Breaking the glass ceiling for African American models in the industry, Beverly Johnson took fashion by storm in the early 70s posing for Vogue, Elle, Harper's Bazaar in both American and International editions.
Born in upstate NY, Beverly Johnson spent her middle class upbringing on the swim team with dreams of becoming a lawyer. After trying a hand at modeling, Johnson started to land consistent work with Glamour. Johnson's modeling career hit new heights in the mid to late 70s, even appearing on Vogue's August 1974 cover as the first model of color to do so. Within the year, nearly every American designer was working with African American models.
Take a look at more iconic photos of the beauty below including a few stills from a stunning 1977 Vogue Italia shoot.