The Americans came, they saw, they sewed and they conquered Versailles and on that day of 28 November 1973, black models showed that they were a force to be reckoned with. We've celebrated that triumphant day by recognizing these pioneers who walked off that runway into history. Now view the runway shots from that historic day.
Charlene Dash, Amina Warsuma, Jennifer Brice, Alva Chinn, Pat Cleveland, Billie Blair, Norma Jean Darden, China Machado and Bethann Hardison...
...The Secret Weapon of Choice.
"Commanding Center Stage and Striking a Pose"
Bethann Hardison and Ramona Saunders wearing Stephen Burrows.
A very animated Billie Blair displays the dramatics that help the Americans win the competition.
Jennifer Brice and the other leading ladies who stole the show and the
I've been saving the best photos for last and I'm not done yet. Some call her a revolutionary. Some call her a activist. I call her an American "Herstory" maker because she continues to make "Herstory" on a regular basis. Along with supermodel Iman, Bethann Hardison co-founded the Black Girls Coalition, an organization that has pushed for greater inclusion and visibility of Black models and models of color in the fashion industry, one activity that even in this day she's still fighting for.
Today, the former runway model is now the Editor-at-Large for VOGUE Italia's-VOGUE BLACK Website. Long gone is Bethann Management Company, Inc., which was once the international modeling and talent agency headed by Bethann Hardison. Never one to leave a challenge and create newer opportunities in the world at large especially in the fashion industry, Bethann is still a pivotal force in organizing Black models around such issues as equitable Black representation in fashion magazines, runways and catalogues. Bethann is an inspiration and a vision of women's empowerment.
I Salute You, Bethann Hardison for being a major influence to women all over the world by showing the world that we do exists and will no longer tolerate being rendered invisible. And may God continue to bless you with the vision and longevity to continue to empower others!
NOTE: Photos: Runway photos are from my own collections of fashion books
with the exception of those photos belonging to NYM and Getty Images. Share the love by linking back. Thank you.
Divalocity.
As one of the worlds most innovative and talented designers, McQueen had established himself as a household name forever changing the way women dress. Every season McQueen's collections were just as inventive as they were revolutionary, sadly his vision shines no more, but his name will live on forever.
In a powerful homage to this brilliant designer, Film-maker Nick Knight presents a breathtakingly beautiful video honoring his legacy. Alexander McQueen was posthumously awarded at this year’s British Fashion Awards for Outstanding Achievement in Fashion Design. This special award celebrates his achievement as a designer whose work has impacted the world. Check out this beautiful video brilliantly styled by internationally known stylist and fashion director, Edward Enninful.
To Lee, With Love – Nick Knight’s tribute to Alexander McQueen featuring: Ajak Deng, Anais Mali, Flaviana Matata, Jeneil Williams, Joan Smalls, Kinee Diouf, Quack, Rose Cordero, Sedene Blake, Trissan all dressed in Alexander McQueen's most beautiful creations. Enjoy and be inspired!
