This fall, i-D made a huge statement as the only magazine to showcase not one, but four models of color on the cover of their September issue. Chanel Iman, Sessilee Lopez, Jourdan Dunn, and Arlenis Sosa pose as Pretty Young Things for the cover—but Jourdan wants more. “There are loads of black models working and the idea that there’s only a few of us—or four of us—to let in as ‘top models’ at any one time, is just bullshit,” said Jourdan in the inside article, “We Are The World.” “It creates an unnecessary competition when we should be standing together.”
Just one year ago, the same four models were featured in the All Black issue of Vogue Italia, which made it’s own powerful statement on the fashion industry. But while it’s certainly a start, there are of course, greater strides to be made. “When I first started there were only two girls, Alek Wek or Naomi Campbell. The fact that we’re able to show ourselves and be recognized as equals is such a great accomplishment to be part of,” said Sessilee. “As for the past, it’s full of shoulda-woulda-couldas! Things are finally happening, better now than later. Whoever decided to open the doors for anyone in fashion, I’ll gladly pat that person on the back. Thank you for changing my life. White, black, purple, or blue—whatever—thanks.”
If you haven’t made your way to the newsstand yet, do yourself a favor and make this essential purchase, which not only devotes the cover to these groundbreaking beauties, but also a four-page beauty spread, two page article, and “Thriller”-themed editorial.
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