By Rhiannon Bamford-punchen
@stylebyrhiannon
Fenty Beauty:
Needless to say, Fenty Beauty has made a huge dent in the problematic beauty industry. Their first release of 40 foundation shades made every other brand step up their game, and they continue to feature models of all ethnicities in their campaigns. Their biggest success story? An Australian model called Duckie Thot who featured in several of their campaign video’s and is the face of their darkest shade of their foundations 490.
Sports Illustrated:
Once chastised for their lack of diversity, Sports Illustrated has transformed their greatest weakness into their greatest strength. Now, only a few years later they are a front-runner in diversity, featuring models of all shapes and sizes. Since then, they’ve featured models such as Hunter Mccgrady and Robyn Lawley in their issues.
Chromat:
I’ve spoken about them before, and I still stand by them. Chromat features lingerie and swimwear on all shapes, sizes ages and ethnicities. It’s impossible to watch one of their runway shows without relating to at least one of their models personally. This year they featured a large cast of models including trans advocate Geena Rocero and actress Carmen Carrera.
Fashion Nova:
Although at a glance, Fashion Nova doesn’t seem it, they’re one of the only companies providing trendy and fashion forward pieces for curvy women. Not only do they have a really inclusive range, they work with hundreds of influencers of all shapes and sizes. Australian plus size model Latecia Thomas is a frequent catalogue model for them.
YEEZY:
One of the most successful brands of 2017, West’s decision from the get-go to feature a line up of ethnically diverse models has really resonated with consumers. This year he made waves by featuring muslim refugee and stand-out model Halima Aden on his runway. One of the first hijab wearing models to be signed to a major agency.
Aerie:
The Anti-Victoria’s secret, Aerie is famous for having models of all shapes and sizes, including body-positive poster girl Iskra Lawrence. Their lingerie is for women to feel comfortable, not for the male gaze – which is awesome. They have a real focus on self-love and self worth, which is a refreshing take on lingerie and loungewear.
Christian Siriano:
Christian Siriano isn’t new to diversity, this year he’s continued his commitment to featuring a more inclusive cast of models into NYFW. Whilst last year he only cast 4 plus size models, this year he featured a more diverse line up, including some of the most famous models in the world. This year he featured the iconic Coco Rocha and Ashley Graham, just to name a few.
