This week, the American model and TikTok star Alex Consani made history by becoming the first transgender woman to win the prestigious Model of the Year award at the British Fashion Council’s Fashion Awards.
The event, held at London’s iconic Royal Albert Hall, was a night to remember, especially for Consani, who used her acceptance speech to highlight the importance of representation and gratitude.
“I’m the first trans woman to win this award!” she exclaimed to a cheering audience. “But I can’t accept this award without thanking those who came before me, especially the Black trans women who really fought for the space I’m in today.” She specifically honored trailblazers like Dominique Jackson, Connie Fleming, and Aaron Rose Philip for paving the way for her success.
Alex Consani: From TikTok Stardom to High-Fashion Icon
Born in Northern California, she first captured public attention in 2020 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Her witty and fun TikTok videos quickly amassed a massive following, earning her 3.9 million fans on the platform and another 1.5 million on Instagram.
Her online popularity became a springboard into the fashion world, where she’s become one of the industry’s most sought-after faces, adding to her amazing personality.
Signing with IMG Models at just 15 years old, Consani is considered one of the youngest openly trans models to land a contract with a major agency. Over the past few years, she’s graced runways for luxury brands like Chanel, Alexander McQueen, Burberry, and Jacquemus.
This year, she joined the ranks of iconic supermodels at the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, walking alongside legends like Alessandra Ambrosio, Gigi and Bella Hadid, and Ashley Graham where she became the first trans model to walk in the runway.
Consani’s influence extends beyond the runway. In May 2024, she appeared in the iconic music video for Charli XCX’s hit song “360.” Isn’t she the perfect definition of IT girl?
By taking home the Model of the Year title, she joins an elite group of previous winners, including icons like Kate Moss, Bella Hadid, and Cara Delevingne.
these shots of alex consani for emilio pucci’s latest campaign ! so there’s this supermodel pic.twitter.com/aKGliYmT0x
— ❦ (@saintdoII) October 23, 2024