Casting Directors Pushing Diversity

Fashion Week is a huge event to showcase designers’ new collections for the upcoming seasons to the fashion press, buyers, influencers, and eventually, the public. But it is not only about the clothes worn down the runway, but the presentation in full including the diversity of models.

London-based casting director, Mischa Notcutt, puts diversity first when recruiting models for clients. Working under her agency, 11 Casting, she has worked with a range of brands that hire a diverse cast of models. In the InStyle article, she speaks directly about the importance of her role as a casting director.

Notcutt has collaborated with brands such as Ashish (pictured above), Asai, and Cottweiler.

Notcutt states, “Ultimately, it comes down to the brand. Casting directors can present a diverse group of models, but the decision comes down to the client. However, I am not scared of having a conversation about why [diversity] isn't being considered and the fact there is a lack of it in a lineup.” While the final decision is made ultimately by the company, casting directors can still present a diverse lineup for consideration.

Mischa Notcutt is only one of many from this new generation of casting directors. Listed in a 2017 article on the Business of Fashion celebrating these professionals, Notcutt states, “Especially when you’ve got 20 or 30 models in the show, there’s simply no excuse.” Joining her on the list are the founder of AAMØ Casting, Madeleine Østlie, founder of Nii Agency, Campbell Addy, and more. These two are both using their agencies to not only increase diversity, but to change the standards of the fashion industry as a whole.