Early Life and Struggles with Vitiligo
Winnie Harlow was born to parents Lisa Brown and Windsor Young, with Jamaican ancestry. She grew up with two sisters in Toronto. At the tender age of four, Harlow was diagnosed with vitiligo, an autoimmune disorder that causes depigmentation of sections of the skin. Vitiligo, though not life-threatening, deeply impacted her socially and emotionally. Throughout her childhood, Harlow was subjected to relentless bullying and cruel taunts from her peers. She was frequently called names such as "cow" and "zebra," leaving her feeling isolated and misunderstood. This bullying resulted in her changing schools multiple times and eventually dropping out of high school.
The psychological toll of being ostracized led to periods of deep depression, and Harlow even contemplated suicide during this time. However, she found strength in her uniqueness and decided to reclaim her identity. Her story of overcoming adversity became the foundation for her advocacy for inclusivity and acceptance.
Breakthrough on America’s Next Top Model and Early Career
Winnie Harlow’s life took a dramatic turn in 2014 when she was discovered on Instagram by Tyra Banks, the creator and host of the reality TV series America’s Next Top Model (ANTM). Harlow became the first Canadian to compete in the show’s 21st cycle, where she instantly captivated the audience with her striking appearance and unique look due to her vitiligo. Though she did not win the competition—being eliminated in the second week before making a comeback through the show’s secondary competition—her participation brought her international recognition.
After leaving America’s Next Top Model, Harlow’s career skyrocketed. She was selected as the brand representative for Desigual, a Spanish clothing line, which marked her first significant breakthrough in the modeling world. In 2015, she walked for Ashish at London Fashion Week and appeared in numerous fashion magazines, including i-D, Dazed, Complex, Glamour, and Cosmopolitan. Her work with renowned photographer Nick Knight for Diesel’s Spring/Summer campaign further solidified her place in the fashion industry.
Becoming a Fashion Icon
Winnie Harlow quickly rose to the top tier of the fashion world, appearing in campaigns for major brands such as Fendi, Marc Jacobs, Tommy Hilfiger, Diesel, Swarovski, Steve Madden, Nike, and Puma. Her most notable achievement came in 2018 when she made history as the first model with vitiligo to walk in the Victoria's Secret Fashion Show, a moment that resonated with many who felt underrepresented in the fashion industry.
Her modeling career extended beyond the runway. Harlow graced the covers of prestigious magazines like Vogue Italia, Ebony, and Glamour, and was featured in editorials for Harper's Bazaar and Vogue. Her presence was a powerful statement that beauty exists in all forms and that the fashion industry should embrace inclusivity.
In addition to her modeling career, Harlow appeared in Beyoncé's critically acclaimed visual album Lemonade in 2016, further expanding her influence in pop culture. She also appeared in music videos for high-profile artists, including Eminem’s "Guts Over Fear," Calvin Harris and Sam Smith’s "Promises," and the Black Eyed Peas’ "Where’s the Love?" More recently, she was featured in Wizkid's "True Love" and in Future, Metro Boomin, and The Weeknd’s "We Still Don’t Trust You."
Advocacy and Public Speaking
Winnie Harlow has used her platform to advocate for self-love and acceptance, particularly for individuals living with vitiligo and other visible differences. In 2011, she posted a YouTube video titled Vitiligo: A Skin Condition, Not a Life Changer, which helped her gain a following. She spoke candidly about her experiences with bullying and the emotional toll it took, while also emphasizing that vitiligo does not define who she is.
Her advocacy took on greater visibility in 2014 when she gave a TEDx talk, discussing her journey with vitiligo and how she embraced her uniqueness. This message of self-acceptance has resonated with people from all walks of life. Harlow was honored with the Role Model Award at the 2015 GQ Men of the Year event in Portugal and was named one of BBC’s 100 Women in 2018, recognizing her efforts to challenge beauty standards.
Entrepreneurship: The Launch of Cay Skin
Winnie Harlow’s career took another exciting turn in 2022 when she founded Cay Skin, a sun care and skincare brand. The inspiration for the brand came after she suffered a severe sunburn during a photoshoot where she was discouraged from reapplying sunscreen to prevent a white cast. The incident led to permanent changes in her vitiligo pattern, but it also sparked her desire to create a line of sun care products suitable for all skin tones.
Cay Skin aims to provide daily sun protection that nourishes and illuminates skin without leaving behind heavy or pore-clogging residues. The brand's signature products, including the Isle Glow Face Lotion SPF 45 and Isle Glow Body Lotion SPF 45, reflect Harlow’s commitment to inclusivity and healthy skincare for people of all skin types.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
Winnie Harlow’s influence extends far beyond her modeling career. She is a powerful voice for diversity and inclusivity in the fashion and beauty industries. Her journey from being bullied for her appearance to becoming a global icon has made her a role model for millions of people worldwide. She has shattered stereotypes and paved the way for individuals with skin conditions to embrace their uniqueness.
In addition to her work in fashion and skincare, Harlow has served as a judge on the Amazon Prime reality series Making the Cut and made appearances on popular shows such as Good Morning America and The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.
Winnie Harlow’s story is one of resilience, empowerment, and success. She continues to redefine beauty standards and inspire people to embrace their individuality, making her one of the most influential figures in modern fashion and activism.
Personal Philosophy
One of Winnie Harlow’s most famous quotes reflects her unwavering confidence and self-love:
"I have my flaws, but I embrace them and I love them because they’re mine."
This message encapsulates her journey from a young girl who was ridiculed for her appearance to a confident woman who has transformed the fashion and beauty industries.
Winnie Harlow’s life and career exemplify the power of embracing one’s differences. From overcoming childhood bullying to becoming a top supermodel and entrepreneur, Harlow has proven that self-acceptance and perseverance can lead to extraordinary success. Through her advocacy, modeling, and business ventures, she continues to inspire others to embrace their uniqueness and challenge societal beauty standards.
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