In a landmark moment for the fashion industry, Alex Consani, a 21-year-old American model, was honored with the Model of the Year award at the British Fashion Council’s Fashion Awards on December 4, 2024. Held at the iconic Royal Albert Hall in London, the event celebrated Consani’s exceptional achievements and solidified her place as a trailblazer in an industry often criticized for its lack of diversity. Her win, as the first transgender woman to receive the prestigious accolade, is a powerful reminder of how far the fashion world has come—and how far it still has to go.
Breaking Barriers in Fashion
Alex Consani’s victory is not just a personal milestone but a cultural one. During her heartfelt acceptance speech, she acknowledged the significance of her win:
“I’m the first trans woman to win this award! But I can’t accept this without thanking those who came before me, especially the Black trans women who fought for the space I’m in today.”
Naming icons like Dominique Jackson, Connie Fleming, and Aaron Rose Philip, Consani honored the women who laid the groundwork for her success. She emphasized the need for continued progress, concluding her speech with a rallying cry:
“Change is more than possible; it’s needed.”
Her words resonated deeply with the audience, which included industry legends, activists, and celebrities.
A Rising Star
Born in Northern California, Consani’s journey to becoming one of the most sought-after models of her generation began at an early age. In 2019, at just 15 years old, she signed with IMG Models, making history as one of the youngest openly transgender models to join a major agency.
Her big break came during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, when her witty and insightful videos on TikTok captivated audiences, earning her almost 4 million followers. Her authenticity and charm made her a favorite among fans and industry professionals alike.
By 2021, she was strutting the runway for Tom Ford in her catwalk debut. From there, she quickly became a regular at major fashion weeks, walking for luxury brands such as Chanel, Alexander McQueen, Versace, and Burberry.
In October 2024, Consani made history once again as one of the first transgender models to walk in the Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show, alongside Brazilian model Valentina Sampaio. The moment symbolized a new chapter for the lingerie giant, which had faced criticism in the past for its lack of inclusivity.
Celebrating a Year of Achievements
Consani’s win as Model of the Year caps off a year filled with remarkable achievements. Her work in 2024 extended beyond the runway. She appeared in high-profile campaigns and editorial shoots and even starred in the music video for Charli XCX’s hit song “360” from the Brat album.
Wearing a ripped Union Flag dress designed by Turkish-British designer Dilara Findikoglu at the Fashion Awards, Consani made yet another bold statement. The strapless off-white mini dress, featuring distressed fabric interwoven with the British flag, symbolized her boundary-pushing style and commitment to individuality.
In her speech, she took a moment to express gratitude to her parents for their unwavering support of her dreams. “Their belief in me made this possible,” she said, highlighting the importance of familial backing in her journey.
A Symbol of Inclusivity
Consani’s historic win underscores the fashion industry’s gradual shift toward inclusivity. While progress has been made, her speech served as a reminder of the work still needed to ensure that all voices are heard and valued.
The Model of the Year award, which combines the votes of an industry panel with a public poll, recognizes individuals who have made a significant impact on the global fashion scene. Previous recipients include icons like Kate Moss, Bella Hadid, and Cara Delevingne. Consani’s addition to this prestigious list is a testament to her influence and the changing landscape of the modeling world.
The British Fashion Council’s decision to honor Consani reflects a growing acknowledgment of diverse identities and experiences. It also shines a spotlight on the systemic barriers that persist, particularly for transgender individuals and people of color within the industry.
Honoring the Trailblazers
Throughout her career, Consani has used her platform to advocate for marginalized communities. In her acceptance speech, she honored the Black transgender women who paved the way for her success, stating:
“They fought for the space that allowed me to flourish.”
This tribute was especially poignant, as it recognized the contributions of models and activists who have historically been overlooked despite their immense impact on fashion and culture.
The Future of Fashion
As the first transgender woman to win Model of the Year, Alex Consani’s victory represents a turning point in fashion. Her accomplishments challenge outdated norms and redefine what it means to be a model in today’s world.
Her message of unity and the need for systemic change resonated deeply:
“Now, more than ever, it’s an important conversation about how to truly support and uplift one another, especially those who’ve been made to feel insignificant.”
Consani’s journey is a powerful example of resilience and authenticity. From a teenager sharing videos on TikTok to a global icon walking the runways of Chanel and Alexander McQueen, her story inspires a new generation of creatives to embrace their identities unapologetically.
A Beacon of Change
Alex Consani’s Model of the Year win is more than a personal achievement—it’s a victory for representation and inclusivity. As she continues to break barriers, her influence extends far beyond fashion, serving as a beacon of hope for those striving to be seen and heard.
Her story is a reminder that progress, though slow, is always possible. And with voices like hers leading the way, the future of fashion looks brighter and more inclusive than ever.