Roommates, we can never get enough of #BlackGirlMagic and ‘British Vogue’ is kicking off 2022 with an abundance of it for its latest issue! The February 2022 issue features nine African models (Adut Akech, Amar Akway, Majesty Amare, Dibaa Maty, Janet Jumbo, Akon Changkou, Abeny Nhial, Nyagua Ruea, Anok Yai) with glorious African heritage that stretches from Senegal to Rwanda to Sudan to Nigeria to Ethiopia and beyond.
Speaking about the jaw-dropping cover full of rich melanin, British Vogue Editor-In-Chief Edward Enninful explained his inspiration for creating such a landmark moment for Black and African beauty. “I saw all these incredible models from across Africa who were just so vivacious and smart. These girls are redefining what it is to be a fashion model. You know, fashion tends to follow waves. We’ve had the Brazilian wave. We had the Dutch wave, the Russian wave, the Eastern European wave… And while, in the last decade, the Black model has come to prominence, I love that we are finally giving more space to African beauty,” Enninful said.
These beautiful ladies were draped in their haute couture best, wearing the latest designs from Balenciaga, Yves Saint Laurent and Loewe—while being photographed in a sleek, polished and sophisticated way the ushers in the new era of Black models.
Enninful also spoke on how the fashion industry as a whole needs to do better to ensure the longevity of Black models. “It’s sad and heartbreaking for me to see girls who are on the rise suddenly taper off. We need to ensure these girls last. We have to invest in them, nurture them and support them with editorial, with advertising, with shows. It has to be 360.”
He continued, adding “Alek Wek didn’t suddenly become Alek Wek. There was a group of us behind girls like her, propelling them forward. This is what we have to do in all our different roles. Getting these girls and then throwing them away after one season? That has to stop.”
You can pick up the February issue of ‘British Vogue’ available on newsstands now.
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