Leomie Anderson, Model Star , United Kingdom

Leomie Anderson built her name as more than a runway figure. She commands attention as an activist, entrepreneur, and a clear voice for change. Her career pushes beyond the expected path for people in her industry.

Scouted at just 14, she started her journey at a young age. She walked for the biggest names in fashion. Her four consecutive Victoria’s Secret Fashion Shows led to a historic moment. In 2019, she became an Angel, the first British Black model to earn that title.

She puts a lot of her energy into projects that matter. Her athleisure brand, LAPP, champions female empowerment and body positivity. She uses her platform to advocate for a lot of people, speaking on major stages about racial equality and real representation.

Charting a Dynamic Modeling Journey

Discovery came unexpectedly for the young Londoner, far from the glamour of runways. Her path into modeling began with a chance meeting that would shape her entire career.

Early Inspirations and Discovery

At just 14 years of age, she was approached at a local McDonald’s. Her first thought was caution, the kind any sensible teenager would have. But the opportunity proved real.

Her mother offered crucial support. She made it clear that modeling was a choice, not an obligation. This freedom to walk away anytime became a foundation for her career.

Originally, she envisioned becoming a fashion journalist. She wanted to tell stories about the industry rather than be part of its imagery.

Breakthrough Moments with Iconic Designers

At age 17, Marc Jacobs booked her for a major runway show. This became her first significant break in the fashion world. The designer quickly became one of her early champions.

That first season, Marc Jacobs was the only show she booked. Rather than discouraging her, this reality check taught resilience. It showed her the importance of persistence in a competitive industry.

Years ago, she appeared on Channel 4’s The Model Agency. The show revealed the less glamorous side of the business to audiences.

Runways, Brands, and Bold Activism

Her journey with the iconic lingerie brand started with persistence, requiring three auditions before securing a spot. This determination shaped a career that balances commercial success with meaningful advocacy.

The Victoria’s Secret Experience and Beyond

Walking the show for four consecutive years built her reputation in high-fashion circles. The 2019 Angel title made her the first British Black model to achieve this honor.

This visibility opened doors to major campaigns with Fenty Beauty, Calvin Klein, and Tom Ford. She became a sought-after face for luxury brands seeking authentic representation.

Entrepreneurship with LAPP The Brand

In 2016, she launched LAPP as an athleisure line promoting body positivity. The brand creates versatile garments that move from gym to street with ease.

This venture supports the LAPP platform’s mission of female empowerment. It represents a tangible extension of her advocacy work.

Championing Diversity and Women’s Rights

She uses her platform to address racial inequality in the fashion industry. Her TEDx talks and university speeches challenge systemic barriers.

Yahoo recognized her activism with a 2017 Diversity in Beauty Award. The Role Model podcast amplifies voices pushing for meaningful change.

Leomie Anderson: Insights from the Industry

Behind the glossy magazine covers and flawless runway walks lies an industry still learning to accommodate diverse beauty. Anderson’s experiences reveal both progress and persistent challenges.

Behind the Scenes of Fashion Shows

She frequently encountered makeup artists unprepared for darker skin tones. They often lacked the right foundation shades or proper brushes. This professional shortcoming became a recurring issue she publicly addressed.

Her vocal criticism aims to push brands toward meaningful change. Booking Black models requires having the expertise to work with Black beauty properly. She advocates for systemic improvements rather than blaming individuals.

Personal Reflections on Beauty and Self-expression

Her hair choices reflect personal preference, not political statements. She has relaxed her hair since age twelve and often wears extensions. This approach emphasizes individual comfort over industry expectations.

She remembers when an agent tried to book a drastic haircut without consent. Her mother intervened, protecting her autonomy. That moment taught her that personal boundaries matter more than fitting an aesthetic.

Her beauty routine demonstrates deep self-knowledge. She uses specific products like Lancôme mascara and Bobbi Brown foundation sticks. For skincare, she relies on Bioré cleanser and Kiehl’s facial cream.

Mixing body butter with baby oil creates a lasting shine on her legs. This clever trick shows her practical approach to beauty. She champions products that work for diverse skin tones.

Natural hair now appears on runways more than in previous years. Anderson recognizes this progress while acknowledging much work remains. Her approach balances experimentation with self-respect.

Final Reflections and the Road Ahead

The transition from model to presenter feels natural, a seamless expansion of her platform that reaches new audiences. Taking over as host of the BBC series Glow Up showcased her industry knowledge. She also appeared as a guest judge on RuPaul’s Drag Race UK.

Her personal life reflects deep resilience. After her father’s passing, she became guardian to two young cousins. She ended a long-term relationship and found new love with a partner in Ghana.

Leomie Anderson calls 2024 one of her favorite years. She lives in South London, near where she grew up. Her home features neutral decor with colorful accents.

Her mum remains a guiding force, teaching her to set boundaries. Anderson doesn’t make New Year’s resolutions. Her year starts in September with new projects.

At the end of the day, her legacy extends beyond runways and glamour. It’s about opening doors and amplifying voices that matter.