Leyna Bloom broke headlines last year when she campaigned to be the first transgender model to walk on the Victoria’s Secret runway. Making it in the fashion industry is already a challenge, but some of todays most popular models were discovered on the Internet, so Bloom’s strategy of petitioning herself for the gig via social media isn’t so far-fetched.
“As a young Black trans woman, the first money I got to invest in my transition was in lingerie.”
Already having graced the runway for Chomat and other clients, last season Bloom walked the Tommy Hilfiger x Zendaya Spring/Summer runway show and last month she become the first trans woman of color to have a film premiere at Cannes.
Most recently, Playful Promises, an inclusive swimwear and lingerie brand, launched its 15th Anniversary Campaign with Bloom as its leading lady. “As a young Black trans woman, the first money I got to invest in my transition was in lingerie,” the Chicago native told Glamour. “It means a lot to me. It’s like putting on foundation or buying mascara from the local pharmacy. It’s an experience that we cherish.”
Check out the full collection here.