Naomi Campbell is a name synonymous with breaking barriers, rewriting the rules, and doing it all with unparalleled style. Her journey through the fashion world, as recounted in her recent cover interview with Harper’s Bazaar, is nothing short of legendary. As the centerpiece of the “Naomi: In Fashion” exhibition at London’s Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A), Campbell’s career is celebrated in a way befitting her iconic status.
Upon entering the V&A exhibition, visitors are greeted with a video montage of Campbell’s iconic runway walks. From her flirty sashay at Todd Oldham in the mid-’90s to a moody saunter for Isaac Mizrahi in 1997 and a powerful stomp in a sequined Saint Laurent tuxedo, each walk is distinctly different yet undeniably Naomi. A solo exhibition at the V&A is a rare honour, previously bestowed upon icons like Alexander McQueen, Frida Kahlo, and David Bowie.
The exhibition opens with personal images from Campbell’s archive, showcasing her journey from a young girl to a global superstar. Childhood photos, ballet shoes, and a candid shot of a seven-year-old Naomi being tucked into a blanket by Bob Marley highlight her early years. One particular image of Naomi dancing with her mother, Valerie Morris-Campbell, stands out as a testament to her close-knit family and the joy of her youth.
In her interview, Campbell reflects on her groundbreaking career. “I didn’t like being the first in a lot of things. Barriers have to be broken. Challenges have to be met,” she says. Her achievements include over 500 magazine covers and campaigns for top brands like Louis Vuitton, Lanvin, Burberry, and Valentino. She was one of the first Black models to reach such heights, opening doors for future generations.
Campbell’s influence extends beyond fashion. Her memorable appearances in music videos, such as George Michael’s “Freedom! ’90” and Michael Jackson’s “In the Closet,” and her dramatic fall in Vivienne Westwood’s nine-inch heels, have left an indelible mark on pop culture. Her public persona has been both celebrated and scrutinized, yet she remains a beloved figure.
The interview also sheds light on Campbell’s personal life and the challenges she faced. Known for her sometimes erratic time management, scheduling the interview itself was a challenge. However, when they finally spoke, Campbell was on vacation in Ibiza, reflecting on the importance of unwinding and reenergizing.
At 54, Campbell continues to dominate the runway and mentor a new generation of designers and models. She opened British-Nigerian-Brazilian designer Torishéju Dumi’s Paris Fashion Week debut, showcasing her commitment to supporting emerging talent. Next-generation supermodel Alton Mason cites Campbell as a major inspiration for his career.
Campbell’s longevity and adaptability in the fashion industry are remarkable. She has graced numerous covers and campaigns in 2024 alone, showcasing her enduring appeal. Fendi artistic director Kim Jones, a longtime collaborator, praises her unique combination of kindness, loyalty, passion, and humor.
As one of the “firsts” in many areas, Campbell faced tremendous pressure and scrutiny. Despite this, she has remained a resilient and influential figure. Her advocacy for diversity in modeling and her philanthropic efforts, particularly in support of the African continent and emerging creatives, underscore her commitment to making a difference.
The V&A exhibition features some of Campbell’s most memorable looks, including the Dolce & Gabbana gown she wore for community service in 2007 and her 2020 Covid-combating outfit of a hazmat suit and Burberry cape. These displays encapsulate her ability to embrace her entire narrative, the good and the bad, with grace and humour.
Naomi Campbell’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and relentless pursuit of excellence. She is not just a supermodel but an icon who has transcended the fashion industry to become a symbol of strength and empowerment. As Harper’s Bazaar aptly puts it, Naomi Campbell is like no other.
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