A wheelchair-bound blogger-turned-model has won a major international fashion campaign.
Jillian Mercado, a 26-year-old New Yorker who suffers from muscular dystrophy – is the star of Diesel’s latest ad campaign.
“I hope this ad gives hope to people who are maybe saying ‘my life is over’ because they are disabled,” Jillian told the Daily Mail. “You can totally do anything. Nothing should be stopping you!”
It’s not the first time Diesel has featured a non-traditional model in a campaign – the streetwear brand’s recent Reboot series showcased the beauty of a plus-sized punk girl and an androgynous former Olympic swimmer.
The past year has seen a huge increase in the number of alternative models being cast in fashion campaigns – here are some of our favourite unorthodox beauties.
Jillian Mercado is proud of her wheelchair and wanted it to feature prominently in the shot.
Diesel’s Reboot campaign featured a plus-size punk girl and an androgynous former Olympic swimmer.
Moffy, who has cross-eyes, photographed by Tyrone LeBon for POP magazine.
Debbie van der Putten, who has one arm, is having success as a high fashion model.
Kelly Knox for Think New.
Double amputee Aimee Mullins is a L’Oreal spokesmodel.
Transgender model Isis King for American Apparel.
Faye Povey doesn’t let her crutches stop her from modelling.
Jenna Talackova has made it as a fashion model after being disqualified from Miss Universe because she was born male.
Transgender model Carmen Carerra in a risque ad for La Femme fragrance.
Sophie Morgan models from her wheelchair.
Holly Greenhow, 7, has cerebral palsy and is a model for Mini Boden.
Valentina Guerrero, who has Down syndrome, modelling for DC Kids swimwear.
Seb White, who has Down syndrome, modelling pyjamas for JoJo Maman Bebe.
Six-year-old Ryan Langston (far left) has Down syndrome and models for US Target.
Ryan has also modelled for US department store Nordstrom.
Five-year-old Natalia Goleniowski (right) also has Down syndrome but models for Frugi.
Ella Kinder, a child model with Down syndrome. Photo by Carrie at photographybycarrieperez.com.
