Being a model doesn’t mean you’re perfect. It doesn’t mean you have perfect skin, a perfect body, and the perfect face — in fact, for most models the reason they have a career is that they’re not perfect. It’s their unique characteristics that make them models. Forget the Kendall Jenner’s and Bella Hadid’s of the world and focus on these models who are making strides in the industry while also promoting self-confidence:
Winnie Harlow
Winnie first gained recognition on America’s Next Top Model, where we first learned of her condition. Winne has vitiligo, which is depigmentation of portions of the skin. She was only four-years-old when she was first diagnosed and she was constantly bullied growing up. People called her “cow” and “zebra.” The abuse was so bad she changed schools constantly. But, look at her now! Winnie is only 24 and has walked the runway for London Fashion Week, while also being featured in Glamour, Cosmopolitan, Dazed, Ebony, etc.
Ashley Smith
More and more models are popping up with one very unique characteristic — a gap in the middle of their front teeth. Ashley Smith is one of them. This Texas-Native is absolutely stunning and a great example of self-confidence. So many people born with gaps choose to get their teeth fixed but not her, she embraced the gap and it’s made her quite famous.
Moffy
Moffy Gathorne Hardy is a British beauty! No surprise. She became the face of Storm Models, which is a well-known agency, at a young age. Have you ever heard of it? Well, Kate Moss was signed there! What makes Moffy so unique, besides her talent, is that she has a lazy eye. It’s very noticeable which is why it’s become a sort of signature.
Jillian Mercado
Raised in New York City, Jillian was diagnosed with spastic muscular dystrophy as a child. And although she’s physically handicapped and in a wheelchair, she’s a very successful model. Jillian has recently graced the cover of September’s Teen Vogue issue. TEEN VOGUE!
Lindsey Wixson
Born in Witchita, Kansas, Linsey is an absolute stunner! She’s known for her “different” features; her “bee-stung lips” and “rosebud pout” are her trademarks, as well as her lovely gap. She’s appeared in fashion campaigns for top designers like Chanel, Miu Miu, and Alexander McQueen. Unfortunately, she retired from modeling in 2017 due to a foot injury that made it difficult for her to walk in high heels.
Diandra Forrest
Diandra has one of the most unique looks out there. Born in the Bronx, Diandra is an albino African American. She was born with white skin, green eyes, blonde hair, and modelesque features. Her look is FIERCE and she shares it with her brother — who was also born albino. Diandra has admitted to being insecure while growing up, but she’s definitely found a way to be confident with her look. She’s the first model with albinism to be signed to a major modeling agency. She’s also the first albino to be the face of a major beauty brand, Wet n Wild.
Shaun Ross
Diandra isn’t the only albino African American model — Shaun Ross is, too. He’s been featured in Italian Vogue, GQ, and many other publications. I’m not going to lie, Shaun is a pretty big deal in the male modeling world, which is rather hard to get into. Male models usually aren’t as well-known as female models but somehow Shaun has become a trademark. Bravo!
Erika Ervin
Known professionally as Amazon Eve, she’s considered the “world’s tallest model.” I know you might be thinking, “Aren’t all models tall?” Yes, but not this tall. At 6 feet 7 inches, Erika is quite unique. Born male, she transitioned in 2004 and has since worked as a model, actress, and fitness trainer. She’s appeared in Harper’s Bazaar and even had a role in American Horror Story: Freak Show.
Sabina Karlsson
Sabina is no stranger to the modeling game! She’s been modeling since she was four. Working with Armani and walking for Michael Kors has made her quite a household name. Her look is special because she has two unique features: her freckles and the fact that she’s plus-sized. Plus-sized models don’t typically receive the recognition they deserve, but Sabina has helped change that.
Madeline Stuart
Madeline Stuart is paving the way for so many people. Born with Down Syndrome, she’s proved that having a condition (no matter what that condition is) doesn’t mean you can’t do something. The Australian native started modeling in 2014 and has since walked during New York’s Fashion Week for the past five seasons —she’s also appeared in Vogue.
Melanie Gaydos
Melanie Gaydos is a well-known model, probably because she’s so unique looking. Melanie was born in Connecticut and she has a very rare genetic disorder —Ectodermal Dysplasia. This disorder causes pores, teeth, nails, and bones to be abnormally small. She’s also partially blind, but she hasn’t let any of this stop her! Melanie has walked the runway during New York Fashion week and has also modeled for Galore and Love Magazine!
Salem Mitchel
Born with a face full of freckles, Salem Mitchell has an impressive modeling resume, for only being 20-years-old. She’s appeared in Paper Magazine, Gucci, Vogue, and even modeled merchandise for Beyonce’s “Lemonade” album.