The British Fashion Council has announced Anok Yai as the 2025 Model of the Year. The Sudanese-American supermodel received this prestigious honor weeks before the actual British Fashion Awards ceremony. Her selection marks a significant moment for representation in the global fashion industry.
“A defining force in today’s fashion landscape, Anok’s impact transcends the runway,” the British Fashion Council (BFC) said in a statement on Instagram. The organization praised her for “redefining beauty standards to championing artistry and representation on a global stage.” Her influence continues to shape culture and inspire the next generation.
From Viral Howard University Homecoming Photo to International Runway Success
Yai’s journey to fashion stardom began unexpectedly in 2017. While attending Howard University’s Homecoming, a candid photo of her went viral online. The image captured the then-college student glowing in the crowd and changed her life forever.
That viral moment catapulted Yai into the world of high fashion almost overnight. Modeling contracts and opportunities followed quickly. The 27-year-old transformed from student to one of the industry’s most recognizable faces in just a few years.
Anok Yai’s Dominant 2025 Fashion Show Season
This year alone, Yai has dominated runways and campaigns across the globe. She opened shows for prestigious brands including Ferragamo, Coperni, and Hugo Boss. Additionally, she closed for Ralph Lauren, Fendi, Vetements, and Messika.
Her commanding presence has graced shows for Saint Laurent, Mugler, Bottega Veneta, Calvin Klein, and Chanel. She worked under Matthieu Blazy’s direction at Chanel. Yai’s versatility and professionalism have made her a designer favorite across luxury fashion houses.
High-Profile Campaigns and Editorial Covers Define Her Year
Beyond the runway, Yai continues to shape modern fashion imagery through powerful campaigns. She fronted Mugler’s Alien fragrance campaign this year. She also appeared in Gap’s latest advertisements and featured in the revived Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show.
Her editorial presence has been equally impressive and influential. Recent covers include Vogue France, Perfect, and Allure magazine. The Allure cover was shared with last year’s Model of the Year winner, Alex Consani.
British Fashion Council Breaks Tradition With Private Panel Selection
The BFC broke with tradition by not releasing a shortlist this year. Instead, a private panel of industry insiders unanimously selected Yai as the winner. The panel included BFC CEO Laura Weir, photographer Campbell Addy, and stylist Carlos Nazario.
This selection process demonstrated the industry’s clear consensus about Yai’s impact. The unanimous decision reflects her undeniable influence on contemporary fashion. Her contributions to the industry have been impossible to overlook.
Joining Fashion Legends and Breaking Barriers for Black Models
Yai now joins the ranks of fashion legends who have won this prestigious award. Previous winners include Bella Hadid, Paloma Elsesser, and Kate Moss. Moss holds the record with three Model of the Year wins.
As only the second Black model to ever open a Prada show, Yai’s achievements are groundbreaking. She followed Naomi Campbell in reaching this milestone. Her success has been pivotal in broadening representation for dark-skinned Black women in luxury fashion.
A Cultural Trailblazer Reshaping Beauty Standards Worldwide
Yai’s influence extends far beyond modeling and fashion campaigns. She has become a symbol of modern beauty and cultural change. Her presence challenges long-standing Eurocentric beauty standards in the industry.
The supermodel’s latest accolade solidifies her status as a cultural trailblazer. She represents a new era where diverse beauty is celebrated globally. With each runway appearance and campaign, Yai continues reshaping what fashion considers beautiful and worthy of celebration.
