Tatiana Cesso
The prestigious The BoF 500, a ranking that celebrates the most influential figures in global fashion, has once again put Brazil in the spotlight. Released in September 2024, the list includes five remarkable Brazilian names, with Airon Martin, the founder of Misci, being the sole designer recognized this year.
Airon Martin stands out as a visionary in the fashion industry. As the creative director of Misci, he has built a brand that epitomizes Brazilian authenticity with a strong focus on sustainability. His recent collection, “Tenda Tripa,” showcases cultural elements from Brazil’s interior, striving to create designs that make Brazilians proud of their roots. The brand gained significant attention earlier this year when media mogul Oprah Winfrey shopped at Misci’s luxury store in São Paulo, leading to a surge in online traffic. With clients ranging from politicians, like Minister of Environment Marina Silva, to digital influencers like Camila Coutinho, Martin’s impact is undeniable.
Martin, hailing from Sinop in Mato Grosso, has articulated a powerful message: “Fashion has the power to reposition us as a country, and the world needs to understand that we are no longer just the land of commodities.” He believes that recognizing the value of Brazilian products and culture is crucial. His attendance at the BoF event in Paris underscores his commitment to presenting a genuine, vibrant Brazil to the world.
Joining Airon Martin in this prestigious list are:
- Angelina Kendall, a model who has quickly risen to prominence. Although raised in Australia, her Brazilian roots shine through her work, having walked for renowned fashion houses like Schiaparelli and Chanel during the fall 2024 couture season. Discovered at just 16 years old on Instagram, Kendall has collaborated with luxury brands such as Louis Vuitton, Versace, and Burberry.
- Anitta, the music sensation, is not only dominating the charts but also making waves in the fashion industry. Her presence at international events like the Met Gala and partnerships with major brands position her as a key influencer bridging the worlds of music and fashion.
- Susana Barbosa, the editorial director of ELLE Brasil, has cemented her reputation over nearly three decades in journalism, successfully repositioning the magazine in Brazil after a two-year hiatus. Under her leadership, ELLE has adapted to modern media landscapes, combining digital and print formats.
- Zaya Guarani, a model and activist from Rondônia, represents the indigenous community on the global fashion stage. At just 23 years old, she is a trailblazer for indigenous representation, having founded the first Indigenous Creative Collective. Zaya’s activism extends beyond modeling; she aims to foster inclusion and visibility for indigenous peoples in fashion and cinema.
Created in 2013, The BoF 500 serves as a global reference for significant figures in fashion. Each year, 100 new members are inducted into this exclusive group, which encompasses designers, makeup artists, communicators, artists, and entrepreneurs.
The inclusion of these five Brazilians in The BoF 500 not only highlights their individual achievements but also showcases Brazil’s growing influence in the fashion industry. With their unique perspectives and contributions, they continue to inspire and shape the future of fashion on both national and international stages.
