Winnie Harlow is asserting her power in a unique and profound way this Halloween. On October 31st, the model transformed into Cruella de Vil from the enchanting Disney classic, "101 Dalmatians." From the dual-hued bouffant hairdo to the wickedly precise eyeliner, Harlow captured the essence of the infamous villain with impeccable style.
However, this year's black-and-white ensemble held deeper significance than a mere nostalgic nod to pop culture. On Instagram, Harlow revealed that her choice of costume was inspired by her childhood bullies, who relentlessly teased her about her vitiligo - a skin condition that alters the melanin in certain areas, giving her a unique and beautiful appearance.
"Growing up, I faced a lot of mockery for my skin," Harlow confessed. "I was called names that are too familiar... and Dalmatian. As a child, those words hurt deeply, and I even developed a certain disdain for the film itself." Despite her initial aversion to the movie due to the hurtful teasing, Harlow eventually gave it a second chance and discovered a part of herself that she had missed out on.
"Years later, having overcome the shadow of childhood bullies and evolved into someone who appreciates the art of cinema, all its campy charm, and of course, puppies... I realized how much I had missed out on with '101 Dalmatians' as a child, all because of the hurtful words of others," she continued. "I pray that no child ever misses out on anything because of the words of others. You are perfect just the way you are. This role, and so many others, are dream roles for me to act out, and it was a pleasure to embody the iconic Cruella De Vil, inspired by the legendary Glenn Close. In fact, I want a Dalmatian now!"
Harlow's powerful transformation not only showcases her unwavering self-confidence but also sends a powerful message to all who may face mockery or bullying - that true beauty lies within, and no one should let the words of others define them.
Harlow gracefully dedicated the breathtaking costume, masterfully crafted by Los Angeles-based design wizard Da Shoné and captured in stunning photography by Jamie Bruce, to her younger self and all the challenges she had overcome to reach the level of self-love she now radiates. "This Halloween is a heartfelt tribute to little Winnie," Harlow expressed. "She took her lemons and transformed them into sweet lemonade, transforming the traumas of her past into forces that propelled her forward. Confidence was her compass."
In the past, Harlow has bravely shared her journey with vitiligo, refusing to let the skin condition define her identity. Since her appearance on "America's Next Top Model" in 2014, the model-turned-entrepreneur has gone beyond the runway, launching a sunscreen-focused beauty brand, Cay Skin. Deeply influenced by her personal struggles with vitiligo and a traumatic modeling experience, this brand champions sun care and encourages embracing one's unique skin with confidence.
While Cruella de Vil costumes are a Halloween staple, there's something profoundly beautiful about Harlow's ability to overcome her negative associations with the character and transform them into a moment of pure joy. Halloween, traditionally, is a time to embrace our alter egos and step out of our comfort zones. In this outfit, Harlow channeled the essence of Glenn Close, who made the role of Cruella de Vil iconic, and Emma Stone, who brought a fresh interpretation in 2021, to embody a stronger, more self-assured version of herself.
For Harlow, removing the Cruella de Vil costume will be more than a mere swipe of a few makeup wipes. The attire's most enduring aspect is a newly discovered confidence that cannot be rattled or shaken. Prepare to be awed as you behold Harlow's stunning Cruella de Vil ensemble, captivating from every conceivable angle.
