Model Makes History As First Angel With Afro Hair
At 23, Angolan model Maria Borges made history at the 2015 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show on a beautiful Tuesday night.
While it was her third year walking in the famed show, it was the first time she walked the runway proudly displaying her natural afro hair. Maria became the first Victoria’s Secret model ever to walk in the show without hair extensions or wigs.
“I told my agent I wanted to walk in the Victoria’s Secret show with my natural hair,” Maria told entertainment reporter B. Scott. “I was nervous, but I had to do it. When they said ‘yes’ I didn’t expect it, but I was so happy!”
While she had previously worn wigs and hair extensions like most other Angels, Maria decided she wanted to embrace her natural beauty this year. Her groundbreaking appearance on the runway sends an inspiring message about diversity and inclusion in the fashion industry.
Social Media Praises Maria’s Historic Appearance
Maria’s choice to walk with her natural short afro caused a huge stir on social media. Fans all over the world congratulated Maria and praised her courage to go against the typical Victoria’s Secret beauty standards.
“People loved it and were very proud and happy for me,” Maria said about the reaction online. “It was the sexiest moment of my life. I was very excited to share [my hair] with the world.”
On Instagram, Maria expressed her excitement about her barrier-breaking walk, adding hashtags like “#AfroHair” and “#MBmakinghistory.” The global support from fans showed how meaningful it was for Maria to embrace her natural hair on one of fashion’s biggest stages.
Maria Stands For “Just Being Yourself”
While her appearance sparked major attention, Maria said she “didn’t mean to cause such a big stir.” For her, it was about feeling beautiful as she naturally is.
“I feel beautiful just the way I am,” Maria explained. “This is not about my hairstyle, it’s about my conscious and just being myself.”
By skipping the extensions and keeping her routine short afro, Maria made a statement about inclusion and diversity in an industry that has lacked it. Her message to young women is to believe in themselves and not be afraid to embrace who they are.
“You have to believe that great things can and will happen in your life,” she said. “I’m just a girl from Angola, and I’m so happy and grateful for all the opportunities that I have.”
Maria’s one small step in wearing her natural hair resulted in a groundbreaking moment of empowerment. She walked again in the 2019 Victoria’s Secret Fashion Show on December 5, proving that angels can have all hair types and remain heavenly.
