Black models are among the most followed in the industry on Instagram. A great example is “Naomi Campbell,” who has over 15 million followers.
The main reason is that black models bring more trends and engagement to the platform. It is good to know that a 2025 Instagram engagement study shows that black models received almost 40% higher engagement rates than other models.
The good news is that social media gives more opportunities for black models to shine. For instance, Nyakim Gatwech is one of the most successful self-made black models on Instagram.
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See Available Accounts →But who are the top black models you must follow in 2025? You will find out here as we review a fresh list of 30 successful models and 10 rising stars!
Why Diversity in Modeling Is Important?

Did you know that the modeling industry was once mainly for white people, and it was almost impossible to find a black male or female model in fashion shows? Saying so, the fashion industry was criticized for a lack of models from diverse backgrounds.
Besides, diversity in modeling is not just about having models with different skin tones and body types; it’s mostly about cherishing the unique beauty of all individuals without paying attention to their skin colors.
I believe that the beauty of the modeling industry is to have a powerful society of people with different body types and skin tones to send an important message to audiences around the world.
Therefore, diversity in modeling is important because it changes the traditional standards and allows people to see more unique beauties.
How to Find Black Instagram Models?
As mentioned, many people are interested in finding and following black models on Instagram. Here, I am going to discuss different methods that help you find black models on Instagram in a few seconds.
Use Instagram’s “Suggested” feature
The first thing you can do is use Instagram’s suggested feature, which helps you find similar accounts.
Check Instagram’s “Explore page”
One great source is to scroll through the Instagram Explore page. The good thing is that once Instagram’s algorithm detects that you are looking for top black models, your Explore page will show you more relevant content.
Search through the “Hashtags”
Hashtags are an excellent tool for searching for anything you want to find on Instagram; they will open doors to a whole new world for you.
You can search for hashtags like #topblackmodels and #blackmodels, and you will access accounts and profiles related to black Instagram models.
Check Fashion magazines
Visiting fashion magazine accounts on Instagram, like Vogue, helps you stay connected to the fashion world and notice top and rising black models.
Use “Google”
Another helpful method is to search for top black Instagram models on Google. You will find a list of these models, or Google suggests Instagram accounts related to what you have in mind.
Follow “Modeling Agency” accounts
Another smart yet easy way is to follow credible modeling agencies on Instagram because they mainly introduce hot and young models to their followers, which means you can discover new gems!
Finally, if you don’t have enough time and energy, keep on reading this article to the end because I prepared a complete list of the top 30 black models you’d better follow in 2025!
How to Support Black Models on Instagram?

It’s a great question! Following these small tips helps you support your favorite black models on social media.
- Engage with their content: The easiest thing to do is engage with their posts, stories, and Reels to increase their account’s engagement. This will lead to more people discovering their content, which brings more opportunities for them.
- Tag and mention them: If you are a content creator and get inspired by a black model’s style or makeup, the least you can do is tag or mention them in your content to give them credit and let others know the main source.
- Support their brands and products: Some black models have their own brands (cosmetics or clothing), and to help them grow their business, you can buy their products and promote them on your social media accounts.
- Collaborate with them: Are you a business owner? Or know someone in a relevant industry? The best support is to give them a chance to collaborate with you. However, this may not work with famous models.
- Educate yourself and others: Most black models go through many challenges in the industry. One way to support them is to learn about their challenges and hardships so you can speak up for them whenever they face misjudgment.
What Are the Criteria for Selecting This List?
The section below contains a list of the top 30 black Instagram models, but before that, let me tell you the criteria for choosing this list.
This list was influenced by the number of their Instagram followers, their impact on the fashion industry, their representation of diversity, their career achievements, how they interact with their audiences, and how they challenge old beauty standards.
Keep in mind that you may also find someone with less than 50k Instagram followers in this list, but it doesn’t mean that they don’t belong to this list.
Moreover, it is good to know that the selection criteria may also consider the model’s influence on trends, how they run campaigns, how they inspire others, and more.
I hope you like the following list and can find the black model you are looking for!
Top 30 Black Instagram Models in 2025
Chrissy Teigen (@chrissyteigen) – 41.8 million followers
Chrissy Teigen is an American model who started her modeling career in 2010 by appearing in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue. She has almost 42 million followers on Instagram and is a co-founder of a doggy delectable called “Kismet.”
It is good to know she is married to the famous singer “John Legend.” She now mainly shares pictures and videos related to her career and family.
Dr. Naomi Campbell (@naomi) – 15.8 million followers
Naomi Campbell is a black supermodel, actress, and media personality. You’d be surprised if I told you that she started modeling when she was only eight years old.
Undoubtedly, Naomi is among the most popular black models who caused many changes in the fashion and modeling industry, especially for black people.
De’arra Taylor (@dearra) – 6.6 million followers

De’arra is a famous YouTuber, TikTok, and Instagram model; however, she is mainly known for her YouTube channel, “De’arra & Ken 4 Life.” She created this channel when she was dating her ex-boyfriend, Ken Walker.
She is among those black models who appreciate a normal female body and love her curves. She always tries to encourage her followers to love themselves and stop changing themselves.
Angel Reese (@angelreese5) – 4.6 million followers
She is a famous basketball player and is among the youngest and most successful models on social media, which is natural due to her undeniable beauty and appearance.
Many people think that Angel is related to the legendary basketball player Shaq, which is not true. The story is that Shaq once referred to her as his “niece,” but he didn’t mean biologically.
Jourdan Dunn (@jourdandunn) – 4 million followers
She is a British model who started doing her first runways in early 2007. One amazing thing about Jourdan is that, after decades, she was the first black model to walk for the famous brand Prada in 2008.
She now has four million followers on Instagram, and celebrities like Rihanna follow her account. She mostly uploads pretty photoshoots on her account, so if you are interested in modeling and seeing the beauty of black models, you should follow her!
Maria Borges (@iammariaborges) – 3.3 million followers
Maria Borges, who has over three million followers on Instagram, is an Angolan supermodel who has walked for different famous brands, such as Givenchy, and used to be its exclusive model!
Maria shares beautiful pictures of her runways and personal life, which is a good reason to follow her account if you are interested in this industry and want to know how a black supermodel lives!
Anok Yai (@anokyai) – 2.4 million followers

It all started with her eye-catching dress at the 2024 Met Gala! She used to be among the top models in the industry before that, too, but that outfit, which was made of almost 98,000 Swarovski crystals, was a game-changer for her!
Now, more people around the world know and cherish her uniqueness. It’s good to know that her Instagram post with that outfit has one million likes!
After the Met Gala, she mentioned in one of her interviews that she never was comfortable with her skin color and used to criticize herself, but now she loves and respects herself and encourages other black girls to accept themselves.
Alton Mason (@altonmason) – 2 million followers
He’s a runway icon! Before I say anything about him, I recommend following his Instagram account to see his stunning look at the Golden Globes 2025!
Alton Mason is everything a male model should be! He is talented, fit, handsome, and shines like a diamond on each runway.
He was named Model of the Year five times in a row, which shows how talented he is and is favored by famous designers.
Jackie Asamoah (@jackieaina) – 1.9 million followers
She is an American-African makeup artist, social influencer, Instagram model, and YouTuber with almost two million followers on Instagram.
Jackie Aina has a hot body, so it is no wonder she uploads videos and pictures promoting a brand or collection.
Thus, if you are into makeup tutorials and fashion inspiration, follow Jackie’s Instagram account now!
Cindy Bruna (@cindybruna) – 1.8 million followers
One of the black models is undoubtedly Cindy Bruna, a French model with almost two million loyal followers on Instagram who are inspired by her good taste in style and fashion.
She used to walk for the Victoria’s Secret fashion show, which shows how professional and gorgeous she is. She also cooperated with almost every famous brand, such as Channel, Prada, Armani, etc.
Cindy was the first model of color who could walk exclusively for Calvin Klein in 2012.
Her success doesn’t end here! Cindy announced that her first-ever movie, “Prosper,” has been selected for the Alpe D’Huez Festival! It will be in theatres on March 19th.
Adut Akech Bior (@adutakech) – 1.8 million followers

You can see the beauty of being a black female model in her face and body! She is a South Sudanese-Australian model who was chosen as the model of the year in 2018.
She has nearly two million Instagram followers, inspired by her beauty and lifestyle. You can find eye-catching photoshoots of her for various brands, such as Balenciaga and Valentino, on her Instagram account, so she is among the black models you should follow!
Jenna De Leon (@jenna.deleon) – 1.5 million followers
Another famous American fitness trainer on Instagram is Jenna De Leon, who has one and a half million followers.
Jenna shares workout videos on her IG account to encourage others to start exercising to have a better and healthier life.
Since she is a fitness trainer, you can tell she has a perfect body, which means she can also be a model and work with brands to promote their products.
Therefore, if you are looking for a black Instagram model who can inspire you to live a better life while teaching you how to work out, add Jenna to the list of people you must follow.
Lexi Williams (@_misslexii) – 1.5 million followers
Lexi Williams is another black fitness trainer who has a perfect body and a beautiful face on Instagram. She shares amazing videos and photoshoots of herself, showing off her beauty.
If you are a fan of such content and looking for an account sharing workout tips, you should follow Lexi’s Instagram account.
Duckie Thot (@duckiethot) – 1.2 million followers
The next black female model you should follow on Instagram is Duckie Thot, a 29 years old girl from South Sudan who was introduced to the modeling industry by her YouTuber sister.
Duckie is mainly known for being the face of the Fenty Beauty brand, owned by Rihanna. She started her modeling journey in 2016 when she walked the runway for David Jones.
If you want to see more of her and her chocolate skin tone, you better hurry and follow her Instagram!
Chanel Delisser (@chaneldelisser) – 1 million followers
Believe me when I tell you she is one of the hottest black models on Instagram! She is a fitness trainer, so now you can imagine how her body looks!
She has one million active Instagram followers who are interested in the training content she shares and are inspired to live healthy lives.
Follow her Instagram account to start your fitness journey with her, as she shares more motivational videos on workout routines in 2025.
Nyakim Gatwech (@queennyakimofficial) – 972k followers
One of the most popular black models on Instagram is undoubtedly Nyakim Gatwech, who gained fame because of the color of her body; it is good to know that she calls herself (nicknamed) the Queen of Dark.
She is so close to gaining one million followers, so if you want to be among them and don’t
I want to miss all the fantastic photoshoots she shared on her Instagram. Follow her now to see her latest photoshoots of her birthday!
Nikki Thot (@nikkithot) – 970k followers
Nikki Thot is a model and YouTube star who helped her sister Duckie Thot to enter the modeling industry.
Nikki has over 900k followers on Instagram and is among the successful models who have had the chance to collaborate with famous designers and brands.
She shares pictures and videos of herself in amazing outfits that could inspire you if you are interested in fashion, which is a good reason to follow her Instagram account.
Iman (@the_real_iman) – 939k followers

Another black model to follow on Instagram in 2025 is Iman, also known as The Real Iman on Instagram.
Iman is mainly known for her talent in modeling and designing gorgeous outfits and co-founded her own cosmetic brand.
If you need some inspiration, you should follow her Instagram account. She doesn’t just post pictures of herself in different dresses; she shares motivating and positive quotes, which is why her followers love her.
Shalom Blac (@shalomblac) – 822k followers
Shalom Blac is an Instagram model and a YouTuber who is mainly known for her makeup and skincare tutorials.
Following her on Instagram enables you to get inspiration about styling, skincare routines, hair tutorials, finding accessories that match your outfit, and even home decoration ideas.
Thus, her Instagram account is a full package for those who are interested in fashion, beauty tips, traveling, styles, decoration, and more.
Slick Woods (@slickwoods) – 756K followers
Simone Marie Thompson, known as Slick Woods on social media, is another successful black model you need to follow in 2025. One good thing about her is that she doesn’t care about beauty standards and never tries to change a thing in her appearance to impress others.
She is mainly popular for her bald head and the cute gap between her teeth; she believes that they are what makes her different from other black models.
Slick Woods is a great source of inspiration for younger generations to accept and love themselves no matter how society wants them to look.
Mayowa Nicholas (@mayowanicholas) – 618k followers
Mayowa Nicholas is a Nigerian model who is the first Nigerian woman to walk for Calvin Klein, Dolce & Gabbana, and Saint Laurent.
She started modeling in 2015 and worked with famous designers and brands, such as Prada, Balenciaga, Victoria’s Secret, and more.
She now has over 600k followers on Instagram and mostly shares photoshoots of her runway shows and styling tips.
Flora Coquerel (@floracoquerel) – 609k followers
Flora is a French model who was crowned Miss France 2014 and placed among the top five at Miss World 2014 and Miss Universe 2015.
She is the co-founder of the charity Association Kelina, which allows her and people around the world to help children in different areas.
Allyiah Gainer (@allyiahsface) – 545K followers
Allyiah is among the aesthetic black models on Instagram. When you open her account, it’s like scrolling through Pinterest, which shows how creative and classy she is.
Allyiah used to gain popularity on social media through YouTube back in 2015. Saying so, she is also a great content creator on the internet, which needs ultimate hard work.
Her journey from being a simple girl in university to a popular content creator, beauty influencer, and model is a great example of black people’s societal power.
Leomie Anderson (@leomieanderson) – 516K followers
She’s among the popular black models and designers in the modeling industry, and her talent was discovered soon enough to allow her to walk through Victoria’s Secret’s runway!
Leomie is not only a black model but also an activist against racism in the fashion industry, which is why she has always been popular and loved.
Alex Kaufmann (@bahayogi) – 509k followers
Another black beauty you should follow on Instagram is Alex Kaufmann. She mainly shares videos of herself teaching yoga while encouraging her followers to live a healthy lifestyle.
Follow her on Instagram if you want to start doing yoga and see more of her beauty!
Elinda San (@elindasan) – 449k followers
She is a fashion model and artistic director who uses her Instagram account to support the black community and share her modeling photoshoots, travels, and more.
If you want to see more of her styling tips and know more about her personal life, put her name on the list of Instagram models to follow in 2025.
You’d be surprised to see her beauty! It is good to know that she’s among the hottest black models who promote Fashion Nova’s collection.
NewYork Taylorr (@newyorktaylorr) – 368k followers
Another black Instagram model to follow is New York Taylorr, who has more than 360k followers on Instagram who cherish her beauty and skin color.
She uploads pictures of herself in different outfits, which is great for those who are looking for an account to learn some styling tips.
Broderick Hunter (broderickhunter) – 320k followers
One of the top black male models you can find on Instagram is Broderick Hunter, an actor who has collaborated with various famous publications, such as Vogue Paris and Essence.
Therefore, following his Instagram account is one of the best things you can do for yourself if you want to change your style and taste in fashion.
Adeyanju Adeleke (@yanjusofine) – 267k followers
Adeyanju is one of the most beautiful black women as an Instagram model, so if you don’t want to miss all that beauty, it is better to follow her on Instagram.
She is from Nigeria and now lives in the United States and is mainly known for posting modeling photoshoots on her account.
Follow her Instagram account for some inspiration in fashion and makeup; you will also be motivated to have a healthier lifestyle if you see her amazing body.
Adonis Bosso (@septumpapi) – 220k followers
One male black model you should follow on Instagram is Adonis Bosso, who has modeled for various brands, such as Yeezy, H&M, Dolce & Gabbana, and more.
He also ranks as a money guy on the models.com website. If you visit his Instagram account, you will notice that he mainly shares videos and pictures with his son, which shows that he is also a good father!
Adonis has also stepped into the music industry as a singer and songwriter. His latest track is called “SUNRAY” and is now available.
How Black Models Influence the Fashion and the Modeling Industry
Now that you are familiar with the top 30 black Instagram models you better follow in 2025, it’s time to discuss how black models influence the fashion industry because their influence can not be underestimated.
Black models had an undeniable role in changing beauty standards and challenged this industry to become more inclusive.
Top black models, such as Naomi Campbell, opened new doors in the modeling industry and brought a new level of diversity to fashion.
Besides, black models also inspired fashion designers to create more diverse collections, so black models wear them in runway shows to send a specific message to other designers and fashion lovers from all over the world.
Ultimately, the presence of black models in famous brands shaped the modeling industry into something new, with fundamental changes in setting new standards.
Emerging Black Models on Instagram to Watch in 2025
Skylar Marshai (@skylarmarshai) – 204k followers
Skylar Marshai is an Instagram model and influencer who usually shares styling videos with her husband, Temitope Ibisanmi, who is also an Instagram model/influencer.
Her Instagram account is a great option for couples who want to match their outfits but don’t know where to start.
The good thing about Skylar’s account is that she mentions all the brands and products she uses in her videos, making it easy for you to buy the same stuff and style it your way.
Lellies Santiago (@lelliessantiago) – 182K followers

She is mainly known for being a successful TV personality and digital creator; however, she has much to say about modeling and fashion!
Lillies is like a main character in girlish stories among black people! Her unique hairstyle, fit body, and pretty face make her special.
Speaking of! She mentioned in one of her interviews that she is a hair model, and that’s how people love and know her!
Kelly Augustine (@kellyaugustine) – 138k followers
Kelly Augustin is another black model you should follow on Instagram, especially if you are looking for an account to share styling tips and videos.
One good thing about Kelly’s Instagram account is that you can get styling tips regardless of your size.
Kelly helps you to be comfortable in your body and stop wearing loose clothes just because you are not skinny!
Thus, if you struggle to know what to wear as a plus-size person, Kelly Augustine will help you find your style.
Beverly Johnson (@iambeverlyjohnson) – 93.9k followers
Beverly Johnson is mainly known for being the first black female model to be on the cover of the American Vogue magazine in August 1974.
Beverly Johnson is now 72 years old, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t follow her on Instagram because she inspired so many black women to chase their dreams of becoming models, actresses, businesswomen, etc.
Aya Jones (@iamayajones) – 88.3K followers
Another successful model is Aya Jones. She’s French, and you can see Parisian beauty in her face, which is why many well-known brands, like Dior, have collaborated with her.
If you think Aya’s face is familiar to you, she is one of the popular models for jewelry brands, such as “Graff.”
You may have seen her innocent and pretty face in such content.
Alie Davis (@aliedavis_) – 82.8k followers
Alie Davis is a model and actress living in LA and is mainly interested in expanding her abilities to become a professional actress.
It is good to know that she has worked with famous fashion and beauty brands. So, if you are looking for a black model to follow on Instagram and get inspired by her lifestyle, you should follow her account.
Nab Zenab (nabzenab) – 66.7k followers
Another pretty black female model you should follow on Instagram is Nab Zenab, who is mainly into fashion and travel and shares beautiful images and videos of herself on trips while wearing gorgeous outfits that show off her fit body!
Put her name on the list of top black models you need to follow on Instagram in 2025.
Mukasa (@mukasakakonge) – 58.2K followers

“Models1,” London’s most established agency introduced him to the fashion industry.
Mukasa is young, talented, and a hard worker in the modeling industry. You can support him by following his Instagram account.
It is good to know that he has worked with top brands, such as Ralph Lauren.
Ross (@robertorossellini) – 41.9k followers
Roberto Rossellini, also known as Ross, is a designer, model, and photographer. If you find his name familiar, it’s because he is the grandson of a famous Italian film director who shares the same name.
He may not be very active on Instagram, yet he is known for being a fashion model; so, if you are looking for a black Italian male model, you better follow him on Instagram.
Arame Fall (@fallarame) – 26.1k followers
Are you still looking for black models on Instagram? Then you should not miss Arame Fall, a natural black female model with almost 30k followers on Instagram.
One thing about her is that she is not in the super skinny models category and feels free to show off her body, which makes her more unique.
If you want to know more about her, follow her on her Instagram!
Conclusion
The modeling and fashion world has changed in many ways since black people became the undeniable stars in this industry and challenged the traditional standards.
Year by year, more people from the black community enter this industry to inspire fashion lovers and designers to be more creative.
In this article, we discussed the importance of diversity in modeling, how to find black models on Instagram, the influence of black people on the modeling industry, and examined the top 30 black models you should follow on Instagram in 2025.
I hope you find this article helpful and start following your favorite models from our list.
Don’t forget to support those shining stars and trendsetters who are making waves in 2025!
FAQs
Who is the most popular black model?
Naomi Campbell is the most famous black female model, with sixteen million followers on Instagram.
Who is the highest-paid black model in the fashion industry?
Two black models in this industry are known as the highest-paid black models: Naomi Campbell and Tyra Banks.
Who has the darkest skin among black fashion models?
Nyakim Gatwech is known as the most black female model; she has been nicknamed the Queen of Dark.
Emi Daniel
Emi Daniel is a content writer at Social Tradia, where he writes clear, useful content that helps readers find what they need. Outside of work, he enjoys gaming and coding.
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