Back in Time Today
Throughout history, numerous Black women have quietly shaped and revolutionized fashion trends.
From designers to models, these women have not only broken barriers but have also set new standards in the industry.
Their contributions have paved the way for more diversity and inclusivity, influencing how fashion is perceived today.
1. Ann Lowe
Ann Lowe was a trailblazing designer whose exquisite creations have left an indelible mark on fashion. Known for her meticulous craftsmanship, she designed Jacqueline Kennedy’s wedding dress, bringing Black luxury to the forefront.
Her work has paved the way for future Black designers. Lowe’s dedication to refined elegance set a new standard in the fashion industry.
Despite facing racial discrimination, her talent and perseverance allowed her to succeed. Her legacy continues to inspire designers today, highlighting the importance of diversity and representation in fashion.
2. Zelda Wynn Valdes
Zelda Wynn Valdes was among the first African American designers to dress celebrities, redefining glamour for Black women in mid‑20th-century America. Her innovative designs captured sophistication and elegance.
Valdes’s work transcended traditional fashion boundaries, offering glamorous options for women of color. Her legacy is celebrated in the fashion community, where she is remembered for her contributions to diversity and style.
Her influence can still be seen in contemporary designs, reminding us of her role in shaping modern fashion.
3. Beverly Johnson
Beverly Johnson made history as the first Black model to grace the cover of Vogue, shattering racial barriers in the fashion industry. Her presence redefined beauty standards and opened doors for diversity.
Johnson’s achievement set a precedent, inspiring countless other models of color to pursue their dreams.
Her journey is a testament to the power of representation and the impact it can have on cultural perceptions. Her legacy is a reminder that beauty knows no boundaries, and diversity enriches the fashion world.
4. Iman
Iman is a supermodel and entrepreneur whose timeless elegance has transformed global beauty standards. Her career is a blend of style and business acumen, inspiring millions.
She launched her own cosmetic line, catering to a diverse range of skin tones and setting a new benchmark in the industry.
Iman’s influence extends beyond modeling; she’s a symbol of empowerment for Black women worldwide. Her legacy continues to inspire, showing that beauty and brains can indeed coexist in the fashion world.
5. Naomi Campbell
Naomi Campbell, one of the original supermodels, has been a dominant force on the runway for decades. Her fierce presence and unique style have opened doors for diversity globally.
Campbell’s career has been marked by numerous milestones, including breaking racial barriers and advocating for inclusivity in fashion.
Her legacy is not just about her work as a model but also her influence in promoting diversity and inclusion. She continues to inspire new generations, proving that resilience and talent can change industry norms.
6. Tyra Banks
Tyra Banks is more than a model; she’s a force of nature who has redefined success in the industry. By challenging norms, she has empowered future generations through her work in television and fashion.
Banks’s career spans modeling, hosting, and entrepreneurship, highlighting her versatility and determination. Her influence extends beyond the runway, promoting body positivity and diversity.
Her legacy is one of empowerment, encouraging young women to embrace their uniqueness and pursue their dreams without fear.
7. Michelle Obama
Michelle Obama, as First Lady, subtly reshaped American style by championing modest elegance and supporting emerging Black designers. Her grace and fashion choices inspired millions. Obama’s influence extended beyond fashion; she became a role model for grace under pressure.
Her legacy includes promoting inclusivity and representation in the fashion industry. Her style choices continue to inspire, reminding us of the power of fashion as a form of personal expression and cultural influence.
8. Tracee Ellis Ross
Tracee Ellis Ross is known for celebrating natural hair and bold, unconventional style, making her a modern icon for authenticity and self-expression in fashion. Ross’s style is a blend of confidence and creativity, challenging traditional fashion norms.
Her influence extends to advocating for diversity and inclusivity within the industry. Her legacy is one of courage, encouraging others to embrace their individuality and express themselves freely through fashion.
9. Solange Knowles
Solange Knowles, with her distinctive, avant-garde aesthetic, continually challenges mainstream fashion trends. Her creative vision blurs the lines between art and fashion.
Knowles’s style is a celebration of individuality and innovation, inspiring others to think outside the box. Her influence extends beyond fashion, impacting cultural and artistic realms.
Her legacy is a testament to the power of creativity, showing that fashion can be a form of artistic expression and a catalyst for change.
10. Lupita Nyong’o
Lupita Nyong’o is celebrated for her impeccable red carpet choices and fearless embrace of color and pattern. Her style has redefined beauty standards globally.
Nyong’o’s influence extends beyond her fashion choices; she advocates for diversity and representation in the industry.
Her legacy is one of empowerment, encouraging others to embrace their uniqueness and express themselves with confidence. She continues to inspire, highlighting the beauty of diversity in fashion.
11. Kimora Lee Simmons
Kimora Lee Simmons, a trailblazing model and entrepreneur, played a key role in transforming fashion retail. Her work broadened the appeal of Black style on the international stage.
Simmons’s influence goes beyond modeling; she’s an entrepreneur who has reshaped fashion retail. Her legacy is one of ambition and success, inspiring others to pursue their dreams.
She continues to be a role model, showing that determination and vision can transform industries.
12. Pat McGrath
Pat McGrath is revered as one of the most influential makeup artists of our time. Her innovative techniques and products have reshaped beauty trends from the ground up.
McGrath’s work is a blend of creativity and precision, setting new standards in the beauty industry.
Her influence extends beyond makeup, advocating for diversity and inclusivity. Her legacy continues to inspire, proving that beauty is an art form that transcends boundaries and celebrates individuality.
13. Grace Jones
Grace Jones, with her daring, androgynous style, has challenged gender norms and inspired countless designers. Her iconic stage presence is a testament to her influence. Jones’s style is bold and unconventional, celebrating uniqueness and creativity.
Her legacy is one of empowerment, encouraging others to embrace their individuality. She continues to inspire fashion innovations, proving that style is a powerful form of self-expression that can transcend societal norms.
14. Alek Wek
Alek Wek, a South Sudanese-born supermodel, has a distinctive look that has broadened the fashion world’s perspective on beauty. Her effortless elegance is celebrated globally.
Wek’s influence extends beyond modeling; she advocates for diversity and representation in the industry. Her legacy is one of empowerment, showing that beauty is diverse and multifaceted.
She continues to inspire, highlighting the importance of inclusivity in fashion and the beauty of embracing one’s unique features.
15. Tracy Reese
Tracy Reese is a celebrated designer known for her modern, chic, and wearable pieces. Her work has redefined contemporary Black fashion while championing inclusivity. Reese’s designs are a blend of elegance and practicality, appealing to a wide audience.
Her influence extends beyond fashion, advocating for diversity and empowerment. Her legacy continues to inspire, proving that fashion can be both stylish and inclusive, celebrating individuality and cultural richness.
16. Aurora James
Aurora James, founder of the sustainable luxury brand Brother Vellies, is a vocal advocate for equitable fashion. Her work reshapes how style, ethics, and culture intersect.
James’s influence extends beyond design; she champions sustainable practices and diversity in the industry. Her legacy is one of innovation and advocacy, encouraging others to consider the ethical implications of fashion.
She continues to inspire, proving that fashion can be a force for positive change and cultural enrichment.