“People of colour all over the world need to know that they are Kings and Queens and the story of Alice in Wonderland puts that into proper perspective.”—says Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs in the promotional video of the 2018 Pirelli calendar. The next edition of the cult fashion calendar is shot by Tim Walker, the photographer famous for his fairy-tale imagery. The cast features POC models only, which was a conscious decision. A new example is being set for the fashion industry. The selection of images celebrates diversity.  In fairytales at least, there are few  literary role models for non-white kids growing up today. By recreating the story of Alice in Wonderland, in this way, Tim Walker is aiming to challenge that.

The models include A-list celebrities and up-and-coming creatives alike. Alice is played by  Duckie Thot, South-Sudanese top model who shot to fame on the eighth cycle of Australia’s Next Top Model. Beninese-American actor and model, Djimon Hounsou is cast as The King of Hearts. American entertainer, king of fabulosity RuPaul, is the Queen of Hearts. Actress and activist Lupita Nyong’o is the Doormouse, Whoopi Goldberg the Dutchess; and Sean Combs and Naomi Campbell, the Executioners.

The calendar marks a grand shift in pop culture consciousness. And Pirelli has come a long way since the ‘artful nudes’ it was known for throughout the 90s.

Following last year’s ‘brains over boobs’ themed edit, shot by Annie Lebovitz, the 2018 edition marks the turn towards a better world.

As one model states, “Inclusion should be mandatory.” The new Pirelli calendar is the another step towards achieving that.

Words by Leila Kozma + Team Slapp