Diversity has been a problem in the fashion industry from its onset. From the lack of black and brown faces on runways all across the world to low representation both in and on high-fashion glossies, it’s an issue we report on season after season—with the needle moving ever so slightly. Which is why the September covers seem like such an explosion this year. Black women are gracing almost ten magazine covers for the month: a historical event if ever there was one.
Beyoncé on Vogue, Serena Williams on New York Magazine, Ciara on Shape, Willow Smith on i-D…and the list goes on. Can you believe it? We hardly can, but trust me: we’re thrilled!
This is what we’ve been waiting for ladies and gentlemen and let’s hope it continues year-round for years to come. With brands like Saks Fifth Avenue supporting Empire and Straight Outta Compton rising to #1 at the box office, it’s just a demonstration of the power that we hold.
Our voices and viewpoints speak to a crucial part of global culture and should always be at the forefront. We’ve seen quite a bit of appropriation of late, but this shows that we do it best, yes?
How are you feeling about this year’s September issues?
