Beverly Peele, who’s appeared on more than 250 magazine covers, is back where she belongs — the runway! The iconic supermodel walked in the Tommy X Zendaya Paris fashion show this past March, which of course, drove the fashion crowd crazy with glee.
We wanted to find out what it was like to be in the show, which The featured an all-black runway cast, with models of different sizes and ages, from 18 to 70. Read on for Beverly’s deliciously candid answers.
What was it like to walk in the Tommy X Zendaya Paris show with so many of your fellow iconic models?
Walking in the Tommy X Zendaya Paris fashion show was, EVERYTHING! I was so honored to have been a part of history again. To walk amongst the most beautiful women of color and icons and up and coming beauties is not only the best dream one could have, but it was also scary and thrilling! I made it look so smooth, even though I was like a little girl inside: nervous, praying I didn’t fall — I mean every emotion you can imagine, I was feeling! But I love that about runway shows, they are such an adrenaline rush. Plus my fans welcomed me back with open arms; I want to do it all again!
Why it’s so important to have black models represented on the catwalk?
I feel that the importance of having women of color on the runway is because young women should know that we come in all shades and sizes and that we are truly celebrated!
How have times changed for black models since you first started in the business?
Unfortunately, the biz hasn’t changed that much. From my point of view, all I see is more women of color in fashion shows, but not on covers as we should be. There are a lot more design houses and magazines to work for so that’s good! So there are more opportunities for us to work, but we should have much more recognition, I feel.
What’s been one of the most exciting moments of your career?
This is a hard question to answer as I don’t have just one! Most of my career, I have so many exciting moments. I purposely tried to make the most of every moment. You’ll just have to wait until it comes out in my book! Soon…
Paris now, what comes tomorrow?
I plan on doing any and everything that comes my way! And a lot of great things are coming my way lately. Just keep one eye open for the next chapter. It’s gonna be BIG and SUPER, like me!
What advice can you give to young black girls who want to get into the modeling business?
The best advice I can give, and I know it is gone sound cliche but always keep to your path. We are put on this planet to succeed. It is up to you and only you to write your destiny in your own way! If something doesn’t happen right away, just remember that we go through things to make us stronger for the next phase! Be the amazing person that little girls want to be when they grow up because the circle of life is infinite and so are you!
photo credit: Beverly Peele
