Though she had already broke down racial barriers in the American fashion world, Luna felt her career was still being stifled by racism in the U.S. She decided to relocate to London where there was more opportunity for Black models. Her superstar status followed her as she added Mick Jagger, Mia Farrow, and Michael Caine to her social circle. Luna was also known to date British rock stars, Italian photographers and Canadian actors, such as Iain Quarrier.
Her beauty was sought after by international designers including Yves Saint Laurent, Mary Quant and Paco Rabanne. Her beauty was so captivating that in 1967, the world’s leading mannequin manufacturer, Adel Rootstein, created a mannequin in Luna’s image. She was also featured in Playboy magazine and was the first to defy the usual voluptuous figure featured in the men’s magazine with her slender, boyish frame. Luna also landed feature roles in films such as 1969’s Skidoo and 1969’s Fellini Satyricon.
Another legendary African American supermodel Beverly Johnson, was no fan of Donyale Luna. See why on the NEXT PAGE.