In 2017, a live video screening a 360 degree view of models wearing the Yeezy Season 5 collection probably had its audience wondering why they had to gather physically at Pier 59 in New York to witness a digital fashion presentation. Only after it cycled through all 29 looks did the models make their physical entrance, and as per the brand’s larger-than-life mastermind Kanye West’s track record, they were not all of the breed that fashion typically favours. There was Amina Blue, petite and just shy of 160cm; model-actor-It-boy Luka Sabbat; and the hijab-wearing Halima Aden, who very nearly didn’t make it into the line-up at all.
“They didn’t have the right attire. We got sent back to the hotel, and then I got a call at 10pm with my manager,” she says. “And they’re like, ‘Come back, come back. The stylist thinks she can make something work. We found a second look that you could wear that fits the modest dress requirements.’”
This callback proved to be pivotal for Aden and her career in multiple ways. It became her first runway, marking her rite of passage from pageant girl (she placed top 15 in 2017’s Miss Minnesota USA and signed with IMG after) to fashion girl, even if only by virtue of the show schedule, given that she also walked for Alberta Ferretti and Max Mara in a look that had been designed for her that same season. More significantly, it dawned on her that she didn’t have to change herself one bit to have a career in the industry. “I realised that fashion will meet you where you stand, and it’s okay to have differences,” says Aden.
Denne historien er fra November 2020-utgaven av ELLE Singapore.
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Denne historien er fra November 2020-utgaven av ELLE Singapore.
Start din 7-dagers gratis prøveperiode på Magzter GOLD for å få tilgang til tusenvis av utvalgte premiumhistorier og 9000+ magasiner og aviser.
Allerede abonnent? Logg på
Japan Calling
Dive into Japan's perfect mix of tradition and modern flair, with dreamy hotels and restaurants that make for the ultimate quick escape.
Walking The Walk
MANOLO BLAHNIK remains one of the most covetable names in footwear. Now with more than five decades of history, the brand goes back to its beginnings to celebrate its most timeless silhouettes.
What Dreams May Come
Life as an actress can be an emotional roller coaster. Crazy Rich Asians star CONSTANCE LAU shares the highs, the lows, and everything else in between.
Just A Hint
Conspicuously More Understated Than Their Gem-set Cousins, These Subtle Rainbow-coloured Watches Are No Less Defiant In Their Insistence On Optimism And Style.
A cultural Conversation
With its Made of Makers programme, JAEGER-LECOULTRE has built a community of like-minded creatives who place innovation, craftsmanship and precision at the heart of all they do.
The Inner Lives Of Clothes
Compelling Fashion Doesn't Have To Be Ostentatious Or Overtly Conceptual, But It Does Need A Clear Identity And Character Of Its Own.
Journey to the WEST
Time to slip into some chaps and saddle up. Fashion's biggest brands are taking a turn at the rodeo.
The Mai Effect
Fresh off her cover shoot for ELLE Singapore-draped in head-turning Bvlgari jewels-Davika Hoorne radiates the charm and allure of a woman who's both wildly ambitious and perfectly content in her own skin. Here, the 32-year-old Thai-Belgian star reflects on two decades in the spotlight, and why she's not done dreaming just yet.
in Conversation
Cartier creative director MARIE-LAURE CÉRÈDE delves into the Maison’s haute joaillerie timepieces, while highlighting the importance of creativity and a happy team in her chat with CHARMAINE HO.
SPIRIT OF Samba
ENJOY A RIOTOUS NIGHT OUT WITH YOUR WELL-HEELED FRIENDS AT SUSHISAMBA SINGAPORE. COME FOR THE DRINKS AND STAY FOR THE REVELRYBUT DON'T FORGET TO DRESS THE PART.
