Written by Oscar Holland, CNN
Less than a week after captivating audiences at President Joe Biden’s inauguration ceremony, award-winning American poet Amanda Gorman has signed with one of the largest modeling agencies in the world.
On Monday, the 22-year-old Harvard graduate struck 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 for spectators in Washington and around the world, the Los Angeles native also impressed with her vivid fashion choices.
Amanda Gorman speaks at the inauguration of U.S. President Joe Biden at the U.S. Capitol on January 20, 2021. Credit: Patrick Semansky / AP
Wearing a yellow double-breasted coat by Italian designer Miuccia Prada and a red satin Prada tiara, the poet and activist stood out against the quieter crowd behind. She completed the outfit with jewelry – featuring Oprah Winfrey – by independent designers, including New York-based brand Of Rare Origin and Greek jewelry maker Nikos Koulis.
In the days since he was put in the world spotlight, Gorman has made several public appearances. CNN’s Anderson Cooper said on the air that it was “transfixed” by the poet during an interview shortly after the inauguration. Meanwhile, during a virtual appearance on “The Ellen DeGeneres Show,” meanwhile, DeGeneres “approved” Gorman as president, even though she is still 13 years below the minimum age required for a presidency.
Gorman’s upcoming 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 awesome”: Cooper was blown away by the award-winning young poet
In addition to representing full-time models, IMG has several entertainment figures on its roster, including Chrissy Teigen and Selena Gomez, as well as musicians, actors and sports stars such as Naomi Osaka. The agency’s latest agreement will lead him to develop publishing endorsements and opportunities for Gorman in the fashion and beauty sectors.
Although Gorman has not yet released a statement on the deal, he recently spoke with Vogue about his interest in fashion. In an interview published shortly before the inauguration, he told the magazine that he would incorporate his “own kind of symbolism” into the latest Wednesday’s dress.
“(Fashion) has so much meaning to me, and it’s my way of delving into the story that came before me and all the people who supported me,” she says.
