RuPaul’s Drag Race UK star Bimini Bon Boulash has received a modelling contract from Next Model Management. A new form of supermodel is on the rise and we can’t wait to see what’s next.
The Norfolk born, east London-based Bimini began to explore the Soho club scene at 18 years old. Bimini, the artist formally known as Timmy Hibbitts, has caused a stir recently. The 27-year old drag star identifies as non-binary. Their recent acquisition of a Next Models contract has signalled a major shift in mainstream fashion. Importantly, it also highlights a welcome change of attitudes in conventional culture.
Bimini states in an Instagram post,
I’m so excited to announce that I have been signed to @nextmodels ?
Never in my wildest dreams would I have ever thought this possible. This opportunity is a huge crazy, mind-blowing moment for my gender-non comforting a*s… This is huge for non-binary representation in fashion and I’m so thankful that Next want to take this chance with me!! ?
Bimini Bon Boulash only made their drag debut in a lip-syncing contest in 2017. Since, Boulash made it to the final 3 on RuPaul’s Drag Race UK. Taking the fashion world by storm has come easily to the budding star. Significantly, the Next Models deal is a landmark moment. Boulash explained to Vogue,
“For the average person walking down the road, being seen as androgynous is not easy. There’s just not been that many people out and proud as non-binary…There shouldn’t be boxes or labels that we put upon ourselves.”
Normalising LGBTQ+
Gaining the representation of Next Models is a big step towards mainstream acceptance of LGBTQ+ culture. Particularly, after the star was signed to Next Model’s main bookings list rather than its talent section for special projects. Bimini has started to illuminate the path towards better representation for marginalised groups. Amanda Bretherton, president of Next Models, told Vogue,
“Inclusivity should absolutely extend to all gender identities…
“Bimini exudes beauty inside and out and carries such an important message which is needed right now: positivity and acceptance. It is what we all need for a beautiful future.”
Icons John Galliano, Vivienne Westwood, Alexander McQueen and Kate Moss inspire Bimini. And the transformative nature of drag is what interests them the most. Bimini likes to push the boundaries and try out new things. Finding their way in a notoriously difficult industry to break into, Bimini has become an instant sensation, telling Vogue,
“There’s no destination for drag, it’s a continuous journey.”
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