DL Models: Redefining Beauty, One Face at a Time
In the ever-evolving world of fashion, where diversity has become a buzzword but true inclusivity remains a challenge, DL Models Ltd stands as a revolutionary force. This groundbreaking London-based modeling agency is at the forefront of change, representing disabled and neurodivergent models while shattering outdated industry norms. With a mission to reshape perceptions of beauty and ability, DL Models is more than an agency—it’s a movement advocating for authentic representation and social change.
Founded on the principles of empowerment, accessibility, and equal opportunities, DL Models is committed to amplifying the voices of models who have long been overlooked. Their roster includes a diverse array of talented individuals with disabilities, neurodivergent conditions, and unique traits, proving that high fashion and commercial campaigns can—and should—embrace every body and every mind.
DL Models: collaborations with brands and their fashion show
DL Models collaborates with top fashion brands, luxury houses, and media outlets, ensuring that inclusivity goes beyond tokenism. By partnering with progressive designers, stylists, and creatives, the agency ensures that its models are not just featured but celebrated. Their talent has graced editorial spreads, runway shows, advertising campaigns, and digital platforms, proving that beauty is not defined by a single standard.
What sets DL Models apart is its commitment to accessibility within the fashion industry. The agency works closely with clients to ensure adaptive and accommodating environments, fostering a workspace where models feel respected, comfortable, and empowered to perform at their best. From adaptive fashion shoots to inclusive runway coaching, every aspect of DL Models is designed to dismantle barriers and redefine industry standards.
With the rise of inclusive fashion and the demand for genuine representation, DL Models is at the helm of a new era. Consumers today crave authenticity, and brands that embrace real diversity foster deeper connections with their audiences. DL Models not only meets this demand but drives the conversation forward, proving that disability and neurodivergence are not limitations but strengths that enrich the creative world.
At DL Models, the future of fashion is bold, barrier-free, and beautifully diverse. As the industry moves towards a more inclusive vision, this pioneering agency ensures that every face, every story, and every talent has a place in the spotlight.
We had an intimate talk with the Ceo Debbie-Lyn and her talents.
Debbie Lyn Connolly Lloyd
Fashion has long been dominated by rigid beauty standards. How do you see DL Models Ltd actively reshaping the industry’s perception of beauty?
Debbie Lyn – DL Models are actively reshaping the industry’s perception of beauty by challenging traditional standards and promoting inclusivity, representation, and authenticity. We specifically specialise in developing models who live with chronic illness, disability and neurodivergence, we feel there is such beauty in helping these individuals realise their full potential when so often they have placed personal limitations on their own potential or societal limitations have prevented them from previously following their dreams.
Your personal journey, from overcoming societal expectations to embracing your identity as a plus-size model with FND and ADHD, is deeply inspiring. How do these experiences inform your leadership and advocacy?
Debbie Lyn – Thank you! It’s difficult to stay consistent when you have FND and ADHD, but I have built an incredible team around me who make sure everything runs smoothly. I am grateful as a leader advocating for clients with disabilities, chronic illness and neurodivergence that I have lived experience meaning I can relate to them in an authentic way, and tailor their experience within the industry to best of my ability.
Inclusivity in fashion is more than just representation on the runway—it’s about systemic change. What challenges have you faced when pushing for diversity within high-fashion circles, and how have you tackled them?
Debbie Lyn – Honestly it’s still a constant fight within high fashion circles to represent more diversity! I usually approach this with education around the purple pound (disposable income for disabled individuals) and the importance of diverse representation in marketing. Some high end brands have begun to realise this, but we have a long way to go. DL Models are organising specific editorial shoots which promote diversity where we see gaps in representation. We aim to initiate systematic change through our creative work.
The Inclusive Fashion Show Tour is a groundbreaking initiative. What was the most powerful moment you’ve witnessed on this tour, and how did it reinforce your mission?
Debbie Lyn – Without doubt, at our London show, when disabled designer Faduma Clothing featured her runway showcase. Originally from Somalia, Faduma attended the show with a room filled with amazing supporters, cheering, and dancing to the Somalian music. The atmosphere was truly emotional, with so many different cultures, abilities and passionate people coming together in one place to celebrate fashion! There was such beauty in that moment, and I will never forget it!
In an era where authenticity is currency, how does DL Models Ltd ensure that diversity isn’t just a trend but a permanent shift in industry standards?
Debbie Lyn – Great question! With every model we develop through our RISE programme, we are creating not only professional models, but fierce advocates for change! They become icons in their own right, leading the way for diverse representation in the fashion, beauty and influencer space. Their legacy will go on with our DL Models mission and ethics.
Many aspiring models struggle with confidence and self-worth due to exclusionary industry norms. What are some key mindset shifts you teach them to reclaim their power?
Debbie Lyn – We provide a dedicated team of professionals, all experts in their fields, providing a firm foundation of mindset shifts building resilience, self belief, confidence and empowerment. One of the most important mindset shifts is the realisation that we have control over which thoughts we focus on and which thoughts we need to let go. Boundaries are also something we demonstrate within our company, learning to create and hold boundaries is the cornerstone to confidence!
From editorial shoots to runway productions, how do you collaborate with designers, brands, and media to ensure true inclusivity rather than token representation?
Debbie Lyn – To ensure true inclusivity rather than tokenism, we focus on both the structural and cultural aspects in our company. Inclusivity is reflected at every level of our business, from our team to the designers we work with, models, photographers and media. This ensures that diverse perspectives are present in everything we do. We actively support flexible work schedules, and keep our client list small so we can best support each individuals needs. We hold monthly meetings which allow our clients to raise any issues, give is feedback and contribute towards ideas. By approaching inclusivity holistically and continuously, rather than just a checkbox exercise, we can ensure that everyone feels like a valued and integral part of the organization, leading to more meaningful and sustainable inclusion.
Fashion is a reflection of culture and identity. How do you see the future of fashion evolving in terms of accessibility, body diversity, and gender fluidity?
Debbie Lyn – We have seen a massive shift in fashion accessibility across different cultures, including African fashion, United Arab Emirates, India, as well as western fashion, having worked with designers from all of these backgrounds at The Inclusive Fashion Show Tour. We see more designers choosing sustainable materials, being size inclusive, and gender fluidity, which we feel will only increase, as the demand for more inclusion rises.
Social media has amplified voices that were once silenced. How do you leverage digital platforms to elevate underrepresented talent and redefine beauty narratives?
Debbie Lyn – DL Models initiatives to elevate underrepresented talent and redefine beauty narratives across our social media platforms include running campaigns with a ‘shock’ value, creating editorial fashion shoots in areas where we see a lack of representation to shake up the industry, and building our online EMBRACE community, of passionate minded people, so we can reach an even wider audience through our campaigns!
If you could leave a lasting legacy in the fashion world, what would it be? What’s the one message you hope future generations take from your work?
Debbie Lyn – Our message is Dream It, Believe It, Achieve It. It’s a message that anyone who believes in themselves and their own ability, can and will achieve their dreams.
Elton Bannister
1. Your journey to modelling is truly inspiring. What motivated you to pursue this path and what does being a part of an inclusive agency mean to you?
Elton – I have always heard at some point in everyone’s life a light inside you shines, from that point onwards you know what you want in life. I was made redundant from my job and when I fought off what I wanted my next chapter to be I know it needed to be a career that made me happy, and I had a passion for. I love photography and from a young age I was always told I was photogenic. A feeling inside me, you could call it a gut feeling & from that moment I desired to give it my all, to achieve greatness!
So, in the progress of becoming a model, I came across DL Models Ltd by doing so, Debbie-Lyn approached me through Instagram.
Being singed to DL Models & having an agent that believes in you and gives you the opportunities & platform to express oneself, means a lot seeing that the industry does not have very much inclusivity for disabled people… breaking all barriers that come its way in the fashion industry and proving each model is unique in their way.
2. Each model brings something unique to the industry. How would you describe your style and the message you want to share through your work?
Elton – I don’t believe in fashion, I believe in style, these are two different things in my opinion, the saying goes… You are not what you wear but how you wear it!
My style is bright & bold colours, #notlikeaclown & more about unique cuts and shapes of fabric.
I have always been a confident & strong-minded individual. My message is… If you’re going to do anything in life, do it to your best capabilities & never be happy with being mediocre. #average
In a certain time of your life, you come to a place where you just embrace who you are and focus on the positives.
3. Fashion is a powerful form of self-expression. How has it helped you embrace and showcase your individuality?
Elton – I recognise and celebrate my unique identity; I look in the mirror each day and encourage myself to be the best version of me. I have always told myself
“People will stare, so I’ll make it worth their while “
4. Representation is crucial in the industry, what changes would you love to see in fashion to make it even more inclusive and authentic?
Elton – I believe now is the time for a shake up in the modelling/media industry where disabled people are seen & given more roles, in that they are more than capable to achieve whatever they want from an industry which isn’t diverse.
I’m showing the world I am different & it’s okay to stand out! #visibleunique
5. What has been your proudest moment as a model so far and how did it make you feel?
Elton – I’m not proud of what I’ve done so far, this is my downfall in life, I don’t celebrate the wins!!! I see the work & look at what I could have do better.
This is what’s keeping me hungry for more & drives me to continue, when there are so few opportunities.
6. Beyond modelling, what are your passions and dreams? How do they shape the way you present yourself to the world?
Elton – Well, I don’t dream, I just keep achieving/grow day by day / learning all the time, you should never stop learning.
Passions: Photography, Shopping, Sports, Dog Walking, History.
The way I present myself: I love life! I don’t take it for granted as tomorrow is never promised.
My partner is the driving force behind me & keeps me grounded, I’m a hard man to please at times, because of my willingness to be perfect at everything I do.
7,. If you could send a message to an aspiring model who feels different and unheard, what would you tell them?
Elton – Once you embrace your differences and accept who you are, you will realise you can be an unstoppable force.
Kerri Moore
- Your journey in modeling is truly inspiring. What motivated you to pursue this path, and what does being part of an inclusive agency mean to you?
Kerri- Part of my story is wanting to be seen, modeling is a great opportunity to be seen and feeds into my neurodiversity, particularly the ADHD part.
The fact that I can be a part of an inclusive agency means the world to me, and I feel very blessed and honoured by Debbie-Lyn’s modeling agency
2. Every model brings something unique to the industry. How would you describe your style and the message you want to share through your work?
Kerri -My style is would describe as quirky, I love stand out fashion styles, take for example my blue diamonte knee high boots, or my lime green ankle shoe boots, and many leopard print clothing or accessories. The message I want to portray through my work is don’t let anybody tell you, you can’t achieve anything, no matter what obstacles life has thrown at you, you can overcome any challenges by never losing hope and believing in yourself also critical to that is being surrounded by people who believe in you.
3. Fashion is a powerful form of self-expression. How has it helped you embrace and showcase your individuality?
Kerri – I previously hid away from using fashion as an extension of my personality and a self expression of me now i fully embrace it and don’t care much about what others say or think.of me, a massive turnaround for me when I used to always overthink and worry what others thought of me.
4. Representation is crucial in the industry. What changes would you love to see in fashion to make it even more inclusive and authentic?
Kerri – There is so much more to be done, I think every human being has the right to see themselves in fashion, I feel while there has been some improvement, there needs to be more done.
Inclusivity to me is every size, disability and age being represented in fashion shows and within clothing stores, we don’t suddenly stop wearing clothes when we get past 50.
5. What has been your proudest moment as a model so far, and how did it make you feel?
Kerri – Walking for the Inclusive Fashion Show in Manchester where i wore a bikini set with one of Kerri – Debbie-Lyn Sustainable with my rounded bloated stomach and stretch marks aka Strength marks on display walking the catwalk, it was a powerful reminder o6.how far i’ve come on my journey, but I also felt it was a momentous moment to be seen authentically to others, we need to accept and fully embrace our bodies as they are.
6. Beyond modeling, what are your passions and dreams? How do they shape the way you present yourself to the world?
Kerri – I have a big Dream to tell my story by writing a book of overcoming trauma, abuse, the care system and Mental health crisis to be able to stand in front of others as a strong woman, believing in my capabilities and that the Lord will open paths for me to inspire others. I write where I can to share some aspects of my journey, I am also being represented with an opportunity in April to share my story in front of others during a Fashion weekend that has been organised to raise awareness around Mental Health and Hidden Disabilities, 2 passions that I am keen to raise awareness on.
I am also a Brand Ambassador for Beyond Beauty Project which has been set up by Bridgett Which has been set up to break this idea of Perfectionism within fashion and beauty.
Sadly, there’s so many people who suffer with poor Mental health, late-diagnosed neurodiverse individuals are currently called the last generation, there’s more awareness being made, but whilst there’s people ending their lives, there’s so much more that needs to be done.
I’ve realised for me personally that being in front of the camera is something I absolutely love doing, so I seize as many opportunities to take part in photo shoots or campaigns, particularly when they align with my views around body acceptance, Inclusivity, sustainable eco conscious fashion/slow fashion.
I love charity shop hunting for fashion pieces and am hoping that very shortly I can bring my 2 passions of being in front of the camera and sustainable fashion together by an online presence selling sustainable fashion
7. If you could send a message to aspiring models who feel different or unheard, what would you tell them?
Kerri – You are beautiful just as you are, with Debbie-Lyn agency and many other organisations like Models of Diversity or other inclusive agencies there’s never been a greater time to pursue a career in Modeling, believe in yourself and surround yourself with positive empowering people who believe in you also, its not always easy, you can not be successful in casting for fashion campaigns so surrounding yourself with good People is essential when self doubt or Imposter Syndrome sets in.
Siobhan Cousins
- Your journey in modeling is truly inspiring. What motivated you to pursue this path, and what does being part of an inclusive agency mean to you?
Siobhan – I started modelling 18 years ago, I mainly focused on glamour/pin up work as I was told I was too short and curvy to be a runway model. When I lost my mobility due to Hyper Mobile Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, I truly thought I would never model again, so finding DL Models was the biggest blessing. Through this agency I can continue my modelling journey and also advocate for others with chronic illnesses and disabilities. Being part of such an incredible community means the world to me, it’s taught me that I can still continue my dreams with a few adaptations.
2. Every model brings something unique to the industry. How would you describe your style and the message you want to share through your work?
Siobhan – I’ve always been comfortable with my sensual expression, and I don’t believe that should be lost with a disability. We should be able to embrace and express our sexuality comfortably with our mobility aids. I hope to share this message through lingerie modelling and dance photography with my wheelchair.
3. Fashion is a powerful form of self-expression. How has it helped you embrace and showcase your individuality?
Siobhan – The Pin Up era has always been a favourite of mine, I was told on multiple occasions I was born in the wrong generation! Wearing clothes I’m comfortable in help me with feeling confident, I feel I can immerse myself in that era of style easily.
4. Representation is crucial in the industry. What changes would you love to see in fashion to make it even more inclusive and authentic?
Siobhan – Most definitely more representation of disabled models in lingerie and fitness. I have noticed fitness brands bringing in more disabled models, which is fantastic but there’s still not much representation in the lingerie and swimwear brands.
5. What has been your proudest moment as a model so far, and how did it make you feel?
Siobhan – Walking the runway for the first time as a disabled model at The Blenheim Palace Fashion Show. I had to hold back the tears as I watched the audience clapping and smiling for all of us. Very proud moment indeed.
6. Beyond modeling, what are your passions and dreams? How do they shape the way you present yourself to the world?
Siobhan – My other biggest passion is dance. I started when I was about 6 years old and only stopped when I lost my mobility. I’m now learning to dance from my wheelchair, and one day hope to open my own studio where I can teach wheelchair dance to others. I’m also a big music lover, I’ve been singing since childhood and studied music at university. I now sing some acoustic songs with a friend of mine, we hope to record our own songs sometime soon too.
7. If you could send a message to aspiring models who feel different or unheard, what would you tell them?
Siobhan – It’s sounds cliche but honestly to never give up on your dreams.And to understand you need to be kind to yourself, we have to adapt to a life we can’t predict, but it’s our hopes, dreams and goals that keep us going.
Shannon Kelly
- Your journey in modeling is truly inspiring. What motivated you to pursue this path, and what does being part of an inclusive agency mean to you?
Shannon – My modelling journey started off by attending the photoshoot for the Inclusive Fashion Show Manchester, which was the first place that I’d ever been in front of the camera to model. I decided to take part due to needing to accept the new me after becoming a wheelchair user and struggling to embrace this major change. Being a part of an inclusive agency means that I don’t have to worry about anything because I know that everything is accessible and planned in ways to ensure that I am supported. This enables me to do what I do best which is being in front of the camera.
2. Every model brings something unique to the industry. How would you describe your style and the message you want to share through your work?
Shannon – My personal style has changed since becoming the new version of me, I am now very versatile in what I wear, it can be anything from gym wear to fancy evening wear. I feel my best when I’m in my blazers as I used to wear them daily. The message I want to share through my work is no matter what happens in life, there is always a place for everyone in society, it’s just finding it. Once you find it you will never feel alone or isolated. I also want to show that nothing is impossible when you finally accept who you are and believe in yourself.
3. Fashion is a powerful form of self-expression. How has it helped you embrace and showcase your individuality?
Shannon – I was never adventurous with my fashion until I started my modelling journey but I’ve found that I now use fashion as a way to express who I am and even how I’m feeling about myself sometimes. I use it to leave hidden clues for others to figure out. I know that if I put on an outfit that makes me feel a “million dollars” I’m ready for whatever challenges I face that day because I become fearless.
4. Representation is crucial in the industry. What changes would you love to see in fashion to make it even more inclusive and authentic?
Shannon – The changes that I would like to see in fashion is that everyone feels represented by the whole of the fashion industry. I feel as though the change is slowly being made within the industry in terms of representation and adaptive fashion, but for me the most important aspect is being able to wear the clothes, I want to comfortably without having to worry about materials getting caught in my wheels and my outfits getting dirty. Being a young woman, my appearance means a lot to me and I would love to take away the stress caused from the lack of clothing available away from my day-to-day life. The small businesses are moving, and the bigger fashion brands are slowly getting involved, it would just be amazing to see more well-known business and brands getting involved in making this change.
5. What has been your proudest moment as a model so far, and how did it make you feel?
Shannon – My proudest moment as a model has been being signed by DL Models. Going from not being able to love the new version of me to being offered a modelling contract really has been my proudest moment. The overwhelming feeling of excitement and happiness really made me realise that I am enough and even though I’m a wheelchair user that isn’t all I am. I am still a young woman who wants to try new experiences and I am so proud of myself for pushing myself out of my comfort zone as I have now found my passion and where I truly belong.
6. Beyond modeling, what are your passions and dreams? How do they shape the way you present yourself to the world?
Shannon – My passions outside of modelling are trying to make sure that no one ever feels alone. Our minds can be a very dark and scary place when we feel like we have nowhere to turn. In an ideal world, no one would ever feel that way but that isn’t the case. I do this by volunteering with a local charity to give people my time over the phone and have conversations with them. This shapes the way I present myself to the world as I always say hello to strangers and give them my biggest smile, as that could make all the world of difference. The conversation I have with a stranger could be the only conversation they have that day; it costs nothing to be kind.
7. If you could send a message to aspiring models who feel different or unheard, what would you tell them?
Shannon – I would tell them that no matter what your mind makes you believe, you are enough just the way you are. Your differences are what make you unique and what makes you, you. Just remember that you are always, always enough. There is always someone who will listen, it just finding the right community to support you in making your message even louder!
Michaela Newport
- Your journey in modeling is truly inspiring. What motivated you to pursue this path, and what does being part of an inclusive agency mean to you?
Michaela – Modelling is a true passion of mine, I love the buzz you get when stepping out onto the runway wearing a designer’s new collection, the rush you get when someone likes the outfit on me, the older model. I’m motivated when I hear from bystanders and others that I’m shining the light on older models and that its lovely to see a ‘normal’ woman doing this and showing the industry that curvy women want more of it!
2. Every model brings something unique to the industry. How would you describe your style and the message you want to share through your work?
Michaela – My style has always been glamorous, sexy & co-ordinated. I love shoes (have over 225 pairs!), handbags & anything else that screams fashion! There is no limit to what I wear, I follow trends but also stick to what I like and as I get older maybe what is more comfortable lol! My message has always been the same – show designer clothes on all ages, shapes & abilities on the runway! So many times I am stopped by people because they love the message I’m trying to say – fashion has no age limit! I hope I’m bringing inspiration to others that you can wear that outfit when you’re over 50 – ageism has no place on the runway or you!! Shine bright my darlings!
3. Fashion is a powerful form of self-expression. How has it helped you embrace and showcase your individuality?
Michaela – I have worn outfits I wouldn’t have normally put together and tried new things at home. My fashion has changed somewhat over the years, as it should, but I have also become more confident in what I wear and how I wear it. I have come out of my comfort zone when having my hair and make up done in ways I wouldn’t normally have done it, and been inspired to try it again at home.
4. Representation is crucial in the industry. What changes would you love to see in fashion to make it even more inclusive and authentic?
Michaela – Yes it is, it is so crucial. I have seen a change in fashion recently with more inclusivity showing elderly representation, plus size representation and those with disabilities being represented – it is a move in the right direction but there is still a long way to go. We need to see more of that and more middle-aged women like myself being represented, the menopausal woman does not like to be ignored or forgotten about by the fashion industry. We love clothes, we love fashion and we want to see ourselves on billboards – a regular woman going about their regular lives wearing high fashion and looking awesome!
5. What has been your proudest moment as a model so far, and how did it make you feel?
Michaela – I have two – my first was being asked to model for a designer’s website called Frocktales. Real clothes for real women of all ages and sizes. The clothes were amazing and I now have some of her collection. My second was being signed by DL Models, to be properly represented by an agency was a high honour and one I hope will lead to bigger and better opportunities for us both.
6. Beyond modeling, what are your passions and dreams? How do they shape the way you present yourself to the world?
Michaela – My passion is my children, all grown up but my whole world. Everything I do is for them. Showing my daughter that weight is not an issue to being a model or who she is!! Anorexia has touched our family, and we are over the worst of it, but showing her that your size and weight do not define who you are is a big part of why I model. My dream of being a top runway curve model shows her and other young girls that you can be whatever size you want and still look sexy, beautiful and inspiring.
7. If you could send a message to aspiring models who feel different or unheard, what would you tell them?
Michaela – Be you, be loud and be proud! Do not limit yourself by someone else’s limitations!
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