Sun, Sep 25, 2022
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.
Sun, Sep 25, 2022
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.
Sun, Oct 2, 2022
The rise of Hip-Hop in the 80s 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 Bethann Hardison and Iman at the helm.
Sun, Oct 9, 2022
The 1990s and the rise of the supermodels. Casting agents, fashion designers, magazine editors, and top Black models discuss the emergence of supermodels, focusing on the careers of Tyra Banks, Naomi Campbell, Veronica Webb, and Roshumba Williams. The discussion centers on the importance of advertising campaigns, cosmetics contracts, and magazine covers to a Black model's career. Also examined is the impact of Sports Illustrated and Victoria's Secret on the careers of several models during the 1990s thru the early 2000s.
Sun, Oct 16, 2022
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-2010s 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.
Sun, Oct 23, 2022
In the series finale, celebrities, fashion designers, magazine editors, photographers, and top models discuss the future of Black models and their role as agents of change. Highlighted are the lingering effects of racism, the impact of the Black Lives Matter movement, and the pandemic on fashion. The discussion moves to how modeling has changed over time due to increased awareness of body positivity, diversity and inclusion, influencer culture, and social media. Profiles include models Aweng Choul, Paloma Elsesser, Precious Lee, Marquita Pring, and Indya Moore.