Bethann Hardison

Bethann Hardison Instagram – It’s all about Legacy….
Many of you would not have heard of the model Carol LaBrie in your lifetime.
And there is far too much distraction to have learn of her as you stroll through this life. But as I was starting to spread my wings in the world of fashion design and fashion models, girls like Carol LaBrie, Barbara Cheesborough, Naomi Sims, were happening here in New York and Paris.
This was the late 60’s and early 70’s.
The story of the model of color tells an inspiring tale. For me going to Paris and seeing Carol in rare form was like being at a peep show. Exciting to watch and be around it. She was in the launch of Essence Magazine. The models marching in the street with fist clenched, arms outstretched, she being the lead model (1970).
The image back then was everything representing the current cultural moment. So seeing her a few years later in Paris was everything. But everything was everything then.
The newness, bohemianism and style of the time was ever inspiring. And Carol contributed to that environment there in Paris.
She was the muse of Kenzo (r.i.p). When she opened up his shows, you knew she was part of the House of Kenzo. It was so personal with such pride. She had a great walk, no swing of the hips, it had purpose, it was personal and she was tall, it had a strong feeling of natural intent and ownership. Every great runway model should have, “a feeling of intent with purpose and ownership”.
But that confidence is built by being a muse…rare is a muse to be found these days. Carol had amazing free flowing style with a personality to match. Besides being a great model of a time gone by and her relationship with Kenzo was unique. She later married the love of her life, photographer Uli Rose and birth five children. And their children had children.
Carol LaBrie passed away February 18, 2021.
I am full of many memories. But if nothing more in memory, she made a difference during her time.
In addition having five children and becoming a grandmother, she left behind a loved clan. She was good to those she loved and liked, and never wasted her time with others.
Rest In Peace, Ms. Rose. I will always remember you. #carollabrie | Posted on 22/Feb/2021 03:26:55