Welcome to our 2023 Faby’s Best of 2023, where we’re excited to announce the nominees for Model of the Year! These models have consistently wowed us with their style, influence, and killer runway presence. Let’s dive into the candidates for this year’s FABY’s Model of the Year:
Winnie Harlow
Winnie Harlow, from Canada and of Jamaican descent, is known for her trendsetting style, court-side looks, and breaking barriers in the modeling industry. She first grabbed our attention in the 21st cycle of “America’s Next Top Model,” and since then, has become one of the most successful models from the show. In 2023, she worked with brands like Puma, Coca Cola, Victoria’s Secret, and SmartWater, and was featured in magazines such as Elle Canada, Vogue Netherlands, and Fashion Canada. She also launched her skincare line, Cay Skin, showing she’s much more than a model.
Naomi Campbell
British supermodel Naomi Campbell is nothing short of a legend. Starting her career at 15, she quickly rose to international fame and has been a powerhouse in the fashion industry for decades. Naomi has worked with every major designer, appeared on countless magazine covers, and walked the biggest runways. She broke barriers as the first black model on the cover of TIME and French Vogue. Beyond modeling, Naomi is deeply involved in philanthropy and has even been named ‘Honorary Granddaughter’ by Nelson Mandela for her activism.
Kendall Jenner
Kendall Jenner is a modern fashion icon whose career skyrocketed in 2014 with her first walk for Marc Jacobs. She’s since strutted for top designers like Chanel, Balmain, and Fendi, and appeared in major magazines like Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar. Besides modeling, Kendall has engaged in various business ventures, including her 818 Tequila brand and a teeth whitening pen featured in Forbes’ “30 Under 30.” She’s also known for her huge social media influence and charitable work, supporting causes like Charity: Water.
Precious Lee
Precious Lee is an advocate for race and size diversity in the fashion industry. She made history as the first African American curvy model to appear in Vogue in 2015 and has since walked for major designers like Marc Jacobs and Versace. She’s featured on covers like Harper’s Bazaar and British Vogue and represents IMG Models. Precious has paved the way for curvy models everywhere, making a significant impact from her runway debut with Christian Siriano to today.
Adut Akech
Born in South Sudan and raised in Australia, Adut Akech has become a standout model since her career took off in 2016. She’s worked with leading designers like Valentino, Givenchy, and Chanel. Known for her unique beauty and advocating for diversity in fashion, Adut is mentored by legends like Naomi Campbell and has spoken out on the challenges of being a dark-skinned model. She’s also an advocate for refugees, reflecting her deep social commitment.
Anok Yai
Anok Yai, an American model born in Sudan, shot to fame after a photo of her at Howard University went viral in 2017. With her stunning look, she became the second black model to open a Prada show after Naomi Campbell. Anok has since walked for top fashion houses like Mugler, Hermès, and Valentino, and is known for her natural hair and embracing her heritage. She’s a champion for diversity and inclusivity in fashion.
Eva Apio
Eva Apio, a British-Ugandan model, gained fame through her work and social media presence. Moving to the UK at age 10, she has modeled for brands like H&M and Daily Paper. Besides modeling, Eva runs the Apio Foundation helping children in Uganda and has launched a clothing line and works as a DJ.
Alton Mason
Alton Mason is making waves as one of the top male supermodels. From Arizona, he was the first black male model to walk for Chanel in 2018. Combining his looks with dance and acting skills, Alton has worked with brands like Gucci and Off-White. With a million followers on Instagram and a role in the film “Elvis,” he’s redefining male modeling.
Ashley Graham
Ashley Graham, from Nebraska, is a force for body positivity. She gained widespread recognition for appearing on the cover of Sports Illustrated in 2016 and became the first plus-size model to grace American Vogue. Represented by IMG Models, Ashley has modeled for top brands like Michael Kors. She also launched her lingerie and swimwear line and advocates for body diversity, making her an icon beyond just fashion.
Vote for the model who you think had the best year, and stay tuned for more categories like Hairstylist of the Year, Stylist of the Year, and Fashionista of the Year on New Year’s Eve!