The Grandassa Models were a pioneering group of African American female models whose Afrocentric fashion shows were the first to promote the slogan “Black is Beautiful.” Based in New York City, the Grandassa Models’ fashion shows were held in various cities in the United States from (1962) to (1979)Photographer and activist Kwame Brathwaite co-founded the Grandassa Models in (1962), drawing inspiration from Carlos A. Photographs by Kwame Brathwaite (1962-68). Harlem, NY.
Cooks’ “Miss Natural Standard of Beauty” contests held annually on Marcus Garvey Day.The term “Grandassa” is derived from “Grandassaland,” a reference to the African continent.The group was part of the African Jazz-Art Society & Studio (AJASS), which aimed to celebrate Black beauty and raise awareness among Black people.The Grandassa Models challenged prevailing white beauty standards by wearing their hair naturally and showcasing a variety of body types and skin tones.
They designed and created their own garments, working exclusively with Black-owned beauty businesses. Their fashion shows, known as “Naturally,” began in January (1962) at Harlem’s Purple Manor and became instrumental in the “Black is Beautiful” movement.These events promoted racial pride and reconnected Black Americans with African culture during a time when natural hairstyles were considered taboo.The Grandassa Models’ efforts significantly influenced the acceptance and celebration of natural Black beauty, leaving a lasting impact on fashion and cultural identity.
