Diversity and Representation in the Modeling and Influencing Industry | Article

The modeling and influencer industries have long been criticized for their lack of diversity and representation. For years, the standard beauty ideal was often narrow, largely focused on a single set of characteristics: light skin, thin body types, and Eurocentric features. However, as society evolves and becomes more inclusive, both industries have seen significant shifts. Diversity and representation are no longer just buzzwords but essential values that help redefine what beauty truly means.

In this article, we’ll explore the growing importance of diversity in the modeling and influencing industries, how it’s reshaping the landscape, and what models, influencers, and agencies can do to ensure all voices and faces are represented.

BRIDGE Curve Model Trina Nicole for Simply be.

The Shift Toward Inclusivity

Diversity in modeling and influencing is no longer a trend—it's a necessary part of the industry’s evolution. Today’s consumers are more vocal about wanting to see a wide range of representations across different skin tones, body types, genders, and cultural backgrounds. As a result, brands are listening more than ever before, adjusting their campaigns to reflect the diverse world they serve.

Why Diversity Matters

1. Reflecting Society’s Reality

The world is incredibly diverse, and the modeling and influencer industries should reflect that. Consumers of all backgrounds, skin tones, sizes, and abilities want to see themselves represented in the media they consume. When they do, it creates a sense of belonging and validation, ultimately influencing purchasing decisions and brand loyalty.

• Tip: Brands and agencies that prioritize diversity connect with a larger audience by showing that they understand and respect the variety of experiences and identities that exist in society.

BRIDGE Model Desmond for Nike Big and Tall

2. Breaking Beauty Standards

The rise of body-positive movements, campaigns embracing different skin tones, and more inclusive runway shows has led to a fundamental shift in what is considered beautiful. The idea that beauty comes in only one form—whether it be a certain size, shape, or ethnicity—is being dismantled. More and more brands are realizing that celebrating a wide spectrum of beauty is not only socially responsible but also better aligns with today’s consumer values.

• Tip: By championing different body types, hair textures, and facial features, models and influencers have the power to reshape outdated standards and promote a more inclusive definition of beauty.

BRIDGE Curve Model Gayoung for Angels Wear Nothing LFW 2022

3. Increased Engagement and Relevance

Consumers today want to engage with brands and content that are relatable and that reflect their real-life experiences. By working with models and influencers from diverse backgrounds, brands can tap into new demographics and resonate with a broader audience. Diversity also helps increase engagement rates as people feel more connected to content that looks like them.

• Tip: Models and influencers who represent a wide range of backgrounds tend to attract loyal and diverse followings. This increases their influence, visibility, and the value they bring to brands.

BRIDGE Model Jake Kneesh for Johnny Big USA

Behind the Scenes of Jake Kneesh and Steven Green's Winter 2025 shoot with Johnny Big

BRIDGE Model Steven Green for Johnny Big USA

The Growing Demand for Representation

1. Inclusivity in Fashion and Beauty Campaigns

Fashion and beauty brands have been at the forefront of the diversity revolution, with many shifting to more inclusive casting calls. Designers and beauty brands are incorporating models of various sizes, ethnicities, ages, and abilities into their campaigns. Major fashion weeks now feature a broader range of models, and popular beauty campaigns highlight a spectrum of skin tones, hair types, and gender identities.

• Tip: The demand for inclusive beauty standards isn't just a passing trend—it's becoming the industry norm. Whether you're a model or an influencer, embracing diversity in your content or representation is more important than ever.

BRIDGE Curve Model Briana

2. Influencers Amplifying Underrepresented Voices

Influencers have been integral in amplifying voices that were historically marginalized or overlooked by mainstream media. Social media platforms have created space for influencers from different backgrounds to share their stories, promote causes they care about, and build authentic communities. Diverse influencers are not only changing perceptions about beauty but also about culture, lifestyle, and fashion.

• Tip: Influencers who embrace their cultural heritage, share their personal experiences, and promote authenticity are leading the way in creating more inclusive and relatable content.

3. Inclusion of Gender and Ability Representation

The push for diversity in the modeling and influencer industries isn’t just about race or body type—it’s also about breaking down gender and ability barriers. Non-binary models, transgender models, and models with disabilities are gaining more visibility and recognition. This inclusivity is helping create a world where everyone feels that their identity and existence are valid.

• Tip: Models and influencers who represent diverse gender identities, abilities, and lifestyles are not only making their mark on the industry but also paving the way for more inclusive campaigns that speak to a wider audience.

BRIDGE Model and Influencer Daniel Franzese

How Models and Influencers Can Promote Diversity and Representation

As a model or influencer, you have a significant role to play in shaping the future of the industry. By embracing and promoting diversity, you can help dismantle harmful beauty standards and foster a more inclusive environment. Here are a few ways to support and contribute to greater representation:

1. Be an Advocate for Inclusive Representation

Advocate for diversity and representation both in front of and behind the camera. If you’re a model, request more diverse casting when working with photographers or brands. If you’re an influencer, use your platform to showcase other diverse creators and encourage brands to embrace inclusivity.

• Tip: Use your platform to speak out on issues of diversity, and advocate for opportunities for those who have been traditionally underrepresented in the industry.

BRIDGE Curve Model and Influencer Meshia Ferguson for Waydamin SS24

2. Collaborate with Diverse Brands

Collaborate with brands that champion diversity in their campaigns. Whether it’s a fashion label that celebrates body positivity, a beauty brand that offers a wide range of shades, or a lifestyle brand that promotes inclusivity, seek out companies that align with your values and champion diversity.

• Tip: Partnering with brands that support diversity is an effective way to amplify their message and show your audience that you’re committed to promoting inclusivity.

BRIDGE Model Raul Samuel for Jack & Jones

BRIDGE Model Raul Samuel for Tommy Hilfiger

3. Share Your Unique Story

Embrace and share your unique background, culture, and identity. The more you show up authentically, the more you’ll inspire others to do the same. Be proud of who you are, whether it’s your cultural heritage, your personal journey, or your struggles and triumphs.

• Tip: Personal storytelling is a powerful way to create connection with your audience. Sharing authentic experiences can help dismantle stereotypes and encourage others to embrace their true selves.

BRIDGE Curve Model Soph Hughes

4. Support and Elevate Other Diverse Talent

Use your platform to uplift and support fellow models and influencers who may not have the same visibility or access to opportunities. Sharing their work or collaborating with them can help amplify underrepresented voices and contribute to a more equitable industry.

• Tip: Highlighting diverse talent not only fosters a sense of community but also helps you build a network of like-minded creators who are committed to inclusivity.

BRIDGE Models Rachel Peru and Rachel Duncan for Sofa Club UK

BRIDGE Curve Models Ceres and Trina Nicole for Pepsi Max

Conclusion

Diversity and representation are no longer optional in the modeling and influencer industries—they are essential for moving forward in an inclusive and meaningful way. As the industry continues to evolve, it is imperative that brands, agencies, models, and influencers prioritize inclusivity and celebrate a wider range of identities, backgrounds, and experiences.

By embracing diversity, you not only contribute to the ongoing change in the industry but also build stronger connections with your audience and foster a sense of belonging. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience in the industry, the work to champion inclusivity and representation is ongoing, and everyone has a part to play.

At our talent agency, we are committed to promoting and celebrating diversity in all its forms. We believe that a truly inclusive industry benefits everyone, from models and influencers to brands and consumers. By supporting diversity, we ensure that the future of fashion, beauty, and social media is one that reflects the world as it is—beautifully diverse.