Step into the world of fashion and you’ll be blinded by the dazzling lights of runways, the luxurious garments, and the tantalizing beauty that models bring to the table. But behind these glamorous façades lies a history, a story, and a fight for representation that one woman, Bethann Hardison, has tirelessly championed.
Bethann is a name many in the fashion industry will recognize instantly. From strutting her stuff as a groundbreaking black model to establishing her own modeling agency and even advocating fiercely for the inclusion of black models, she has done it all. And now, she’s telling her story in the documentary, “Invisible Beauty.”
Her journey from Brooklyn’s streets to becoming a fashion icon is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Imagine this: a young black woman in the 1970s making a mark in an industry dominated by Eurocentric beauty ideals. She not only carved a niche for herself but also walked in the legendary 1973 Battle of Versailles fashion show.
Beyond the flashbulbs and applause, what stands out is Bethann’s nurturing spirit. While many know her as the mother to actor Kadeem Hardison, she’s played a motherly role to countless young models in the industry. Her teachings aren’t just about the right walk or perfect pose; they’re life lessons, wrapped up in warmth and wisdom. She’s a beacon of guidance and hope, using her position to educate and enlighten many about the underlying issues within the fashion industry.
Diving deeper into “Invisible Beauty,” you’ll find Bethann’s relationship with director Frédéric Tcheng fascinating. They met when Tcheng did a brief piece for the CFDA Awards for her. With time, their bond strengthened, leading Tcheng to co-direct the documentary. Their collaboration seamlessly blends the expert perspective of a fashion outsider with the personal tales and insights of an industry insider.
While the documentary touches on Bethann’s past, it also throws light on her current take on the industry’s landscape. She believes that the inclusion of models of color, which peaked during the 70s and 80s, has seen a resurgence, especially after the Black Lives Matter movement. But she also offers a word of caution – while the intentions to include are present, the sustainability of these efforts remains to be seen.
But, as always, Bethann isn’t deterred by challenges. She remains hopeful, drawing from her years of experience and her unwavering determination.
In her candid conversation, Bethann admits she didn’t initially see her life as being “film-worthy.” Yet, once she saw the bigger picture (or in this case, the entire four-hour version of her documentary), she realized that her story held power. And now, she’s preparing to pen it down in a forthcoming book!
If you’re seeking inspiration or a glimpse into the fashion world’s depths, “Invisible Beauty” promises a watch that is as stylish as it is soul-stirring. Bethann Hardison’s journey reminds us that while fashion may be about trends, real style is timeless and often comes from unwavering authenticity.
