Models with Down syndrome on magazine covers: yeah!

I can count on one hand the number of times I've seen models with disabilities in fashion magazines, though this weekend I was happy to spot Ellie Goldstein on the cover of the Mexican edition of Elle when my friend Patty shared the cover on Facebook.

A too-brief history: In 2018, Teen Vogue released three covers of its September issue—one with model and champion gymnast Chelsea Werner, who has Down syndrome; one with Mama Cax, an advocate and amputee; and one with Jillian Mercado, an actress and model who has muscular dystrophy. 

British model Ellie Goldstein broke new ground last year when she appeared in a Gucci mascara campaign and on the cover of the December digital edition of Allure.

And now, the 19-year-old has done it again: a cover on Mexican Elle and a fashion spread inside the magazine. Ellie worked it as glamorously and gorgeously as any model. (Interesting choice on the kabuki-style makeup, eh?) 

I'll say what I always do: Maybe someday, it won't be news when a beautiful woman who has Down syndrome appears in a magazine because it will just be a normal thing. But here I am, thrilled to see Ellie and thrilled to spread the word.