African-American Actresses Who Are Fashion Models

African American women have consistently made a significant impact on both film and fashion. Many successful actresses started their careers as models or in commercials, and continue to connect the worlds of Hollywood and international fashion. Through their work, they often redefine what’s considered beautiful and demonstrate their talents in various creative fields.

Zendaya

Zendaya started her career as a model, working with stores like Macy’s and Old Navy, before moving into television. She first became well-known on the Disney Channel show ‘Shake It Up’ and later received praise for her role in ‘Euphoria’. Even while acting, she’s remained involved in fashion, collaborating with brands such as Lancôme and Louis Vuitton. This combination of success has made her a recognizable star in both the entertainment and fashion worlds.

Tyra Banks

Tyra Banks began her career as a successful high-fashion model, walking the runways in Paris and Milan. She broke barriers as the first African American woman featured on the cover of both Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue and GQ magazine. Later, she moved into acting with appearances on shows like ‘The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air’ and a starring role in the movie ‘Life-Size’. She’s also widely known for creating and hosting the popular reality show ‘America’s Next Top Model’. Throughout her career, Tyra has skillfully combined her modeling background with success in mainstream acting.

Halle Berry

Before becoming a successful actress, Halle Berry participated in beauty pageants and worked as a model. She first became well-known in the film ‘Jungle Fever,’ and later achieved a historic milestone by being the first African American woman to win an Academy Award for Best Actress. Even after becoming a Hollywood star, she remained a Revlon brand ambassador for many years. Her career path paved the way for other models hoping to become serious dramatic actors.

Garcelle Beauvais

Garcelle Beauvais started her career as a fashion model, moving to Miami when she was young and signing with Ford Models. She worked on many catalogs and in magazines during her successful modeling years. She then became an actress, finding fame on shows like ‘The Jamie Foxx Show’ and ‘NYPD Blue’. Today, she continues to work in the entertainment industry as both an actress and a television personality.

Vanessa Williams

Vanessa Williams began her career as a model and beauty queen before achieving success as an actress and singer. She made history as the first African American woman to win Miss America, which launched her career. She’s best known for her roles in popular TV shows like ‘Ugly Betty’ and ‘Desperate Housewives,’ and has always projected a polished image, successfully blending the worlds of fashion and television.

Beverly Johnson

Beverly Johnson broke barriers as the first African American model featured on the cover of American Vogue. This achievement transformed the fashion industry, creating opportunities for many women of color. She also became an actress, appearing in films like ‘Ashanti’ and on several TV shows. Johnson is remembered for being a trailblazer in fashion and maintaining a strong presence in entertainment.

Joy Bryant

Joy Bryant began her career when she was scouted as a model while studying at Yale. She modeled for well-known designers and appeared in ads for brands like Tommy Hilfiger and Victoria’s Secret. She then transitioned to acting, gaining recognition for her role in ‘Antwone Fisher’ and later starring in the TV series ‘Parenthood’. She successfully moved from a prominent modeling career to become a well-regarded actress.

Eva Marcille

Eva Marcille began her career after winning ‘America’s Next Top Model’. She quickly became a successful model, appearing in magazines and on runways. Later, she moved into acting with a recurring role on ‘The Young and the Restless’, and has since worked in reality TV and independent films.

Yaya DaCosta

Yaya DaCosta first gained recognition as a finalist on ‘America’s Next Top Model’. This launched her modeling career, with work in high fashion and various magazine appearances. She then transitioned to acting, receiving positive reviews for her performances in films like ‘The Kids Are All Right’ and the TV series ‘Chicago Med’. DaCosta also demonstrated her versatility by playing Whitney Houston in a biographical movie.

Tracee Ellis Ross

Tracee Ellis Ross started her career in fashion, working as a model and editor before becoming a well-known actress. In the 1990s, she modeled for designers like Thierry Mugler. She then gained popularity starring in the TV shows ‘Girlfriends’ and ‘Black-ish’. Because of her strong personal style and background in fashion, she often partners with leading luxury brands.

Yara Shahidi

I’ve been following Yara Shahidi for a while now, and it’s amazing to see how far she’s come! She actually started out as a kid, doing modeling work in ads. But most people probably know her from ‘Black-ish’ and ‘Grown-ish’ – she was fantastic as Zoey Johnson. Beyond acting, I’m really impressed by her style; she’s become a fashion icon and works with huge brands like Dior and Adidas. What I admire most is that she’s clearly dedicated to her education while also having this incredible career – she really seems to balance everything so well.

Zoë Kravitz

For over ten years, Zoë Kravitz has thrived as both an actress and a fashion model. She’s appeared in major films, including ‘The Batman,’ and fronted campaigns for brands like Saint Laurent and Tiffany & Co. Her distinctive style has made her popular with fashion photographers and designers, and she continues to work on both acting projects and high-fashion appearances.

Laura Harrier

Laura Harrier began her career as a fashion model, working with well-known brands, before becoming an actress. She gained international attention for her role in ‘Spider-Man Homecoming’ and went on to star in ‘BlacKkKlansman’. Her experience in fashion has also led to partnerships with luxury brands like Louis Vuitton and Bulgari, and she’s frequently recognized as a contemporary style icon who effortlessly balances work in both film and fashion.

Teyana Taylor

Teyana Taylor is a talented performer who does it all – she’s a singer, model, and actress. Beyond her music, she’s graced the runway at New York Fashion Week for major designers and appeared in popular films like ‘Coming 2 America’ and ‘A Thousand and One’. She’s known for her striking look and has become a trendsetter in modern urban fashion.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore started modeling at fifteen, working with major brands like Dior and Gucci before becoming a well-known actress. They’re most famous for playing Angel Evangelista in the TV series ‘Pose.’ Moore is a trailblazer, being one of the first openly non-binary and transgender models to achieve widespread recognition. They continue to champion inclusivity and remain a prominent figure in both fashion and film.

Ryan Destiny

Ryan Destiny began her career as a singer and model. She became well-known for playing a leading role in the TV series ‘Star’. Her beautiful appearance has led to modeling work with brands like Calvin Klein and Hood By Air, and she’s often praised for her sense of style and as a rising star in Hollywood.

Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe is a talented actress and singer celebrated for her unique and creative style. She’s worked with major brands like CoverGirl and Gap, and has also starred in acclaimed films such as the Oscar-winning ‘Moonlight’ and the hit thriller ‘Hidden Figures’. Monáe consistently uses her influence to explore new ideas in both fashion and storytelling, using visuals to express her vision.

Gabrielle Union

Gabrielle Union funded her college education by working as a model. She began her acting career with popular teen movies like ‘Bring It On’ and later gained recognition for her role in the drama ‘Being Mary Jane’. She’s consistently stayed involved in fashion, launching clothing lines and collaborating with beauty brands. This has kept her a prominent figure in both Hollywood and the fashion industry.

Kerry Washington

Kerry Washington is a well-known actress who’s always had a strong connection to the world of fashion. She gained widespread recognition for her starring role as Olivia Pope in the popular TV show ‘Scandal.’ This success led to ongoing collaborations with companies like Neutrogena and Movado. People often admire her style on the red carpet and how she combines her passion for political causes with high fashion.

Keke Palmer

Keke Palmer started her career as a young actress and model and has become a talented all-around performer. She’s done a lot of work with fashion brands, recently partnering with Zenni Optical as an ambassador. From her role in ‘Akeelah and the Bee’ to the thriller ‘Nope’, she’s proven her acting range. Keke is known for being energetic and staying popular in many different areas of entertainment.

Storm Reid

Storm Reid started acting when she was very young and quickly became known for her great sense of style. She’s starred in movies like ‘A Wrinkle in Time’ and the hit TV show ‘Euphoria’. Her elegant fashion choices have led to partnerships with brands like Miu Miu and Maybelline. Many see her as a promising young actress who successfully juggles a busy acting career with work in the world of high fashion.

Marsai Martin

Marsai Martin started her career as a young model, appearing in commercials and ads. She became famous for her role on the TV show ‘Black-ish’ and made history as the youngest person to ever be an executive producer in Hollywood. She’s also known for her great style, which has led to partnerships with popular brands and appearances in fashion magazines. Marsai represents a new generation of young performers who are successfully creating businesses in many different fields.

Willow Smith

Willow Smith has been a style icon and actress practically since she was a child. She started her acting career with the film ‘I Am Legend’ but has since become known for her music and work as a high fashion model. She’s modeled for Chanel and appeared in campaigns for many top designers, becoming a well-known figure in the fashion world thanks to her unique style and creative approach.

Precious Lee

Precious Lee is a pioneering model who’s also becoming a successful actress. She made history as the first Black plus-size model featured on the cover of American Vogue. Beyond modeling, she’s appeared in shows like ‘Run the World’ and continues to push for greater inclusivity and body acceptance in the fashion and entertainment industries, all while enjoying a thriving career.

Dominique Jackson

Dominique Jackson is an actress and model who became well-known for her role in the TV series ‘Pose’. Before acting, she had a successful career as a fashion model and was a well-known personality in the ballroom community. She’s modeled for many top fashion brands and been featured in major magazines. Her work demonstrates how transgender representation and the world of high fashion can come together.

Leyna Bloom

Leyna Bloom is a model and actress who achieved a historic milestone as the first transgender woman of color featured in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. She gained recognition for her role in the film ‘Port Authority,’ which debuted at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival. With experience walking runways for designers around the world, Bloom is also a passionate voice for inclusivity and continues to challenge boundaries in the fashion and film industries.

Kat Graham

Kat Graham started her career with appearances in music videos and commercials before becoming widely recognized for playing Bonnie Bennett in the popular TV show ‘The Vampire Diaries’. She’s also a successful model, having walked for numerous designers and been featured in international fashion magazines. Graham frequently blends her passion for high fashion with her other creative work.

Logan Browning

Logan Browning began her career as a young model and actress, appearing in numerous commercials. She first became well-known for her role in the movie ‘Bratz’ and later gained further recognition starring in the series ‘Dear White People’. Alongside her acting work, she’s a consistent presence in the fashion industry, collaborating with several beauty and clothing brands. Browning is also admired for her advocacy and sophisticated sense of style.

China Anne McClain

China Anne McClain has been involved in the entertainment world since she was young, working as both an actress and a model. She became well-known through the Disney Channel show ‘A.N.T.T. Farm’ and went on to star in the popular ‘Descendants’ movies. Her style often shows her love of music and how she’s grown as an actress. She remains a popular role model for young people, both on screen and through her fashion choices online.

Kiersey Clemons

Kiersey Clemons is an actress known for both her work on screen and her presence in the fashion world. She first gained recognition for her role in the movie ‘Dope’ and has since appeared in films like ‘The Flash’. Throughout her career, she’s worked with many designers, attended prominent fashion shows, and become known for her bold and individual style on the red carpet.

Sasha Lane

Sasha Lane was unexpectedly discovered by a filmmaker during spring break, launching her into a successful career in both acting and fashion. She first appeared in the film ‘American Honey’ and has since worked on a variety of projects, from independent films to big-budget productions. She’s also become a prominent figure in the fashion world, modeling for Louis Vuitton and appearing in many prestigious magazine spreads. Sasha is known for bringing a genuine and unique perspective to everything she does, both on screen and in her personal style.

KiKi Layne

KiKi Layne first gained recognition for her role in ‘If Beale Street Could Talk.’ Since then, she’s worked with popular fashion brands like Kate Spade and Gucci, and become a regular at fashion events thanks to her beautiful look and sophisticated style. She continues to take on a variety of acting projects while also remaining a prominent figure in the fashion world.

Cynthia Bailey

Cynthia Bailey started her career as a successful fashion model, working with agencies like Wilhelmina Models and appearing in magazines such as Essence and Vogue. She later became well-known as a cast member on ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta’ and has since expanded into acting, appearing in both films and TV shows. She also runs her own modeling school.

Kenya Moore

Kenya Moore initially became well-known as a model and after winning the Miss USA title. She then transitioned into acting, appearing in movies such as ‘Waiting to Exhale’ and several television comedies. More recently, she gained further prominence as a cast member on ‘The Real Housewives of Atlanta’. Throughout her career, she’s successfully combined her work in beauty and modeling with acting roles.

Lauren London

Lauren London started her career by appearing in music videos and modeling for urban fashion brands. She became well-known after her role in the movie ‘ATL’ and continued to gain recognition starring in the TV series ‘The Game’. Over the years, she’s become a fashion and beauty icon, and remains a popular and relatable actress in Hollywood, known for her consistently stylish look and natural on-screen personality.

Meagan Good

Meagan Good began acting at a young age and also worked as a model. She first received attention for her performance in ‘Eve’s Bayou’ and has since appeared in many films and TV shows. Known for her beauty, she’s become a style icon while continuing to work as an actress and explore opportunities in fashion and beauty.

Tika Sumpter

Tika Sumpter started her career as a model, appearing in commercials for well-known brands. She then moved into acting, landing a recurring role on the soap opera ‘One Life to Live’. Since then, she’s become known for her work in movies like ‘Ride Along’ and the TV series ‘The Haves and the Have Nots’. Sumpter is also admired for her timeless fashion sense and her contributions as both an actress and a producer.

Paula Patton

Paula Patton began her career working on the production side of films. She transitioned into modeling and acting, first appearing in commercials before gaining recognition for her role in ‘Idlewild’. She’s become known for her performances in films like ‘Precious’ and ‘Mission Impossible Ghost Protocol,’ and her sophisticated style has made her a popular figure in fashion and at red carpet events.

Lisa Bonet

Lisa Bonet is an actress known for her distinctive and influential style. She first became famous playing Denise Huxtable on ‘The Cosby Show’ and later on ‘A Different World’. Her look, which mixes bohemian and high-fashion pieces, has inspired many designers. Even today, she’s considered a style icon and continues to act in select film and TV projects.

Cicely Tyson

Cicely Tyson started her career as a model after being noticed by a photographer for Ebony magazine. She went on to become one of America’s most celebrated actresses, known for iconic performances in films like ‘The Autobiography of Miss Jane Pittman’ and ‘Sounder’. Throughout her life, she remained a style icon, consistently recognized on best-dressed lists. She will be remembered for her elegance and talent in both modeling and acting.

Diahann Carroll

Diahann Carroll was a groundbreaking actress and model who overcame racial prejudice in entertainment. Before becoming famous on Broadway and in movies, she worked as a model for magazines like Ebony. She’s best known for starring in ‘Julia,’ the first TV series to feature a Black woman in a leading role that wasn’t a maid or housekeeper. Her elegance and talent made her a beloved icon in Hollywood and the fashion industry.

Tamara Dobson

Tamara Dobson started as a fashion model and became a popular movie star in the 1970s. Her height and unique appearance helped her succeed in New York and Paris. She’s most famous for playing Cleopatra Jones, and her career proved how high fashion and strong action characters could go hand-in-hand.

Pam Grier

Pam Grier is famous for her powerful roles in action and crime movies, but before becoming an actress, she worked as a model and even competed in beauty pageants. Her starring role in ‘Foxy Brown’ launched her career, and she quickly became a symbol of strength and empowerment for Black women on screen in the 1970s. She’s continued to work successfully for decades and still inspires fashion and film today.

Damaris Lewis

Damaris Lewis started her career as a successful fashion model, appearing in Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issues and inspiring musician Prince. She’s now a working actress, best known for her role as Blackfire in the series ‘Titans,’ and continues to model alongside her television work.

Liris Crosse

Liris Crosse is a model and actress often compared to Naomi Campbell in the plus-size world. She gained wider recognition after winning the modeling challenge on season sixteen of ‘Project Runway.’ She’s also appeared in several independent films and TV shows. Beyond her work as a performer, Liris is a strong voice for greater diversity and inclusion in fashion and entertainment.

Samira Wiley

I’ve always been a fan of Samira Wiley – she’s such a talented actress, and I first really noticed her in ‘Orange Is the New Black’ as Poussey Washington. But I also love seeing her work with fashion designers like Christian Siriano and in all the big style magazines! What’s really great is that she’s a visible member of the LGBTQ+ community and consistently champions inclusivity within the fashion world – she’s a role model in so many ways.

Nicole Ari Parker

Nicole Ari Parker started her career as a model and went on to become a successful actress in both movies and TV. Early in her career, she worked as a fashion model and has always been known for her sense of style. She’s particularly famous for her roles in the film ‘Boogie Nights’ and the TV series ‘Soul Food’. She remains a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, combining acting with other business interests.

Rochelle Aytes

Rochelle Aytes began her career as a model, doing commercials before transitioning to acting. She’s best known for her roles in the movie ‘White Chicks’ and the TV series ‘Mistresses’. Throughout her acting career, her experience in the beauty and fashion world has been a noticeable asset. She continues to appear in popular TV dramas and occasionally works on fashion-related projects.

Share your favorite fashion focused actress in the comments.

2026-02-16 04:51