Blackface in Fashion

French Vogue, Lara Stone-Dutch Model

Okaaay so I was doing some research for my art project which is to do with racism and I came across something called 'Blackface', 'Blackface' in fashion normally involves white models painted black. Some people perceive this as the designers being racist because in the past 'Blackface' was a theatrical make-up used in minstrel shows (old American entertainment shows) by the white folk to mock African Americans and their culture. They started practising it around 1830, through painting their faces black, donning props associated with black people and reddening and widening their lip outlines the white people in the minstrel shows would 'entertain' the crowds.

Old Minstrel Ad.

I'm not too sure about this American Apparel Ad though, It's a bit too reminiscent of the minstrel show days 

'Blackface' as a means of racism and entertainment isn't as 'popular' these days but as I was saying it's still controversial. When designers use it in fashion shows or magazine articles  people always question their means: are they being subtly racist or expressing a form of art?

It's been used a lot recently by the likes of 'America's Next Top Model', 'Victor & Rolf', 'American Apparel' and more.

ANTM 

I personally think that there is nothing wrong with painting people whatever their original colour is in black when it concerns fashion because it's vastly different to what it was back in the minstrel days,when used in fashion the model doesn't have exaggerated lips or accessories that are stereotypically associated with black people. When used in fashion it's blending cultures together and making people more aware of the fact that there is nothing wrong with being diverse and it's something that should be celebrated and not mocked.

The little boy is cute thought :D

It's a tough subject I guess and each to his own opinion but I hope I've educated you or at least given you a glimpse on the subject.