IMG's New Stars
Inauguration stars signing with IMG Models. What does their representation say about the evolution of the industry?
Image: Glamour Magazine
The new age of influencer is emphasizing impact over image. Following her awe inspiring, country-halting delivery at the Presidential Inauguration, Amanda Gorman signed with IMG Models. What does her representation say about the evolution of the industry? Over the past few years the fashion industry, and the models it employs, have become a more authentic representation of inclusivity, substance, and ethics. We’ve seen how social media has catapulted new sensations in the industry to influencer status with top agency representation. Who would have thought fashion’s rising stars would have been illuminated at the US Capitol? Like a phoenix rising from the events of the week before, Amanda emerged with a striking yet composed presence, and uplifted American spirits everywhere with her masterfully crafted poem “The Hill We Climb.” Her message resonated with many Americans and apparently development at IMG.
Another acquisition for the agency prompted by the Inauguration was Ella Emhoff, stepdaughter of Madame VP. Emhoff, familiar with the industry, was previously with a smaller agency and studying textiles at Parsons. In an interview with the New York Times she stated, “I was pretty surprised when everything with IMG was happening because when I was younger I never saw that as being a part of my timeline.” What did the top agency in the world see in her? According to The Guardian, the president of the agency said, “Ella communicates this moment in time. There’s a cheekiness and a joy she exudes, Wow, she’s communicating fashion.” And communicate fashion she did, wearing a jewel-embellished Miu Miu coat and Batsheva dress.
The fashion industry, and by extension society, has evolved from “just look pretty” to “I’m speaking.” Where having something to say is the hottest trend of the season. Emhoff had this to say about this industry, “As someone who, like a lot of young girls out there, had self-confidence issues, it’s intimidating and scary to go into this world that is hyper-focused on you and the body." Now the industry has transitioned to representing the real, the quirky, the authentic, the unconventional beauties, and those who have something to say.