With a passion for learning about diverse cultures and promoting inclusivity, up-and-coming fashion model Taylor Tookes is breaking barriers in the fashion world. Through her platform, which boasts over 66,000 Instagram followers, she shines a light on the beauty of global fashion and how different countries celebrate inclusivity by featuring models of different heights. is emphasized.
Her dedication to inclusivity, especially for shorter models, drives her advocacy, as she consistently uses her social media presence to inspire her audience and advocate for change. Follow her journey on Instagram to see how she promotes diversity and cultural understanding every day.
You made history as the first petite black model to walk New York Fashion Week and grace the cover of InStyle Magazine. How has breaking down these barriers shaped your career and your view of diversity in the fashion industry?
“I’ve definitely noticed that people look at me differently now. Instead of, ‘Oh, she thinks she can make a difference,’ they’re like, ‘You’re doing big things. That’s it!” Let’s work together! ”I think this might encourage other short women to walk the runway. I literally want to be known as part of an overdue mission to break down barriers for short women in the fashion industry, and I have no intention of ever backing down from that. We’re well aware that there’s always a first time for everything, and I think the industry is finally realizing we’re not going backwards and finally starting to accept us. I recently walked in a show and I was the only short woman, so I was very sad, but the designers and producers really liked the idea of including shorter women in the future. ”
You’ve worked with iconic brands like Bloomingdale’s, Palladio Beauty, and Walmart. What has been your most memorable campaign or runway experience to date?
“Probably my latest runway walk for Chuks Collins. This was my first time walking an official runway on the CFDA calendar.”
You’re passionate about advocating for petite models and even started an Instagram campaign called “Height Revolution.” What kind of impact do you hope this movement will have?
“Well, we would love for short women to join us. We are in the majority, so I think it’s strange that we don’t even think about it. Really think about it… The average of women around the world I’m 5’3, but that excludes…almost everyone? We want to change that. This is long overdue and we want representation from all walks of life. I’m just asking.”
You’ve been featured in Harper’s Bazaar, Elle, and Marie Claire, and graced the runways in New York, Los Angeles, Miami, and Orlando. What advice would you give to aspiring models who face obstacles due to their height or background?
“I told them just go for it. I think in the ripe year of 2024, almost 2025, that kind of thing won’t matter anymore. Treat it like it doesn’t matter. Then it doesn’t really matter. The only way to get them to notice us is to claim our spot – show up to castings anyway, apply to agencies anyway, go to open calls anyway. Believe me when I say, people are receptive to the idea. They just don’t think of it on their own. If you consistently get their attention, they will. more likely to consider it.”
In addition to your modeling career, you are also passionate about languages and world music. How has your love of music and languages influenced your perspective on world fashion and culture?
“I’ve always been very interested in learning about other cultures and other backgrounds. I think it’s great to expand your knowledge about these things because it brings new understanding about people. , because it encourages an open mind to how other people do things. At least it was for me. Also, other countries are more tolerant of short girls when it comes to fashion. I also learned that some of their average heights are usually very short, so (as all countries should) there are short and tall models. We encourage and promote combinations.”
With over 66,000 followers on Instagram, how do you use your platform to promote inclusivity and inspire your audience?
“That’s literally all I’m talking about! And that’s all I want to talk about until change happens.”
