We are so used to a certain beauty standard that the fashion industry loves to push on people. It has been exacerbated by social media, making it even harder to create a more inclusive field. But none of that could stop Sofia Jirau, the newly signed Victoria’s Secret model who paved an inclusive route.
Meet Sofia Jirau, the girl who made became viral after she walked her first New York Fashion Week runway in February 2020.
Sofia joined a range of incredible people for Victoria’s Secret newest campaign, Love Cloud, from a fitness coach, and a firefight, to a woman in a wheelchair. Sofia herself has Down Syndrome and couldn’t be happier when she announced it on her social media.
Born in Puerto Rico, Sofia had always dreamed of becoming a model since she was young.
After years of her and her family’s effort, she started making a presence on social media. It piqued the interes of fashion designer Marisa Santiago, who invited her to the New York Fashion Week. That night, she made such an impact and went viral.
Sofia shared her excited on her social media, “Yesterday, I achieved a dream. I was born for this and I want to show the world that I have everything a model needs to shine.”
She’s come a very long way since then and never stopped working before she was signed with Victoria’s Secret.
Sofia, unbelievably happy with the work, shared on her page, “One day I dreamed about it, I worked to get there, and today it’s a dream come true. I can finally tell you my big secret. I am the first Victoria’s Secret model with Down syndrome! Thank you all for always supporting me in my endeavors. This is just the beginning!”
That was one life’s goal checked on the list! Sofia shares another one of her dream, which is to own an accessories brand. She started Alavett.
Her brand sells many cute things ranging from accessories to mugs, phone covers, and notebooks. And all of them were designed by Sofia!
She has also taken on jobs where she can help promote inclusivity in the industry. And many have shared how she’s inspiring them so much.
Sofia has been active making content, such as sharing her workout sessions, fashion & beauty tips, and trips with her family.
