Written by Oscar Holland, CNN
Less than a week after enthralling the public at President Joe Biden’s inauguration ceremony, young US poet Amanda Gorman signed to one of the largest modeling agencies in the world.
On Monday, the 22-year-old Harvard graduate concluded a deal with IMG Models, which represents fashion heavyweights like Kate Moss and Gisele Bündchen, the agency confirmed to CNN.
Gorman was one of the stars of last week’s presidential inauguration, where he read his powerful poem “The Hill We Climb”. In addition to moving viewers in Washington and around the world, the Los Angeles native also impressed with her vivid fashion choices.
Amanda Gorman speaks at the inauguration of US President Joe Biden at the US Capitol on January 20, 2021. Credit: Patrick Semansky / AP
In a yellow double-breasted coat by Italian designer Miuccia Prada and a red satin Prada satin sash, the poet and activist stood out against the quieter crowd behind her. She completed the outfit with jewelry – presented by Oprah Winfrey – by independent designers, including the New York brand Of Rare Origin and Greek jeweler Nikos Koulis.
In the days since he was launched into the global spotlight, Gorman has made a series of high-profile public appearances. CNN’s Anderson Cooper said on the air that he was “paralyzed” by the poet in an interview shortly after the inauguration. During a virtual appearance on “The Ellen DeGeneres Show” on Tuesday, however, DeGeneres “endorsed” Gorman for president, although she is still 13 years below the minimum age required for a presidential race.
Gorman’s next books, “Change Sings: A Children’s Anthem” and “The Hill We Climb and Other Poems”, are currently at the top of Amazon’s bestseller list.
‘Wow, you’re amazing’: Cooper left speechless by young poet laureate
In addition to representing full-time models, IMG has a variety of entertainment figures on its list, including Chrissy Teigen and Selena Gomez, as well as musicians, actors and sports stars like Naomi Osaka. The agency’s latest deal will develop endorsements and editorial opportunities for Gorman in the fashion and beauty sectors.
Although Gorman has yet to speak out about the business, she recently spoke with Vogue about her interest in fashion. In an interview published shortly before the inauguration, she told the magazine that she would be incorporating her “own type of symbolism” in the last Wednesday clothes.
“(Fashion) has a lot of meaning for me, and it’s my way of leaning towards the story that came before me and all the people who supported me,” she said.
