Tami, Kai, Brandon, and More: The 5 Jamaican Models to Know
Janelle Okwodu
August 7, 2015 — 06:48PM
Jamaica’s rich culture has always had an influence on fashion, so it’s fitting that some of fashion’s best models have come from the island nation’s idyllic shores. From innovators like Grace Jones to current stars like Jeneil Williams, Jamaican models have long had a special place in the industry. Get to know the new generation of rising stars from Kingston, Montego Bay, and beyond in the slideshow.
Tami Williams
At just 17, Tami Williams is already breaking boundaries as a model. Williams is the first black model to front a campaign for Calvin Klein Collection in more than a decade, and has made a name for herself editorially with work for photographers like Emma Summerton, Steven Klein, and Craig McDean. At nearly 6 feet tall, Williams cuts an impressive figure on the runway, enlivening designs from Alessandro Michele and Sarah Burton with her trademark slinky walk.
Abiah Hostvedt
Though he was discovered on Manhattan's Lower East Side, modeling star Abiah Hostvedt hails from Montego Bay, Jamaica. Hostvedt has been shot by everyone from Steven Meisel to Willy Vanderperre and remains one of the most popular male runway models. With a place on the runway at Thom Browne, Dries Van Noten, Prada, and nearly every other label imaginable, Hostvedt is approaching superstar status.
Kai Newman
Modeling since 2013, Kai Newman has become known for bringing a graceful sexiness to the runway for labels like Burberry Prorsum, Rag & Bone, and Valentino. With her high cheekbones and engaging presence in front of the camera, Newman is a modeling natural. When she isn't posing for the likes of Peter Lindbergh, she can be found hanging out with her model bestie, Tami Williams.
Brandon Bailey
Brandon Bailey made a splash—and his runway debut—on Prada's Spring 2015 menswear runway. After a turn for Raf Simons in Paris, Bailey came to New York Fashion Week: Men's and became one of the week's major players, walking for John Varvatos, Billy Reid, Tim Coppens, and more.
Andre Doyley
With his chiseled features and ripped physique, Westmoreland-bred Andre Doyley has caught the attention of classic menswear labels like Calvin Klein—which tapped him for an exclusive for the Fall season—and Ralph Lauren.
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