The subject of race is just as sensitive as the issue of sexuality (as displayed in public). The recent fashion show held in Sao Paolo, Brazil took on both issues at the same time with no qualms.
The Sao Paolo Fashion Week kicked off with two of the most beautiful models today: Gisele Bundchen and Jesus Luz. In case that second name triggered bells and you just can’t figure out where you saw it before, that is the name of Madonna’s “toyboy.” Well, they were photographed kissing after a concert by the Material Girl in Brazil, but Luz has denied any deep attachment to her. In any case, his pay and career have only become better for the association.
Anyhow, this year’s fashion week in Sao Paolo is rather controversial, not only for the amount of skin shown, but also for the color. For the first time, quotas have been set in place. The rule is that at least 10 percent of the models participating in the show have to be black or indigenous. It used to be that less than 3 percent of the models were black – a disparity since the population in the country is about 50% of African descent.
Naturally, there were mixed reactions to the quotas. Some say that this is a good start, although there really shouldn’t be quotas and that what is needed is a full inclusion of black models in the industry. Others quietly say that the reason for fewer black models is the fact that the clothing are designed for the sleeker bodies of Caucasians and not the more muscular bodies of blacks.
In any case, this really ought to be a great thing for the fashion world, race differences aside.