Leomie Anderson is a Victoria's Secret angel -- and the sixth black model to get wings
"Mate I am still in shock..."
Leomie Anderson has been named the newest Victoria's Secret angel.
On Thursday, the 26-year-old model announced the news with a heartfelt Instagram post, saying, "Mate I am still in shock... this is something I was even scared to dream about because I never thought it would come true but I am insanely excited to announce that I am Victoria’s Secret’s newest ANGEL!! I can’t even believe it."
After seeing Anderson's posts, many A-listers were cheering her on. Actress Gabrielle Union wrote, "so proud," and Hailey Bieber also chimed in, saying, "Leomie!!!! So happy for you!"
On top of becoming one of the newest faces to represent the popular lingerie brand, this new contract also makes Anderson the sixth black model to receive wings in the brands' history of angels, which began in 1997.
This huge accomplishment is great for Anderson's career and many hope it will spark more change in the brand's selection of angels -- which has been largely white. This winter, the brand faced criticism for comments an executive made about plus-size and transgender models. He later apologized.
The Jamaican-born supermodel has worked with Tommy Hilfiger, Savage x Fenty, and walked her first runway at 17 for Marc Jacobs.
In 2017, she made headlines for allegedly being dropped from a show during London Fashion Week because of the color of her skin.
Additionally, Anderson serves as an activist who continues to push for inclusion, and has her own line of athleisure clothing called LAPP the brand.
Anderson has walked in four Victoria's Secret fashion shows in the past, and now she can happily spread her very own wings.