Model Ashley Graham acknowledges that her 'white privilege' puts her 'on a pedestal' within the fashion industry

The 'plus-size' model considers black and Latina women as 'the ones who paved the way' for her
Rex Features
Charlie Teather8 August 2017

A 'plus-size icon' who hates the term 'plus-size', Ashley Graham is well-versed in the controversial topic of elitism within the fashion industry.

More commonly found at the centre of discussions surrounding model shape, Graham has now acknowledged the industry's prejudiced attitude to race in a recent interview with New York magazine.

Acutely aware of the disproportionate celebration of her body type, the 29-year-old admits that she and her husband of seven years - a black cinematographer whm she met at church - have discussed the fact that her lauded shape is in fact a norm for many women of colour.

"I know I’m on this pedestal because of white privilege." she revealed to the magazine. "To not see black or Latina women as famous in my industry is crazy!"

"I have to talk about it. I want to give those women kudos because they are the ones who paved the way for me."

Ashley Graham - style file

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Although now considered a modern-day supermodel, Graham is still not immune to prejudice.

And despite topping a number of this year's Met Gala best dressed lists wearing H&M couture, the model admitted that had been "on hold" for the event the year previously before spending the night at home.

"I couldn't get a designer to dress me," she revealed.

"You can't just show up in jeans and a T-shirt."

Met Gala 2017 - red carpet fashion

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And while she insists that it's because she didn't have the right designer relationships at the time to have a custom gown made, this wouldn't have been an issue were she not out of sample-size range.

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