Black model calls out fashion industry's lack of diversity by recreating (and slaying) top campaigns
[Photos: Raffael Dickreuter, raffael3d.com, Model: Deddeh Howard, secretofdd.com]
Jasmine Tookes may have rocked the $3 million Fantasy Bra down the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show runway and Michelle Obama may have graced the cover of Vogue's December issue, but look at any billboard of magazine ad and it's clear that diversity is still lacking in the fashion industry.
Deddeh Howard, a Los-Angeles based model who was born and raised in Liberia, West Africa, is well aware of the problem and is calling the industry out with a photo series titled "Black Mirror." In it, Howard works with photographer Raffael Dickreuter to recreate major fashion campaigns that feature white models like Gigi Hadid, Gisele Bundchen and Kendall Jenner.
On her site, Howard explains she was driven to create the series by her personal frustrations.
"Not too long ago it happened to me that I would walk into various fashion model agencies and I would immediately be compared to that one or two black model that they had on the roster. Even though I was told by those agencies that I have an amazing look and wish they could represent me, they already have a black model," she writes. "It seemed as if one or two black models on the roster are enough to represent us all."
Since posting a couple of images on Instagram yesterday, Howard has received thousands of likes and comments, most of which echo her sentiments.
“These are amazing. You should definitely do more, and fashion houses and media need to have a glimpse at this reality,” writes one commenter.
“Beautiful! Such a strong message,” writes another.
“The visibility on these commercials and billboards matter as much as having elected a first black President. The next generation can only get inspired and reach for the stars themselves if they believe they can do it too,” writes Howard. “With this Black Mirror project I hope to show the world that it is time for all of us being seen.”
What do you think of Howard’s recreations? Let us know by tweeting us @YahooStyleCA.
