Aussie model Adut Akech stuns in British Vogue’s February cover

The 22-year-old wore a dramatic Louis Vuitton gown and jacket with pointed court heels by Gianvito Rossi, in the captivating image shot by Rafael Pavarotti.

The issue featured two covers — one with Akech and one where she was joined by eight other high-profile African models: Anok Yai, Majesty Amare, Amar Akway, Janet Jumbo, Maty Fall, Nyagua Ruea, Abény Nhial and Akon Changkou.

Introducing the cover on British Vogue, the magazine’s Editor-in-Chief Edward Enninful says the shoot was a “moment to reflect” on how fashion has become more inclusive “over the course of a relatively few short years,” while also championing African and Black beauty.

“They may all be global citizens these days, but every one of these brilliant models is of African descent,” he writes.

“The rise of African representation in modelling is not only about symbolism, nor even simple beauty standards. It is about the elevation of a continent.

“It is about economics, access, culture, perspective, difference and wonder. And it is here to stay.”

Born in South Sudan and raised in Kenya, Akech’s family sought asylum in Australia which subsequently saw them move to Adelaide when she was seven. After being repeatedly scouted by modelling agents as a teenager, she signed with the renowned Chadwick models at just 16.

Internationally, she made her runway debut for French luxury brand Saint Laurent at its Spring/Summer 2017 show for Paris Fashion Week and Akech has since walked for a swath of designers including Tom Ford, Prada, Versace, Burberry and Calvin Klein.

The Fashion Now issue is Akech’s second time on a British Vogue cover. She was previously tapped by Meghan Markle as the one of 15 women the Duchess wanted to feature on the publication’s September 2019 issue.

In August last year, the Akech was forced to speak out about racism in Australian media after WHO Magazine incorrectly ran a photo of another Black model, Flavia Lazarus, in a feature on Akech.

This was despite the interview being centred on the fashion industry’s attitude towards diversity and race, and her experiences as a former refugee.

In an Instagram post Akech said that while she didn’t want “to bash” the publication, she said “this would’ve not happened to a white model”.

“This has upset me, has made me angry, it has made me feel very disrespected and to me is unacceptable and inexcusable under any circumstances,” wrote Ms Akech.

“Not only do I personally feel insulted and disrespected but I feel like my entire race has been disrespected too and it is why I feel it is important that I address this issue.

“It goes to show that people are very ignorant and narrow-minded that they think every black girl or African people looks the same.”

Originally published as Aussie model Adut Akech cast in British Vogue’s February cover