The fashion and beauty industries are undergoing a radical transformation, one that is driven not only by technological advancements, shifting consumer behavior and talent deficit but by the voices of the next generation of fashion and beauty talent. Young, underserved talent is breaking barriers, offering fresh perspectives and redefining what it means to be a “fashion and beauty industry talent.”
From Wisdom Kaye to Ekua King and Christine Cruz to Rafael Pavarotti and Stephanie Burchell to Ramin Ahmari and Millie Flemington-Clare to Jared Ellner and Chella Man to Feng Chen Wang these emerging voices bring authenticity, resilience and a passion for change—qualities that are urgently needed to address the industry’s historical shortcomings. It’s time to challenge the status quo and recognize the impact these young talents are having and the opportunities we must create to ensure they succeed.
A New Vision for Fashion
The young talent coming up today are not only focused on style but also on social impact. They are combining artistry with activism, infusing their output with a deep understanding of cultural sensitivity, environmental sustainability and social justice. For too long, the fashion industry has been dominated by narrow ideals of beauty and exclusivity, but underserved young talent is challenging those standards.
For example, consider the impact of designers from marginalized communities—many of whom are using their platforms to speak out about issues such as inequality, gender fluidity and the intersection of fashion, beauty and mental health. Their collections often go beyond just clothes, becoming statements that demand conversation and change. This shift is long overdue and the younger generation is leading the charge.
The Untapped Potential of Underserved Talent
The fashion and beauty sectors’ traditional gatekeepers often overlook young talent from underserved communities. However, these individuals are bringing incredible innovation and authenticity to the table despite systemic barriers. With the right mentorship, resources, initiatives and exposure these young talents can not only revolutionize the industry but also introduce new ways of thinking about craftsmanship, storytelling, design processes and accessibility.
Organizations that work with underserved talent, such as Fashion Minority Alliance are helping to unlock this untapped potential. By providing access to training, mentorship, internships and networking we are ensuring that these young talents are not only entering the sector but are equipped to thrive.
The Power of Community and Collaboration
For young, underserved talents the fashion and beauty industries can often feel like an exclusive club. But through community-building efforts and collaborative initiatives we’re seeing more young voices emerge. These efforts create a sense of belonging and support where talent is nurtured and celebrated. Programs that emphasize mentorship, peer-to-peer support, and internship initiatives are vital in shaping the next wave of leaders.
What’s more, young talent is challenging traditional hierarchical structures. The fashion and beauty communities are moving away from competition to cooperation—fostering spaces where emerging talent can share ideas, learn from one another, and grow together.
Why Industry Leaders Should Pay Attention
The next big wave of fashion and beauty innovation won’t come from the top-down; it will rise from the grassroots level. Industry leaders and established brands need to recognize the potential of young, underserved talents. They should prioritize creating pathways for these creatives and take a page out of the likes of Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger and Zalando whose initiatives create pathways that lead to a seat at the table, not just as interns or apprentices, but as key collaborators, partners and visionaries.
Fashion and beauty brands that align with the values of inclusion, sustainability and social impact will not only gain a competitive edge but will also help to build more equitable industries for future generations.
The future of fashion and beauty is diverse, dynamic and driven by the next generation of talent. By supporting young, underserved talent we can help shape more inclusive, innovative and sustainable industries as it’s time to listen to their stories, amplify their voices and provide them with the tools they need to succeed. Belonging isn’t a dream, it’s a decision and today’s leaders face a defining moment: drive workplace equality forward or fall behind. The global pandemic proved we can transform workplace norms overnight which means we have an opportunity to accelerate meaningful change and ensure that the fashion and beauty sectors reflect the world in all its beautiful complexity.