Supreme Models

The world of fashion was forever changed when Black models burst onto America’s runways in the 60’s. We’re looking at the trailblazers who smashed ceilings and opened doors for a world of beautiful Black models to thrive in. Watch the heartfelt tribute to the first Black supermodel Donyale Luna and 60’s icon Pat Cleveland discusses how she fought racism to break into the industry via Ebony. Also on hand to discuss colorism and the business of modeling are Joan Smalls, Aweng Chuol, Mayowa Nicholas, Beija Velez, Damaris Lewis, Indya Moore, Poppy Ajudha, Shalom Blac, Lois Samuels, Duckie Thot, Jeneil Williams, Jazzelle Zanaughtti, Ebonee Davis, and Precious Lee.

The 1970s and the Battle of Versailles. Casting agents, celebrities, fashion designers, magazine editors, and top models discuss the impact and importance of the Battle of Versailles and how Black models conquered the runways of Europe while fighting racism in advertising and fashion in America. Examined are the careers, friendship, and lives of trailblazers Bethann Hardison and Iman.

The rise of Hip-Hop in the 80’s set the stage for Black Models to rip the runway and turn the fashion industry on its head. The absolute icon that is Karen Alexander shares her incredible triumphs of forging a path that would leave a lasting legacy on the culture and fashion industry. We look at how music became entwined with fashion and how the camaraderie between Black models set the foundation for the Black Girls Coalition with Bethanne Hardison and Iman at the helm.

The 90’s were the heyday of the Black model and when they began to become stars. We look at the rise of women like Iman who went from supermodel to super mogul and who inspired other Black models to explore alternative revenue streams like cosmetics, beauty, and books. We also hear from Roshumba Williams who talks about being offered the first Black-model cover of Sports Illustrated - and why she turned it down.

The 2000’s and the White Out. Casting agents, celebrities, fashion designers, magazine editors, and top Black models discuss the White Out, the years between the mid-nineties and mid-2010’s when the Black model disappeared from the fashion runways. In revealing interviews, trailblazers Edward Enninful, Bethann Hardison and Iman, and top models Cindy Bruna, Sessilee Lopez, Jourdana Phillips, Joan Smalls, and Jeneil Williams share personal stories about a controversial era in fashion.

We’re in a new era where Black people are now occupying every area of fashion and beyond where Black models have become activists fighting for body inclusivity. Precious Lee tells the story of her journey plus we take a closer look at the Black Models using their platforms to spark social change within the fashion industry. Highlighted are the lingering effects of racism, the impact of the Black Lives Matter movement and the pandemic upon fashion. Also covered are the changes over time around awareness of body positivity, diversity and inclusion, influencer culture, and social media. We also look at the Black In Fashion Council and how it’s helped facilitate Black photographers, Black models, and more. Paloma Elsesser discusses her first Vogue cover and we hear from Iman, Anna Wintour, Poppy Ajudha, Joan Smalls, Zendaya, Aweng Chuol, and many more as they discuss the state of the industry and where it’s headed - as well as the impact of colorism.