PFW Protester Indi Irvin Shares Her Story
Inclusivity matters. Yes, it seems trite to have to repeat that day-in and day out, but the fashion industry has made it clear that the reiteration is of the utmost importance. And progress is inching along. This past New York Fashion Week was the second most diverse ever, so it seems the repetition is working.
The message isn't just coming from the media, but from designers, fashion fans, and models. Indi Irvin is one such runway stomper who is using her platform to reinforce the importance of diversity. Outside of the Balenciaga show at Paris Fashion Week, she posed with a bomber jacket covering her bare, gold glitter-covered chest, holding a sign reading "Les Modeles Noirs Importent" which translates "Black Models Matter".
And though the sight was certainly shocking to many, the reasoning was clear: the iconic French fashion house's Creative Director Demna Gvasalia has come under fire for the lack of models of color on his runways. We caught up with Irvin to discuss what protest means to her, the brands she feels are approaching inclusivity the right way, how she's fighting back against Donald Trump, and more.
Courtesy of MSA Models1/7Teen Vogue: You describe yourself as an artist, unisex model, and activist. And what we've been seeing of late is that models like yourself, designers, editors, musicians and other creatives are really embracing those roles of activist and ally. What does protest mean for you? And when did you know it was an intrinsic part of who you are?
Indi Irvin: Protesting to me means standing up for a cause you know in your heart needs attention. Protesting is having the courage and the voice that others like you may not know how to use. Protesting is protection of the rights of the little man and the underdog. I represent the people. Rebelling has always been in my blood. I've been protesting with my mom since I was a small child. I always asked why. I always wondered if it was OK for someone to be wrong and controlling, even if they were older. This mindset has very much carried into my adult life.
Degoulange/REX/Shutterstock2/7TV: Was protesting at PFW something planned for you, or was it spontaneous?
II: I knew fashion week in Paris was going to be major. I knew I was going to protest equality in some way, but I wasn't sure how until much further research of my surroundings and viewpoints. I had so many more slogans for the signs and so many more locations and designers. I had a checklist literally with so much and I had to narrow it down. For the most part, Balenciaga was random because it is just so common for designers to lack diversity right now. So no shade to Balenciaga, but they need to step it up. We got the word out, which is the most important. I'm happy that it was done and that it's gaining attention.
Courtesy of MSA Models/Toni & Guy3/7TV: You've called Balenciaga and Gucci out for their choices. Are there brands you feel are doing a good job when it comes to inclusivity?
II: I've seen Gypsy Sport, Chromat, Hood By Air, Tome, Fenty x PUMA , Givenchy by RT (Riccardo Tisci), and maybe a few more bring more diversity on the runway. Not only black models, but inclusivity in general. For instance, Chromat will have transexual and plus-size models, and Gypsy Sport will give a cool kid a chance to be the top model.
Courtesy of MSA Models4/7TV: The Trump administration is one you're vehemently opposed to. How are you combatting his words and actions?
II: I wake up every morning and think to myself, 'Wow, look at what is going on.' Look at our leaders and look at how we treat one another. He is a direction reflection of the monster we have become: all of us. You and me. He has really helped me to open my eyes and is making me a better person because in today's age, we need more heroes. We need more attacks against the villain. And right now our biggest villain isn't even Trump, it is ourselves. To begin to change and better the world, we must first change within and lend a helping hand to the people around us. To be good and honest and to treat people how we want to be treated. Then, everything will fall into place. It all begins with love.
Courtesy of MSA Models5/7TV: Do you have any advice for other models who have been mistreated, but need to find a bit of courage to be able to speak up and speak out?
II: To other models who may feel similar to me and don't have the courage to speak up, I can tell you, I understand. I can understand why you wouldn't want to go public about equality or model rights because you feel it could ruin your career or displease your representation. I can understand being disrespected and fearing punishment or further abuse or harassment or embarrassment. Speaking out takes serious courage and [the] ability to withstand any consequences. But please, I urge big name girls to take more of a stand. We have come too far not to represent.
TV: What are you hoping to see from the fashion industry in 2017?
II: In 2017, I would love to see more ethnic models on the runway. More unisex. More ages and abilities. I would love to see a huge name show use no white models. I would love to see another model with a sign next fashion week.
Courtesy of MSA Models6/7TV: What's inspiring you this year?
II: More black and Dominican girls on the runway is such a beautiful thing. Black is so beautiful. Also, traveling has been so inspiring to me — seeing how other people talk, eat, and treat each other. It gives me a little hope. We all have to have a little hope.
TV: What's up next for you? Any exciting campaigns or projects on the horizon?
II: Everyday is a new page I'm writing in a book of wonders. That's the fun part of modeling. Who knows which country you will travel to next or which client wants to use you? Modeling is so much about the wait. So, as I wait, I'm planning my next solo art show in New York City, in which I will have my usual paintings, photography, and merchandise. But this time, it will be more incorporated with performance art on the subject of equality. It will most likely be entitled 'The Revolution of Self', coming this Summer.
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