Fashion's new voice: Sadi Kara Zade's contribution to industry diversity

Sadi Kara Zade, a model with eight years of experience, has made notable progress in the American fashion industry since leaving her home country of Azerbaijan. Discovered on Facebook at age 16, Kara Zade`s career began with becoming the face of Alda Coppola in Azerbaijan before transitioning to work in the United States.

In Los Angeles Kara Zade has collaborated with American and European brands and appeared in major fashion publications. Her work spans various styles, demonstrating versatility in the fashion world.

«When I started, I didn’t know if there was a place for models from Azerbaijan in American fashion», Kara Zade states. «I`m glad there is room for diverse backgrounds in this industry».

Educational background and career development

Kara Zade`s path to fashion was not direct. She holds a bachelor`s degree in history science, later supplementing her practical modelling experience with formal fashion education. This includes completing the LVMH course and taking classes at Parsons School of Design.

This combination of academic knowledge and industry experience has shaped Zade`s approach to fashion. It allows her to consider both historical context and current trends in her work.

Representation in the fashion industry

Recently there has been an increased focus on diversity in fashion. The Fashion Spot`s 2023 report, analysing 685 magazine covers from 48 top international fashion publications, found that 52.9% featured people of colour. This marks an improvement, though it also indicates room for further progress.

As a model from Azerbaijan, Kara Zade represents a group not commonly seen in Western fashion. Her presence contributes to the ongoing diversification of the industry.

«I aim to showcase the beauty that exists in all cultures, particularly those that have been underrepresented in fashion», Zade explains.

Future plans and industry trends

Kara Zade is currently a model but has expressed interest in expanding her role in the fashion industry. Her stated goals include becoming a creative director and launching her fashion line, focusing on inclusivity, innovation and sustainability.

These aspirations align with current industry trends. A 2023 McKinsey report found that 79% of consumers consider sustainability an important factor in their purchasing decisions. Additionally, the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) reported in 2023 that 57% of its members identified sustainability as a top priority for their businesses, up from 41% in 2019.

Despite progress, the fashion industry faces diversity and fair treatment issues. A 2023 study by the Model Alliance reported that 29.5% of models have experienced inappropriate touching on the job, and 28% have been pressured to alter their appearance in ways that made them uncomfortable.

These statistics highlight areas where the industry still needs improvement. Kara Zade views these challenges as opportunities for positive change.

«Each challenge I`ve faced has reinforced my desire to contribute positively to the industry», she says. «I hope to help create an environment where all fashion professionals feel respected».

As Zade continues her career, her impact on the fashion industry remains to be seen. Her journey from Azerbaijan to working with major fashion brands represents one example of increasing diversity in the industry.

Her plans to launch her line and move into a creative direction indicate an intention to influence the industry beyond modelling. Kara Zade`s focus on sustainability aligns with current consumer and industry trends, which could benefit her future endeavours.

While the fashion industry has progressed in diversity and inclusion, data suggests there`s still work to be done. Professionals like Sadi Kara Zade contribute to this ongoing process, bringing new perspectives to the field.

By: Mae Cornes