# Who Are the Most Renowned Black Models?

Starting with Naomi Sims in the 1960s, numerous **Black models** have shattered ceilings and advocated for increased diversity in the fashion realm. These [supermodels](https://www.fashiongonerogue.com/supermodels-list/) are pioneers, whether they are finale walkers in fashion shows or securing major advertising contracts. From Beverly Johnson becoming the first Black model to grace the cover of *Vogue US* to Alek Wek reshaping beauty norms through her successful career, we honor 25 models who illustrate the beauty of diversity.

## Black Models

### Naomi Sims
Naomi Sims is regarded as the first Black supermodel in history. She made her mark as the first African-American woman to appear on the cover of *Ladies’ Home Journal* in 1968, and in 1969, she became the first Black model featured on the cover of *LIFE Magazine*. Sims concluded her modeling career in 1973 and went on to establish a prosperous wig business. Additionally, she penned books regarding modeling and beauty. Tragically, Sims passed away in 2009 due to breast cancer, but her legacy as a trailblazer in the fashion world continues to resonate.

### Beverly Johnson
In August 1974, Beverly Johnson made history by becoming the first Black model to appear on the cover of *Vogue US*. The following year, she was the first Black woman to grace the cover of *ELLE France*. Johnson’s landmark *Vogue* cover opened doors for greater diversity in fashion magazines and on designer catwalks. Beyond her modeling career, she has participated in television shows and films, including her reality series *Beverly’s Full House* on the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN).

### Iman
Somali-born model Iman made a significant impact in the 1970s, excelling on both runways and in print. Discovered by photographer Peter Beard in Nairobi, her stunning features drew the attention of the fashion industry. Iman collaborated with legendary photographers like Richard Avedon and Helmut Newton and was honored by Yves Saint Laurent with his “African Queen” collection. Aside from modeling, Iman became a business mogul with her cosmetics line, Iman Cosmetics, serving women of color. She was married to the late rock icon David Bowie and has expressed that she will not remarry after his death.

### Veronica Webb
In the 1990s, Veronica Webb made history as the first African-American model to secure an exclusive beauty contract with Revlon. Webb’s illustrious career featured covers of *Vogue Italy*, *ELLE*, and *Essence Magazine*. She also explored acting, appearing in films like *Jungle Fever*, *Malcolm X*, and *In Too Deep*.

### Naomi Campbell
Naomi Campbell stands as one of the most legendary supermodels ever. Discovered at just 15 years old, Campbell swiftly ascended to fame, becoming the first Black woman to appear on the covers of *French Vogue* and *Time Magazine*. In the late 1980s, she was part of the iconic “Trinity” of supermodels alongside Christy Turlington and Linda Evangelista. Campbell has been featured in major campaigns for Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Versace, with her runway walk being the stuff of legend. Despite her extensive career, her initial notable cosmetics campaign came in 2018 when she was named the face of NARS.

### Tyra Banks
Tyra Banks made waves in 1997 as the first Black model to land a solo *Sports Illustrated: Swimsuit Issue* cover. That same year, she also became the first African-American woman to cover the *Victoria’s Secret Catalogue* and *GQ*. Banks later gained fame for producing and hosting *America’s Next Top Model*, which has spawned numerous successful spin-offs around the globe. She also hosted *Dancing with the Stars*.

### Alek Wek
Alek Wek, a South Sudanese model, is celebrated for challenging conventional beauty standards in the fashion industry. Beginning her career at 18, Wek distinguished herself with her dark skin, African features, and shaved head. She made history as the first African model to appear on the cover of *ELLE* in 1997. Wek has walked for prestigious designers like Alexander McQueen, Oscar de la Renta, and Valentino. Kenyan actress Lupita Nyong’o has cited Wek as one of her inspirations during her upbringing.

### Jourdan Dunn
British model Jourdan Dunn made a significant mark in 2008 as the first Black model to walk for Prada in over ten years. In 2014, she became the face of Maybelline, and in 2015, she secured a solo cover on *British Vogue*, the first Black model to achieve this in more than 12 years. Dunn has walked in the *Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show* multiple times and has been vocal about issues of discrimination in the modeling industry.

### Slick Woods
Slick Woods, recognized for her distinctive shaved head, gap