Queen – the only word worthy of Naomi Campbell, whose fashion career is epic, and who still has so much more to give to our industry.

When she closed the Valentino Spring Haute Couture show in Paris last month with tears running down her glowing cheeks, it was the culmination of something she has fought in the three decades she’s reigned over the runway: the highest form of fashion expressed through women of color. Throughout her career, Campbell has been outspoken about the lack of diversity and representation in fashion, and the enormous impact Blacks have had on our industry that needs to be recognized and celebrated.

Campbell began her performing arts journey at the age of 5, dancing in Bob Marley videos and appearing in musicals, theater, and commercials. Elite talent agent Beth Boldt discovered her at 14, shopping in London’s Covent Garden, and saw the potential – and how right she was! CFDA’s 2018 Fashion Icon admits her trajectory was not “strategically planned, but one that was built on strife, determination, spontaneous ideas and stepping stones.”

We salute your determination and impact, Naomi. All hail the Queen!

Editor’s Note: In honor of Black History Month, we highlight some of the most influential forces in fashion, in no specific order. Their impact on the culture is undeniable – and we use this time to tip our hats off to their Black excellence.