Jewell Farshad, Pioneering Petite and Body-Positive Modeling at LA Swim Week

Jewell Farshad, the first Iranian-American model to champion petite and body-positive modeling, has once again made history. This time, she opened LA Swim Week for the renowned avant-garde couture designer Merlin Castell, known for his groundbreaking and awe-inspiring shows. After her resounding success at Miami Swim Week and a feature interview with Miami Living Magazine, Castell handpicked Jewell to lead his show, recognizing her as a powerful force in the fashion industry to set a new standard for body positivity and inclusivity.
Jewell Farshad's journey is one of resilience, determination, and a relentless pursuit of her dreams. From a young age, she defied societal norms in Iran, moving to Los Angeles at 18 with the ambition to become the first Academy Award-winning Iranian actress. Today, she stands not only as a celebrated actress and model but also as a pioneering advocate for petite models and body positivity.
Jewell also walked for Berry Beachy Swim, Sugar Puss Clothing, and The Star Fashion House, showcasing her versatility and breaking new ground as the first petite high fashion model. She eloquently addresses the disparity in representation for petite women in the fashion industry, stating, "Even though the average height for women in the U.S. is 5'3.5", there isn't enough representation for petite girlies in fashion."
Jewell's impact extends far beyond the runway. As an Iranian-born model making waves in the U.S., she is dedicated to empowering the voices of the silenced, minorities, and underrepresented individuals. Her message is clear: beauty is diverse, and every person deserves to feel seen and celebrated.
"I think every rejection is getting one step closer to the yes in my journey," Jewell shared in her interview. "When you are the first, some people may think you're crazy, but so were most legends in history."
Jewell Farshad's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of challenging the status quo. Her work is inspiring a new wave of body-positive modeling, encouraging everyone to embrace their unique beauty and to strive for their dreams regardless of societal expectations.