, stunning photoshoots, and behind-the-scenes fun from music videos and shoots.
8. Alek Wek (@msalekwek)
A trailblazer for South Sudanese models, Wek carves a path where none existed before, defying racial barriers and paving the way for a more inclusive future.
Wek is a South Sudanese model who gained recognition in the 1990s for her unique look and infectious smile. A vocal advocate for refugee rights, Wek uses her platform to raise awareness about the struggles faced by people displaced from their homes. Follow her on Instagram for inspiring stories, stunning photos, and a glimpse into her philanthropic work.
9. Iman (@the_real_iman)
Somali-born Iman, known simply as Iman, rose to supermodel stardom in the 70s. A muse for legendary designers like Yves Saint Laurent, she challenged beauty standards with her striking features and graceful presence.
Beyond the runway, Iman launched her own successful makeup line, Iman Cosmetics, catering to a wider range of skin tones.
10. Naomi Campbell (@naomi)
Campbell is a British supermodel who rose to prominence in the 1980s. She was one of the first black models to appear on the cover of French Vogue and Time Magazine. Nicknamed “The Black Panther” for her fierce personality and walk, Campbell is still active in the industry today.
A legend forged in fire, Campbell battles lingering prejudices, remaining a vocal advocate for diversity and a powerful force for change in the fashion world.
On her Instagram, you’ll find a mix of fashion shoots, motivational quotes, and advocacy for social justice causes.
Also Read: The Difference Between Editorial, Commercial & Runway Modeling
Why Do These Black Models Deserve Your Follow?
- Redefining Beauty Standards: These models come in all shapes, sizes, and ethnicities, shattering the narrow definition of beauty that has dominated fashion for too long. By following them, you’ll see a broader spectrum of what’s beautiful, challenging unrealistic beauty standards and promoting self-love for everyone.
- A Dose of Inspiration: These models’ journeys, from overcoming adversity to achieving incredible success, are incredibly inspiring. Witness their dedication, resilience, and unwavering passion, and get motivated to chase your dreams, no matter the obstacles.
- A Window into the Fashion World: Get an exclusive peek behind the curtain of the glamorous fashion industry. See what it’s like to prepare for a runway show, travel to exotic locations for shoots, and collaborate with the biggest names in fashion.
- More Than Just Models: These individuals are multifaceted with diverse interests and passions. Follow Leomie Anderson for her music career updates, get inspired by Precious Lee’s body positivity message, or learn about Doutzen Kroes’ philanthropic work.
- A Celebration of Black Excellence: The fashion industry hasn’t always been inclusive. By following these models, you’re actively supporting their success and celebrating the incredible talent and beauty of the Black community.
Final Thoughts
The fashion world is blooming with Black brilliance, and these models are more than just runway slayers. They’re redefining beauty, sparking inspiration, and shattering stereotypes. Follow them to celebrate diversity, embrace self-love, and witness the future of fashion unfold.
