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Meet Melanie Gaydos, 28-Year-Old Model With A Rare Genetic Disorder Who Broke All Fashion Stereotypes
Melanie Gaydos is challenging the fashion industry and highlighting the importance of diversity in it. She was born with ectodermal dysplasia — an umbrella term for a series of rare genetic disorders that affects the development of skin, hair, and nails. Despite being bullied for her appearance when younger, this didn’t stop her from becoming a famous model and landing a variety of different gigs.
Appearing in a Rammstein music video helped Melanie to garner wider attention and the offers kept coming in after that. Her unique appearance lends itself perfectly to more avant-garde clothing and high fashion styles. However, she's refused to be boxed in as an alternative model and she's also walked in multiple New York Fashion Week shows.
This collection of creative photography captures Melanie in stirring fantasy scenes and different editorial shots. Some may find her look disturbing — a stigma that Melanie has faced her entire life. However, others will appreciate her unconventional beauty and recognize her incredible work as both a fashion model and an inspiring role model.
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#3
Sherri Gage 8 years ago
Good for her. We're too stuck on.physical beauty. She's showing that there are many types of beauty, beyond the stereotypes.
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Satellite Skin 8 years ago
This! I scrolled past this pic so damn fast. Lol
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Gina Sobrero 8 years ago
The creativity of the photographer and stylists on all definitely need recognition too!
Mila Perez 7 years ago
while visiting NYC - I couldn't help but be captivated by this poster thru out the city......
Camille Renaud 8 years ago
j'adore cette image elle est en plein gore et de beauté à la fois elle surpprennd mais elle est belle
Shelby Wolf 8 years ago
I just love her versatility! She pulls off the more classical model photography flawlessly, and not only embraces the strange but picks it up and makes it something haunting and different. Absolutely epic.
Mircea Gutu 8 years ago
wow - one of the most disturbing things i've seen on the internet... thank you!
Blue Cicada 8 years ago
This photo is NOT intended to show a monster! Perhaps our inner workings/busy mind?
Joelle Sahbi-Marze 8 years ago
Bien dommage que des alvéoles dans le cerveau c'est sans doute le plus difficile pour soi et les surtout les autres
İdil 8 years ago
The only thing that bothers me about this picture is her nails! Why oh why, you're a model, don't bite off your nails gurl.
Roy Vanderaa 8 years ago
Because of her condition, her hair, nails teeth and cartilage won't grow. Still beautiful, though.
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Crystal Dafoe 8 years ago
There are plenty of beautiful pictures here of her.....
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Amoina Katsky 8 years ago
Best one so far! Not only the picture, but also she, is a work of art here.
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Sheila Stamey 8 years ago
This young lady is a goddess. Absolutely wonderful. They say you can tell art, not by the way it make you feel, but that it does make you feel. I am awestruck by this entire series.
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What do you think ?
Ildiko S. 8 years ago
Amazing pictures! I love their world, the style, everything. But tbh, it seems that it ain't much about breaking stereotypes. Fashion photography nowadays is kind of a "freak show" - not in a way, that I think they are freaks, but that they hunt down people who look very different and display them. The stranger the better - then they say "oh, everyone is beautiful", which sells very well. On one hand, I am happy for the message, on the other hand... Are these people really respected in this context? I dunno, it all leaves me confues:D My moral compass is spinning.
Daria B 8 years ago
I have the same thoughts ad you. But my conclusion usually ends with the typical "oh, well, if they're truly happy with this, good for them".
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Kobitka-artworks Tumblr 8 years ago
maybe 'Broke All Fashion Stereotypes' but she's still skinny as an anorecter :<
Vanessa Parkin 8 years ago
If you think that France has just banned models that are too thin which this lady obviously is, the clothes are not going to fit normal people who tend to be larger than the model, and I agree she is being used as a shock tactic to attract attention. What is wrong with admitting to yourself that you are just not built to be a model, or play a certain sport, or do a certain activity it seems that everything is about having to accept people taking part in activities that they really are not good at, not able to do properly or making more abled bodied people drag them or push them throughout these activities. I can accept there are things I can't do why then can't anybody else!
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Chris Maynard 8 years ago
This article really mischaracterises what ED is. It does NOT, in fact, prevent teeth, nails, pores, cartilage, and bones from developing (look at the photos... clearly this model has bones... duh). It is a group of syndromes involving varying degrees of abnormality to the ectodermal structures. The disorder most commonly involves abnormal growth of hair, teeth, nails, sweat glands, salivary glands, cranial-facial structure, and fingers & toes. Actor Michael Berryman also suffers from the disorder.
Audrey 8 years ago
What i want to say is that i don't feel the beauty . I look at them several Times but always same feeling. Sorry all
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Josie Ekstrand 8 years ago
fashion industry has become a race to see which designer can find something or someone to outdo the others, since their designs cannot speak for themselves, the crazier, the weirdest, and the bizarre is what sells clothes these days , pathetic,
Alexandra Furnea 8 years ago
You know, if you had no idea she suffers from this disorder, and you just saw the pictures without any description, you'd call them fantasy and like them. And even if you didn't, you'd just see them as art. There's something within humans that makes them act weird around people marked as "diseased" or flawed. This is a shallow reaction which we should really get over if we claim to be evolved creatures. This woman is fascinating! She looks like she's from another planet, in a very cool kind of way. That's why Star Trek was so awesome. Because the characters coexisted and collaborated even, accepting their differences for what they were - traits that made them unique. We should learn from this and stop putting labels on people. As for normality, grow up and get over it. It doesn't exist. We're all "flawed" somewhere, and that's what makes us human, lovable and unique.
Rafaella Bueno 8 years ago
From my experience, it's the opposite. People are being nice because they know it's a "disease". If you said nothing, they'd go on about how "ugly" she is. But because there's a disease behind her "ugliness", it "counts as a disability" an it's the supposed to be praised and celebrated for the sake of inclusion for people to feel good about how nice they are. A dislexic person should be treated kindly and with patience, someone without a diagnose that has the same difficulty is just "dumb". Someone with a condition or disease deserves encouragement, an ugly person is just ugly and ridiculous. That's how I see people acting everywhere.
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Beckey Neal 8 years ago
Suddenly we have people with disorders, genetic abnormalities, down syndrome, becoming "models". Is this to get attention or what? I am happy for them, but it is a bit puzzling to me. This particular model is obviously very different looking but I don't get it.
Aissatou Sunjata 8 years ago
So, let's see! Where do you think these people are coming out of the woodwork from? Maybe, they are eating healthy food? Perhaps their parents were eating Kale, fresh fish, gluten-free food. Hopefully, you will never have to get it, deal with it or have a child who has any disorder for which someone describes you as someone who is getting attention. Someone who finds it puzzling. someone who is obviously very different looking, but they don't get it. Wonder what all those bugged eyed, buck-toothed, stringy haired, gapped toothed, glasses wearing, thin as a rail, bow-legged girls on the playground are thinking and perhaps they should simply end it all so they don't confuse anyone when they grow up and end up still be afflicted as previously described.
Load More Replies... Lazybones McCoy 8 years ago
I think she's smart woman who has built a career for herself, turning what many would consider a barrier to her advantage. I first saw her in the Rammstein video 'Mein Herz Brent' (she looked younger, but definitely recognisable) and in the making of the band were clearly impressed by her. No surprise at all she's having success.
Kaitlyn Linde 8 years ago
At the end if the day though she truly has a model body! So I don't think they are just using her for her disorder her body is insane!
lemontzz aide 8 years ago
I commend her courage. She didn't ask for this and has still chosen to live her life! There are fashion industry ppl. who painstakingly (!!) try to acquire the look (s), that she NATURALLY has. There is value & 'room' for all of us (!), as diverse needs (4 infinite reasons), mean that diverse ppl. must be sought after appreciated. Iidiko has a point, but if ppl like her are not appreciated - it's "about time" isn't?
Melody Lanzatella 8 years ago
I do NOT want to be disrespectful in ANY way, but, is anybody else thinking..."How is this different from disabled people in circus tents in the 1800's??"
Dorian Reeves 2 years ago
Because these photos aren’t designed to make you laugh, they’re designed to be works of art
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Wilma Parker 8 years ago
This model regardless of her illness is making money and with money she can live a better life - no one is forcing her to this modelling - she chose to do it and for that I give her a thumbs up !!!!! Laugh all the way to the bank Melanie - this world owes you. <3
Karen Kalenowski-Kalamaras 8 years ago
IF she is being used...have you ever thought that SHE is using them as well?! And that's a GOOD thing!! BRAVO girl, you are GORGEOUS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Valerie Kinsey 8 years ago
Set any stigma aside. She wanted to pose and she made phenomenal photos. She is beautiful and appreciated. That's all that matters.
John Highstreet 8 years ago
I would love to hang out with her, you can see the joy of life in the eyes and the sense of humor!! Awesome.
Rose Robles 8 years ago
I feel like they're making her look like a monster in a few of these. Is it me or is that so? Like, there's like two where she looks fine and then the rest, they make her look "alien", which to me, defeats the point.
Cindy Ricardo 8 years ago
Not being used at all. Its bringing awareness too these disorders. And show the world's ordinaries that its okay to embrace your physical abnormalities and love them.
Cynthia Jackson Hodges Seamen 8 years ago
Her modeling was being used artistically, not to sell clothes ,or fassion, but to sell individuality and she has a unique beauty that belongs to her and her alone. Well done do the agency who recognized it. And bravo for her not allowing other people to set the standard for what beauty can be, by listening to the body shamers! Beauty has no limits to a true artist! And she proves any one can do anything they set their mind to if they are tenacious enough and find the right like minds.
Miriam Martinez 8 years ago
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder...to me she has Unique beauty and proud of it...two thumbs up...God Bless
Kelly Tan 8 years ago
Good for her that she found success with this, but honestly the prevailing message from these (like the girl with vitaligo) seems to be as long as you have the body of a model and smooth skin, THEN you have a shot at being celebrated. Yes it allows for a lot of variety even within that, but it just seems to emphasize the value of a slender and statuesque figure in the fashion world. You may have a deformed face (no shame meant to her) but if you're thin you're golden. I see the aesthetic value in her look and still think this is better than no diversity at all, but stories like these are always presented with a narrative that say "anyone can be a model no matter how you look" when really they are successful because they still hit very specific physical requirements.
Buk Lao 8 years ago
This offends me as a vegan transgender atheist who vapes and crossfits 4 times a week and im also a male feminist as I identify myself as a pastafarian apache helicopter dog mega multi combo god of hyper death and if you dont agree with me. You're an ignorant arrogant globaphobic sexist lesbian.
Henry Viley 8 years ago
I think you missed the sarcastic invocation of race, but the rest is golden.
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Laura Cole 8 years ago
My thoughts exactly. "Other-worldly" was the very same word that popped into my head. These photos are amazing.
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Leah Forgy 8 years ago
These photos are amazing, but that really has more to do with the art director and the photographer than the model.
Vuga Sonn 3 years ago
For all you folks saying she looks gorgeous, seriously you dont need to sound patronizing or politically correct, how many of you would like to look like her or have a child that looks like her. She has hopefully embraced her looks but you dont have to lie to yourselves about it.
Mitzie LaRocco 6 years ago
This is a perfect example of life handing you a lemon and making that valuable glass of thirst quenching lemonade!. Making the Very Best out of something someone else would think of as a Curse is definitely one of the best coping skills ever!
Sam Cull 7 years ago
I don't think she's been hired out of pity or as a politically correct PR stunt. Her look is unconventional and if you look at some of the models that are used on the cat wall they aren't always the typical beauty standard promoted in glossy mags. This girl has something otherworldly about her and I think she would(if she doesn't already) do very well in the more artistic side of fashion. People like Alexander McQueen whose dresses were more like sculptures. I think it's disgusting that you automatically assume that she wouldn't acheive success on her own merit rather than because people see her as a charity case. These photos are incredible.
Charlotte Freeman 8 years ago
She reminds me of someone I used to know ; from the neck down she was like the rest of us; but she had a genetic disorder that affected her face and hair.
Karen Bates 8 years ago
Standard fashion model body with face of a genetic disorder. She may not have been hired if standardly "pretty". She can capitalize on her differences. Marketers do too. If she was shorter and wider she'd be just considered not-model material....Even with a gorgeous face. So what we're saying is thin and gangly supersedes moderately average and patently pretty. Hmmm. Odd is in.
Lizabeth Shelberg 8 years ago
I think her unique look is used in an amazing way artistically! She has such an unusual beauty! Let's all celebrate her uniqueness along side her!
Doris Satterfield 8 years ago
What happened with this young lady after being on "The Doctors" show.? They set up up with teeth n such other things as she desired!!
Vonk Michael 8 years ago
Definitely great. It is by no means different from hiring people who are considered beautiful by society. Purpose of marketing is to get attention and thats the job description. If you treat people with or without disorder equally you should not feel anything wrong about this. Posotive side they now have equal chance of landing a job as a model. They are just different from the majority they are not a disorder without our bias thinking. Our mind should not be restricted by what society dictates. Great pictures....
casiol cassy 8 years ago
She is not being used. She wanted to be a model since she was young. Growing up, she never see herself as different than the other. She had that confidence within HERSELF. She started building her own portfolio and start small via craiglists. That's when she started building good rapport among photographers that help builds her career up. She is living her dream so just leave her alone.
Linda Hilbert 8 years ago
It looks like she just has a hair lip to me. Couldn't surgery correct that? Can she gain weight or will she always be this thin?
Henrique Assis 8 years ago
Melanie also performed a character in the Rammstein's musicvideo Mein Herz Brennt: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WXv31OmnKqQ
Alex Hunt 8 years ago
This is direct evidence that you just need to believe in yourself. A well-known actor Michael Berryman also suffered from this disease, and this did not stop him from becoming famous. Skateboarder and artist Levi Hokkin also has this disease. They are written in Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michael_Berryman https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nek_minnit Melanie became famous after shooting in the clip Mein Herz Brennt - Rammstein https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WXv31OmnKqQ. After that she collaborated with all fashion designers! The list is huge! This brands cooperated with Melanie https://gearrelapse.com/ She's best! I admire these people. They live with a severe physical illness and were able to overcome the same psychic personality disorders that persecute people who are different from everyone.
Trudy Taylor 8 years ago
i have seen her in rammstein videos. some of her pictures aren't all that bizarre, but the red lipstick and big sunglasses are. she isdifferent, but beautiful all the same.
Debra Amerbach 8 years ago
Maybe they are a part of a new evolution of many and we don't yet recognize it.
Debbie Gilbey 8 years ago
Amazing pictures. Fabulously artistic. Which genetic disorder does she have??? Also agencies have long been seeking "different" looks which is cool (im 5"2 i aint growing) but more recently it seems that they chose "disabled/downs/diseased" etc to highlight/profiteer/include everyone. While she has a great unique look lets focus on that and nothing else. Instead of gaining Extra credibility just because she got some employment despite whichever illness she has
Alan G. 8 years ago
Melanie has a rare genetic disorder called ectodermal dysplasia, which affects the growth of pores, teeth, nails, and small bones. She also has alopecia and is partially blind.
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Kelly Tan 8 years ago
I still think it's amazing that she was able to overcome what must have been hard on a person's self esteem to the point where she's able to model professionally, but it's still disingenuous to ignore that she still very much hits the what seems to be very unshakably important in fashion which is a thin body and long limbs.
Santiago Suarez 8 years ago
I think she is pure beauty. I am not being politically correct, I think she has a quality that makes her look beyond human and creates an illusion of something trascendental (which is art in pure form).
Taija Humisto 8 years ago
This makes me so sad. These comments are super albeistic. If you don't know what that means google it.
Rhân 8 years ago
Where did she broke "all fashion stereotypes"? She is skinny, she is tall, she has something that makes her different and kind of fascinating - that all are things fashion industry is looking for.. but nice for her, that she could build up something positive out of something "negative"
Lori Tubello 8 years ago
If you're take away is that this person is being exploited, the dynamic of artistic beauty is without question wasted on you. These are exquisite, spell binding almost. How remarkable for this woman, to feel, look and be beautiful in such an ugly world. Bravo.
chamzilla1 8 years ago
She is unique and beautiful. but most likely ot was her body shape that paved the way of these photos.
Jenni Jones 8 years ago
I found this chic a long time ago through Instagram. She rocks! I love and adore unique, bold women of every kind!
Karen Kalenowski-Kalamaras 8 years ago
If she is being used, have you ever thought SHE will only benefit by it...BRAVO girl...you are AMAZING and GORGEOUS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Kal Reece 8 years ago
It's not so important how you feel about this work. It's what it is and some will love it and create progress somehow, others will be repulsed or critical, and others confused and for them that will be that. For me, the fact that she has this profound human abnormality makes her courage a gift and encourages me to be thankful and do more with what I have.
Alice Folletrange 8 years ago
such an amazing work very creative beautiful amazing and you inspire me congrats
Apollo 8 years ago
Why are we so extremely obsessed by looks? Everything has to fit in or we freak out. The only difference between her and others is that her nose and lips look different. So what? Why stigmatize someone because he/she is different than what we are used to? It's very primitive to think that way.
Flora Polvado 8 years ago
Looking at a unique and beautiful human=a sunset, Grumpy cat, kittens and puppies........
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MagicalUnicorn 8 years ago
i love her facial features - she can do really strong and powerful expressions and her pictures are just stunning. kudos for being amazing!
Vicki Johnson 8 years ago
I found these pictures disturbing and frightening, not beautiful at all.
Sue Hall 8 years ago
No problem with her weight or her looks, just wish she wouldn't chew her nails!!
Lazy Panda 8 years ago
I don't think she chews her nails, it says in the description that part of her medical disorder prevents nails from developing so they don't grow any longer
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Karen Vincent 8 years ago
This makes me uncomfortable because it smacks of the sideshows that used to be a standard part of any circus or carnival. It was the only way for people like this to make a living because most were not allowed in schools. If people are , in truth, looking at the clothes that is fine, but I have a bad feeling that it gives them an opportunity to stare at someone's deformity while still being politically correct.
Mandy Delaforce (PC Girl) 8 years ago
Nope. I feel dirty like I've just been to a side show. Kudo's to her for getting out there, but it's not my cup of tea.
Pamela Grove 8 years ago
I think I've heard of her before. It certainly is astounding work. I'm not sure I understand the need for all the nudity. I know its "art" but I think its just as beautiful without it.
Leonora DeSimone 8 years ago
I'm not sure...how I feel about....not the young lady.......but the type of photos...this is not my style.....I would rather have seen her in normal ...beautiful...outfits and back ground....to me the designers...were.not for her. . It's like they were feeding into her condition....instead of showing the beauty.
SusanS 8 years ago
Barriers? She is rail thin and that is pretty much all a "model" needs. Also, I agree with another poster who said that the 'new thing' is exploitation of different disorders in order to get attention for themselves. I find it annoying and insulting to the model and the viewer.
Walner Alcius 8 years ago
Am I the only one who thinks most of photos are demonic looking, hidden agenda...
endelbendel 8 years ago
Happily sexualized images of an unusual appearance. Some are conceptual art.
Panpan 8 years ago
You shouldn't talk about her like that. She has no choice. She has to live with this rare condition and you're here criticizing her. You're the hideous monster. You're the gross one.
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Juana 8 years ago
This happens even to the "pretty" ones when they hit a certain age. In fashion, one day you're in and the next day you're out.
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jacluckycat 8 years ago
That's kinda f****d up. My mum voted trump and i did not but i love her to death and could give a fig about our political differences. People are more than their political ideologies. Why even bring politics into this
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Ildiko S. 8 years ago
Amazing pictures! I love their world, the style, everything. But tbh, it seems that it ain't much about breaking stereotypes. Fashion photography nowadays is kind of a "freak show" - not in a way, that I think they are freaks, but that they hunt down people who look very different and display them. The stranger the better - then they say "oh, everyone is beautiful", which sells very well. On one hand, I am happy for the message, on the other hand... Are these people really respected in this context? I dunno, it all leaves me confues:D My moral compass is spinning.
Daria B 8 years ago
I have the same thoughts ad you. But my conclusion usually ends with the typical "oh, well, if they're truly happy with this, good for them".
Load More Replies... Kobitka-artworks Tumblr 8 years ago
maybe 'Broke All Fashion Stereotypes' but she's still skinny as an anorecter :<
Vanessa Parkin 8 years ago
If you think that France has just banned models that are too thin which this lady obviously is, the clothes are not going to fit normal people who tend to be larger than the model, and I agree she is being used as a shock tactic to attract attention. What is wrong with admitting to yourself that you are just not built to be a model, or play a certain sport, or do a certain activity it seems that everything is about having to accept people taking part in activities that they really are not good at, not able to do properly or making more abled bodied people drag them or push them throughout these activities. I can accept there are things I can't do why then can't anybody else!
Load More Replies... Chris Maynard 8 years ago
This article really mischaracterises what ED is. It does NOT, in fact, prevent teeth, nails, pores, cartilage, and bones from developing (look at the photos... clearly this model has bones... duh). It is a group of syndromes involving varying degrees of abnormality to the ectodermal structures. The disorder most commonly involves abnormal growth of hair, teeth, nails, sweat glands, salivary glands, cranial-facial structure, and fingers & toes. Actor Michael Berryman also suffers from the disorder.
Audrey 8 years ago
What i want to say is that i don't feel the beauty . I look at them several Times but always same feeling. Sorry all
Load More Replies... Josie Ekstrand 8 years ago
fashion industry has become a race to see which designer can find something or someone to outdo the others, since their designs cannot speak for themselves, the crazier, the weirdest, and the bizarre is what sells clothes these days , pathetic,
Alexandra Furnea 8 years ago
You know, if you had no idea she suffers from this disorder, and you just saw the pictures without any description, you'd call them fantasy and like them. And even if you didn't, you'd just see them as art. There's something within humans that makes them act weird around people marked as "diseased" or flawed. This is a shallow reaction which we should really get over if we claim to be evolved creatures. This woman is fascinating! She looks like she's from another planet, in a very cool kind of way. That's why Star Trek was so awesome. Because the characters coexisted and collaborated even, accepting their differences for what they were - traits that made them unique. We should learn from this and stop putting labels on people. As for normality, grow up and get over it. It doesn't exist. We're all "flawed" somewhere, and that's what makes us human, lovable and unique.
Rafaella Bueno 8 years ago
From my experience, it's the opposite. People are being nice because they know it's a "disease". If you said nothing, they'd go on about how "ugly" she is. But because there's a disease behind her "ugliness", it "counts as a disability" an it's the supposed to be praised and celebrated for the sake of inclusion for people to feel good about how nice they are. A dislexic person should be treated kindly and with patience, someone without a diagnose that has the same difficulty is just "dumb". Someone with a condition or disease deserves encouragement, an ugly person is just ugly and ridiculous. That's how I see people acting everywhere.
Load More Replies... Beckey Neal 8 years ago
Suddenly we have people with disorders, genetic abnormalities, down syndrome, becoming "models". Is this to get attention or what? I am happy for them, but it is a bit puzzling to me. This particular model is obviously very different looking but I don't get it.
Aissatou Sunjata 8 years ago
So, let's see! Where do you think these people are coming out of the woodwork from? Maybe, they are eating healthy food? Perhaps their parents were eating Kale, fresh fish, gluten-free food. Hopefully, you will never have to get it, deal with it or have a child who has any disorder for which someone describes you as someone who is getting attention. Someone who finds it puzzling. someone who is obviously very different looking, but they don't get it. Wonder what all those bugged eyed, buck-toothed, stringy haired, gapped toothed, glasses wearing, thin as a rail, bow-legged girls on the playground are thinking and perhaps they should simply end it all so they don't confuse anyone when they grow up and end up still be afflicted as previously described.
Load More Replies... Lazybones McCoy 8 years ago
I think she's smart woman who has built a career for herself, turning what many would consider a barrier to her advantage. I first saw her in the Rammstein video 'Mein Herz Brent' (she looked younger, but definitely recognisable) and in the making of the band were clearly impressed by her. No surprise at all she's having success.
Kaitlyn Linde 8 years ago
At the end if the day though she truly has a model body! So I don't think they are just using her for her disorder her body is insane!
lemontzz aide 8 years ago
I commend her courage. She didn't ask for this and has still chosen to live her life! There are fashion industry ppl. who painstakingly (!!) try to acquire the look (s), that she NATURALLY has. There is value & 'room' for all of us (!), as diverse needs (4 infinite reasons), mean that diverse ppl. must be sought after appreciated. Iidiko has a point, but if ppl like her are not appreciated - it's "about time" isn't?
Melody Lanzatella 8 years ago
I do NOT want to be disrespectful in ANY way, but, is anybody else thinking..."How is this different from disabled people in circus tents in the 1800's??"
Dorian Reeves 2 years ago
Because these photos aren’t designed to make you laugh, they’re designed to be works of art
Load More Replies... Wilma Parker 8 years ago
This model regardless of her illness is making money and with money she can live a better life - no one is forcing her to this modelling - she chose to do it and for that I give her a thumbs up !!!!! Laugh all the way to the bank Melanie - this world owes you. <3
Karen Kalenowski-Kalamaras 8 years ago
IF she is being used...have you ever thought that SHE is using them as well?! And that's a GOOD thing!! BRAVO girl, you are GORGEOUS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Valerie Kinsey 8 years ago
Set any stigma aside. She wanted to pose and she made phenomenal photos. She is beautiful and appreciated. That's all that matters.
John Highstreet 8 years ago
I would love to hang out with her, you can see the joy of life in the eyes and the sense of humor!! Awesome.
Rose Robles 8 years ago
I feel like they're making her look like a monster in a few of these. Is it me or is that so? Like, there's like two where she looks fine and then the rest, they make her look "alien", which to me, defeats the point.
Cindy Ricardo 8 years ago
Not being used at all. Its bringing awareness too these disorders. And show the world's ordinaries that its okay to embrace your physical abnormalities and love them.
Cynthia Jackson Hodges Seamen 8 years ago
Her modeling was being used artistically, not to sell clothes ,or fassion, but to sell individuality and she has a unique beauty that belongs to her and her alone. Well done do the agency who recognized it. And bravo for her not allowing other people to set the standard for what beauty can be, by listening to the body shamers! Beauty has no limits to a true artist! And she proves any one can do anything they set their mind to if they are tenacious enough and find the right like minds.
Miriam Martinez 8 years ago
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder...to me she has Unique beauty and proud of it...two thumbs up...God Bless
Kelly Tan 8 years ago
Good for her that she found success with this, but honestly the prevailing message from these (like the girl with vitaligo) seems to be as long as you have the body of a model and smooth skin, THEN you have a shot at being celebrated. Yes it allows for a lot of variety even within that, but it just seems to emphasize the value of a slender and statuesque figure in the fashion world. You may have a deformed face (no shame meant to her) but if you're thin you're golden. I see the aesthetic value in her look and still think this is better than no diversity at all, but stories like these are always presented with a narrative that say "anyone can be a model no matter how you look" when really they are successful because they still hit very specific physical requirements.
Buk Lao 8 years ago
This offends me as a vegan transgender atheist who vapes and crossfits 4 times a week and im also a male feminist as I identify myself as a pastafarian apache helicopter dog mega multi combo god of hyper death and if you dont agree with me. You're an ignorant arrogant globaphobic sexist lesbian.
Henry Viley 8 years ago
I think you missed the sarcastic invocation of race, but the rest is golden.
Load More Replies... Laura Cole 8 years ago
My thoughts exactly. "Other-worldly" was the very same word that popped into my head. These photos are amazing.
Load More Replies... Leah Forgy 8 years ago
These photos are amazing, but that really has more to do with the art director and the photographer than the model.
Vuga Sonn 3 years ago
For all you folks saying she looks gorgeous, seriously you dont need to sound patronizing or politically correct, how many of you would like to look like her or have a child that looks like her. She has hopefully embraced her looks but you dont have to lie to yourselves about it.
Mitzie LaRocco 6 years ago
This is a perfect example of life handing you a lemon and making that valuable glass of thirst quenching lemonade!. Making the Very Best out of something someone else would think of as a Curse is definitely one of the best coping skills ever!
Sam Cull 7 years ago
I don't think she's been hired out of pity or as a politically correct PR stunt. Her look is unconventional and if you look at some of the models that are used on the cat wall they aren't always the typical beauty standard promoted in glossy mags. This girl has something otherworldly about her and I think she would(if she doesn't already) do very well in the more artistic side of fashion. People like Alexander McQueen whose dresses were more like sculptures. I think it's disgusting that you automatically assume that she wouldn't acheive success on her own merit rather than because people see her as a charity case. These photos are incredible.
Charlotte Freeman 8 years ago
She reminds me of someone I used to know ; from the neck down she was like the rest of us; but she had a genetic disorder that affected her face and hair.
Karen Bates 8 years ago
Standard fashion model body with face of a genetic disorder. She may not have been hired if standardly "pretty". She can capitalize on her differences. Marketers do too. If she was shorter and wider she'd be just considered not-model material....Even with a gorgeous face. So what we're saying is thin and gangly supersedes moderately average and patently pretty. Hmmm. Odd is in.
Lizabeth Shelberg 8 years ago
I think her unique look is used in an amazing way artistically! She has such an unusual beauty! Let's all celebrate her uniqueness along side her!
Doris Satterfield 8 years ago
What happened with this young lady after being on "The Doctors" show.? They set up up with teeth n such other things as she desired!!
Vonk Michael 8 years ago
Definitely great. It is by no means different from hiring people who are considered beautiful by society. Purpose of marketing is to get attention and thats the job description. If you treat people with or without disorder equally you should not feel anything wrong about this. Posotive side they now have equal chance of landing a job as a model. They are just different from the majority they are not a disorder without our bias thinking. Our mind should not be restricted by what society dictates. Great pictures....
casiol cassy 8 years ago
She is not being used. She wanted to be a model since she was young. Growing up, she never see herself as different than the other. She had that confidence within HERSELF. She started building her own portfolio and start small via craiglists. That's when she started building good rapport among photographers that help builds her career up. She is living her dream so just leave her alone.
Linda Hilbert 8 years ago
It looks like she just has a hair lip to me. Couldn't surgery correct that? Can she gain weight or will she always be this thin?
Henrique Assis 8 years ago
Melanie also performed a character in the Rammstein's musicvideo Mein Herz Brennt: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WXv31OmnKqQ
Alex Hunt 8 years ago
This is direct evidence that you just need to believe in yourself. A well-known actor Michael Berryman also suffered from this disease, and this did not stop him from becoming famous. Skateboarder and artist Levi Hokkin also has this disease. They are written in Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michael_Berryman https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nek_minnit Melanie became famous after shooting in the clip Mein Herz Brennt - Rammstein https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WXv31OmnKqQ. After that she collaborated with all fashion designers! The list is huge! This brands cooperated with Melanie https://gearrelapse.com/ She's best! I admire these people. They live with a severe physical illness and were able to overcome the same psychic personality disorders that persecute people who are different from everyone.
Trudy Taylor 8 years ago
i have seen her in rammstein videos. some of her pictures aren't all that bizarre, but the red lipstick and big sunglasses are. she isdifferent, but beautiful all the same.
Debra Amerbach 8 years ago
Maybe they are a part of a new evolution of many and we don't yet recognize it.
Debbie Gilbey 8 years ago
Amazing pictures. Fabulously artistic. Which genetic disorder does she have??? Also agencies have long been seeking "different" looks which is cool (im 5"2 i aint growing) but more recently it seems that they chose "disabled/downs/diseased" etc to highlight/profiteer/include everyone. While she has a great unique look lets focus on that and nothing else. Instead of gaining Extra credibility just because she got some employment despite whichever illness she has
Alan G. 8 years ago
Melanie has a rare genetic disorder called ectodermal dysplasia, which affects the growth of pores, teeth, nails, and small bones. She also has alopecia and is partially blind.
Load More Replies... Kelly Tan 8 years ago
I still think it's amazing that she was able to overcome what must have been hard on a person's self esteem to the point where she's able to model professionally, but it's still disingenuous to ignore that she still very much hits the what seems to be very unshakably important in fashion which is a thin body and long limbs.
Santiago Suarez 8 years ago
I think she is pure beauty. I am not being politically correct, I think she has a quality that makes her look beyond human and creates an illusion of something trascendental (which is art in pure form).
Taija Humisto 8 years ago
This makes me so sad. These comments are super albeistic. If you don't know what that means google it.
Rhân 8 years ago
Where did she broke "all fashion stereotypes"? She is skinny, she is tall, she has something that makes her different and kind of fascinating - that all are things fashion industry is looking for.. but nice for her, that she could build up something positive out of something "negative"
Lori Tubello 8 years ago
If you're take away is that this person is being exploited, the dynamic of artistic beauty is without question wasted on you. These are exquisite, spell binding almost. How remarkable for this woman, to feel, look and be beautiful in such an ugly world. Bravo.
chamzilla1 8 years ago
She is unique and beautiful. but most likely ot was her body shape that paved the way of these photos.
Jenni Jones 8 years ago
I found this chic a long time ago through Instagram. She rocks! I love and adore unique, bold women of every kind!
Karen Kalenowski-Kalamaras 8 years ago
If she is being used, have you ever thought SHE will only benefit by it...BRAVO girl...you are AMAZING and GORGEOUS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Kal Reece 8 years ago
It's not so important how you feel about this work. It's what it is and some will love it and create progress somehow, others will be repulsed or critical, and others confused and for them that will be that. For me, the fact that she has this profound human abnormality makes her courage a gift and encourages me to be thankful and do more with what I have.
Alice Folletrange 8 years ago
such an amazing work very creative beautiful amazing and you inspire me congrats
Apollo 8 years ago
Why are we so extremely obsessed by looks? Everything has to fit in or we freak out. The only difference between her and others is that her nose and lips look different. So what? Why stigmatize someone because he/she is different than what we are used to? It's very primitive to think that way.
Flora Polvado 8 years ago
Looking at a unique and beautiful human=a sunset, Grumpy cat, kittens and puppies........
Load More Replies... MagicalUnicorn 8 years ago
i love her facial features - she can do really strong and powerful expressions and her pictures are just stunning. kudos for being amazing!
Vicki Johnson 8 years ago
I found these pictures disturbing and frightening, not beautiful at all.
Sue Hall 8 years ago
No problem with her weight or her looks, just wish she wouldn't chew her nails!!
Lazy Panda 8 years ago
I don't think she chews her nails, it says in the description that part of her medical disorder prevents nails from developing so they don't grow any longer
Load More Replies... Karen Vincent 8 years ago
This makes me uncomfortable because it smacks of the sideshows that used to be a standard part of any circus or carnival. It was the only way for people like this to make a living because most were not allowed in schools. If people are , in truth, looking at the clothes that is fine, but I have a bad feeling that it gives them an opportunity to stare at someone's deformity while still being politically correct.
Mandy Delaforce (PC Girl) 8 years ago
Nope. I feel dirty like I've just been to a side show. Kudo's to her for getting out there, but it's not my cup of tea.
Pamela Grove 8 years ago
I think I've heard of her before. It certainly is astounding work. I'm not sure I understand the need for all the nudity. I know its "art" but I think its just as beautiful without it.
Leonora DeSimone 8 years ago
I'm not sure...how I feel about....not the young lady.......but the type of photos...this is not my style.....I would rather have seen her in normal ...beautiful...outfits and back ground....to me the designers...were.not for her. . It's like they were feeding into her condition....instead of showing the beauty.
SusanS 8 years ago
Barriers? She is rail thin and that is pretty much all a "model" needs. Also, I agree with another poster who said that the 'new thing' is exploitation of different disorders in order to get attention for themselves. I find it annoying and insulting to the model and the viewer.
Walner Alcius 8 years ago
Am I the only one who thinks most of photos are demonic looking, hidden agenda...
endelbendel 8 years ago
Happily sexualized images of an unusual appearance. Some are conceptual art.
Panpan 8 years ago
You shouldn't talk about her like that. She has no choice. She has to live with this rare condition and you're here criticizing her. You're the hideous monster. You're the gross one.
Load More Replies... Juana 8 years ago
This happens even to the "pretty" ones when they hit a certain age. In fashion, one day you're in and the next day you're out.
Load More Replies... jacluckycat 8 years ago
That's kinda f****d up. My mum voted trump and i did not but i love her to death and could give a fig about our political differences. People are more than their political ideologies. Why even bring politics into this
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