Alex Consani has revealed how she felt becoming the first trans model to walk the Victoria’s Secret fashion show.
In an interview with Teen Vogue, the 21-year-old model explained that didn’t even realise she would be the first trans model, as she had assumed that fellow trans model Valentina Sampaio held that title after becoming Victoria’s Secret’s first openly trans model in August 2019,
“It’s crazy, though, because I didn’t even realise I was the first to walk until after I walked the show,” Consani said. “I thought that Valentina had already walked a while ago, so having that in my mind took the pressure away.”
However, she added there was more work to be done in terms of representation, adding that it could be difficult to advocate for change when many people in power are actively working against minority groups.
“It’s scary, though, because if you talk about the need for diversity to someone in power, they might X you out and say, ‘Well, if you’re upset then we’ll just make sure you’re not included,’” she explained. “When we have a conversation about fashion, we’re talking about what society views as beautiful or acceptable.”
“I don’t see the people who I’m inspired by doing the same jobs I’m doing or getting the same support. It’s upsetting,” Consani continued. “Where are the dolls of colour? Where’s the South Asian models? The Native American/Indigenous models? I’m close to people in those communities, and it’s really changed my perception of fashion.”
Consani said she envisions a future where models do more than strut the runway—they use their voices to make an impact.
“We’re at a point now where, generally, people recognise that you have to support a disadvantaged community in order for everyone to see them as equal,” she said. “Fashion, now more than ever, values a voice. If you have the ability to use your voice, then you have to use it.”
