From Coco & Creme — When fashion industry leaders gathered at the New York Public Library in the fall of 2007 questioning the absence of Black models on the runways and in fashion editorials, a global dialogue was sparked, implicating the fashion industry for its less than diverse practices.

This conversation largely influenced Vogue Italia’s “All Black Issue.” The legendary Bethann Hardison who consulted on the issue was the most paramount voice in getting the discussion off the ground. Not long after, high-end designers began embracing Black models for their promotional campaigns and Fashion Week shows. But these days it seems that the once jolting blaze is calming. And much like the appearance of heels with socks on runways, Black models are seemingly just another fleeting fad.

But Black models are necessary. Just like the critical need for Latina and Asian models, consumers need to see diversity in the representation of clothing and styles marketed to them season after season. And for those of you who don’t think race matters when it comes to fashion, here are five reasons why is does.

1. Black Models Change the Game.
From Adrienne Fidelin and Naomi Simms to Tyson, Black models change the game. Black models’ discernible, like-no-other features, curvaeous bodies and coco skin are influential and revolutionary. There will never be another Naomi Campbell walk or a “smize” like Tyra’s.

2. Women Who Look Like Us.
The beauty and glam of Black models encourages positive self-esteem and versatile images of Black women in the public space. This has an amazing affect on Black youth and their self-concept. How many of you weren’t influenced by Tyra’s role in “Higher Learning?”

Read the rest at Coco & Creme !