Iman, Beverly, Naomi and Tyra. We recognize these names as fashion’s most iconic and pioneering supermodels. Their career successes on and off the runway have left a permanent imprint in the fashion industry, broadening the profession’s traditional representation of beauty.
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Following the trail left behind by these fierce foremothers is a group of rising models. They may not be stealing the covers of fashion’s bible just yet, but judging by their walks for the highest of high fashion designers, we’re going to assume that the future for these stunning ladies is more than promising.
Get to know five #WCW-worthy black supermodels on the rise, and follow them on Instagram too.
Grace Bol, @gracebol
Grace Bol is a Sudanese supermodel, standing tall at 5’10”. Bol, who with her striking face is often mistaken for Alek Wek, has walked for the likes of Vivienne Westwood, Givency and Hermes. In 2009 she left her hometown in Kansas, after being told she was too high-fashion, and came to NYC where she’s been a fashion favorite ever since.
Maria Borges, @mariaborges28
After signing to model agency Supreme, Maria Borges revealed to Fashionista that she booked 17 shows her first season. Givenchy’s creative director, Riccardo Tisci, took a special interest to the Angolan model and booked her for the brand’s exclusive campaigns.
Jasmine Tookes, @jastookes
Jasmine Tookes admitted that her mother wouldn’t let her wear makeup until she was 18-years-old. The now 24-year-old Victoria’s Secret model still doesn’t wear a lot on her face, and the natural beauty look has proven to work for Tookes. The California-born girl has posed for Lancome and graced the runways of Marc Jacobs, Versace and Dolce & Gabbana.
Mélodie Monrose, @melodiemonrose
Born in the Martinique island, Melodié Monrose signed to Wilhelmina in 2010. She rattled a lot of noise among fashion’s most notable voices when she walked for Jason Wu, DKNY, Max Azria, rag & bone, 3.1 Phillip Lim and Marc Jacobs—all in the same year.
Riley Montana, @loveme_rileym
Riley Montana is so fierce that even Naomi Campbell gave her a shout out in an interview with the number one urban morning radio show, The Breakfast Club. The Detroit native starred alongside super artist Erykah Badu in the Spring/Summer ’14 Givenchy campaign, and has worked the runway in Oscar de la Renta, DKNY, Balmain and Rodarte shows, among others.
Who are your favorite up and coming models? Share with us below, or on Twitter, @BlackEnterprise, using the hash tag #SoundOff.