Vogue’s Open Casting Announce Calls for More Diverse Models in the Industry
A Vibe Called Tech and Roundtable x Gucci Campaign Cover Photo: Delali Ayivi via: British Vogue
At the end of April, Vogue magazine announced that they will be holding an open casting for models globally.
This casting is open for any people that identify as women that are 18 and older. Candidates need to fill out an application on Vogue’s website as well as submit photographs of themselves and a video answering a few questions. Editor in Chief of Vogue, Anna Wintour said in a press release,
“Some of Vogue’s favorite models were discovered in the most surprising of ways: Kate Moss at JFK airport, Naomi Campbell window-shopping in Covent Garden,” she said. “Open Casting is an initiative that will foster the next generation of Vogue talent, with particular attention to the need for more diverse and inclusive representation in fashion. We can’t wait to meet them.”
Vogue is one of the leading fashion publications in the world and one of the top trendsetters in the industry. This recent initiative could create the domino effect of diversity and inclusion that the industry needs.
A Vibe Called Tech and Roundtable x Gucci Campaign Cover Photo: Delali Ayivi via: British Vogue
The fashion industry has made some strides when it comes to diversity and inclusion for everyone. For instance, according to the Fashion Spot, in 2020, the percentage of models of color during the spring summer fashion weeks was 40.6%. In contrast, in 2021, the percentage was 41.3% so there was a slight increase. However, despite this, the industry still is not perfect and there is still work to be done. Minority models (models that are a part of any minority or underrepresented group) often have a harder time getting gigs with brands or even finding modeling agencies at all. In addition to this, once models receive a modeling gig, brands often do not cater to their specific needs for things such as makeup and hair.
A Vibe Called Tech and Roundtable x Gucci Campaign Photo: Delali Ayivi via: British Vogue
The main reason that the industry has not changed as much as it should is because the people that are placed in the higher positions of power within the industry are not from diverse groups. These people are often calling the shots and hiring the same models for shows and editorials, not leaving as much room for models from minority groups to get the same jobs. The head of Fashion Roundtable, Tamara Cincik said, “There is diversity in many areas, but in leadership roles – alongside many other sectors – we have seen structural barriers to diversity. This needs to change. If a child’s grades are marked down by college teachers who don’t understand or value their creative references and work, this impacts their grades across the board and, ultimately, the perception of them as they enter the workforce,” she said. “If a promotion is denied to those from marginalised groups, then how can they reach leadership roles?”
A Vibe Called Tech and Roundtable x Gucci Campaign Photo: Delali Ayivi via: British Vogue
This casting will not completely change the industry’s diversity problem completely; It could take time to fully see changes. However, Vogue’s open casting initiative can give models opportunities that they would not usually get in the industry. Vogue is connected to various designers, models and other industry professionals so an up and coming model can create a network of valuable professional relationships. This initiative can also help the industry by providing it with models from more diverse backgrounds and experiences that could bring something new to the table.
A Vibe Called Tech and Roundtable x Gucci Campaign Photo: Delali Ayivi via: British Vogue
There is no entry or application fee and aspiring models do not need to be signed to an agency already. The competition will be held until May 8th and the finalists will be announced in June. The finalists are determined by a pre-selected committee made up of multiple major industry players. These finalists will be able to be featured in a fall issue of Vogue magazine, get increased modeling opportunities and gigs and mentorships. You can apply for the open casting here.
