Naomi Sims, 'First Black Supermodel,' Dead At 61 (PHOTOS)

The New York Times reports that model Naomi Sims died on Saturday at age 61. The cause of death was cancer.

Sims was considered the "first black supermodel" for appearing on the cover of Ladies Home Journal in November 1968, a time when African-American models were few and far between. She subsequently modeled for designers like Halston, Fernando Sánchez, Teal Traina, and Giorgio di Sant'Angelo. She also appeared on many other magazine covers, and two images-- a 1969 cover of LIFE and a 1967 New York Times fashion magazine over--are on display in the Metropolitan Museum's "The Model As Muse" exhibit.

After five years, Sims retired from modeling and started a multimillion-dollar wig-making business that specialized in designs for black women. Sims also penned at least five books on beauty and modeling.

Naomi Campbell told Essence.com "She broke through the glass ceiling to lead the way for those models and business women of color, who followed in her footsteps."

PHOTOS:

• • • • • • LIFE, 1969

Comments

[missannamae]

07:44 PM on 08/09/2009

What a sad loss. She was such a role model for me as a young girl growing up in the south having darker-toned skin. How beautiful was this lady and she always carried herself with the grace of a lady. I think she still remains one of the most beautiful icons in the fashion industry.

[ChelseaC]

03:52 AM on 08/07/2009

What a stunningly beautiful woman.
She's with the angels now.

[TchoupitoulasCanal]

03:04 AM on 08/07/2009

She will definitely be missed. She was such a positive beacon for me at a time when it was almost impossible for little girls like myself to be able to look at a large-scale publication and see a beautiful face that was the same tone as mine.

She is one of the best, and her poise and beauty will be missed terribly.

[trebutts]

02:31 AM on 08/07/2009

Thank you for being a trailblazer, Ms. Sims. God Bless and R.I.P.

[shades3]

12:28 AM on 08/07/2009

She was some gorgeous. Too young to die.

[Bright Creature]

10:03 PM on 08/06/2009

Thanks, Naomi! Striking and beautiful and a pioneer

[Alicia Edwards]

09:49 PM on 08/06/2009

A beautiful trailblazer!

http://fashionasmusings.blogspot.com/2009/08/naomi-sims-black-and-beautiful.html

[sheaintsayin]

08:59 PM on 08/06/2009

OMG - another double day of loss this summer! ;-( This woman was awesomely beautiful and lovely in her grace, but I hadn't seen her in too many years. I bought every magazine on which she was the cover, hoping one day I could grow up and ...well, it didn't happen, but she was inspirational nonetheless.

[cocolola]

08:20 PM on 08/06/2009

You were a class act. As a little black girl going up in the South Park, you did me proud. God bless you.

[COCOPUFF69]

08:17 PM on 08/06/2009

A true African American beauty. RIP

[TheRealVSJ]

08:09 PM on 08/06/2009

I agree - Long before Tyra and the other Naomi (Campbell), Sims was beautiful and incredibly inspiring!

[zeke67]

07:13 PM on 08/06/2009

Thank you Naomi.

[ywcachieve]

01:25 PM on 08/06/2009

She was a gorgeous woman. RIP Naomi.

[2008FedUP]

03:58 PM on 08/06/2009

My sentiments as well.

[Bobbi Humphrey]

07:50 AM on 08/06/2009

Naomi,

Thanks for your iconic and bold walk in Fashion and Commerce. I will forever cherish our friendship and the moments shared in the magic of Mahatann living; playdates in Central Park, lunched at the "Factory" with Andy Warhol, nights of Studio 54. And you with your fresh-cut flowers, WQXR radio, and that brilliant smile that brought so much Joy! Thanks and my condolence to your family. Rest well, my friend. Love always, Bobbi Humphrey

[hollyhund]

11:28 PM on 08/05/2009

Rest now sweet Naomi! You taught the world what true beauty looks like. Will never forget the pride you exhibited.