Selling Black Beauty: African American Modeling Agencies and Charm Schools in Postwar America.

The article discusses African American modeling agencies and charm schools in the U.S. following World War II. The negative depiction of African American women before the war is examined. The influence of charm school owners Ophelia DeVore and Barbara Watson is talked about. The author argues that the charm schools reinforced middle class expectations of social behavior and white aesthetic beauty standards. DeVore's opinions concerning racist characterizations of African Americans are mentioned. Race discrimination within the U.S. fashion and advertising industry is also addressed.