What’s Irving Serving?
For decades, the modeling industry was painted with a narrow brush—tall, thin, Eurocentric features, and little room for deviation. Runways, magazine covers, and ad campaigns mirrored a singular vision of beauty, one that often excluded entire communities. But change has been stirring. In recent years, diversity has evolved from a buzzword to a movement, shaking the very foundations of fashion and modeling.
The Shift Toward Representation
The push for inclusivity didn’t happen overnight. It came from the grassroots—models like Bethann Hardison, Iman & Naomi Campbell speaking out, consumers demanding better representation, and social media empowering individuals to create their own platforms when traditional ones closed the door.
We’ve seen trailblazers like Winnie Harlow, who challenged the industry’s idea of “flawless skin,” Jillian Mercado, a model with muscular dystrophy, and Precious Lee, who’s become a beacon for plus-size Black women in high fashion. These models aren’t tokens—they’re talents, redefining what it means to be beautiful, desirable, and worthy of the spotlight.
More Than Skin Deep
Diversity in modeling goes far beyond race. It encompasses body types, gender identities, abilities, age, and cultural backgrounds. Brands are finally realizing that consumers are not one-size-fits-all—and neither should be the people selling to them. Campaigns today are richer, more authentic, and more impactful when they reflect the real world.
Inclusion also means hiring behind the scenes: photographers, stylists, designers, and casting directors who understand the nuances of culture and identity. Because representation without understanding can easily veer into tokenism.
The Business of Diversity
Let’s be real—representation is also profitable. Studies have shown that inclusive campaigns drive engagement and customer loyalty. Gen Z, in particular, is far more likely to support brands that align with their values, including diversity and social justice. The modeling industry isn’t just responding to a cultural shift—it’s adapting to survive.
Models like Indya Moore, Aaron Rose Philip, and Rain Dove are redefining the industry—not as exceptions, but as leaders. Their work shows that fashion isn’t about fitting into someone else’s mold—it’s about expressing who you are, on your own terms. Today, more models are stepping into the spotlight who identify as nonbinary, gender-fluid, trans, or outside the binary altogether. And they’re not just appearing—they’re thriving.
What’s Still Missing?
While progress is undeniable, the work is far from done. Tokenism still exists. Colorism continues to favor lighter-skinned models of color. Size inclusivity often caps at a US size 14, leaving out much of the plus-size community. And models with disabilities or from marginalized gender identities remain underrepresented.
True diversity means not having to “celebrate” inclusion—because it’s already the norm. Until then, we must keep pushing.
The Future of Fashion
The next generation of models—and consumers—are demanding more. And that’s a good thing. Because fashion should be about expression, not exclusion. Beauty doesn’t have a singular definition, and the modeling industry is finally learning to reflect that.
Diversity isn’t a trend. It’s the new standard. Can I get an Amen!
Catch Ya Later!
Irving
