Amaury Valero, a young man from Cienfuegos, has made history as the first Cuban to open a Dolce & Gabbana fashion show in Milan. His journey to the top of the fashion world has been highlighted in a recent Instagram feature, showcasing his rise to the most prestigious runways globally.
It all started with a casual remark. "A friend told me, 'You have a model's face,' and that's when I started looking for photographers," Valero recounted. That initial Instagram photo became the catalyst that propelled him into the world of high fashion, attracting the attention of top international brands.
Valero’s impressive portfolio includes work for Louis Vuitton, Dior, Tom Ford, Celine, and Dolce & Gabbana, with appearances on runways in Milan, Paris, and New York. His career reached a pinnacle when he was informed he would be opening the show for the iconic Italian fashion house. "When they contacted me and told me I would open the show, all I could do was cry. I called my mom and said, 'You won't believe this,'" the model shared with emotion.
Reports indicate that Valero was featured in Dolce & Gabbana's Fall/Winter 2024 collection, opening the show, and returned to the runway for the brand's Spring/Summer 2025 collection. His presence embodies the essence of the brand: understated elegance, impeccable tailoring, and monochromatic tones.
The Significance of Milan's Runway
Milan is recognized as one of the four major fashion capitals of the world, alongside Paris, New York, and London. Opening a Dolce & Gabbana show—one of the most iconic Italian fashion houses founded by Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana—stands as one of the highest accolades for any active model.
Valero is not alone in paving the way for Cuban talent on the international fashion stage. Fellow Cuban model Juan Betancourt, discovered by Elite Barcelona, helped bring recognition to Cuban talent in Europe. Additionally, Cuban models have made waves on social media from Miami, with figures like Mily Alemán showcasing their talents at events such as Miami Fashion Week, further cementing Cuban names on the global fashion map.
Despite his success, Valero maintains a deep emotional connection to his homeland and family. "Whenever I want, right? I can enjoy a little 'coladita' with my grandmother, since she makes the best coffee. Or spin a top again or something. I can always go back," the model expressed, emphasizing that beneath the Milanese lights, he remains the young man from Cienfuegos dreaming of returning home.
Cuban Models on Global Runways: Key Insights
Who is Amaury Valero?
Amaury Valero is a Cuban model from Cienfuegos who gained international fame by becoming the first Cuban to open a Dolce & Gabbana fashion show in Milan.
What makes Milan a significant fashion destination?
Milan is one of the four major fashion capitals of the world, known for hosting prestigious fashion shows and being home to iconic fashion houses like Dolce & Gabbana.
How did Amaury Valero start his modeling career?
Valero's modeling career began after a friend remarked that he had a "model's face," prompting him to pursue photography opportunities, eventually leading to his rise in the fashion industry.