Lifestyle
Pioneers in Fashion: The Rise and Impact of Black Male Models on the Industry
When you consider how black men influence American culture, the modeling industry may not immediately come to mind. But from magazine covers to national campaigns to fashion runways, black male models are making waves in the fashion industry.
Even in case you do not know much about fashion, it’s value testing these famous black models whose biggest achievements modified the industry as we understand it. Here’s every black male model you need to learn about in 2024.
A transient history of black models in fashion
Even the least fashionable amongst us can easily name a couple of Black modelsreminiscent of Naomi Campbell, Tyra Banks and Iman. You might even think of the criminally underrated Donyal Luna, the star of the series documentary about supermodels on HBO. You’ll probably notice something that these names have in common: they’re women. And while we definitely don’t desire to undermine the enormous achievements of these black supermodels, it’s clear that not less than the American fashion industry has long preferred to open up its limited spaces for people of color to black women slightly than black men.
Early pioneers of black male modeling included Benin-born Djimon Hounsou, who rose to fame posing for designer Thierry Mugler, actor and NAACP Image Award winner Shemar Moore, and Ford model Boris Kodjoe. It can be a sin not to say the late Renauld Whitean iconic model and actor who died in 2024 after an extended profession of pushing boundaries in fashion. These and many other icons paved the way for today’s top black male models.
Most Influential Black Male Models
1. Tyson Beckford
If you have got studied the fashion industry, you’ll recognize Tyson Beckford as one of the most famous black male models of all time. The Bronx-born model first broke boundaries in the Nineteen Nineties, establishing himself as one of the first high-profile black American male models, starring in well-known campaigns reminiscent of the 1999 Guess Raw Denim ad.
Outside of fashion, Beckford has appeared in music videos reminiscent of Lizzo’s “2 Be Loved (Am I Ready)” and Mariah Carey’s “Infinity.” He also starred in movies reminiscent of “Into the Blue” (2005) and “Searching for Bobby D” (2005). Beckford even played himself in the modeling comedy Zoolander (2001), proving that even one of the best-looking men in the world knows higher than to take himself too seriously.
2. Alton Mason
The Nebraska-born runway model made history by becoming the first black model to walk in the Chanel show in 2018. Since then, he has been named Model of the Year by GQ Australia, was named to Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list and has even branched out into acting.
At just 26 years old, Mason has already landed several major acting roles. He appeared in the 2022 TV series “Yara Shahidi’s Day Off” and most notably played the role of Little Richard in the biopic “Elvis” (2022). Now a longtime model and actor, we won’t wait to see where Mason’s many talents take him next.
3.Adonis Bosso
Our next breakthrough model comes from Ivory Coast and Canada. Adonis Bosso was working in retail at H&M when he landed his first campaign. This was at the same company, which meant an abrupt end to his days as a sales representative.
It was a stroke of luck not just for Bosso himself, but in addition for a lot of of the brands he would later pose for, including Armani Exchange, Dolce & Gabbana, Tom Ford, Vivienne Westwood, Thom Browne and Yeezy. On a more personal note, Bosso, 34, and his girlfriend, fellow model Slick Woods, welcomed a son named Saphir in 2018.
4. Armand Cabral
Armando Cabral, turned model and designer, was born in Guinea-Bissau but raised in Portugal. He began his first catwalk classes at the age of 17. This early preparation paid off just a couple of years later: Cabral signed a contract at the age of 21 and continued his profession walking or posing for a lot of major fashion brands, including Louis Vuitton, Balmain, Dries Van Noten and J. Crew Menswear.
Not content with remaining one of the most famous black men in fashion, Cabral took his fashion investments to the next level in 2009 with the release of his first footwear collection. He delved so deeply into the craft of shoe design that his work landed him a job in the African fashion documentary “Bangaology – The Science of Style” (2016) directed by Coréon Dú.
5. David Agboji
Like Cabral, Agbodji comes from West Africa (specifically Togo). The Togolese model’s profession began with a bang in Milan in 2010, where he opened and closed the Calvin Klein spring and summer collection show. Since then, Agbodji has walked in over 100 shows for brands reminiscent of Bottega Veneta, Fear of God and Zenga. If you are not into the runway, you could recognize Agbodji from his appearance in Lady Gaga’s music video “I Want Your Love” (2015).
All this experience has made Agbodji an authority on the experiences of Black models in the industry, and he has been invited to look in a range of short movies and videos on the topic, including “The Ever Changing Face of Beauty” (2012) and “Sea of Voices” (2020) . When he isn’t stomping down the runway or analyzing fashion on film, Agbodji is pursuing a second profession as a boxer and Muay Thai fighter.
The role of black male models in changing perceptions of masculinity and diversity
We probably needn’t let you know that traditional gender norms are likely to elevate a narrow, Eurocentric definition of beauty. These norms have each influenced and been shaped by the fashion industry, making a feedback loop of privilege for white models, designers, and journalists.
A presence on runways, magazine covers, red carpets, and movie screens, these black men and many others have challenged racist beauty standards and advocated for a more inclusive fashion landscape. Like their peers, these models prove that folks of any skin tone might be aspirational for consumers of all races.
Still, black models must deal not only with the fashion industry’s Eurocentric biases, but in addition with the quite a few stereotypes and false expectations that typically accompany black masculinity. This may mean that you just are expected to look tall and fit while being extra careful to not pose a threat, or taking risks with style without questioning your sexuality.
When you see a black model in a photograph or on a runway, you do not just think of an African-American model dressed in fashionable clothing. You are witnessing the culmination of a long time of individual and collective efforts to vary the face of fashion around the world.
Upcoming black male models to observe
1. Babacar N’doye
The London model debuted in 2018 at Burberry designer Christopher Bailey’s last show, but the Elite signature model was an enormous success last 12 months. In March, he posed for the cover of GQ France and has since appeared in campaigns for Burberry, Flâneur, Givechy and more.
2. Abdulaye Niang
This emerging model hails from New York and is signed to Next London, VISION Los Angeles and Berlin-based MINT Artist Management. Niang has walked the runway for brands like Gucci and John Elliott and appeared in campaigns for Zara, Helmut Lang and more, and we hope he’s just getting began.
3. De’Laney Ortiz
The Detroit-born model and Next Management signee has previously posed for leather brand Luar, appeared in the June issue of GQ South Africa, and starred in the 2021 Gossip Girl reboot. Whether she decides to stick to modeling or pursue acting, we won’t wait to see what Ortiz does next.
The future of black men’s representation in fashion
As more and more people call for greater diversity in all points of life, it is obvious that more and more black male models will turn out to be relevant in the coming years. No matter who they’re, the next generation of black men in fashion will undoubtedly have the trailblazers we discussed today who we are able to thank for the doors they left open behind them.
But fortunately, the next generation’s achievements won’t be limited by the same rigorous beauty standards that hampered the models of color who got here before them. The world is quickly adopting latest visions of masculinity, beauty and fashion. We cannot wait to see how these latest perspectives are embodied in the next wave of black supermodels, regardless of gender.
Lifestyle
You get a present, you get a present and also you get a present! That’s right, Oprah Winfrey is once more encouraging everyone to get ahead of their holiday shopping. When Mariah Carey dramatically announced the beginning of the vacation season, the queen of all media signed the Queen of Christmas’ declaration, freeing her “Favourite Things List” 2024.
“It’s time for your favorite things,” Oprah said in a video announcing the discharge of this yr’s list. “Every gift is a way to send a little bit joy and plenty of gratitude to the people in your life. I hope this list will make the busiest time of the yr a little bit easier for you and provide you with some ideas.
The legendary producer and talk show host’s annual list includes gifts for everybody, from the low-end to the high-end. From beauty to tech to food, the 2024 Favorite Things List contains a list of Black-owned brands value looking for this holiday season. While we encourage you to take a look at the entire Black-owned brands Oprah’s team has chosen this yr, listed below are 12 of our favorites from this yr’s list:
Telfar Puff Hooded Coat
In addition to her appreciation for his or her handbags, Winfrey highlights her love for Telfar clothing, especially theirs “Coat with a hood and down.”
“This trendy, oversized, unisex quilted nylon down jacket with hood will keep you warm all winter long,” said Oprah.
Brandon Blackwood Nia travel bag
While Brandon Blackwood’s eponymous brand is thought for its stylish small handbags, Oprah’s team took notice “Duffle Nia” a bag that she says is “Super soft, comfortable on the shoulder, with a cool design (and) a fashionable way to carry everything.”
Dungeon Forward HBCU Hats
Created to develop work directly inspired by and for the creative community. HBCU “The YARD” Hats by Dungeon Forward use “eye-catching graphics,” details and colours to pay “homage to the excellence of historically black colleges and universities.”
Cindy Liebel jewelry
Cindy Liebel reimagines timeless jewelry silhouettes for on a regular basis wear, offering pieces inspired by abstract lines and architectural motifs.
Reisfields Cement Collection candles
Made from natural earth pigments sourced from world wide, in small batch Reisfields “Signal Cement Collection” accommodates chemical-free scented candles that last over 90 hours.
Roq Innovation Headlightz Pom-Pom Cap
Stay warm and guarded during morning jogs and late evening runs with Roq Innovation jackets “Headlightz Pom-Pom Hat.”
“This good-looking bobble hat has a rechargeable light, making it perfect for walking the dog or jogging when the sun sets a little too early,” Oprah said on the list.
Le La Lo Mama + Me travel sweatshirts
Designed especially for fogeys traveling with children, And matching La Lo sweatshirts Help families travel in style while staying secure with distinctive design.
Litflaska
Combination of an insulated water bottle, Bluetooth speaker and portable charger Litflask smart water bottle makes it convenient to stay hydrated and luxuriate in without breaking your stride.
“The young founder of this company realized that everyone he knew carried three things with them, so he put them together,” suggests Winfrey. “Give it to friends and family – because the speakers connect, you’ll have a unique surround sound experience at your next gathering.”
Pattern Beauty Blow dryer
Designed specifically for individuals with kinky curly hair, but suitable for all hair types Pattern Beauty Blow dryer offers 4 attachments and different temperature settings, making the styling process smooth and painless.
People of gorgeous color
People from Color Beauty “Holiday Nail Polish Gift Set” offers three festive, non-toxic, vegan and cruelty-free nail polishes, suitable for manicures and pedicures.
Tonya’s Cookies – Pound Cake with Cream Cheese
Described as “moist, buttery and delicious”, Tonya’s Cookies “Cheese and Cream Cake” combines cream cheese and a touch of lemon to create an authentic Southern dessert.
AC Grill
Founded by comedians and barbecue enthusiasts Cedric the Entertainer and Anthony Anderson, AC Barbeque’s “Signature Gift Set” offers a variety of fragrant snacks and sauces that will assist you to diversify your grilling during your next cookout.
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Average cost in keeping with Apartments.com I’ll rent a one-bedroom apartmenttons in San Francisco is about $3,000 per 30 days. Brownstone Shared Housing has created a cheaper option: sleeping pods.
For $700 a month, San Francisco residents can rent a pod the dimensions of a double bed. The four-foot-tall pod has two fans, a mirror and a privacy curtain. The sleeping units are positioned in a constructing with shared toilets, storage and workspace. The price is ideal for beginner entrepreneurs to live some of the expensive cities in the USA, where the fee of living is 70% higher than the national average.
“I lived in the Presidio before and was kind of looking for cheaper options to continue working on what I wanted and working on open source projects” – Ben, resident and entrepreneur, he said
When the housing project gained popularity last yr, the town threatened to shut it down as a consequence of lack of proper permits. Brownstone Shared Housing co-founder James Stallworth said they’re forced to stop renting pods to potential residents until they receive the required permits from the town.
“There was never anything illegal in the pods. However, we did not change the use, because this building used to be a bank. So we went through this process for about a year. Meanwhile, the planning department at one point said we couldn’t list it because people were complaining, thinking we were renting illegal apartments,” Stallworth said.
Additionally, Stallworth said they should make some repairs to the constructing to comply with city safety standards. After a year-long process, the San Fransico Department of Inspections issued a letter of approval for the pods.
Stallworth said they’re creating additional living units in a bigger constructing scheduled to open early next yr.
Lifestyle
Megan Thee Stallion is reminding teens to “never worry” about a new mental health initiative
Megan Thee Stallion is no stranger to the ups and downs of mental health – and she or he uses every opportunity she will be able to to highlight its importance on her platform.
This month, the Houston rapper partnered with the California Department of Public Health to create a protected space for young people to discuss their struggles. “I Never Disturb” serves as a suicide prevention initiative, providing resources to California teens in hopes of inspiring people to ask for help without shame.
“As someone who had very dark thoughts… in the worst moments of my life, I just felt like I had some good people around me who made me feel loved, who made me feel heard, who made me feel like they cared.” said the rapper People Magazinebeing attentive to the importance of community. “If I could do that for another person or if I could help refer someone to a lot of these resources, I definitely want to do it because I know the way it feels and it isn’t a good place to be. So if I may also help, this is what I would like to do.
Admitting that it took her each time and help to reach this level of understanding, the star admits that social media has seriously impacted her mental health, especially after the 2020 shooting of Tory Lanez.
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But now that the legal system has held Lanez, Daystar born Shemuel Shua Peterson, accountable, the Houston native is holding bloggers accountable for the harassment and misinformation that many individuals spread about her after the assault and throughout the resulting trial.
This week, the star’s lawyer, Alex Spiro, filed a lawsuit against blogger Milagro Gramz, whose real name is Milagro Elizabeth Cooper, for “spreading lies” about the “Body” rapper.
“It’s time to hold bloggers accountable for years of harassment, cyberbullying and misinformation about my personal and professional life,” Megan said in a statement per People Magazine. “I have endured countless attacks on my character based on false narratives from social media bloggers posing as journalists. This is unacceptable behavior and these individuals must understand that recklessly publishing falsehoods and defamatory lies will result in consequences.”
In the lawsuit, the rapper claims that Cooper continually questioned the validity of Megan’s claims against Peterson, posted a “false pornographic video” and “falsely claimed that the firearm with which Mr. Peterson shot Ms. Pete was not produced at trial because it was missing.” while the firearm is reported to be within the custody of the Los Angeles Police Department.
Although the blogger has announced plans to sue the artist, Megan’s legal team is looking for a jury trial and monetary damages, in addition to a “permanent injunction prohibiting defendant Cooper from any future use or publication of her intimate visual depictions.”
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