More Models of Color: Changing Beauty Standards on Instagram
Discover the Instagram account amplifying diverse beauty and the influential models challenging traditional fashion norms online.
The fashion industry has always played a pivotal role in shaping societal standards of beauty. However, for decades, these standards have largely excluded people of color, creating a homogeneous image that has influenced everything from advertising to personal identity. In the digital age, a new wave of activism is changing this narrative. Center stage in this revolution is an Instagram account, @MoreModelsOfColor, which is shining a light on the diverse models that the industry has neglected for too long.
Why Representation Matters In Fashion
Beauty ideals deeply affect how people view themselves and others. When only a narrow slice of humanity is represented in media and advertising, those who don’t fit that profile can grow up feeling inferior. The rise of Instagram and other visual-focused platforms has amplified both the best and worst elements of this phenomenon. Today, the push for inclusion and representation has taken on a new urgency, led largely by grassroots social media initiatives, activists, and the models themselves.
The Birth of ‘More Models of Color’
It all started with frustration—a sentiment shared by countless people of color who felt invisible in a world obsessed with Eurocentric beauty. An anonymous Instagram user launched the @MoreModelsOfColor account with a clear mission: to document and advocate for greater representation of non-white models within the global fashion industry. The account rapidly gained traction, accumulating followers from every corner of the globe—models, photographers, industry professionals, and young fans inspired by the power of visibility.
- Purpose: To showcase the myriad of talented models of color who have long been cast aside by mainstream fashion.
- Advocacy: Calling out brands, publications, and agencies that perpetuate a lack of diversity in their campaigns and runways.
- Community: Creating a space for dialogue, storytelling, and empowerment among individuals longing for tangible change in fashion media.
Instagram: A New Platform for Change
Instagram’s visual-centric nature makes it the perfect stage for showcasing beauty in all its forms. Models of color who once struggled to get noticed by agencies are building global followings and forging lucrative careers by leveraging the platform’s reach. Accounts like @MoreModelsOfColor curate these diverse faces, highlighting the uniqueness of individual journeys while also capturing the collective need for change.
- Global audience: Social media erodes geographical barriers, allowing models from Africa, Asia, Latin America, and beyond to captivate viewers everywhere.
- Direct voice: Instagram allows models to engage audiences directly, shaping their own narratives and challenging stereotypes.
- Grassroots influence: Hashtags and viral moments can create industry-defining movements overnight.
Spotlight: Influential Models Changing the Face of Fashion
The following models have been featured or amplified by the account for their groundbreaking contributions, unique stories, and stunning visual presence. Each of them brings something vital to the conversation around diversity and visibility.
Herieth Paul
Tanzanian-Canadian model Herieth Paul has graced the pages of international editions like Vogue and Elle, as well as campaigns for major brands such as Maybelline. Known for her radiant skin and powerful walk, Paul’s ascent demonstrates how diverse backgrounds can translate into global appeal. She uses her platform to empower young girls to embrace their own identities and roots.
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Thando Hopa
South African model, lawyer, and activist Thando Hopa turned her albinism into a hallmark of her career. Beyond runways and magazine covers, she advocates for human rights and challenges narrow definitions of beauty. Hopa’s story exemplifies how representation goes beyond race to include other kinds of diversity, including disability and skin conditions.
Khoudia Diop
Senegalese model Khoudia Diop, often called the “Melanin Goddess,” uses her social media presence to celebrate her deep skin tone and encourage others to do the same. Diop’s image is a radiant rebuttal to colorism, and her infectious confidence embodies the new wave of body and skin positivity sweeping through online spaces.
Nyakim Gatwech
Renowned as the “Queen of Darkness,” Nyakim Gatwech is a South Sudanese-American model who bravely addresses issues of colorism and self-acceptance. Her Instagram feed blends editorial shoots with personal commentary, demonstrating that confidence and originality resonate powerfully with audiences, regardless of traditional beauty standards.
Global Impact: Why These Stories Matter
Each of these trailblazers is more than just a pretty face; they are redefining what it means to be beautiful, successful, and powerful in contemporary society. Their influence extends beyond modeling into activism, business, and cultural commentary. Every follower, every like, and every share on their pages becomes part of a larger movement for inclusion and respect.
Behind the Account: Calling Out the Industry
The @MoreModelsOfColor account is relentless in holding the fashion industry accountable. It catalogues not only success stories but also missed opportunities and explicit disparities:
- Runway reports: Documenting the number of non-white models in top fashion shows and campaigns.
- Brand audits: Publicly tracking which brands are making progress and which remain stagnant in their representation efforts.
- Community engagement: Inviting followers to share their experiences, spotlight their favorite models, and amplify important conversations about race and beauty.
How Social Media Is Dismantling Old Norms
The traditional gatekeepers—major modeling agencies and fashion editors—no longer have absolute power. @MoreModelsOfColor and similar accounts use the democratizing potential of Instagram to bypass industry bottlenecks. As a result, agencies and brands are under increasing pressure to reflect the true diversity of their consumer base.
- Speed of change: Social media exposes and challenges exclusive practices in real time.
- Evidence and accountability: Screenshots and user-generated reports make it difficult for brands to hide behind public relations statements.
Beyond Tokenism: Real Inclusion and Lasting Change
Some brands respond to criticism by adding one or two models of color for a single campaign. However, mere tokenism is not enough. True progress requires longstanding commitment, inclusive casting policies, investments in diverse creative talent, and transparent progress tracking. The models and activists featured here continue to advocate for these structural reforms.
- Holistic inclusion: Beyond models, commitment should extend to hair stylists, makeup artists, photographers, fashion editors, and executives of color.
- Long-term strategies: Developing initiatives that go beyond trends and ensure sustainability—such as scholarships, mentorship programs, and inclusive leadership pipelines.
Tips for Following and Supporting Models of Color Online
Everyone can contribute to a more inclusive fashion industry by making deliberate choices online. Consider the following ways to amplify underrepresented voices:
- Follow and engage with diverse models’ accounts for exposure and encouragement.
- Share posts and stories that celebrate inclusivity and call out industry shortcomings.
- Support brands that demonstrate ongoing, sincere dedication to diversity.
- Educate yourself on cultural and historical contexts affecting beauty standards worldwide.
Table: Influential Models of Color to Follow
| Model | Origin | Known For | Instagram Handle |
|---|---|---|---|
| Herieth Paul | Tanzania/Canada | Maybelline, Vogue, Elle | @heriethpaul |
| Thando Hopa | South Africa | Advocacy, Diversity, Albinism Awareness | @thandohopa |
| Khoudia Diop | Senegal/France | Melanin Advocacy, Social Media Influence | @melaniin.goddess |
| Nyakim Gatwech | South Sudan/USA | Colorism Activism, Editorial Modeling | @queenkim_nyakim |
| Leomie Anderson | UK | LAPP Founder, Runway Modeling | @leomieanderson |
| Paloma Elsesser | USA | Body Positivity, Runway | @palomija |
| Maria Borges | Angola | Natural Hair, Runways | @iammairaborges |
| Cindy Bruna | France | Calvin Klein, Chanel | @cindybruna |
| Iman | Somalia | Design Icon, Humanitarian | @the_real_iman |
| Beverly Johnson | USA | First Black Vogue Cover Model | @iambeverlyjohnson |
| Grace Jones | Jamaica | Performance Art, Iconic Runways | @gracejonesofficial |
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is @MoreModelsOfColor?
A: It is an Instagram account dedicated to highlighting, celebrating, and advocating for greater representation of models of color within global fashion industries.
Q: Why is representation in fashion so important?
A: Representation shapes societal standards, affects self-esteem, and influences mainstream perceptions of what beauty looks like. More diverse representation challenges stereotypes and promotes inclusion.
Q: How can followers and fans support diversity efforts?
A: Engage with and amplify the platforms and work of models of color, advocate for brands that make real changes, and educate yourself on issues affecting representation in media.
Q: Besides Instagram, how else are models of color gaining visibility?
A: Many models of color are also active in fashion shows, editorial campaigns, commercial endorsements, and activism across other social networks like Twitter, TikTok, and YouTube, as well as through speaking engagements and community work.
Q: Are fashion brands responding to the call for more diversity?
A: Some fashion brands are beginning to make changes, such as more inclusive casting and featuring models of color in campaigns; however, much work remains to ensure such efforts are long-lasting and not merely tokenistic.
Conclusion: The Ongoing Journey Toward True Diversity
The story of @MoreModelsOfColor and the models it amplifies is about more than fashion; it’s about breaking barriers, redefining beauty, and demanding dignity for all. While progress has been made, the ongoing efforts of models, activists, and everyday supporters are crucial in holding the industry accountable and building a fashion world that truly reflects global humanity.
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