Fashion is one thing that’s never been bound by restrictions. We all know the real pioneers are those that break the rules, challenge conformity and bring something new to an industry that’s notorious for its circular nature. Having said that, it’s almost surprising that transgender and gender fluid models are only just becoming a fixture on magazine covers and catwalks.
Launched last year and based out of LA, Slay Model Management is the world’s first transgender model agency. They currently have 18 girls on their books, including America’s Next Top Model star Isis King. Executively produced by Hollywood A-lister Whoopi Goldberg, Strut, a TV show searching for trans modelling talent to join the agency launched only last month.
These models join a host of other long-limbed, high-cheekboned hotties ready to show us that fashion knows no limits – Andreja Pejic, Lea T, Valentijn de Hingh, Aydian Dowling, Genna Rocero and Hari Nef being just a few. The latter is the face of H&M’s new campaign, an Elle cover girl and one of the most successful models currently on IMG’s books. De Hingh is also signed to IMG, she’s been shot by Patrick Demarchelier and she’s walked for everyone from Comme des Garcons to Martin Margiela. Pejic, one of the most well-known trans models who’s now had complete gender reassignment surgery, was spotted at age seventeen working in McDonalds. Speaking to Vogue, she expressed the firm belief that this wasn’t some passing fashion fad. “It is about showing that this is not just a gimmick,” she said.
While certain media like to credit Caitlyn Jenner with bringing trans issues into the mainstream, she should not be heralded as the only person changing public opinion. A number of influential artists, actors, writers, models and designers have worked tirelessly for years to bring the issue to light in an attempt to give transgendered and LGBTQ people the opportunities and respect granted to everyone else. While times are certainly changing, we have a long way to go before trans people can travel the world feeling safe and respected. The ongoing bathroom debates across America are case in point.
But this goes far beyond Margiela’s fashion shows and Demarchelier’s lens. While the open-armed and open-minded fashion pack may be some of the first to embrace LGBTQ norms, they’ve now been granted an invaluable opportunity to influence a global shift. In the near future, one can only hope that transgender and gender fluid individuals can walk down streets, as well as catwalks, without fear of public scrutiny.
I’ve always loved androgynous clothing and if I had to label my own style I’d call it tomboy chic. So with that being said, I need little convincing that this is a revolutionary time for fashion and the world alike. At the end of the day, if someone has been blessed with a face and body so exquisite and unique that they can sell a product and create art in doing so, does it really matter what gender they identify with, if any at all?
Written by Thea Carley
