Western beauty standards have always dominated the fashion industry, but in recent years, Asian models have shattered stereotypes and taken the industry by storm. From international runways to high-end brand campaigns, these models are redefining beauty and making history in the global fashion scene.
In this article, we’ll introduce you to 20 of the top Asian models who are changing the industry, breaking barriers, and inspiring future generations.
The Rise of Asian Models in Fashion
For decades, the fashion world had limited representation of Asian models. However, this has changed as major brands and designers have embraced diversity. Asian models now walk for top luxury brands like Chanel, Prada, and Louis Vuitton and grace the covers of Vogue, Elle, and Harper’s Bazaar.
Key moments in the rise of Asian models include:
Liu Wen becoming the first Asian Victoria’s Secret Angel.
Du Juan breaking barriers as the first East Asian woman on Vogue Paris.
The increasing presence of Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and South Asian models in luxury brand campaigns.
Let’s meet the 20 Asian models shaping today’s fashion industry.
Top 20 Asian Models Making Waves
1. Liu Wen (China)
Liu Wen is one of the most successful Asian models in history. She made history as the first Chinese model to walk for Victoria’s Secret and became the first Asian global ambassador for Estée Lauder. She has worked with luxury brands like Chanel, Gucci, and Balenciaga, proving that Asian representation in fashion is stronger than ever.
2. Du Juan (China)
Du Juan is a fashion icon and was the first East Asian model to appear on Vogue Paris. She has walked for top designers, including Valentino, Louis Vuitton, and Jean Paul Gaultier. With her elegant presence, she remains one of the most influential Asian models in high fashion.
3. Ai Tominaga (Japan)
Ai Tominaga is a Japanese supermodel who has walked for Dior, Givenchy, and Alexander McQueen. She has also been the face of major brands like Gucci and Moschino. Her success paved the way for many Japanese models in the fashion industry.
4. Fei Fei Sun (China)
Fei Fei Sun is a runway regular and was the first Asian model to grace the cover of Vogue Italia. She has starred in campaigns for brands like Prada, Chanel, and Valentino, helping redefine global beauty standards.
5. Sui He (China)
Sui He made history as the first East Asian model to open a Ralph Lauren runway show. She has also been a regular at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show and has worked with major brands like Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, and Armani.
6. Ming Xi (China)
Ming Xi gained international recognition after appearing in Victoria’s Secret Fashion Shows. She has walked for Versace, Balmain, and Givenchy, making her one of China’s biggest modeling stars.
7. Chiharu Okunugi (Japan)
Chiharu Okunugi is a Japanese model who has walked for Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and Prada. Her sharp features and strong runway presence make her a standout in high fashion.
8. Xiao Wen Ju (China)
Xiao Wen Ju became famous after starring in a Marc Jacobs campaign. She has since modeled for Dior, Miu Miu, and Balenciaga, showing her versatility in both editorial and runway fashion.
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9. Fernanda Ly (Australia/China)
With her signature pink hair, Fernanda Ly has become one of the most recognizable Asian models. She has walked for Louis Vuitton and starred in Vogue editorials, proving that individuality is celebrated in fashion.
10. Hyun Ji Shin (South Korea)
Hyun Ji Shin rose to fame after winning Korea’s Next Top Model. She has since become an international runway star, working with brands like Fendi, Burberry, and Alexander Wang.
11. Radhika Nair (India)
Radhika Nair made history as the first Indian model to walk for Balenciaga. She has since become a rising star in the fashion world, pushing for more South Asian representation.
12. Varsha Thapa (Nepal)
Varsha Thapa is one of the few Nepalese models in high fashion. She has worked with Prabal Gurung, Stella McCartney, and DVF, making a mark in the industry.
13. Mae Lapres (France/China)
Mae Lapres is a French-Chinese model who has worked with Chanel, Gucci, and Moschino. She is known for her unique look and strong editorial presence.
14. Pooja Mor (India)
Pooja Mor has appeared in campaigns for Chloé, Stella McCartney, and Givenchy. She is one of the most recognized Indian models on international runways.
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15. Sora Choi (South Korea)
Sora Choi is a South Korean model who has walked for Prada, Dior, and Versace. She won Korea’s Next Top Model and quickly became a global fashion star.
16. Shanina Shaik (Australia/South Asia)
Shanina Shaik, of South Asian and Lithuanian descent, has walked for Victoria’s Secret and featured in campaigns for Tom Ford and Chanel.
17. Bhumika Arora (India)
Bhumika Arora is an Indian model who has graced the covers of Vogue India, Elle, and Harper’s Bazaar. She is pushing boundaries for South Asian models in fashion.
18. Hoyeon Jung (South Korea)
Hoyeon Jung, known for her role in Squid Game, was a model long before acting. She has worked with Louis Vuitton, Fendi, and Chanel, proving her influence in both entertainment and fashion.
19. Hikari Mori (Japan)
Hikari Mori is a Japanese model and influencer known for her work with Vogue Japan, Uniqlo, and Dior.
20. Kiko Mizuhara (Japan)
Kiko Mizuhara is a model, actress, and fashion designer. She has worked with Dior, Chanel, and Marc Jacobs, influencing both fashion and pop culture.
How These Models Are Changing the Fashion Industry
Asian models are breaking barriers in multiple ways:
- Expanding representation in global campaigns.
- Redefining beauty standards and challenging stereotypes.
- Leading major fashion campaigns for luxury brands.
- Inspiring the next generation of diverse models.
Conclusion
The rise of Asian models in the fashion industry is a sign of progress toward inclusivity. These models are changing beauty standards, dominating global runways, and inspiring future generations. As more Asian faces continue to shine, the industry is becoming more diverse, inclusive, and representative of global beauty.
Which Asian model inspires you the most? Let us know in the comments.
