It was 1966 when Donyale Luna (1945-1979) became the first black woman to grace the cover of British Vogue. Born Peggy Ann Freeman in Detroit, Luna became so successful that in April of 1966 Time magazine wrote an article about her titled, “The Luna Year”.
Less than a decade later, American Vogue featured a black model on the cover in 1974. Beverly Johnson went on to have a successful career and is still considered one of the most beautiful women. Her career has inspired many.
This month Italian Vogue, goes beyond the cover with it’s first black issue. That’s right. Black is in. Photographer Steven Meisel, frustrated by the lack of diversity in the fashion industry, features only black models in the July issue of Italian Vogue including Naomi, Iman, Tyra, Jordan Dunn and Toccara of America’s Next Top Model fame. Check it out.
