Beauty, difference & doing something different; photoshoot for Ladybeard and Dazed
The team at Ladybeard were invited to do an Instagram takeover for Dazed Beauty, Dazed magazine’s beauty platform on 10th – 11th November 2018. For their feature, they decided they’d like to use the opportunity to showcase the many diverse forms of beauty, which may have historically been overlooked by the beauty industry, by reaching out to people with visual differences to get involved.
With CLAPA’s help, the magazine invited anyone who might be interested from CLAPA’s community of adults to a short, stripped-back photoshoot in Hackney, London.
I think that beauty comes from within; I wish that people wouldn’t judge others on their looks. I was lucky growing up because I wasn’t bullied at school like some people who are born different. I don’t have any issues with my appearance: I have always had a cleft so I don’t know any different. I don’t let it bother me because it’s part of me and who I am. ” – Rita for Ladybeard and @dazedbeauty
Kenny’s Story
CLAPA’s Kenny Ardouin shared his experience of the photoshoot, and why he’d encourage others to leave their comfort zone to find their confidence.
Last week I did something that was a little bit scary.
CLAPA was contacted by Ladybeard Magazine as they were doing an Instagram takeover of Dazed Beauty‘s page and wanted to showcase visible difference and help to redefine beauty and thought cool, that’s a neat thing for someone else who feels a bit more comfortable with putting themselves out there like that to do.
A year or two ago, there is no way that I would have done something like this.
When asked if I’d consider doing it, it was fair to say I was feeling rather reluctant. However, my wonderfully supportive colleagues provided some gentle encouragement to take this step out of my comfort zone and give it a go.
I’m sure there’s a saying out there along the lines of the most exciting things in life happening where the comfort zone ends. I’m glad I went along, Tyro and Elliss who were doing the shoot were very professional and it was clear that they feel passionately about bringing about greater representation into the fashion industry.
A year or two ago, there is no way that I would have done something like this. Thank you for the opportunity and for showcasing me, just simply for being me.