all images via Huffington Post, 22 Words and Diesel (photography by: Inez van Lamsweerde and Vinoodh Matadin, styling by: Nicola Romichetti, artistry by: James Astronaut)
I don't work in the fashion industry. In fact, I am pretty far removed from it. I don't have a reference of what it takes to be a model or to be in the daily grind of such a competitive industry where looks are constantly discussed. But, what I do know is when companies begin to redefine beauty in all forms, people notice. People discuss. People ask questions. People support.
Diesel's recent #dieselreboot campaign (Spring 2014) features 23 models, one of whom is Jillian Mercado - fashion blogger. She's more unique than "typical models" because she has spastic muscular dystrophy. On a whim, she submitted photos of herself during a casting call. Diesel's brand is about young, hip and stylish people and she has all of that - her only difference is having an electric wheelchair for mobility. Fortunately, Diesel was serious about pursuing her and after following up on an email for additional photos of herself, Jillian is now the face of the new campaign - even being featured on Diesel's homepage right now.
With more companies (like Dove and recently with Aerie) challenging the definition of beauty in the fashion industry, we can all look forward to being exposed to nontraditional models.
Oh literally just saw this on E! News. I'm so glad some fashion and beauty co's appreciate beauty beyond supermodels :) xo
ReplyDeleteI just saw a story on Jillian! Good for her and cheers to Diesel for promoting diversity.
ReplyDeleteRowena @ rolala loves
This is a great idea! I love what she's doing and she a wonderful style
ReplyDeleteTwo thumbs up for Diesel! No one should be held back due to a medical condition. Love the campaign.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.averysweetblog.com/
oh i LOVE this. good job Diesel
ReplyDelete-issa
wewearthings.com
Good for her! That's great that companies are noticing people who are amazing in their own ways! :)
ReplyDeletexxDenysia Yu
http://thatlaitgirl.com
Neat
ReplyDeleteMy Lyfe ; My Story
@MyLyfeMyStory ♥ ♥
I didn't know about this, this is such amazing! I think this def the thing to do for the brands, the photos look wow! Thank you so much for sharing, nice post
ReplyDeletexx
www.vivalablonda.com
So great to see.
ReplyDeletebisous
Suzanne
she is absolutely stunning. I can`t tell you how happy it makes me to read about a company using their platform to promote something other than the current rigid standard of beauty.
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