Fashion model Joan Smalls strikes deal with Wal-Mart

Joan Smalls, one of the top grossing runway models in 2013, is no stranger to swimsuits and lingerie, donning Victoria’s Secret apparel since 2011 in the retailer’s annual show. Now the Puerto Rican model has inked a deal to design swimsuits, lingerie and other intimate apparel for Wal-Mart Stores.

Her collection dubbed “Smart and Sexy” will be sold at Wal-Mart beginning early 2018. The retail giant said it will offer the collection in-store and online. The collection will be value priced with bras retailing for less than $15.

Smalls said she is excited to collaborate behind the scenes with the brand because she wants to create products that will be accessible for everyone, regardless of the size of their bodies or their wallets. She has been an outspoken voice for inclusion in fashion.

Last year at the VOICES Summit in New York, Smalls was part of a fashion panel discussing discrimination and made the following statement:

“I look at this crowd, beautiful faces from different backgrounds and that’s the world I see. So when I see a runway with all the same models that are just cloned, I’m like: ‘Is that your beauty? Is that your world?’ It’s very one-sided and bland. Brands have to be more open-minded when they choose their cast; they hold a responsibility to represent consumers.”