Supermodel Anok Yai has been crowned Model of the Year 2025 by the British Fashion Council. Over the past eight years, she has gone from striking newcomer to one of the most recognisable runway figures. Aimee Yan takes you through her journey and her #legendary looks
Anok Yai didn’t emerge from a modelling competition or an agency training programme. Instead, her journey began with a single street-style photograph that propelled her straight into the heart of fashion.
It all began in 2017 at Howard University’s homecoming in Washington, D.C. There, a photographer captured her portrait and shared it on Instagram. The image quickly went viral, leading to her signing with a modelling agency soon after. Her arrival reintroduced dark-skinned beauty to the mainstream fashion scene and reignited the conversation around diversity in modelling.
Here are six pivotal moments that have come to define her:
Prada Autumn/Winter 2018
She became the second Black model, after Naomi Campbell, to open a Prada show. The moment catapulted her into global headlines overnight and signalled a new chapter in the brand’s embrace of diversity.
Mugler 2021 digital series
When Mugler released its collection as a fashion film, Yai’s swift, fluid movements stood out. The video went viral, introducing her kinetic presence to a global audience.
Met Gala 2024
Anok Yai was appearing in a shimmering blue-and-silver gown with all diamonds. The theme was “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion,” with the official dress code being “The Garden of Time”. Her look was hailed by multiple outlets as one of the night’s best.
Met Gala 2025
“Superfine: Tailoring Black Style” was the theme of 2025 Met Gala that celebrated Black dandyism and the rich history of Black men’s fashion. The official dress code was “Tailored for You”. She appeared in a black shimmering gown with mirrored silver-and-white mermaid bottom that captured every flash of the cameras, reimagining the design of a tailored suit.
Versace Spring/Summer 2025
Dressed in a metallic body-hugging mini dress, she embodied both power and femininity. This was one of her favourite runway moments, she mentioned.
Vetements Spring/ Summer 2025
Last but not least, during Vetements Spring/ Summer 2025, Anok became a “running bride”. Her gown was so heavy it kept catching underfoot. To keep the pace, she instinctively lifted the skirt and jogged to the end of the runway. What could have been an awkward mishap, became a moment of authenticity. She got praised by the designer and adored by audiences for its charm.
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