Bella Hadid Calls for More Diversity Backstage at Fashion Shows

Bella Hadid has urged for more diversity backstage at fashion shows.

The model noted that while there are black models present to walk on the runway, but backstage they lack the same diversity. People working behind the scenes don’t understand how to work with all skin types.

Bella said going into the next season, the last thing she wants to see is one of her black friends getting their hair burned with a hair straightener. She gives another instance like her black friends have to do their own makeup because their makeup artist is trained to work on different types of skin.

In an interview with Elle, Bella revealed still many of her black friends feel unaccepted. Even after being hired for their ‘individuality’. She continued: ‘I hate that some of my Black friends feel the way they do. Even if they’re sitting front row, they’re not feeling accepted.’

The model continued that fashion industry is supposed o be about expression and individuality. But the reality differs because many people feel discriminated because of those differences. Bella is making an effort to call the younger generation to stand up for inequality. She is making the use of her platform to connect to people all around the world.

Bella added: ‘I have so much responsibility to use my platform for good, especially as I get older. I want young girls and boys to know that it is okay to use your voice and demand justice for what is important to you.’ She further said that she wants them to know it’s okay to be empathetic and gentle. But she urges to be strong and speak the truth at the same time.

Bella Feels Responsible

The model says she feels the responsibility to speak out for the people who are not being heard or don’t have a platform. She explained that one post can educate a lot of people. And she says it also resonates with people telling them they are not alone. Bella assured she will keep talking about things that she is passionate about.

Meanwhile, Bella has reflected on modelling after the coronavirus crisis and is ‘eager’ to start shooting again. She expressed her expectations when returning for the next season. The model hopes that they will be able to find a proactive way to move forward in a safe, healthy way. She thinks that the sets will be smaller and more intimate.

Bella continues, ‘We’ll also need to be aware of not using the same make-up brushes at shows. And also implement many other health regulations to keep people safe. There is a lot to learn and a lot to do, but I feel with the right people, fashion can change everything.’

The model continues saying her purpose is not to gain more followers or lose them. She only wants to educate people and give them a platform to the voices that need to be heard.

Hadid joined Ashley Graham and Yara Shahidi to give a look at their lives in quarantine as part of Elle’s first-ever digital issue. For the August issue, Bella poses at her mother’s Pennsylvania while sister Gigi Hadid clicks her pictures.

In one of the snaps, Bella brings the runway onto the farm as she splashes in a pond. She is wearing an edgy camouflage-print jacket, matching bra top and hot pants. Elle’s first-ever digital issue focuses on friends, family, and community in light of the pandemic. 

Ashley Graham and Yara Shahidi also appear in the issue in shoots incorporating their family.