When it comes to diversity on the ramp, everyone is game for some variation when it comes to skin-tone. But the fact stands still that eight of every ten models on average are lighter-toned. While certain progressions in the world of beauty and all-things-pretty can’t be entirely denied-- (yes, we too have been going gaga over Rihanna for Dior), we’re still craving runways and glossies that are a little less whitewashed. In the name of spirit, here’s bringing you some gorgeous leggy lasses that help that dream become more of a reality.
 

Carol Gracias

Carol Gracias

Supermodel, Carol Gracias, is one of those models who not only walked the ramp but owned it. Gracias belongs to an elite group of supers who has worked hard to make a mark for herself, and today, is remembered for her sheer confidence and panache even after years of having quit the industry as a full timer.

 

Arlenis Sosa Peña

Arlenis Sosa Peña

24 year old Dominican fashion model, Arlenis Sosa Peña started her career battling color prejudice by designers in her home-town, but rose above to representing the industry’s most prestigious designers and fashion houses. Today she is not only the face of million dollar international brands but also endorses global brands like Victoria’s Secret. Proud of her black heritage, Arlenis was quoted saying, “We Dominicans should value the things we have-- principally our beauty, our country is black, not blond and blue-eyed.”

 

Nidhi Sunil

Nidhi Sunil

She could have been a lawyer but as destiny would have it, she turned into a model and what a beautiful one at that. Her gorgeous tresses and those heightened cheekbones, have all come together to make her one of the very well-known models of her time.

 

Pooja Mor

Pooja Mor

Having been an outstanding student all her life, she was expected to end up as an engineer, and she did live up to the expectation and graduate as one, only to then become a model.  A dusky beauty who is also an IT Engineer, Mor is going all out to beat the set conventional norms that the fashion world has for its models.

 

Tomiko Fraser Hines

Tomiko Fraser Hines

Apart from being known as the first African-American spokeswoman for Maybelline (2001-2007) she is also the longest serving spokesperson for any cosmetic brand. Her dusky complexion only accentuates her beauty and makes her one of the best known beauties of the time.

 

Archana Akhil Kumar

Archana Akhil Kumar

Another very popular face at Lakmé Fashion Week is that of Archana’s. A commerce graduate from Bangalore, she is in her fifth year with Lakmé and is one of the most coveted faces at the biggest shows. With a strong collar bone, beautiful complexion and soft feature, she is certainly one that we look forward to everytime.